For this season, its 35th anniversary, the MN Youth Symphonies has chosen music from internationally recognized artists such as renown Cuban pianist Nachito Herrera; Stephen Paulus, a Uof M Alummnus, graduated in Theory and Composition; Shelley Hanson, producer, clarinet player and conductor; and Edward Niedermaier.
Founded in 1972, the Minnesota Youth Symphonies has found its commitment in promoting classical music among teens and young people in Minnesota; and has created educational programs in orchestral training for young musicians looking for an orchestra to learn and play. This orchestra is internationally recognized as one of the most important and first orchestras in its genre.
For this season, its 35th anniversary, the MN Youth Symphonies has chosen music from internationally recognized artists such as renown Cuban pianist Nachito Herrera; Stephen Paulus, a U of M Alummnus, graduated in Theory and Composition; Shelley Hanson, producer, clarinet player and conductor; and Edward Niedermaier, awarded with the Morton Gould Young Composer award in 2003 and 2007.
The orchestra will play under the direction of Manny Laureano, a Julliard School of Music graduate, who has devoted the last 20 years of his life –with the help of his wife Claudette- to this project as Artistic Director. The Laureanos are the only couple, nationwide, conducting such programs devoted to young musicians in classical music. Its work has seen a big growth from its original orchestra with only 58 musicians, to four orchestras and over 380 young musicians, who, besides playing for the orchestras, take part of training sessions, summer programs and other activities at elementary, middle and high schools in the state.
During a recent interview with Nachito Herrera, he expressed his intention to participate in this kind of programs to promote classical music, its values and meaning to future generations.
“It is our duty, as professional musicians, to help those young players who want to become musicians. To let them know that they are not alone and that we are there for them to help them, guide them, teach them and share our experiences and dreams.” He said.
The new season for this wonderful orchestra begins on Sunday, November 11, with a concert scheduled for 6:30PM at the Orchestra Hall, with the participation of Nachito Herrera, in the piano, who is going to play “Llegaron los millonarios” from his own creation and “La Malagueña” from Ernesto Lecuona. Manny Laureano will be the director and, of course, the young musicians trying to show their talent will be more than eager to give the attending a great experience that will be hard to forget.
For more information about the program and the Minnesota Youth Symphonies, you can dial 651-699-5811 or go online at www.mnyouthsymphonies.org
Comment