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mentioned mentoring and college prep workshops. In 2012, it further expanded with Take a Stand, a partnership with Bard College in New York and its school of music to connect like-minded educators nationwide. In July, the National Take a Stand Festival culminated with a Dudamel-directed concert at Walt Disney Concert Hall by students from YOLA/El Sistemainspired programs throughout the country. Future plans call for further expansion. In August, the L.A. Phil unveiled architect Frank Gehry and Gehry Partners’ model for the new Judith and Thomas L. Beckmen YOLA Center @ Inglewood, which converts a former bank branch into a 25,000-square-foot facility. Elements include a performance space, rehearsal rooms, practice studios and rooms— some with recording equipment—and a music library. The center opens in about 18 months. “This is a dream come true,” Dudamel said at the event. “Classical music is sometimes very far from the community. [Here] the concept is that small groups of people will have access to classical music, and the arts in general. Arts education is a right.” As for dreams come true, Centeno describes performing at the Hollywood Bowl: “There are so many people watching you. It’s so exciting to see them all. And after we perform, it’s the best feeling. The audience clapping made me feel really proud.”
Mark Twain and Friends: A River Journey Now through Nov 18
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