2014 Program Notes, Book 4 47
The
PORTLAND YOUTH PHILHARMONIC
(PYP), celebrating its 90th season,
is a vibrant community where young people can explore their passion for music,
grow as individuals and make lifelong friendships. The Portland Youth Philharmonic
Association has been known for its artistry, adventurous programming and excellent
performances since Jacques Gershkovitch conducted its inaugural concert on
February 14, 1925. Officially founded in 1924, the Portland Youth Philharmonic was
the first established youth orchestra in the country and became a model for youth
orchestras that followed in other cities decades later. The orchestra has broadcast
performances overseas, toured internationally eight times, represented the United
States at the Banff International Festival of Youth Orchestras in 1998, and performed
at Carnegie Hall in 2004. Over the years, thousands of young musicians have played
in PYP. Today they are found performing in professional orchestras from the Boston
Symphony to the Komische Oper Berlin, teaching in conservatories like Juilliard and
Oberlin, performing in local professional ensembles from the Oregon Symphony to
Pink Martini, playing in amateur ensembles in communities near and far, and teaching
in public schools and private studios. Each year PYP provides music education
and training for 300 young musicians aged 7–23 in the Philharmonic Orchestra,
Conservatory Orchestra, Wind Ensemble, Young String Ensemble and Camerata
PYP (Chamber Orchestra). Following a rigorous audition process, musicians from
100 schools throughout Northwest Oregon and Southwest Washington commit to
weekly rehearsals and an active performance schedule. The experiences of theory
classes, leadership training, chamber music ensembles, professional coaches,
leadership responsibilities, peer mentor teaching opportunities and touring allow
musicians to develop additional skills, experience new repertoire, perform for
diverse audiences, and have opportunities to grow as leaders.
Saturday, July 5, 2014
