SYRACUSE, N.Y. -- The Syracuse Symphony Youth and String Orchestras performed at Syracuse University for what could have been their last performance, but there's still hope for the youth groups following the dissolution of the SSO.

Syracuse University has stepped up to the plate providing the groups with a not-for-profit status so they can purchase liability insurance and continue as their own entity outside of the SSO and other organizations.

"We don't ever want to sacrifice an educational opportunity for these students and a culminating experience like this because of a financial issue that may occur with another orchestra in the future, whether its ten years, 20 years down the road, whatever that may be,” said James Tapia, SSYO conductor.

About 160 musicians make up the two youth orchestras.