FSYO Introduces a New Ensemble: Sinfonia Orchestra

ORLANDO, FL - Florida Symphony Youth Orchestras (FSYO) is excited to add a new ensemble to their program offerings: Sinfonia Orchestra. This brand new ensemble is geared towards students ages 11 to 16 years old, and it will become FSYO’s introductory full orchestra ensemble.

“Sinfonia, FSYO's newest ensemble offering, creates a space within our collection of performance experiences which more vertically integrates within our current program offerings. In Sinfonia, we invite students into their first full symphony experience - one that better prepares them for the more rigorous training that comes with participation in ensembles like the Philharmonia and Symphonic Orchestras. We are excited to provide another ensemble that addresses FSYO's growth, and we encourage all musical students to peruse and consider this newest orchestral ensemble!”

-Dr. James O. Welsch, Music Director

Members of this ensemble will learn the intricacies of playing in a full orchestra (strings, winds, brass, percussion) while performing repertoire that focuses on furthering technique, musicianship, and leadership. This ensemble falls between the current Prelude Orchestra and Philharmonia Orchestra performance levels and aims to bridge the gap across all classical ensembles. Prelude Orchestra, continuing to be led by Ms. Sarah Morrison, is transitioning to a string only ensemble and will continue to groom the string members for success in a full orchestra.

FSYO is excited to be providing a new experience for Central Florida’s young musicians. With this additional program, even more of the area’s younger musicians will have the opportunity to develop their ensemble skills as well as further their musical achievement. More information regarding the conductor of Sinfonia Orchestra will be released in the coming months, and be sure to catch their premiere performance at FSYO’s 68th Season Opener Concert taking place in October 2024. Audition materials have already been posted and are available for any prospective member to review. For more information about the Sinfonia Orchestra, please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

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FLORIDA SYMPHONY YOUTH ORCHESTRAS ANNOUNCES THE DEPARTURE OF MUSIC DIRECTOR, DR. JAMES O. WELSCH

Orlando, FL - The Florida Symphony Youth Orchestras Board of Directors announces the current Music Director, Dr. James O. Welsch, will be stepping away from the position at the conclusion of this 67th season to embark on a new chapter. Welsch has been the Music Director of the organization since 2021, and he has played an integral role in the resurgence of FSYO post pandemic. Under his direction, Florida Symphony Youth Orchestras expanded its ensemble offerings and deepened the impact of a member’s experiences. About his departure, Dr. Welsch expresses:

“It is a bittersweet feeling that I announce my departure from Florida Symphony Youth Orchestras as its Music Director and Symphonic Orchestra Conductor. It has been an extreme honor, and one of my life’s greatest joys, to have returned to an organization that gave me so much as a young musician. Coming back, I aimed to help affect positive change and develop a vision focused on the cultivation of an environment that provides a safe space for talented young musicians to explore music and humanity through shared experience.”

Other notable accomplishments of FSYO, under the musical direction of Dr. Welsch, include: a Italy tour in 2023, including the premiere of FSYO’s Touring Jazz Band on an international scene, the creation of FSYO’s Invitational where nationally acclaimed guest artists work with FSYO members and the local school systems, the development of the Student Engagement Council that provides a leadership opportunity for members to support their colleagues, and countless other collaborations. Dr. Welsch shares his goodbye in the letter attached below.

The board and staff of FSYO are deeply grateful to Dr. Welsch for his significant contributions and service throughout his career with the organization. We believe his passion for music and education of the next generation have solidified the necessity of FSYO in the Central Florida arts community. Executive Director, Abigail Tran shares:

“James is a driven, hard working individual who captivates the attention and energies of the students in front of him. He goes the extra mile for any and every student, even if it comes as a detriment to himself, and he holds a genuine care for his surroundings, his colleagues, but most importantly, his students. At the end of the day, his greatest accomplishment comes when he is able to witness and be part of their success. FSYO has been changed for the better because of his time with the organization, and I have full faith his presence in the music realm will only continue the upward growth of music education. I feel privileged to have worked alongside him for the past two years, and I know his absence will be felt.”

The board will remain actively engaged with the administrative staff of the organization during this transition, and the 2024 Music Director Search Committee has already taken steps in beginning the search for the next Music Director. FSYO’s daily operations, including its rehearsals and concert commitments will continue as scheduled without interruption, and Dr. Welsch will still lead the planned tour to Chicago this Summer.

Farewell Letter from Dr. James O. Welsch

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FSYO, FSU College of Music, & Frost School of Music Host Annual Florida Music College Fair

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ORLANDO, FL (September 11, 2023) – On Tuesday, October 10, 2023, from 7 PM to 9 PM, Florida Symphony Youth Orchestras, in collaboration with Florida State University College of Music and Frost School of Music at the University of Miami, will host the Annual Florida Music College Fair at the Orlando Science Center located at 777 East Princeton Street Orlando, FL 32803.

Students will have the opportunity to meet with representatives from over 50 of the nation's top music and performing arts institutions to jump start their college search. Representatives will be available to discuss Admissions, Auditions, Financial Aid, Student Life, and so much more.

All Central Florida music students (band, orchestra, and choir) are encouraged to attend this FREE event. FSYO Executive Director, Abigail Tran, notes, “We are excited to collaborate with Frost School of Music and FSU’s College of Music again to bring this college fair back to Central Florida. Students of all ages interested in continuing their music education in college are welcome to attend as it is never too early to begin your college search process. Figuring out admission and scholarship requirements will make the application process less confusing!

Admission to the college fair is free, however, students are encouraged to register for the event by clicking on the below link. For more information please contact FSYO at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

REGISTER FOR THE FLORIDA MUSIC COLLEGE FAIR

 

List of Colleges in Attendance:

Bard College Conservatory of Music
Berklee College of Music
Blair School of Music at Vanderbilt University
Boston Conservatory at Berklee
California Institute of the Arts
Carnegie Mellon University School of Music
Central Michigan University School of Music
Cleveland Institute of Music
The Colburn School
Columbus State University
Eastman School of Music
Florida Southern College
Florida State University College of Music
Frost School of Music at the University of Miami
The Hartt School, University of Hartford
IU Jacobs School of Music
Jacksonville University Department of Music
The Juilliard School
Lawrence University and Conservatory of Music
Los Angeles College of Music
Manhattan School of Music
Michigan State University - College of Music
New England Conservatory
Northwestern University Bienen School of Music
Oberlin Conservatory
Peabody Conservatory
Rollins College
Roosevelt University - Chicago College of Performing Arts
Rutgers University-Mason Gross School of the Arts
Shepherd School of Music - Rice University
SMU Meadows School of the Arts
St. Thomas University
Stetson University
Syracuse University Setnor School of Music
Temple University, Boyer College of Music and Dance
University of Central Florida School of Performing Arts
University of Colorado Boulder College of Music
University of Denver Lamont School of Music
University of Florida School of Music
University of Houston - Kathrine G. McGovern College of the Arts
University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign
The University of Maryland School of Music
The University of Memphis Rudi E. Scheidt School of Music
University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre & Dance
University of North Carolina School of the Arts
University of North Texas College of Music
University of South Carolina School of Music
USF School of Music
University of the Arts
Webster University - St. Louis

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A Timeline of FSYO's 2023 Italy Tour

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June 27 - Group photo before departure from MCO.

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June 28 - During the layover in Frankfurt, one third of the group missed the connection flight to Milan. After 36 hours of travel, the late arrival group finally retireved their lost luggage.

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June 29 - The group began the day with a walking tour of Milan. During their time in the city, they visited the Teatro Alla Scala Museum, Milan Duomo, and explored the city.

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Florida Symphony Youth Orchestras Announces Updates on Jazz Program Personnel

Boyd 2ORLANDO, FL - Florida Symphony Youth Orchestras (FSYO) is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Kenneth Boyd as the new Jazz Director and Conductor of the Alphonse Carlo Jazz Band. FSYO is thankful for the work and years of experience Mr. Richard Drexler has provided and brought to the jazz program during his tenure at FSYO, and the students will miss hearing his stories about his adventures as a jazz musician. Drexler remains a friend to the organization as the rhythm students will still have the opportunity to work with him during Sectionals.

Kenneth Boyd, who has been an integral part of FSYO’s community, has consistently demonstrated exceptional skills, leadership, and dedication to FSYO's mission to educate youth. Previously, he has been on the Artistic Staff of FSYO as the conductor of the Joseph Wise Jazz Band since the 62nd Season when the jazz program expanded to include two jazz bands. Boyd is currently the Director of Bands at West Orange High School, and he has received the National Band Association's Outstanding Jazz Educator Award as well as two Citations of Excellence for outstanding contribution to bands and band music.

"Ken Boyd is a consummate scholar and educator with years of sage experience directing jazz bands. FSYO is lucky to have him leading the [jazz] program."

-Jeff Rupert, Founder of the FSYO Jazz Program

Kolodinsky Marc 3In addition to Boyd’s transition, FSYO is delighted to welcome Mr. Marc Kolodinsky as the newest member of the Artistic Staff as he will take over as the Conductor of the Joseph Wise Jazz Band. With a strong background in jazz and music education, Kolodinsky brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to FSYO. Kolodinsky holds the Director of Bands position at Windermere High School, and he specializes in teaching the saxophone and clarinet as well as leading sectionals. With Kolodinsky’s proven track record of success, FSYO believes he is an excellent fit to work with aspiring jazz students.

Be sure to see these bands in action at the 67th Season Jazz Opener Concert on Saturday, October 7, 2023 at the Blue Bamboo Center for the Arts. FSYO knows the collaboration between Boyd and Kolodinsky will further strengthen FSYO's ability to provide Central Florida students a world-class music education and foster the growth of young Central Florida jazz musicians.

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Florida Symphony Youth Orchestras Announces 2023 International Tour to Italy

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ORLANDO, FL - On Tuesday, June 27, 2023, Florida Symphony Youth Orchestras (FSYO) students, families, and staff will embark on an experience of a lifetime for a Concert Tour around Italy. Travelers will spend 12 days exploring multiple Italian cities (Milan, Pavia, Cremona, Venice, Florence, Perugia, Assisi, Orvieto, Rome) with performances taking place in Pavia, Venice, Perugia, and Rome. This trip is an immersion into Italian food, music, and breathtaking landmarks like the famous Palazzo del Comune which is the home to many original Stradivarius instruments. Repertoire includes pieces by Italian and American composers such as Gershwin, Puccini, and Rossini, and FSYO is excited to debut its Tour Jazz Band on this tour as well!

Dr. Welsch, FSYO Music Director, shares how their travels will impact both FSYO students and the Italian Audiences: "These students are going to be able to experience music, culture, and art, and share the same through their musical program. We are preparing music that is distinctly cosmopolitan, slightly edgy. It is music one might expect a touring American youth orchestra to be playing, however, an Italian audience-goer might expect to hear the amazing cross pollination of musical styles present in the works of Weill, Gershwin, Shostakovich, and much more."

Additionally, Concerto for Clarinet, a work by American Clarinetist Artie Shaw, will feature one of FSYO’s 2022 Concerto Competition winners, Adian May. This piece, along with four others, highlights a collaboration between classical and jazz music that is a cornerstone of this tour program and FSYO’s ongoing efforts. May recently performed the piece with members from FSYO’s Alphonse Carlo Jazz Band and Symphonic Orchestra at the 66th Season Classical Finale in May 2023.

Come enjoy the tour concert program before FSYO leaves by attending the Tour Send Off Concert! Taking place at 6 PM on June 25, 2023 at Reiter Park of Longwood, this event is FREE to the public, and the students are eager to share their tour repertoire with the Central Florida Community.

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Florida Symphony Youth Orchestras | (407) 999-7800 | info@fsyo.org

Florida Symphony Youth Orchestras is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) charitable organization. Florida Symphony Youth Orchestras is sponsored in part by the State of Florida through the Division of Arts and Culture and the National Endowment for the Arts. FSYO is also funded in part by United Arts of Central Florida, your local agency for the arts. 

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Thank you to our 2023-2024 Scholarship sponsor, Kiwanis Club of Orlando Foundation.

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Florida Symphony Youth Orchestras is a proud member of the League of American Orchestras and the Edyth Bush Institute.

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