Pictured: The Charlotte Symphony Youth Orchestra is an advanced-level ensemble of musicians ages 12-18. In February, the Charlotte Symphony will launch a new Youth Ensemble.
“Early next year, Charlotte Symphony Orchestra is launching the newest addition to its youth orchestra program: the Charlotte Symphony Youth Ensemble,” writes Vanessa Infanzon in Tuesday’s (12/14) Charlotte Observer (NC). “ ‘We are focused on how we can contribute to music education in the city,’ said David Fisk, president and CEO of the symphony. ‘One of those ways is giving kids the opportunity to learn instruments from beginner all the way through to advanced..’ … In February, the youth ensemble will begin Saturday rehearsals at First Baptist Church-West…. The program at First Baptist Church-West will allow for the symphony to have a stronger presence in the surrounding neighborhoods, Fisk said…. The symphony’s Youth Orchestra program includes two audition-required ensembles: Charlotte Symphony Youth Orchestra for advanced musicians and Charlotte Symphony Youth Philharmonic for intermediate musicians. [For] the new youth ensemble … auditions won’t be required. An audition can be a barrier to participation, said Eric Thompson, director of the Youth Ensemble…. Families needing help with tuition will receive financial assistance…. Symphony musicians will serve as coaches during the rehearsals.”
