Thank You, CYSO!

Tonight, Miles was to make his conducting debut at Symphony Center's Orchestra Hall, leading his CYSO colleagues in Wagner's Lohengrin (Prelude to Act III) during his final concert with the organization. The orchestra was also to play music from Wagner's Ring this evening, and Miles was slated to play the wonderful extended horn call solos that challenge any serious orchestral musician. COVID-19 requires Orchestra Hall to remain dark and silent tonight.  

This is not a sad post, but a celebratory one! Kristen and I want to say thank you to the Carroll family for underwriting the CYSO's Conducting Fellowship, and all of the private conducting lessons Miles did enjoy this year. We want to celebrate Allen Tinkham, mentor to Miles for many years: thank you for introducing him to score study, in-depth ear-training, and conducting. Moreover, thank you for modeling what passionate musicianship looks like and sounds like from the podium, week after week.

And most importantly, we want to CELEBRATE everyone associated with the Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestra organization. Teachers, administrators, office personnel, volunteers, and musical peers. It has been an incredible 5-year journey for Miles. Concert Orchestra. Philharmonic Orchestra. Symphony Orchestra. Chamber Orchestra. CORE. Brass Quintet. The Fischoff Competition. Professional recording sessions with GRAMMY nominated results. A tour to Russia, Finland, Sweden and Estonia. Concerts at Chicago's Orchestra Hall, playing incredible repertoire. Most importantly, a weekly opportunity for young, dedicated musicians to gather together with like-minded peers and work collaboratively to achieve collective artistic goals. Kristen and I are deeply, and profoundly appreciative.

Take a bow, Miles. You deserve a moment to celebrate your time in the CYSO.