The New Mexico Youth Band was founded in 1994 as an extension of the University of New Mexico Bands. Conducted by UNM Director of Bands, Eric Rombach-Kendall, the Youth Band was initiated to give the finest high school students an ongoing, high quality musical experience that supplements their school band instruction.  The Youth Band is open by audition to students in grades 9 through 12 who are participating members of their school bands or are home schooled.  The Youth Band rehearses at the University of New Mexico on Sunday afternoons from 1-3 pm during the fall semester only.