Ylioppilaskunnan Soittajat (Helsinki University Symphony Orchestra) was founded in 1926, but it carries on the traditions of the Academic Orchestra (founded in 1747) as its immediate successors. The YS auditions new members every September and, if necessary, during the semester. The orchestra rehearses on Wednesdays in the music room of the Vanha Ylioppilastalo. The YS is a full-sized symphony orchestra; it gives concerts, organizes balls and takes part in academic festivities.