On Saturday, November 9, 2019, Florida Symphony Youth Orchestras will present its Annual Concerto Competition Finalists' recital. Showcasing the talent and skill of eight finalists, this adjudicated competition gives students the opportunity to hone their skills as a soloist. At the conclusion of the concert, two winners will be announced who will perform their concerto accompanied by FSYO's Symphonic Orchestra later this season. All members of the Jazz Orchestra, Philharmonia Orchestra, and Symphonic Orchestra are eligible to participate.
Previous winners have gone on to study at Juilliard, Manhattan School of Music, The Boston Conservatory, among other prestigious institutions. The experience of performing at the November recital, supported by a piano reduction of the orchestral parts, has proven to be invaluable to the young artists' growth.
The 2019-2020 Concerto Competition finalists are, in alphabetical order:
- Juan Angulo, violin: Violin Concerto No. 3, Op. 61, Mvt. I - C. Saint-Saens
- Ethan Burke, clarinet: Concerto for Clarinet and String Orchestra - A. Copland
- George Lawson, violin: Concerto No. 5 in a minor, Op. 37, Mvt. I - III - H. Vieuxtemps
- Isabelle Tseng, violin: Zigeuner Weisen, Op. 20, No. 1 - J. P. Saraste
- Isabelle Tseng/Brenton Zhang, violin/cello: Double Concerto in a minor, Op. 102, Mvt. I, J. Brahms
- Selina Xu, cello: Cello Concerto in e minor, Op. 85, Mvt. I - E. Elgar
- Maggie Yuan, violin: Violin Concerto No. 5 in A Major, K. 219, Mvt. I - W. A. Mozart
- Brenton Zhang, cello: Cello Concerto in b minor, Op. 104, B. 191, Mvt. I - A. Dvořák
The recital begins at 5:00 p.m. in the Montverde Academy Sandra O. Stephens Auditorium - 17235 7th St, Montverde, FL 34756. Don't miss the opportunity to hear some of the most talented student musicians in Central Florida! Free admission for all! Please visit www.fsyo.org for more information.
ORLANDO, FL (October 8, 2019) – On Thursday, October 17, 2019, from 7:00 - 9:00 pm, Florida Symphony Youth Orchestras, in collaboration with Frost School of Music - University of Miami and Florida State University College of Music, will host the 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 the top national music and performing arts schools, colleges, universities, and conservatories 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. FSYO Executive Director, Briana Scales, notes, “This is a great opportunity for students of all ages who may be considering music as a career, not just juniors and seniors. Determining admission and scholarship requirements early will only help in the long run.”
Admission to the college fair is free, however, students are encouraged to register for the event on the FSYO website at www.fsyo.org. For more information please contact FSYO at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
List of Colleges in Attendance:
Arizona State University School of Music
Bard College Conservatory of Music
Berklee College of Music
Boston Conservatory at Berklee
Boston University School of Music
Carnegie Mellon University School of Music
Cleveland Institute of Music
DePaul University School of Music
DePauw University School of Music
Florida International University School of Music
Florida Southern College
Florida State University - College of Music
Frost School of Music - University of Miami
Gettysburg College Sunderman Conservatory of Music
Indiana University Jacobs School of Music
Interlochen Center for the Arts
Ithaca College School of Music
Linda Berry Stein College of Fine Arts at Jacksonville University
Lynn Conservatory of Music
Manhattan School of Music
Michigan State University College of Music
New England Conservatory
Northwestern University
Oberlin Conservatory of Music
Palm Beach Atlantic University
Peabody Conservatory
Rice University - The Shepherd School of Music
Roosevelt University - Chicago College of Performing Arts
Rutgers University - Mason Gross School of the Arts
Samford University, Division of Music
San Francisco Conservatory of Music
Southern Methodist University
Stetson University
Syracuse University, College of Visual and Performing Arts
Temple University
The Blair School of Music at Vanderbilt University
The Eastman School of Music
The Juilliard School
The New School - College of Performing Arts
University of Central Florida School of Performing Arts
University of Cincinnati, College-Conservatory 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 Maryland 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
University of South Florida School of Music
USC Thornton School of Music
About FSYO: Florida Symphony Youth Orchestras exists to encourage children and young adults, through the practice and performance of orchestral music, to become passionate leaders, thinkers, and contributors in their local community and beyond. In its 63rd Concert Season. Today, FSYO serves almost 300 students and is comprised of seven ensembles - three symphony orchestras, one string-training orchestra, a chamber orchestra, two jazz orchestras - and two supplementary programs - Stringmania Summer Camp and Sing-Song, String-Along.
FSYO programs are carefully structured to encourage student growth with FSYO throughout their primary and secondary years. Florida Symphony Youth Orchestras full range of ensembles gives each student a place to excel with peers at a similar level, and an opportunity to collaborate with seasoned music professionals on local, national, and international levels. During summers, Symphonic Orchestra students participate in life-changing experiences of organized tours, alternating between international & national travel every other year.
Programs are sponsored in part by the Florida Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs; the Florida Council on Arts and Culture; Orlando Utilities Commission; The City of Orlando, Mayor's Matching Grant; and United Arts of Central Florida. We thank these groups for their generous support.
About Frost School of Music - University of Miami: The Frost School of Music is one of the most highly acclaimed innovative music schools in the United States. Housed at the University of Miami, Frost is a progressive school where you can BUILD YOURSELF into a self-assured music professional. Allowing you to combine music with another passion, Frost offers a Bachelor of Music degree in 12 majors, the Bachelor of Science in Music Engineering Technology and the Bachelor of Arts.
With you in mind, Frost created the Bachelor of Music in Musicianship, Artistry Development & Entrepreneurship (M.A.D.E.) professional degree. This unique program provides top quality, high-level preparation for qualified performers and creatives to thrive in all aspects of the contemporary music industry.
Frost also offers numerous graduate programs and Ph.D. degrees including Master of Music, Master of Science in Music Engineering and Doctor of Musical Arts. Other graduate degrees include a J.D./M.M. in Music Business offered jointly with the University of Miami School of Law and an M.A. in Arts Presenting which prepares students to profitably manage performing arts venues and festivals.
About Florida State University College of Music: Nationally distinguished as one of the most comprehensive schools of its kind among public institutions, The Florida State University College of Music has offered a high level of professional education in music for more than 80 years. If you expect to become a professional musician, you will gain creative and personal growth in programs designed to create composers, performers, scholars, and teachers.
The College of Music is headquarters to a variety of campus orchestras, bands, choral ensembles, jazz bands, and early music and baroque ensembles; 9 world music ensembles; and numerous chamber groups, as well as the Florida State Opera and the Music Theater Program. Each year the College of Music offers some 350 concerts and productions and regularly hosts national conventions, workshops, and festivals, such as the biennial Festival of New Music.
Learn more: web: www.fsyo.org | FB: @TheFSYO | Twitter: @FSYO | IG: @F_S_Y_O | Youtube: @fsyo
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ORLANDO, FL – In partnership with Florida Symphony Youth Orchestras (FSYO), the Central Florida Composers Forum invited current members to apply for one of five composer residencies with ensembles within the FSYO organization. Residencies will take place during FSYOs 63rd concert season with the unifying theme for all residences being PULSE. Each composer was left to interpret that theme in any meaningful and appropriate way.
Overture Strings will premiere a commissioned piece by composer Ryan McQuinn during the POPs in the Garden concert on Sunday, February 9, 2020, at The Grove at Mead Botanical Garden. "My piece for the young children in Overture Strings embraces unity while celebrating diversity," says McQuinn. "It's wonderful to witness the youngest musicians learning to walk. I hope that my piece helps them feel more sure-footed and inspires confidence that bolsters their journey."
The Prelude Orchestra will premiere a commissioned piece by Timothy Stulman during the Spring Classics concert on Sunday, March 8, 2020 at Edgewater High School. "It's an honor to have the chance to work with such talented young musicians," says Stulman. "Young players are often times even more creative and receptive than seasoned professionals, since the world is newer for them." Also premiering a piece during the Spring Classics alongside the Philharmonia Orchestra is composer Alex Burtzos. Burtzos notes, "My piece for the Philharmonia Orchestra addresses the word PULSE according to its musical, biological, and historical meanings; it's an emotional work that will demand a virtuosic response from these talented young performers."
The Jazz 1 Orchestra will premiere a commissioned piece by composer Scott Dickinson during the Jazz at Blue Bamboo concert on Sunday, April 19, 2020 at Blue Bamboo Center for the Arts. "I'm thrilled to get the chance to compose for the gifted young musicians that comprise the FSYO Jazz Orchestra," says Dicksinon. "There are few experiences that can invigorate a future composer like performing a new piece written specifically for you! I'll be creating a piece that's both tailored to the strengths of the musicians, and also inspired by our shared theme of PULSE."
The Symphonic Orchestra, led by Music Director Hanrich Claassen, will premiere a commissioned piece by composer Brandon Martin during FSYO's 63rd Season Finale concert on Sunday, May 3, 2020 at Calvary Orlando. "I seek to write a piece that addresses the Pulse Shooting: not only exploring the grief and sadness in its aftermath, but also the healing, the affirmation of self, and the celebration of being alive," says Martin. "I am excited to work with an organization such as FSYO that is passionate about educating the next generation of musicians."
Tickets for each of the concerts may be purchased online at www.fsyo.org with special pricing for children, student, senior, and military. Florida academic and private teachers receive free admission to all FSYO season subscription concerts with proof of I.D.
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ORLANDO, FL — The Florida Symphony Youth Orchestras announced Briana Scales has been named Executive Director of the Central Florida nonprofit that exists to encourage children and young adults, through the practice and performance of orchestral music, to become passionate leaders, thinkers, and contributors in their local community and beyond.
"All of us at the Florida Symphony Youth Orchestras are thrilled to have Briana back with the organization. With her knowledge of arts administration and understanding of artistic merit, I couldn't think of anyone more fitting for the position as Executive Director." Stephen Schenck, FSYO Board President, said. "Her passion for the arts will be crucial as we continue to grow in the coming years."
Scales originally joined the FSYO family in 2013 as a Member Relations Coordinator and moved through the ranks, serving as the Manager of Philanthropy before moving to her new position. Scales' hiring comes as the organization implements a plan of strategic growth and prepares to launch the 63rd concert season.
"I am honored to be returning to Florida Symphony Youth Orchestras as the Executive Director. I've watched FSYO grow so much over the years and I am excited to lead the organization as we continue that growth. As a musician, I know the importance and impact of arts education and I look forward to helping the organization continue to reach and enhance the lives of Central Florida's youth."
About Briana: Briana earned her Undergraduate Degree in Music (Classical Vocal Performance) and Psychology from Kalamazoo College and her Master's Degree in Entertainment Business from Full Sail University. She also received a Certificate in Business Leadership from the Crummer Graduate School of Business at Rollins College. Briana specializes in operations, event planning, non-profit fundraising, music education, and customer service.
In addition to her vocal degree, Briana plays the cello and piano. She has performed in an orchestra since the 4th grade and understands the time and dedication it takes to be a successful member. Briana knows first-hand the impact that a strong arts education can have on a young life and will strive to use that knowledge to encourage the students of FSYO and strengthen the organization's relationship with the Central Florida community.
About FSYO: Florida Symphony Youth Orchestras exists to encourage children and young adults, through the practice and performance of orchestral music, to become passionate leaders, thinkers, and contributors in their local community and beyond. In its 63rd Concert Season, FSYO serves almost 300 students and is comprised of seven ensembles - three symphony orchestras, one string-training orchestra, a chamber orchestra, two jazz orchestras - and two supplementary programs - Stringmania Summer Camp and Sing-Song, String-Along.
FSYO programs are carefully structured to encourage student growth with FSYO throughout their primary and secondary years. Florida Symphony Youth Orchestras full range of ensembles gives each student a place to excel with peers at a similar level, and an opportunity to collaborate with seasoned music professionals on local, national, and international levels. During summers, Symphonic Orchestra students participate in life-changing experiences of organized tours, alternating between international & national travel every other year.
Programs are sponsored in part by the Florida Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs; the Florida Council on Arts and Culture; Orlando Utilities Commission; The City of Orlando, Mayor's Matching Grant; and United Arts of Central Florida. We thank these groups for their generous support.
Learn more: web: www.fsyo.org | FB: @TheFSYO | Twitter: @FSYO | IG: @F_S_Y_O | Youtube: @fsyo
ORLANDO, FL — Florida Symphony Youth Orchestras is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization that has served Central Florida for over sixty-two years. In the early 1950's, Rollins College music professor Alphonse Carlo recognized a need for a youth orchestra program in the Orlando area and accordingly organized free Saturday classes for string students in the community. Mr. Carlo's ultimate dream of forming a youth orchestra came to fruition when the popularity of his ensemble reached its stride in 1957 and the first public FSYO concert was stage in November, 1959. For the first 20 years of its existence, FSYO was supported by both Rollins College and the Florida Symphony Orchestra.
Today, FSYO serves nearly three-hundred students and is comprised of seven ensembles: three symphonic orchestras, one string-training orchestra, a chamber orchestra, and two jazz orchestras. Additionally, FSYO organizes two supplementary string programs during the fall and summer months: Sing-Song, String-Along and Stringmania Summer Camp. FSYO's program is carefully structured to encourage a student's growth throughout their primary and secondary years. Our full range of ensembles gives each student a place to excel with peers at a similar level, and an opportunity to collaborate with seasoned music professionals on local, national, and international levels. Beyond the regular season, students in FSYO's Touring Orchestra participate in life-changing experiences through annually alternating international & national tours.
MISSION:
Florida Symphony Youth Orchestras exists to encourage children and young adults, through the practice and performance of orchestral music, to become passionate leaders, thinkers, and contributors in their local community and beyond.
POSITION DESCRIPTION:
The Executive Director assumes responsibility for the management of all human and financial resources needed to achieve the Florida Symphony Youth Orchestras mission. To that end, the Executive Director is accountable for all aspects of the organization and for implementing policies set by the board of directors. The Executive Director sets the tone for organizational operations, formulating and carrying out policies and programs related to administrative, budgetary, staffing, fund-raising, and advocacy activities, and this position will often be a public face for the orchestra in community activities and patron/donor relations. The multi-faceted responsibilities call for an individual with demonstrated leadership skills and extensive management experience, the ability to assemble an effective staff, work effectively with board and community members, and collaborate with artistic personnel to ensure the integrity and growth of orchestra programming.
Because FSYO is an educational organization, the Executive Director is charged with creating and overseeing programs that encourage K-12 students to participate in and learn about classical music. Position typically interacts with musicians, teachers, community leaders, and volunteer groups. Position requires a forward-thinking, entrepreneurial leader with strong knowledge of music education, current trends in youth orchestra education, and the ability to establish community partnerships.
POSITION SUMMARY:
The Executive Director reports to the FSYO Board of Directors and is responsible for the day-to-day operation of FSYO and its overall strategic direction, administration, and fundraising consistent with the policies and directives established by the Board. The Executive Director has broad authority to guide the operations of the FSYO in collaboration with the Music Director and the FSYO Board to achieve the organization's mission and strategic goals. The Executive Director is responsible for the planning, coordination, supervision, and execution of all FSYO activities.
Learn more: web: www.fsyo.org | FB: @TheFSYO | Twitter: @FSYO | IG: @F_S_Y_O | Youtube: @fsyo
ORLANDO, FL – On Saturday, February 8, the Celebration Foundation is hosting Florida Symphony Youth Orchestras as part of its 18th annual Concert Series. This will mark FSYO’s eleventh appearance in the Celebration Foundation Classical Concert Series. 
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