Spring 2023 ESYO Program Book - Part 2

MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

It is my pleasure to invite you to celebrate Empire State Youth Orchestra’s 43rd season of joyful music making. This year we are thrilled to return to a familiar pattern of rehearsals and performances, including perennial favorites such as the Frost Valley Retreat, Melodies of Christmas, the Young People's & Senior’s Concerts, and our signature, crowd-pleasing, Crossgates Mall Playathon. After two years of pandemic disruptions, it is wonderful to look forward to a more “normal” season packed with performances, enriching musical experiences, and opportunities to forge life-long friendships. And ESYO has much to anticipate. Outstanding conductors, teaching artists, and coaches working side-by-side with enthusiastic and talented young musicians to create wonderful, magical moments to share with our community. A thriving CHIME program, providing youth free music instruction and performance opportunities. A new cohort of Young Leaders, already mobilizing to apply their insight, expertise and innovation to accomplish great things. And beyond this season, we look forward to taking up residence in our new, “forever” home.

The quest for ESYO’s home began more than two decades ago. Past opportunities that were identified--like the Goldilocks tale--proved either too large, or too small, too costly, or simply too impractical. But the 8-acre campus at 45 Mac Arthur Drive, is "just right." Young musicians will be inspired by the creative space, graced with natural light and acoustically designed rehearsal rooms. Families will gather in lounge areas during rehearsals, enjoying conversation and building community. Our new home will allow us to expand our scope to include daytime programming for early learners, homeschool ensembles, accessible experiences for young people with disabilities, summer camps, as well as to develop extended day programming in partnership with local school districts.. These new offerings will help strengthen regional school music programs and introduce students to musical instruments at a younger age. Cooperative education programs, such as advanced theory, offered in partnership with Capital Region BOCES Arts in Education Initiative, will expand academic opportunities for young musicians interested in pursuing a career in music. To learn more, and follow our progress as we work to secure the resources to make this vision a reality, go to our website: https://esyo.org/news-concerts/esyo-center-formusical-youth

Yes, we do indeed have much to look forward to, not the least of which is celebrating together with you, our friend and supporter. Thank you for being here at this performance, cheering on our musical youth. Thank you for believing in the power of music to transform, to delight, to enrich and to inspire. Enjoy today, and come back again soon to hear us again!

Becky Calos Executive Director

MESSAGE FROM THE MUSIC DIRECTOR

I would like to warmly welcome you to the 2022-2023 season, my first as Music Director. I'm so excited to embark on this journey together with the young musicians of ESYO and with all of you!

We live in challenging times and I believe that coming together to play music with urgency, to embrace vulnerability, to listen and explore the depths of emotions, is crucially important. It is through this experience that we create new connections and a sense of belonging. This season is about discovering new and meaningful connections - connections to nature, to ourselves, and to one another. Gabriella Smith's Field Guide, in Symphony Orchestra's opening concert, invites us to connect to nature through her music, and, later in the season, the Festival of Young Artists will feature music celebrating Earth. Music can connect us to our own nature, our bodies, for example in Ludwig Van Beethoven's 7th Symphony that centers around dance. And there will be more dancing when several of ESYO's ensembles connect and play together in joyful encore pieces that feature movement, for example in the joint concert of Repertory Orchestra, String Orchestra and Concertino Strings on November 13!

More connections: we are partnering with Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute to present a side-by-side performance at EMPAC in April, featuring a new music visualization tool called Music:Eyes - See what you Hear. And the young musicians at our free after-school program CHIME will create musical connections to their emotions and lived experience as part of a in a project called Amplify Our Voice. And we are excited to move to a new place of belonging, ESYO’s Center for Musical Youth. This new home will allow for many new connections and ways of making music together!

I'm also thrilled to launch MusicNOW, a multi-year endeavor that focuses on nourishing dimensions of music making that are often underdeveloped and that is grounded in the conviction that music can only come to life in the present—in the NOW! In a MusicNOW spirit, ESYO students develop excellence not only in playing their instruments but also in breathing and embodying music together, in telling musical-emotional stories collectively with a sparkle in the eye, in intently listening and relating to each other and in thinking and being expressive outside the box, in a spirit of improvisation and creation.

At the launch of MusicNOW, we had the great privilege to welcome Walter Thompson for a weeklong residency. Walter is the inventor of an innovative instant composing sign language called Soundpainting, which he introduced to our young musicians in ensemble rehearsals and at the fabulous Frost Valley Retreat. You will encounter Soundpainting in various shapes and forms throughout the season in performances and collaborative workshops!

Thank you for all the support you have given our young musicians over the years and I'm very much looking forward to celebrating this season with you!

Etienne Abelin Music Director and Conductor of the ESYO Symphony Orchestra

2022-2023 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Omar Williams

Board Chair

Barry Richman

Vice Chair

Heather Chan Secretary

Dee Adkins Treasurer

ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF

Rebecca Calos

Executive Director

Lisa Stulmaker

Finance Director

Sue Lascoe

Operations Director & Repertory Orchestra Manager

Anne-Marie Gorman Doyle

Development Director

CONDUCTING STAFF

Etienne Abelin

Music Director & Symphony Orchestra

David Beck

Repertory Orchestra

Joseph Gumpper

String Orchestra

Leo Milman

Concertino Strings

Dr. Robert S. Hansbrough

Wind Orchestra

CHIME STAFF

Rossiluz Caceres

Site Manager

Lin Polster

Site Manager

Cathy Gatta

Lead Teacher

Monica Roach

Lead Teacher

Nikola Tomic

Lead Teacher

Lia Bourque-Mooney

Teaching Artist

Robert Altman

Brian Axford

Robert Bengraff

Vic Bernstein

Randall Ellis

Henk Elzenga

James Haertel

Stefon Harris

Andrew LaCoppola

Kara Lais

Peter Lauricella

Caitlin Mochrie

Brian Quiara

Brian Sacawa

Chris Shiley

Elizabeth Silver

Dr. David Bebe

CHIME Conductor, Curriculum & Enrichment Coordinator

Andrea Restrepo

Operations Assistant, Librarian & Symphony and String Orchestra Manager

Zoë Auerbach

CHIME & Young Leaders Director

Diana Chabai-Booker

Marketing & Publications Manager

Mary Rose Petrozola

Membership Services Coordinator & Administrative Assistant

Richard Albagli

Youth Percussion Ensemble

Mark Foster

Youth Percussion Ensemble

John Antonio

Repertory Percussion Ensemble

Genoveffa Vitale

Chamber Percussion Ensemble

Dr. Peter Bellino

Youth Jazz Orchestra

Keith Pray

Repertory Jazz Orchestra

Julie Taylor

Concertino Wind Choir

Scott Hopkins

Concertino Brass Choir

Rae Jean Teeter

Concert Chorale

Hannah Dick

Concertino Percussion

Jessica Bowen

Teaching Artist

Aidan Doyle

Teaching Artist

Lydia Flynn

Teaching Artist

Teresa Gatta-Norton

Teaching Artist

Tara Hanish

Teaching Artist

Ye Hu

Teaching Artist

Matthew Johnson

Teaching Artist

Cara Miner

Teaching Artist

Andrea Restrepo

Teaching Artist

Bridie Schnore

Teaching Artist

Nick Smith

Teaching Artist

Aaron Zhang

Teaching Artist

SECTIONAL COACHES

Throughout the season, ESYO Symphony and Repertory Orchestra members are coached and mentored by a group of dedicated musicians and teachers from the Capital Region and beyond. We are grateful to our team of coaches for offering their guidance and expertise, inspiring our youth to pursue musical excellence.

VIOLIN & VIOLA

Matthew Johnson, Viola

Leo Milman, Violin

Natalya Milman, Violin

Jamecyn Morey, Violin

Hilary Cumming, Violin

Stephani Emery, Viola

Shelly Tramposh, Viola

Heather Braun-Bakker, Violin

CELLOS & BASSES

Luke Baker, Bass

Dr. David Bebe, Cello

Andrea Restrepo, Cello & Bass

Andre O'Neil, Cello

Rachele Prawdzik, Cello

John Marshall, Bass

Patrick O'Connell, Bass

PERCUSSION

John Antonio, Percussion

WOODWINDS & BRASS

Michael Blostein, Brass

Paul Riggio, Brass

Edward Marschilok, Woodwinds

Jaqueline Wright, Woodwinds

Susan Gierthy, Oboe

Julie Taylor, Clarinet

Michelle McLoughlin, Bassoon

John Fatuzzo, Trumpet

Jessica Cunningham, Horn

STRING CHAMBER

MUSIC COACHES

Dr. David Bebe

Etienne Abelin

Jessica Belfower

Jamecyn Morey

WIND CHAMBER MUSIC COACH

Susan Gierthy

CONCERT PROGRAM

Schenectady High School

Friday, May 12, 2023, 7:30PM

YOUTH JAZZ ORCHESTRA & REPERTORY JAZZ ORCHESTRA

REPERTORY JAZZ ORCHESTRA | KEITH PRAY, CONDUCTOR

TO BE SELECTED FROM: MOTEN SWING

arr. Ernie Wilkins

GAADI OF TRUTH

Red Baraat

DID YOU CALL HER TODAY

Ben Webster

UNA MAS

Kenny Dorham

YOUTH JAZZ ORCHESTRA | DR. PETER BELLINO, CONDUCTOR

ASCENDING

Fred Sturm

LA FIESTA

Chick Corea, arr. Michael Philip Mossman

STUDIO C

Gary Lindsay

A LONG TIME AGO

Bob Mintzer

BISTRO LATINO

Jeff Jarvis

REPERTORY JAZZ ORCHESTRA PERSONNEL

SAXOPHONE

Shriyan Ahuja

Alexis Berry

Gideon Goldberg

Hubert Huho

Teresa Rodrigues

Dylan Slater

TRUMPET

Shawn Chaney

Emery D’Arcy

Rafi Magdon-Ismail

VIOLA

Anika Sohn

RHYTHM SECTION

Nolan Valero

Piano/Vibraphone

Tianyi Zhang

Piano/Vibraphone

Ethan Bowden

Guitar

Nolan Linck

Drums

Zoltan Arthur Percussion

YOUTH JAZZ ORCHESTRA PERSONNEL

SAXOPHONE

Bohdan Kinal

Alto

Kevin Lu Alto

Angelo Delaney Tenor

Nathan Yan Tenor

Anthony Guo Baritone

TRUMPET

Conor Costello

Landon Kinal

Andrew Comparetta

Lara Luczak

TROMBONE

Luyanda Pieterse

Dean Simons

Alis Fruehstorfer

John Wasula

RHYTHM SECTION

Grant Harding

Piano

Benjamin Quist Bass

Sam Wagner

Guitar

Kiemon Noel Drums

CONCERT PROGRAM

Massry Center for the Arts

Sunday, May 14, 2023, 3:00PM

WIND ORCHESTRA, CHAMBER ORCHESTRA, & CHAMBER MUSIC GROUPS

CHAMBER ORCHESTRA | ROMEO VASHISHTH, STUDENT CONDUCTOR

ETIENNE ABELIN, ARTISTIC ADVISOR

“BLUE MINOR”

Leo Milman

CONCERTO FOR VIOLIN AND CELLO IN BB RV. 547

Antonio Vivaldi

Caitlin Weinheimer, Violin

Liam Sullivan, Cello

SERENADE FOR STRINGS IN E MAJOR, OP. 22

Antonín Dvořák

I. Moderato

II. Tempo di Valse

CHAMBER MUSIC GROUPS

QUINTET IN A MAJOR, K. 581

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

I. Allegro

Julia Spretty, clarinet

Kai Vernooy and Natasha Nugent, violin

Peyton Roach, viola

Adeline Hubbell, cello

PHANTASY QUARTET

Benjamin Britten

Andrew Watkins, oboe

Cael Sullivan, violin

Peyton Roach, viola

Ian Jin, cello

PROGRAM CONTINUES ON NEXT PAGE

"A Mother's Day Concert"

WIND ORCHESTRA | DR. ROBERT S. HANSBROUGH, CONDUCTOR

BRASS CHOIR

CHORAL VISIONS FOR BRASS CHOIR

Wayne Fritchie

WOODWIND CHOIR

THREE ODES FOR WOODWIND CHOIR

Tyler Mazone

I. Presto

III. Lively, as annoyingly as possible

WIND ORCHESTRA

ORIGINAL SUITE

Gordon Jacob

I.   March

TWO GRAINGER MELODIES

Percy Grainger, arr. Joseph Kreine

I. Six Dukes Went A-Fishin’

II. Early One Morning

MAGIC CITY MONTAGE

Robert Sheldon

BROADWAY CURTAIN TIME

arr. John Krance

CHAMBER ORCHESTRA PERSONNEL

FIRST VIOLIN

Tyler Jung

Kai Vernooy

Caitlin Weinheimer

SECOND VIOLIN

Abby Lee

Natasha Nugent

Cael Sullivan

VIOLA

Bowen Yu

CELLO

Ian Gu

Adeline Hubbell

Liam Sullivan

BASS

Orin Carlson-Lee

Ariel Chen

WIND ORCHESTRA PERSONNEL

PICCOLO

Kathleen Guo

Christina Zhang

FLUTE

Kathleen Guo

Ari Caine

Abbigale Rossman

Olivia Lee

Christina Zhang

Karissa Gu

Ann Furlong

Sofie Guo

Ahana Gandhi

Abigail Brennan

Sinjin Facchetti

Srinidhi Thattai

OBOE

Kaylee Gutmaker

CLARINET

Sophia Hu

Wyatt Pierce

Lily Burgess

Bonnie Diefendorf

BASS CLARINET

Lily Burgess

BASSOON

Jeanine Cao

Aryeh Korevaar

Hikaru Matsue

ALTO SAX

Holden Spock

Heidi Chung

TENOR SAX

Tyler Wills

BARITONE SAX

Stephanie Podolec *

FRENCH HORN

Brennan Hawkins

Anthony Padula

Cole Martin

TRUMPET

Elyse Roepe

Isaac Allen

Jada Wesenberg *

John Fatuzzo *

TROMBONE

Brendon Cao

Daniel Korevaar

Ethan Meeks

Luqman Ahmed

EUPHONIUM

Anthony Zhang

Eli Stanwicks

TUBA

Casey Cole*

PERCUSSION

Dre McElhinney

Jane Lapati

Stephen McClain *

Tia Malai Mathison *

* Guest Manager - Jane Padula

Student Manager – Casey Cole

CONCERT PROGRAM

Schenectady High School

CHIME

Friday, May 19, 5:30PM

ALL-CHIME CONCERT

CHIME YATES

PRELUDE

TWINKLE VARIATIONS & THEME

W.A. Mozart, arr. Suzuki

A very big thank you to the Van Norton Family Foundation and the National Endowment for the Arts for making this concert possible!

LOS POLLITOS DICEN

I. Parraguez

FRENCH FOLK SONG

Folk Song

INTERMEZZO

WILLIAM TELL OVERTURE

G. Rossini, arr. T. Gregory

LAZY SUNDAYS

T. Gregory

GRIDLOCK

T. Gregory

CODA

WORLD’S SMALLEST VIOLIN

AJR, arr. C. Gatta

CANON IN D

J. Pachelbel

LITTLE APPLE

Russian Folk Song

ALL CHIME YATES

PIZZICATO POLKA

J. Strauss & J. Strauss II

PROGRAM CONTINUES ON NEXT PAGE

CREATING HARMONY INSPIRING MUSICAL EXCELLENCE

CHIME VAN CORLAER

RECORDER ENSEMBLE

THE WATER IS WIDE

Scottish Folk Song

ODE TO JOY

L. van Beethoven

HOT CROSS BUNS

English Traditional

VAN CORLAER WINDS

THE PINK PANTHER THEME

H. Mancini

SECOND LINE/C-JAM BLUES MEDLEY

J. Avery/D. Ellington

CHIME PROCTORS

CHIME CHAMBER ORCHESTRA

FROM THE HOLBERG SUITE

I. Prelude

E. Grieg

CHIME ORCHESTRA

SIMPLE GIFTS

Traditional; Music by Joseph Brackett, Jr., Arr. Rouse/Hogan/CHIME

ALL CHIME STUDENTS | AMPLIFY OUR VOICE 2023

AOV PRESENTATION

Dr. David Bebe, Adrian Gordon and CHIME Students & Staff

THE POWER OF HOPE (WORLD PREMIERE)

CHIME Students and Adrian Gordon

CHIME YATES PERSONNEL

YATES PRELUDE

VIOLIN

Emma Budhoo

Ross Caceres

Tyheem King-Harrell

London Mcintyre

Jayden Rogoobeer

CELLO

Olivia Brown

Isaiah Chandler

Israel Daniel

Tamiyah Hill

Jaxson Jayne

Tyrell King-Harrell

YATES CODA

VIOLIN

Benjanin Campana

Victoria Daniel

Leo Galligan

Tanmay Harrinarayan

YATES INTERMEZZO

VIOLIN

Carleigh Adams

Elizabeth Bland

Millie Cleary

Kailee James-Bermeo

Ilyse Jordan

Brian Singh

VIOLA

Michah Varlack

CELLO

Jayden Budhoo

Kylie DiCocco

DOUBLE BASS

Riley Vandenburg

CHIME YATES STAFF

Cathy Gatta, Lead Teaching Artist

Rossiluz Caceres, Site Manager

Andrea del Pilar Restrepo, Teaching Artist

Tara Hanish, Teaching Artist

Cara Miner, Teaching Artist

Bridie Schnore, Teaching Artist

CHIME VAN CORLAER PERSONNEL

VAN CORLAER RECORDER ENSEMBLE

RECORDER

Charlotte Anderson

Tianna Gillisslee

Richard Hernandez

Catalina Osuba

Aiden Satrohan

PIANO

Aidan Doyle

VAN CORLAER STAFF

Nikola Tomić, Lead Teaching Artist

Sarah Corbett, Site Manager

Aidan Doyle, Teaching Artist

Lydia Flynn, Teaching Artist

Ye Hu, Teaching Artist

VAN CORLAER WINDS

FLUTE

Keymari Lopez

Jolina Pagan

OBOE

Jacob Ruilova

CLARINET

Jose Alicea

Jack Montross

TRUMPET

Arianna Jones

PIANO

Aidan Doyle

CHIME PROCTORS ORCHESTRA PERSONNEL

DR. DAVID BEBE, CONDUCTOR

FIRST VIOLIN

Ayden Chrisman

Ian Chrisman

Ava Doyle *

Ciarra Miller

Daniel Ramdhan

Alucien Gonzalez

SECOND VIOLIN

Tanshree Harrinarayan

Taylor Batease

Sonia Bhola

Kelvin Chattergoon

Shawn Cooke

Jacob Mainoo

Nevin Mainoo

Adonté Matthews

VIOLA

Araceli Alvarado

Nassir Campana

Sophia Cooke

Randy Thakoordial

CELLO

Jazlyn Bronson

Da’Viaire DeHaney-Miller

Gabreal Reid

River Henriksen

Aaron Thomas

FLUTE

Zoe Daniels

Natalia Ghangaprashad

OBOE

Angelina Ruilova

CLARINET

Ayan Datt

Emaryis Maisonet

Jack Montross

SAXOPHONE

Sean Marley

Haden Powell

Dylan Slater

TRUMPET

Max Tobey

TROMBONE

Thomas Beach

Maria Galvez

Shivnarine Sukraj

PERCUSSION

Michael Kinne

Mia Montross

Fabian Vives

Niko Nyman *

* Guest

CHIME Proctors Staff

Dr. David Bebe, CHIME Conductor & Lead Teaching Artist

Lin Polster, Site Manager

CHIME Proctors Teaching Artists

Zoë Auerbach, violin

Lia Bourque-Mooney, cello

Jessica Bowen, violin

Aidan Doyle, trombone & percussion

Teresa Gatta Norton, violin

Tara Hanish, cello

Ye Hu, clarinet

Matthew Johnson, viola

Nicholaus Smith, brass & percussion

Nikola Tomić, trumpet

Aaron Zhang, woodwinds

CHIME CHAMBER ORCHESTRA PERSONNEL

VIOLIN

Ayden Chrisman

Ian Chrisman

Ciarra Miller

FLUTE

Zoe Daniels

VIOLA

Matt Johnson

Cara Miner

CELLO

Jazlyn Bronson

Da’Viaire DeHaney-Miller

Gabreal Reid

Lia Bourque-Mooney

THANK YOU TO OUR CHIME DONORS!

Corporate and Individual Donors January 1, 2022 – May 17, 2023

The following list represents gifts and pledges received from January 1, 2022, to May 17th, 2023. We apologize for any errors or omissions and would be grateful to have them called to our attention. If you haven't had a chance to contribute, please go to esyo.org/donate to support our wonderful young musicians.

CORPORATE DONORS $1,000 AND ABOVE

$20,000 and above

The Cornelia T. Bailey Foundation

The New York State Council on the Arts

REA Charitable Trust

The Van Norton Family Foundation

$10,000 - $19,000

Carnegie Hall Weill Institute

National Endowment for the Arts

Review Foundation

$5,000 - $9,999

Berkshire Bank Foundation

Community Foundation for the Capital Region - Barry Alan Gold Memorial Advised Fund

M&T Charitable Foundation

Seymour Fox Foundation

$1,000 - $4,999

D'Addario Music Foundation

Price Chopper's Golub Foundation

Capital Bank, A Division of Chemung Canal Trust Company

Schenectady County Initiative Program

Henry M. Butzel Family Foundation

INDIVIDUAL DONORS $50 AND ABOVE

$1,000 and above

Robert & Mary Chase

Walt and Jean Hayes

$500 - $999

Alan Bare in memory of Lois Bare

$100 - $499

Matthew Jameson

Donna and Paul Jameson

Danielle Malone

Michael Downing

Helene Caparelli

Jack Jameson

Brendan Principato

Madeline Clyne

James Kiernan

Amy Mitchell

Amy Mitchell

Jennifer Wakamatsu

$50 - $99

Josef and Nicole Luciano

Heather OShea

Nicholas Baratto

Lisa Fiorenza

Stephen & Margaret Licursi

Jennifer Needle

Chaun Richardson Sr.

Meri Teasdale

Kevin Trimble

Lindsey Waldon

Joey Leyko Picciotto

Lucille McLendon

Therese Trimble

STOP THE VIOLENCE, SHOW KINDNESS

Amplify Our Voice offers CHIME students a powerful vehicle to process emotion, explore shared experiences, and “amplify” their voices to the world. Annually, through reflection, improvisation, and experimentation, CHIME students collaborate with a guest composer to create an original, multi-level composition. The culminating original work is premiered to the community at the conclusion of the CHIME season. This year, students chose to focus on the theme stop the violence, show kindness. The resulting composition being premiered today is The Power of Hope.

2022-23 AOV guest composer/arranger Adrian Gordon’s compositional process for The Power of Hope was influenced directly by our CHIME students in the following ways (taken from the composer’s notes):

• Nevin and Jacob Mainoo’s improvisation on violence inspired measures 58-59 and the development of the sadness section.

• Keymari Lopez’s mini-composition, measure 1, inspired the violin section at measure 58.

• Jolina Pagan’s mini-composition, measure 2, inspired the trombone section at measures 14-15, measures 26-27, and measures 48-49.

• Benjamin Campana, Leo Galligan, Tanmay Harrinarayan and Victoria Daniel’s statement on “sorrow to happiness” inspired the transition between measures 62-80.

• Mia Montross, Ciarra Miller, Max Tobey, Zoe Daniels, Millie Cleary and Jayden Budhoo inspired Adrian through their statements saying that “the kindness/hope section”, measures 85 to the end, should be “melodic, happy and proud”.

• Michael Kinne, Haden Powell, Ian Chrisman, Zoe Daniels, Alucien Gonzalez and Jack Montross’ suggestions about the first instruments being violin, timpani, and cello inspired the opening of the piece. Most students that Adrian spoke with stated that they envisioned these instruments in the opening.

• Kelvin Chattergoon, Sonia Bhola, Nevin Mainoo, Tahnshree Harrinarayan, Taylor Batease, Jose Alicea, Jacob Ruilova and Charlotte Anderson’s statements about a medium fast tempo influenced the opening tempo. This group also inspired Adrian through their discussions by emphasizing the word perseverance. It inspired Adrian to repeat the kindness/hope section of the piece in an expanded form towards the end. A slower variation of this kindness/hope motive will literally persevere/return and close out the piece.

• Jolina Pagan, Jack Montross and Catalina Osuba envisioned trombone, flute, oboe, trumpet, and clarinet as important instruments in this composition. They inspired the “clarinet solo” at measures 80-84. This group also inspired the final section in m. 85 to the end when they said, “the kindness section should be slow”.

ABOUT ADRIAN GORDON

Adrian Gordon is an active performer, composer, and music educator living in Charlotte, NC. Mr. Gordon currently serves as the orchestra director at Providence Day School in Charlotte, NC. He received his B.A. in music from the University of Miami, and his Masters degree in Music Education at Florida International University. In addition to teaching, Mr. Gordon is the founder of Leap Year Music Publishing which publishes string music for elementary, middle, and high school ensembles. Mr. Gordon's compositions appear on the Florida, Texas, Maryland, and Georgia Orchestra Association Music Performance Assessment Lists. His compositions are distributed through JW Pepper and have been performed throughout the world. He is an active clinician and guest lecturer.

THE ESYO EXPERIENCE

Founded by parent and music teacher Barry Richman in 1979, Empire State Youth Orchestra (ESYO) challenges and inspires more than 600 of the most talented youth from the Capital Region of New York, Western New England, and all walks of life. These youth achieve musical excellence through intensive instruction and highlevel performance. Through twelve performing ensembles and ESYO CHIME, ESYO is igniting a lifelong love of music in the youngest members of our communities, and breaking boundaries between communities and backgrounds to grow the future of music.

ESYO’s progressive program nourishes students in elementary through high school, growing with them as they expand their musical and personal capabilities. But the ESYO experience is about more than exceptional music. Through ESYO, young people build confidence, practice teamwork, and cultivate personal drive, giving them the skills to achieve success in music, college, and beyond. ESYO alums go on as leaders in fields as diverse as engineering and art. They can also be found in all areas of the music industry, from national orchestras and recording studios to music classrooms.

ESYO also seeks to expand its impact beyond its membership, believing music can be a catalyst for social change in the communities in which ESYO musicians live, learn, and play. This belief is why ESYO has helped raise more than $8 million for Albany Medical Center’s pediatric oncology program through

the Melodies of Christmas concerts. To further expand its impact, ESYO launched CHIME in 2015. Through free, daily music instruction and mentorship, CHIME provides young musicians in Schenectady and Albany schools with comprehensive support from elementary through high school. The CHIME team places children on the path to musical excellence and cultivates skills needed to succeed in all areas of life, including collaboration, creativity, and critical thinking.

The ESYO experience now includes concerts at Carnegie Hall, benefit performances, master classes with exceptional musicians like the Shanghai Quartet, DEKA Quartet, and the Musicians of Ma’alwyck, and international tours of Europe and Asia. All of this would not be accomplished without the support and the generosity of many individuals, corporations, and foundations whose gifts are an investment in the future of music.

ESYO envisions exceptional youth ensembles and orchestras that reflect the diversity of our vibrant communities, and that share a joyful passion for music making. ESYO values musical excellence as a joyful pursuit, accessible to all regardless of socioeconomic conditions.

ESYO is a community catalyst for artistic celebration and innovative collaboration.

For more about ESYO, audition information, or to pledge your support, go to esyo.org.

Photo by Hsiao-Fang Lin

THE ART OF LISTENING

Whether listening to a masterful piece by one of the classical giants or a lead-edge work by a living composer, orchestral music invites you into a musically daring adventure filled with excitement or stillness, joy or sadness, or triumph or loss. Your main job is to listen and be affected by what you hear. Let the music provoke you and inspire you.

Here are a few tips to help you master the art of listening:

LISTEN AS CLOSELY AS YOU CAN

You've most likely heard people describe orchestral music as a relaxing escape or a perfect soundtrack to daily life. Truth is, if you listen closely, you'll hear more, notice more, and appreciate the artful message woven between the notes.

HEAR THE UNIQUE QUALITIES OF THE PERFORMERS

A composer is a partner in the creation of a concert. They provide the blueprint for the performance while the orchestra builds the house and adds the ornaments and furniture. With the freedom of interpretation, no single piece sounds the same.

WHAT TO LISTEN FOR

Music is organized sound, filled with patterns, themes, and moods. Close your eyes and try to visualize what you hear. Do you see colors, shapes, characters or dancers, places, or locations? What is the story that is unfolding?

As you are listening, ask yourself the following questions:

1. What is the mood, feeling, or character of the music? Is it staying the same or changing?

2. Is the music loud or soft? Does it suddenly change?

3. Timbre: What instruments are sounding together? What new sounds are created by different combinations of instruments?

4. What is the tempo of the music? Can you feel the beat in your body?

5. Do you notice recurring themes that you heard previously?

6. What are the other instruments doing if they don’t have the melody?

7. Musical conversations: Do different instruments or sections call or respond to each other?

8. Rhythms and emphasis: How are the rhythms different or complimentary?

MUSIC IS A TAPESTRY

When you take the time to listen and enjoy it, you will always hear something new or different. You don't need to be a musician or an aficionado to enjoy an ESYO concert. All you need is an open ear and an open mind. Let the music affect you, visualize what you hear, and connect it to your life. Most importantly, give yourself a break from email, social media, texting, and screens. Let the music speak to you, especially if it challenges you to listen differently.

ESYO YOUNG LEADERS

ESYO’s Young Leaders (YL) program provides opportunities for the next generation of musicians and arts leaders to gain hands-on experience and assist in the programs of an internationally-recognized youth orchestra. Young Leaders participate an average of 8-10 hours a month in a variety of ways, including professional development workshops and trainings; volunteering in special events, community projects, and administrative tasks; engaging as ESYO teaching assistants and ambassadors; and serving on ESYO's Board of Directors. Past student-led YL community projects have included an instrument and music supplies drive, volunteer music festival, outreach presentations in local schools, Soundwalk in Washington Park, and virtual collaborative music projects.

IS PROUD TO SUPPORT THE EMPIRE STATE YOUTH ORCHESTRA

ESYO SCHOLARSHIPS & AWARDS

THE HARMONY IN MUSIC SCHOLARSHIP

ESTABLISHED BY THE KOLODZIEJ AND RESTA FAMILY

This scholarship supports the musical aspirations of talented young players who demonstrate financial need. In recognition of the challenges faced by larger families to afford enriching opportunities for all their children equally, this award favors applicants seeking to enroll more than one child in Empire State Youth Orchestra.

THE RICHARD ALBAGLI SCHOLARSHIPS

ESTABLISHED BY THE CHANG, HARRIS & PROVANCHER FAMILIES

These scholarships honor Richard Albagli’s more than thirty years of service to ESYO as percussion conductor, his deep commitment to music education and his compassion for others. These awards favor percussion applicants.

BARRY RICHMAN CAREERS IN MUSIC SCHOLARSHIP

ESTABLISHED BY BARRY RICHMAN

This scholarship is awarded at the end of each ESYO season to a graduating senior from any ESYO group who best exemplifies the goals and standards of their ensemble, serves as a role model to their peers, has made outstanding musical contributions, and plans a career in music.

THE ACCELERATOR SCHOLARSHIPS

These needs-based scholarships honor Roger Hannay’s unwavering desire to help those in need who are also willing to help themselves. These awards favor returning ESYO musicians who have been accepted into a more advanced ensemble and who reflect Roger’s grit, determination and dedication to hard work.

THE HELEN CHA-PYO SCHOLARSHIP FUND

Helen Cha-Pyo served as ESYO’s Music Director and Symphony Orchestra Conductor between 2002 and 2018. Under her extraordinary leadership, ESYO grew to become one of the preeminent Youth Orchestras in the nation. Helen’s vision guided the launch of ESYO’s CHIME in 2015 to provide a free, comprehensive music program for economically disadvantaged children, and her active community engagement sparked numerous collaborative projects both regionally and internationally. This award is given each spring to a senior who embodies Helen’s passionate commitment to music as a means to uplift and enrich the community.

THE HELEN CHA-PYO GOLDEN BATON AWARD

This award is given each spring to a senior who embodies Helen’s passionate commitment to music as a means to uplift and enrich the community.

Additional scholarship funds were made possible through the generosity of donors in response to ESYO’s Annual Appeal.

If you are interested in more information about funding a named scholarship, please reach out to Anne-Marie Gorman Doyle at amgormandoyle@esyo.org.

The Future of Music Is in Good Hands

wilsonelser.com

Wilson Elser is a proud supporter of Empire State Youth Orchestra. We share ESYO’s belief in the power of music, applaud the talented youth that participate in its programs and acknowledge the dedicated staff and volunteers both on and off stage whose efforts help bring such harmony to our community. Bravo! We wish ESYO a wonderful 2022-2023 season. Peter Lauricella Regional

Managing Partner

Helping businesses, professionals and individuals resolve their most complex legal issues and disputes.

© 2022 Wilson Elser. All rights reserved. 424-22

The Univeristy at Albany is proud to support the

Empire State Youth Orchestra

ENDOW A CHAIR AN ENDURING GIFT

Endowing a chair provides reliable, ongoing funding to underwrite key ESYO programs and retain outstanding musicians. Because endowed chairs are named in perpetuity, they offer a special opportunity to recognize your gift or honor a person or cause that is dear to you.

To discuss endowing a chair, contact Anne-Marie Gorman Doyle, Development Director at amgormandoyle@esyo.org or 518.382.7581.

ACCESS ESYO

ACCESS ESYO is an online “pay what you can” ticketing system that empowers audiences to participate at a level they can afford while safeguarding individual integrity. We want our ESYO families, friends and supporters to enjoy our youth performances without undue financial hardship.

ACCESS ESYO allows for the purchase of concert tickets for as little as $1 per seat, and is sustained through an ongoing “pay it forward” campaign that invites donors to contribute the “gift of music” to our online ACCESS ESYO ticket bank.

ESYO has never turned away a qualified musician due to economic hardship and annually awards more than $30,000 in scholarships and tuition assistance. Now, we are taking steps to ensure that we never turn away an enthusiastic audience member for the same reason.

Please take advantage of ACCESS ESYO to bring your entire family to enjoy the outstanding performances of our youth musicians. Please give generously, if you are able, to ensure that our Ticket Bank remains solvent throughout the season!

HOW DOES ACCESS ESYO WORK?

PURCHASE your ticket(s) online through ACCESS ESYO for as little as $1 per seat. Remember, ACCESS ESYO is designed to make concert-going affordable, and exists for those who most need the assistance.

Suggested ticket prices: $10-$20

DONATE to ACCESS ESYO by contributing a “seat” for a future patron!

Madepossible,inpart,byaFuturesFundGrantfromthe LeagueofAmericanOrchestras,andbydonorslikeyou.

CONTRIBUTIONS | A YEAR OF GRATITUDE

Look what we came through & see what we’ve done! All this was possible because donors stood by our side. The following is a list of gifts over $500 received from Jan. 1 2021 to October 15, 2022. We apologize for any errors or omissions and would be grateful to have them called to our attention.

CORPORATE SPONSORS & COMMUNITY PARTNERS

$20,000 AND UP

Carnegie Hall Weill Institute

The Cornelia T. Bailey Foundation

New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the NY State Legislature

REA Charitable Trust

The Van Norton Family Foundation

$10,000 - $19,999

Albany Medical Center

The Belova Stetson Fund

Bender Family Foundation

The McCarthy Charities

M&T Charitable Foundation

The Review Foundation

The Schenectady Foundation

Seymour Fox Memorial Foundation

The Times Union*

$5,000 - $9,999

BBL Construction Services

The Berkshire Bank Foundation

The Henry M. Butzel Family Foundation

Community Foundation for the Capital Region

Barry Alan Gold Memorial

Advised Fund

Community Foundation for the Capital Region

Patton Fund

D’Addario Music Foundation

Sistema USA Presto Grant

$1,000 - $4,999

AYCO

Capital Bank A Division of Chemung Canal Trust Company

Capital District

Physicians’ Health Plan

Community Foundation for the Greater Capital Region

Community Foundation

Red School House Fund

Community Foundation for the Capital Region

Foy Fund

Curtis Lumber

GE Matching Gifts Program

Global Foundries Matching Gifts Program

Janney Montgomery Scott

Richman

Network for Good

Pearl Grant Richmans

Price Chopper’s Golub Foundation

Prudential Matching Gifts

Schenectady County Initiative Program

SEFA United Way

The Stewart’s Foundation

Takeda Pharmaceuticals

Matching Gifts

The University at Albany Foundation

$500 - $999

Apple

Cap Com Federal Credit Union

Cengage Learning

Matching Gifts

Community Foundation for the Greater Capital Region Paul & Alane

Hohenberg Fund

Fenimore Asset Management

The Foundation for Jewish Philanthropies

Pioneer Bank Foundation

WSP Foundation

*Includes In-Kind Donations

DONORS

TRANSFORMING

VIRTUOSO CIRCLE

($20,000 AND UP)

Roger & Sherley Hannay

MAESTRO CIRCLE

($10,000 - $19,999)

Shirley Miller

ENRICHING

BRAVO CIRCLE

($5,000 - $9,999)

Stefon & Shané Harris

Heather & David Manthey

Barry & Nancy Richman

Charles & Donna Slavik

George A. Vorsheim

FANFARE CIRCLE

($1,000 - $4,999)

Etienne Abelin

Kathleen & Richard Ahl

Robert & Patricia Altman

John & Beth Antonio*

Anastasia Arnold & Lee R. Boot

Al Aumick

Robert, Trish, & Griff

Bengraff

Kurt Bratten

Marlene Brody

Robert E. Brown

Eric Bryson & Gina Falzarano

Charles & Charlotte Buchanan

Jon & Rebecca Calos

Bianca & Philip Carter

David Casper

Sarah Cavanaugh

Helen Cha-Pyo & Daniel Pyo

Heather Chan

Robert & Mary Chase in memory of Erica

Chase-Salerno

Nicole Cherubini & Patrick Purcell

Paul & Mary Clyne

John Crable

Grace & Thomas Davitt

Patrick Doyle & Anne-Marie Gorman

Doyle

Suzanne Erb & Andrew

Bowd

Matie Flowers & Joe Visalli

James Fossett

James & Deborah Freis

Robin Gold

Maureen Gorman & Alan

Sykes

David & Patricia Gosda

John & Michelle Haller

Beverly Harrington

John & Harriet Hart

Walter Hayes & Jean

Brand Hayes

E. Stewart Jones & Kimberly Sanger Jones

Kathryn Lake

Kevin Lau & Karen Tan

Peter & Lori Lauricella

Susan & Michael Maloney*

Charles & Debra

McCambridge

Patty Michaelson & Walter Klisiwecz

Lee & Sharyn Miller

Paul D. Moore

Jagat & Jigisha Patel

Don & Lois Porter

Scott Provancher & Teresa Hoelle

Thomas F. Read

Brian Sacawa

Christopher Shiley

Larry Shore

Elizabeth Silver

Chang Sung & hang Byun

Liz & Noel Varghese

Marjorie & Russ Ward

Shu-lun & Dan Weinheimer

Omar Williams

Rory & Bonnie Wood

Rui Yang & Changlong

Zhong

Ellen Yu

Vicky Yu & Zhiqiang

Wang

SUSTAINING CONCERTMASTER CIRCLE ($500 - $999)

Nita & Rajesh Ahuja

Eric and Sharon Andersen

Anonymous

Alan & Eric Bare in memory of Lois Bare

Bernard & Margaret Bourdeau

Joan & David Brown

Ben & Sarah Chan

Haijun Chen and Dawei Liu

Barbara & Julian Cherubini

Alex & Christina Dell

Celeste & Marc Dickie

Lynn & Marc Edgar

Thomas & Alison Enokian

Anthony & Lucille

Esposito

Joanne & Jeffrey Gleba

Gareth Griffiths

Fred Hershey

Caitlin & Brendan Joyce

Kristin Knickerbocker & Jeffrey Bak

Michael Kolodziej & Regina Resta

Jill & Ted Kostyniak

Beatrice Kovasznay*

Ellen Liu & Martin Yan

Gaelen McCormick

Thomas McNamara

Joyce Michaelson

Craig Miller & Dalene

DeHaney-Miller

William & Elizabeth Moll

Kevin & Pat O'Bryan

Carlos Pesquera

Michael Range in memory of Sandrina Range

Thomas & Evelyn Read

Herbert & Cynthia Shultz

Alan Smith

Christopher Sohn & Sara Wengert

Lucinda Strasenburgh

Melissa Welch & Jason Kneaskern

Todd Wetzel

Ronghua Yu & We Zhang

Li Zhang & Claire Liu

Kathryn Zox

*Includes In-Kind Donations MAKE

THE JOYFUL PURSUIT OF MUSICAL EXCELLENCE

Our music is challenging and exciting, and offers endless opportunities for growth! We know that you understand the benefits ESYO brings to the Capital Region, and we are asking for your support as we continue to offer great musical opportunities to every child who wants them.

On average, our tuition covers just 40% of the actual cost of programming. Your donation supports musicians with financial constraints, and you are also supporting every ESYO musician. Your dollars allow us to continue providing amazing programming, master classes, teaching staff, touring and more. 57% of our contributions come from private donations from people like you. We quite literally cannot do it without you.

We need your support more than ever. Help us provide access to musical excellence and serious fun—for all children. We are so grateful for your gift!

Donate online at esyo.org, scan the QR code, or please return this form to:

Empire State Youth Orchestra

432 State St., Schenectady, NY 12305

Name ____________________________________________________________________________________

Address __________________________________________________________________________________

E-mail ____________________________________ Phone ______________________________________

How would you like to be recognized in the ESYO playbill? _______________________________________

~ I would like to be anonymous

~ Enclosed please find my check in the amount of $ ___________

~ Please charge my credit card a total of $ ___________________

~ My employer will match my gift.

Card # ___________________________________________________

Expiration ______ / ______ Security Code _________________

Name as it appears on card ________________________________

Signature ________________________________________________

Your gift is tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law.

Thank you for your generous donation!

CHOOSE A SUPPORT LEVEL

TRANSFORMING

~ Virtuoso: $20,000 and up

~ Maestro: $10,000 - $19,999

ENRICHING

~ Bravo: $5,000 - $9,999

~ Fanfare: $1,000 - $4,499

SUSTAINING

~ Concertmaster: $500 - $999

~ Prelude: $100 - $499

~ Friends: Up to $99