Youth Orchestras of Central Virginia
The Youth Orchestras of Central Virginia was founded in 1977 and have provided the young people of the Central Virginia area with an orchestral experience not offered in all schools. YOCV includes two full symphonic orchestras, a string ensemble, three flute ensembles, and a clarinet ensemble. All of the music groups rehearse and perform in Charlottesville with their own conductor, performing in three concerts throughout the season. All groups, except for the string ensemble, is by audition only.[1]
Programs and Conductors
The Youth Symphony, made up mostly high school students, is directed by Dr. Charles West, a Professor of Music and Coordinator of Winds & Percussion at Virginia Commonwealth University who has performed professionally for 30 years in six different orchestras.[2] The Rita M. Evans Orchestra, composed of middle-school musicians, is conducted by Donald Brubaker, with the assistance from the Wind/Brass coach Robert Dunnenberger. The Junior Strings Program is an ensemble for beginners and those preparing for the Evans Orchestra, and is directed by Alicia Tobin. The Flute Choir is a very small group of high school students, playing advanced repertoire and directed by Angela Kelly and Margaret Newcomb. The Flute Ensemble is a slightly larger group of high schoolers with advanced skill, also directed by Angela Kelly and Margaret Newcomb. The Prélude Flute Choir is about the same size of the Flute Ensemble, with the goal of preparing students for higher level ensembles. This group is also directed by Angela Kelly and Margaret Newcomb. The Clarinet Ensemble is made up of clarinetists of all ages and performs pieces of moderate to advanced skill level. This group is directed by James Tobin.
References
- ↑ Web. Youth Orchestras of Central Virginia, retrieved October 17, 2011.
- ↑ Web. Charles West, retrieved October 17, 2011.