This report on symphony orchestra concerts for students in 20 American cities provides information on (1) the history and development of youth concerts, and the artistic, cultural, and educational philosophies upon which they are based; (2) operating procedures and financing for youth concerts in each city; (3) utilization of the concerts by public education; (4) factors that determine effectiveness of concerts as educational experiences for youth; and (5) guidelines and recommendations for improved youth concerts primarily in the context of education. Included are the results of case studies of youth concerts, carried out by two music educators and two orchestra research specialists. Opinions and viewpoints expressed by symphony orchestra conductors and managers , public school administrators and teachers, and a few students are reported. Limited information is given on presenting chamber music, opera, and ballet performances to students. Appendices include samples of materials used for preparation of students for concerts; youth concert program and repertoire listings; and summaries of educators' responses to questionnaires. (See TE 499 970 for a summary of this study.) (Author/LH)