Oklahoma Youth Orchestras (OKYO) 2023-24 Season Winter Program II

2023-24 SEASON PROGRAM WINTER CONCERT II SERIES

• Wisdom Teeth Removal

• Dental Implant Surgery

• Soft Tissue Grafting

• Jaw Surgery

Hayden G. Fuller, DDS, MS Periodontal Surgeon

Jeremy C. Goodson, DDS Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon

Robert B. Bryan II, DDS, FACS, FACD Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon

SEASON PRESENTING CONCERT SPONSOR:

RICHARD AND GLENNA TANENBAUM

FOUNDATION SUPPORT PROVIDED BY:

Ad Astra Foundation

Vogt Family Affiliated Fund of the OKC Community Foundation

McCasland Foundation

Everett Family Affiliated Fund

SUMMER SYMPHONY STRINGS CAMP SPONSOR: Christopher Bishop

CORPORATE SUPPORT PROVIDED BY:

OKYO IS A PROUD MEMBER OF THESE ORGANIZATIONS:

OUR STORY

Oklahoma Youth Orchestras (OKYO) prides itself on offering arts education programs to meet the needs of young musicians in elementary school through high school with ensembles designed for all abilities, providing a fun, dynamic, and supportive environment where they are inspired to pursue their passion for music.

Founded in 1977, OKYO is the largest youth orchestra program in the state, and it has been celebrated for its dedication to the arts and arts education. It provides advanced music education and performance opportunities to young musicians in the diverse communities in Oklahoma under the direction of distinguished music educators. Throughout its 46 year history, OKYO has produced many talented musicians, conductors, performers, educators, and business leaders worldwide.

Oklahoma Youth Orchestra is a non-profit organization that receives financial support from a combination of sources including membership dues, concert admission, grants, sponsorships and individual contributions.

Oklahoma Youth Orchestras serves over 400 Oklahoma students and their families with 12 ensembles and programs:

Oklahoma Youth Orchestra (OYO)

Oklahoma Youth Philharmonic (OYP)

Oklahoma Youth Winds (OYW)

Percussion Ensemble

Chamber Orchestra

Sinfonia

Festival Strings Edmond

Festival Strings Norman

Festival Strings Oklahoma City

Festival Winds

Studio Rockestra

Summer Symphony Strings Camp

OUR MISSION

Through quality instrumental music education programs for students and accessible cultural offerings for the community, Oklahoma Youth Orchestras provides opportunities for artistic excellence to central and western Oklahoma.

Learn more about OKYO, its ensembles, or how you can become involved at okyomusic.org

Richard and Glenna Tanenbaum are proud to support the Oklahoma Youth Orchestras in their e orts to provide opportunities for Oklahoma youths seeking t o pursue their passion for musical excellence!

We extend our congratulatio ns to all the students and wish them a s ensational sea son!

ART CAN TEACH

Allied Arts proudly supports organizations like Oklahoma Youth Orchestras , which provides a challenging ensemble experience to students across central and western Oklahoma while also boosting their confidence and building their leadership skills.

When you give to Allied Arts, you’re giving to more than 40 local organizations that reach more than onemillion people each year . Your support helps fund initiatives that use art to help people in need, encourage lifelong learning and enrich Oklahoma communities.

OUR BOARD & COUNCILS

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

CHAIR

Joe Rodano

SECRETARY

Jose Batty

TREASURER

Beth Boren

OKLAHOMA CITY UNIVERSITY REPRESENTATIVES

Dean Mark Parker   Dr. Mark G. Belcik

MEMBERS AT LARGE

Christina Berg  Kim Fletcher  Catherine Reaves

Chazlen Rook  Ulises Serrano  Joseph Thai

BOARD ADVISORY COUNCIL

Dr. Steven Agee  Dr. John Clinton  Paul Hagemeier

Robyn Hilger  Kim Lowe  Peggy Kahre

Peter Markes  Jerry Messick  Alexander Mickelthwate

PRESIDENT

Eddy Kang

STUDENT LEADERSHIP COUNCIL

VICE PRESIDENT Sakura McCool SECRETARY Kinley Collum

SOCIAL MEDIA INTERNS

Blaine Pettitt  Sherman Tan

CORE MEMBERS

HISTORIAN Elaina Ballje

Murphy Barnett  Ryan Black  Michaela Brown  Jordan Carter  Jimmy Escobar  Anjalina Thomas  Anna Wilson  Elliot Yii  Jiho Yoon

MEMBERS AT LARGE

Aiden Blackburn  Danzel Chen  Liliana Goodwyn

Pax Hayman  Sedona McElroy  Maren McIntyre

Click to learn more about our Board and Advisory Council Members

If you are interested in joining this talented group of OKYO advocates, please contact Executive Director Kris Markes at kris@okyomusic.org

ARTISTIC TEAM

Jeffrey Grogan Artistic Director, Oklahoma Youth Orchestras & Conductor, Oklahoma Youth Orchestra

Dr. Charlene Dell Conductor, Oklahoma Youth Philharmonic

Dr. Matthew Mailman Conductor, Oklahoma Youth Winds

Sarah Neely Associate Conductor, Oklahoma Youth Winds

Kristin Geist Conductor, Chamber Orchestra & Conductor, Festival Strings OKC

Sarah Grote Conductor, Festival Strings Edmond

Courtney Monk Conductor, Sinfonia & Conductor, Studio Rockestra

Mark Osborn Conductor, Festival Strings Norman

James Segovia, Jr. Conductor, Percussion Ensemble

Janey Akagha Conductor, Festival Winds

THE ARTISTIC & SUPPORT TEAMS

ARTISTIC TEAM

ADMINISTRATIVE TEAM

To learn more about our Artistic Team and Administrative Team members, please click on their names to link to their biographies.

Kris Markes Executive Director

Iris Gracia Communications Manager

Francisco Venegas Program Manager for Concerts & Logistics

Program Manager for Students & Families

Michael Corts Percussion Coordinator

Ahmari Sango Intern

Hope Bruening Young Strings Coach

The Summer Symphony Strings Camp (SSSC) is a weekday commuter day camp that takes place in the heart of downtown OKC at John Rex Elementary School

Who can attend? SSSC is open to students in grades 5 through 8 (in the 20232024 school year) who have been playing for at least one year and can read music. Best of all, NO audition is required!

What do we do each day? Students participate in orchestra rehearsals and have special coaching time with each section, all led by some of the metro area’s best music educators. In addition, we take advantage of our unique downtown location and participate in daily “Arts Experience” field trips.

What makes SSSC different from other string camps? Our camp is a more comprehensive arts camp, giving students the opportunity to experience many

styles of music and other art forms in our community. In 2023, campers enjoyed recital hour performances by award winning fiddle player, Kyle Dillingham, and Stringsmen OKC, a string quartet specializing in modern and popular music. Daily field trips took them around downtown, including a guided tour of the OKC Museum of Art, the Civic Center Music Hall, and Paycom Arena. Interactive experiences also included a workshop by RACE Dance Collective, where students were introduced to Hip-Hop Dance.

Under the direction of Camp Artistic Director and 2014 Oklahoma Teacher of the Year, Peter Markes, the week concludes on Friday with a Camp Closing Ceremonies Concert for friends and family.

Mark your calendars for the 2024 Summer Symphony String Camp: June 17-21, 2024!

FROM OUR ARTISTIC DIRECTOR

Dear OKYO Family,

Thank you all for supporting OKYO and helping us to grow into the incredible organization we are today, serving over 400 of Oklahoma’s finest student musicians this season!

The OYO tour to NYC and Carnegie Hall last season was transformational for our students and organization. We took in the customary tourist sights that you would on normally take on a tour to NYC, but the collaboration with music students and many other New Yorkers brought a special depth to our visit. The performance in one of the world’s most iconic concert halls was indescribable. The excitement and energy of our first rehearsal this season was a direct reflection of the inspiring events from the tour.

I am so proud of the commitment to excellence that is shown every week from our students, families, and staff.

Thank you for supporting these life changing moments!

Enjoy the concert!

Jeff Grogan Artistic Director

On stage prior to performing at Carnegie Hall

30 Rock

In Central Park with Alice in Wonderland

The Bull

OYO is ready...lights, camera, action!

Times Square

WINTER CONCERT SERIES

WINTER CONCERT II

SUNDAY, MARCH 3, 2024 - 6:00PM

Oklahoma City University

Wanda L. Bass School of Music - Petree Recital Hall 2501 N. Blackwelder, Oklahoma City

With performances by Festival Strings, Sinfonia, and Chamber Orchestra

SPECIAL CONCERT

STUDIO ROCKESTRA

SUNDAY, APRIL 7, 2024 - 1:00PM

Civic Center Music Hall - Lobby 201 N. Walker Avenue, Oklahoma City

Performance will be held before the OKCPhil’s Discovery Family Concert “At The Circus”

2023-24 SEASON PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE

Season Presenting Concert Sponsor: Richard and Glenna Tanenbaum

SPRING CONCERT SERIES

SEASON FINALE CONCERTS

SATURDAY, MAY 4, 2024

Oklahoma City Community College - Performing Arts Theatre

7777 S. May Avenue, Oklahoma City

With performances by Studio Rockestra, Festival Strings, Sinfonia, and OYO

SUNDAY, MAY 5, 2024

Oklahoma City Community College - Performing Arts Theatre

7777 S. May Avenue, Oklahoma City

With performances by Festival Winds, Chamber Orchestra, OYW, and OYP

WE NEED YOU!

Volunteer your time and talents with OKYO:

From Monday night rehearsal check-in to concert and event support, we greatly appreciate the friends of OKYO who volunteer!

If you would like to be notified of opportunities to help us please fill out this form. We also recommend checking out upcoming events on our Rehearsal and Performance Calendar.

OKYO PLAY IT FORWARD™

Celebrating Our 2023 Campaign Success with You!

We are pleased to announce, thanks to the generosity of the Ad Astra Foundation, members of the Board of Directors and the OKYO Advisory Council, contributions made to support OKYO during our spring Play It Forward™ Campaign were matched one-to-one, providing DOUBLE the impact on our programs.

Thanks to each of you who contributed and helped us exceed our goal.

You can help outstanding students make amazing music for the 2023-24 season with a tax deductible gift.

Click HERE to learn more.

FROM OUR BOARD CHAIR

We’re excited to kick off a new season with Oklahoma Youth Orchestras. As Chairman of the board, I’m genuinely thrilled by the organization’s positive energy and its amazing growth trajectory over the past year. OKYO is led by our artistic director, Jeffery Grogan, and executive director, Kris Markes. Their combined experience and connections elevate the organization and its ensembles to new heights. This past summer, OYO had the opportunity to travel to New York City and play at the historic Carnegie Hall.

Our board consists of a diverse representation of OKYO parents, local business leaders, musicians, and alumni. Everyone on the board shares a common connection with OKYO and the broader music community in Oklahoma. Together, we volunteer our time to offer legal, finance, marketing, and fundraising expertise to OKYO.

Like others on the board, I’ve had a personal connection with OKYO for many years. I grew up playing the violin and played in the Edmond North Orchestra. My closest friends and I were part of several ensembles through OKYO. Those days were special, and the friendships I made along the way will be with me for life.

Participating in music offers foundational experiences for youth, whether or not they decide to pursue music professionally. Music has this amazing ability to bring people together. Being involved in one of our ensembles offers kids the chance to develop leadership skills, relationships, and self-confidence.

OKYO also recognizes our outgoing board chair, Paul Haggemeir. Paul served on OKYO’s board for 8 years including two terms as the board chair. His leadership over the years has been invaluable, especially during the challenges of the pandemic. He’s been a great mentor and friend to Kris, Jeff, myself, and others.

The pandemic posed unique challenges. In large ensembles, it is inherently difficult to balance providing great musical experiences while adhering to social distancing, remote learning, and the health of everyone involved. These constraints were difficult and we appreciate everyone’s support through this tough time to ensure we could emerge stronger than ever.

Looking ahead, OKYO is focused on new initiatives and experiences for our students and ensembles. We’re focused on expanding collaborations with groups like the OKC Philharmonic, planning future trips to new cities, and exploring new fundraising avenues. We’re grateful for all of the support – whether it’s enrolling your child in one of our ensembles, attending our concerts, and contributing to our Play it Forward™ campaign.

From all of us at OKYO, welcome and enjoy the performances!

Sincerely,

Joe Rodano OKYO Board Chair

OCT. 26-29

NOV. 2-4

KATE HAMILL'S DRACULA

SEPT. 29-OCT. 1 MAINSTAGE SWEENEY TODD

A FEMINIST REVENGE FANTASY

DEC. 7-10

KAE TEMPEST'S PARADISE

FEB. 1-4

MATT COX'S PUFFS

APRIL 4-7

KATE HAMILL'S GOLDSMITH'S

NOV. 3-5 SPOTLIGHT LIGHT IN THE PIAZZA

NOV. 17-19 MAINSTAGE PIETA/SUOR ANGELICA

FEB. 16-18 MAINSTAGE THE MERRY WIVES OF WINDSOR

FEB. 23-25 SPOTLIGHT IOLANTHE

OLIVER GOLDSMITH'S SHE STOOPS TO CONQUER

APRIL 19-21 MAINSTAGE RENT

FROM OUR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Dear Friends,

As we begin our 46th season, Oklahoma Youth Orchestras is celebrating in a big way! Not only are we experiencing record-breaking enrollment, we are also entering this season as a healthy, vibrant and impactful arts organization that is enriching the lives of our students and community. We are focused on serving the young musicians of our diverse Oklahoma communities through teamwork, musicianship, creativity and leadership all under the guidance of our distinguished music education faculty.

This season will see the continuation of many of our regular programs, including two Side By Side rehearsals with the OKCPHIL, the annual Concerto Competition, the partnership with OCU’s Project 21 and OKYO Composer in Residence program, the Winter Guest Conductor Clinic for Chamber Orchestra and Sinfonia, and with most performances taking place at the incredible, state of the art, OCCC Performing Arts Theatre. Our students will also benefit from ongoing sectional coaching providing specialized instruction in small group settings. Our enthusiastic Student Leadership Council has been working behind the scenes to continue many social traditions and bring new events to the organization. We will also see new collaborations this year including those with Oklahoma Contemporary and Canterbury Youth Voices. These amazing partnerships and opportunities continue to grow and provide meaningful experiences for our students.

None of this would be possible without the dedication of our Board of Directors, staff, families and the generous support of our community. As Oklahoma’s largest youth orchestra, we are incredibly grateful to our many partners including those who make our work possible through individual gifts, corporate sponsorships and foundation support. Thank you!

It is my pleasure to present to you a season full of opportunities and amazing music making. Thank you for supporting OKYO and our outstanding students!

With gratitude,

Kris Markes Executive Director

We would like to take this opportunity to thank our students and families for all your support!

Thank you for being our biggest advocates and our biggest fans.

Thank you for helping spread the word among friends, family, and colleagues and helping increase enrollment to our largest season ever.

Bravo! Well Done!

Abygail Mayo WE LOVE

YOU,

GRANDMA AND PAPA

PENELOPE CLINE

Congratulations, Penelope! Your family is so proud of you.

Love, Mom, Dad & Zoe

ELLIOT YII

Dear Elliot, You’re doing super! What an achievement to make it in OYW as one of the youngest trumpet players! We’re so proud of you!

Keep smiling, you’re amazing! Congratulations to all of the incredible young musicians in OKYO! Also, thank you so much to all of the wonderful teachers! Looking forward to another great season!

Love, Mom & Dad

, ISABELLA & WYATT

Congratulations

Special Isabella

TRISTAN

LUKE MATTHEWS

Luke,

We are so proud of everything you continue to accomplish and could not be more proud! We can’t wait to see where your determination, work ethic and God-given musical talent will take you. Your future is so bright!

We love you, Mom, Dad & Carson

WYATT

Congratulations to all of the OKYO Students on an AMAZING season!

Special congratulations to Tristan Christy, Isabella Genevro, and Wyatt McNickle from Stillwater for another WONDERFUL season!

We are so proud of your hard work and dedication!!!

Love, Zach, Kerry & Will McNickle

KeeganWe are so proud of your dedication, practice and hard work. Whether it is playing your trumpet or "flying" through the water, we will always be your biggest fans! We are looking forward to seeing all that you accomplish in the future!

Love, Mom and Dad

KEEGAN LASSITER

MARCH 3, 2O24 — 6:00PM

OKLAHOMA CITY UNIVERSITY

PETREE RECITAL HALL

FESTIVAL STRINGS

Kristin Geist, Festival Strings OKC Conductor

Sarah Grote, Festival Strings Edmond Conductor

Mark Osborn, Festival Strings Norman Conductor

Jeffrey Grogan, Guest Conductor

Ravenwood Castle .................................. Kathryn Griesinger

Moonlight Tango ...................................... Richard Meyer

Music for Royal Fireworks

G. F. Handel, arr. Michael Story

Video recordings of these performances will be made available to all OKYO families in the coming weeks at no charge.

WINTER CONCERT II SERIES: MARCH 3RD PERFORMANCES & GUEST CONDUCTOR SERIES

JEFFREY GROGAN

Director of Orchestral Activities and Professor of Music at the Wanda L. Bass School of Music, Artistic Director of the Oklahoma Youth Orchestras, and Conductor, OYO

JEFFREY GROGAN is an internationally-acclaimed conductor and teacher, dedicating more than 25 years to nurturing musical excellence among young musicians. He has served as adjudicator, conductor, and clinician for many prestigious national and international events: invited by the LA Philharmonic to conduct alongside Gustavo Dudamel and Michael Morgan at Disney Hall, a part of the National Take A Stand Festival; the Honor Orchestra of America sponsored by Music for All; the National Orchestra Cup at Lincoln Center; and the Honors Performance Series at Carnegie Hall. Recent international work includes conducting festivals at the Sydney Opera House in Australia, the Harpa Concert Hall in Iceland, and venues in Bangkok, Thailand, and Singapore. Mr. Grogan has also conducted numerous all-state orchestras and bands throughout the US.

He is a Master Educator for the Yamaha Corporation of America. He also serves on the Advisory Committee of the Midwest International Band and Orchestra Clinic and Music for All. Mr. Grogan is also Artistic Director of Orchestras for Perform International, combining his passion for travel and music to help ensembles plan their domestic and international tours.

He previously served eleven seasons as Education and Community Engagement Conductor of the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra, and as Conductor and Artistic Director of the NJSO Youth Orchestras, the InterSchool Orchestras of New York and the New Jersey Youth Symphony. His youth orchestras have performed to capacity crowds at some of the greatest concert halls in the world and he has appeared as a guest conductor at many universities and with professional orchestras throughout the US.

Following his passion for performing and helping to create new music for orchestras, he has collaborated with many composers such as Lowell Liebermann, Michael Colgrass, Eric Whitacre, Steven Stucky, and Scott McAllister – as well as soloists Richard Stolzman, Stefan Hoskuldsson, Julian Schwarz, and the Canadian Brass. Grogan worked in the studio and on several projects with violinist and composer Mark O’Connor. Grogan recorded O’Connor’s March of the Gypsy Fiddler with the Ahn Trio and New Jersey Youth Symphony on OMAC Records, which is played on classical music radio throughout the country.

Mr. Grogan is founding Artistic Director of two El Sistema inspired music programs in New Jersey: the Paterson Music Project (PMP) in Paterson and the NJSO CHAMPS in Newark, which currently serve more than 500 students. Prior to his work on the east coast, Grogan taught for over a decade at the University of Michigan, Ithaca College, and Baylor University. He is also the former Associate Director of Bands and Marching Band Director at the University of Michigan and Baylor University.

SINFONIA

Courtney Monk, Conductor

Brandie Philips, Guest Conductor

Golden Grove ........................................

Dark Imperium

Brian Balmages

Aaron Fryklund

Resolute .................................................

A Quiet Peace

BRANDIE PHILIPS

Director of Orchestras, Otto Middle School, Plano, TX

Todd Parish

Richard Meyer

BRANDIE PHILIPS is the Director of Orchestras at Otto Middle School in Plano, Texas. She is in her 7th year of music education, having spent six of those years at Otto Middle School. A native of San Angelo, Texas, Ms. Phillips began studying the violin at the age of four. She graduated from San Angelo Central High School where she was a four-time Texas All-State Symphony Orchestra Member. She was named Concertmaster of the Texas All-State Symphony two of those years.

Ms. Phillips received her Bachelor’s Degree in Violin Performance from Columbus State University in Columbus, Georgia. She earned a Master’s Degree in Violin Performance from Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas, under the tutelage of recording artist Chee-Yun Kim and Diane Kitzman. Before starting in music education, she held the title of Assistant Concertmaster of The Dallas Opera Orchestra. She frequently performs with the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra and the Dallas Symphony Orchestra. Under her direction, the Otto Middle School Orchestras have received consistent Sweepstakes Awards at UIL competitions, as well as other Best in Class awards. Her Otto Middle School Symphony Orchestra was a Finalist of the TMEA Honor Orchestra Competition in 2017, 2020, and 2023, and was First Runner-up in the 2022 competition. She was honored to be named Otto’s Teacher of the Year in the 2023-2024 school year.

A passionate orchestral violinist, Ms. Phillips was named the concertmaster of the 2001 National Festival Orchestra where she performed in Carnegie Hall under the baton of Maestro Lukas Foss. She has performed as soloist with such orchestras as the Lynn University Philharmonic Orchestra, the SMU Meadows Symphony Orchestra, the National Repertory Orchestra, and the San Angelo Symphony Orchestra. Other opportunities have allowed her to perform as soloist and orchestral violinist in various venues around the US and Europe.

Ms. Phillips is a member of TODA and TMEA. She resides in Rowlett with her daughter, Charlee, and their two dogs, Dolce and Grace Note.

WINTER CONCERT II SERIES: MARCH 3RD PERFORMANCES & GUEST CONDUCTOR SERIES

CHAMBER ORCHESTRA

Kristin Geist, Conductor

JeNea Taylor, Guest Conductor

Ventus ..................................................

Mulholland Elegy .........................................

Todd Parrish

Doug Spata

Heart of Fire .........................................

Lauren Bernofsky

MS. TAYLOR is an orchestra director and double bass player who was born and raised in Lawrenceville, Georgia. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education from Stetson University in Florida and earned a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from University of Phoenix. For the first fourteen years of her career, Ms Taylor held teaching positions in Las Vegas, Nevada. During her time there, Ms. Taylor had the opportunity to build both middle and high school orchestra programs. For three years, she worked as the Clark County School District Orchestra Project Facilitator where she provided support to the orchestra directors by creating professional development opportunities, mentoring, and helping to organize orchestra events such as festivals and Honor Orchestra. In addition to her work at the district level and in the classroom, Ms. Taylor also served as the conductor for the Las Vegas Youth Sinfonia for three years. After fourteen years in Nevada, Ms. Taylor moved to McKinney, TX to be closer to family. She has been the head orchestra director at Renner Middle School in Plano, TX for the past six years where she continues to cultivate a thriving orchestra program. Ms. Taylor is passionate about working with young musicians, sharing her love of music with others, and building meaningful and lasting connections with her students.

Video recordings of these performances will be made available to all OKYO families in the coming weeks at no charge.

JeNea TAYLOR

Head Orchestra Director, Renner Middle School, Plano, TX

THE LOUISE FRANCELIA WALDORF PRIZE FOR EXCELLENCE IN SOLO PERFORMANCE

Each season, Oklahoma Youth Orchestras presents the annual Concerto Competition, known as the Louise Francelia Waldorf Prize for Excellence in Solo Performance. The competition is open to all seniors in Mr. Grogan’s OYO and Percussion Ensemble. The winner of the Prize will perform as a soloist with OYO and will receive a scholarship prize. The application window for the 2023-24 competition has closed and winners will be announced later this fall.

Sponsored by longtime OKYO supporter, Dr. Lin-Lin Liu, the competition’s name was changed to honor her former teacher. “Miss Waldorf was my violin teacher when I was a member of OYO. At the time, Chickasha Public Schools did not have a strings program and she worked very hard to make sure I could play in an orchestra. I have fond memories of her accompanying me on her harpsichord. She was a remarkable lady,” says Dr. Liu.

SIDE BY SIDE EXPERIENCES

This year two of our ensembles will have the opportunity to participate in Side By Side rehearsals with their professional counterparts. OYO will collaborate with the Oklahoma City Philharmonic and OYW will rehearse alongside the 145th Army National Guard Band. During these interactive Side-By-Side rehearsals, our students will sit next to their professional counterparts and learn directly from them.

These exciting experiences would not be possible without the support from our collaborative partners. Thank you to the Oklahoma City Philharmonic and the 145th Army National Guard Band!!

SPECIAL OPPORTUNITIES

COMPOSER-IN-RESIDENCE

Oklahoma Youth Orchestras is delighted to continue the Composer-InResidence Program with Oklahoma City University. This unique partnership is designed to promote creative collaboration between musicians of OKYO ensembles and composition majors in the Bass School of Music at OCU.

Each year, one OKYO ensemble is selected to participate in the program which connects students with a living composer and allows them to experience the collaborative environment where they participate in workshops with the composer and work directly to create a composition.

MAN Y PASSIONS ONE PURPOSE

The OU School of Music, established in 1908, has been helping students pursue their musical and academic dreams for more than a century

YOUR FUTURE STARTS HERE

2024 Audition Dates

Feb. 3, 2024

Feb. 24, 2024

March 2, 2024

register at music.ou.edu

with the Oklahoma City Philharmonic

with the Oklahoma City Philharmonic

Oklahoma Youth Orchestra (OYO)

Oklahoma Youth Orchestra (OYO), the flagship orchestra of the Oklahoma Youth Orchestras organization, is comprised of the most advanced high school musicians who perform standard repertoire, as well as music from contemporary composers.

OYO routinely performs with professional guest soloists, with the Oklahoma City Philharmonic, as well as premieres new works.

Jeffrey Grogan Artistic Director, Oklahoma Youth Orchestras & Conductor, Oklahoma Youth Orchestra

“The students of OYO learn to really give it their all in rehearsal They bring their best preparation and focus so we can dig deep together and make the magic happen It is a privilege to work with these incredible young musicians and I am so proud of them ”

AUDITIONED ENSEMBLES

VIOLIN I

Eddy Kang†

Laura Pollack†

Stephan Zhang†

Sherman Tan

Abby Tai

Mary Hufnagel

Alice Hsu

Jiho Yoon

Greyson Alexander

Danzel Chen

Eden Bales

Elizabeth Hufnagel

Nina Hsu

Alex Seojoon Kim

Maxwell Xie

Stephen Gunn

VIOLIN II

Sophia Stoops*

Collin Anderson****

Lila Bales****

Joy Yang

Emmy Xiang

Kinley Collum

Melody Chen

Kyle Hutson

Elise Buyten

Patrick Thai

Kyle Chen

Sakura McCool

Lauren Kim

Grace Slovak

Alice Wei

Margot Knudtson

Nicklas Yong

Yao Khowong

VIOLA

Austin Braun*

Nicole Xiang****

Penelope Cline****

Taksh Vaghela

Leina Cheng

Alex Ji

Miranda Huang

Jimmy Escobar

Alex Prodan

CELLO

Kathy Liu**

Sophie Deng**

Julia Ungvari***

Brownie Brimage

Bella Tai

Andrew Zheng

Ely Gonzalez

Riley Robinson

Connor Braun

Jonah Fletcher

Adrian Clements

Christopher Kim

Elizabeth Rathgeb

Brown

Sophia Shelton

Noah Koo

Lucy Kershen

Aiden Kim

BASS

Jason Samuels*

Pax Hayman

Patrick Markes

Katie Hsieh

Henry Stoops

FLUTE

Olivia Friedemann

Emma Martin

Jacob Rubin

Michelle Shay

OBOE

Ryan Black

Jordan Carter

Isabella Genevro

CLARINET

Elaina Ballje

Braxen Butler

Kelsey Waters

BASSOON

Jalen Anderson

Quin Satterfield

HORN

Tristan Christy

Caleb Eneff

Wyatt McNickle

Brennon Nave

TRUMPET

Owen Acosta

Keegan Lassiter

Andrew Knisely

TROMBONE

Jaxon Davis

Mac Hust

William Osborn

TUBA

Luke Matthews

PIANO

Ellie Baker

OKLAHOMA CITY UNIVERSITY

CONDUCTING ASSISTANTS

Samuel Brady

Rueff Frazao

Joshua Tobias

† Concertmaster

* Principal

** Co-Principal

*** Assistant Principal

**** Co-Assistant Principal

String students are placed based on auditions, but not in order front to back. Strengths and experience are strategically placed throughout the section for balance and uniformity. All other students are listed alphabetically.

Oklahoma Youth Philharmonic (OYP)

Oklahoma Youth Philharmonic (OYP) is a full orchestra ensemble consisting of mostly high school students in string, wind, brass, and percussion sections. Repertoire includes many standard masterworks, expertly arranged educational compositions, as well as many original compositions, contemporary works, and popular music straight from the movies.

In 2018, OYP performed as an Honor Ensemble at the Oklahoma Music Educators Association annual in-service. OYP has also participated in an exchange program with the Youth Symphonies of Kansas City.

To better serve student needs, OYP begins each season as a strings-only orchestra. This allows woodwinds and brass students to finish their busy marching band seasons and allows OYP to focus on string technique and ensemble.

“OYP members have learned to become independent musicians, making our rehearsal time much more productive Their ability to listen and adjust their playing to match their colleagues has helped OYP improve each week ”

Dr. Charlene Dell Conductor, Oklahoma Youth Philharmonic

AUDITIONED ENSEMBLES

VIOLIN I

Nikka Asuncion

Avie Bales

Bellarose Black

Serena Cai

Silas Emrich

Kelsey Han††

Dylan Hoang

Lauren Patton

Sherlyn Tan

Aaron Wang

Hanna Wang

Kelvin Xie†

VIOLIN II

Madeline Braun*

Mariel Carvallo

Noah Eskridge

Emily Harl

Isaac Jones

Sophia Juarez-McDonald

Emma Keller

Greyson Morehead

Jayden Nguyen

Tatum Rodriguez

Ava Tu

VIOLA

Sydnee Alfred

Antonia Bianchi

Jordan Possehl*

Lara Reams

Autumn Swedlow

CELLO

Murphy Barnett

Annie Compton

Markus Flatt

Derah-lynn Horton

Armaan Madahar

Samuel Mosley

Blaine Pettitt**

Cassie Solorzano*

BASS

Reese Alexander

Carson Caddell**

Benjamin Waugh**

FLUTE

Grace Goodin

Madisyn Lemke

Gracie Lux

Carly Rogers*

OBOE

Alec Bazzell

Ayson Thelin*

CLARINET

Olivia Han

Laura Hendrasaputra*

BASSOON

Levi Atkinson*

Jonah White

HORN

Colten Cosby

Adelyn White*

Luke Wilson

TRUMPET

Landon Arnold*

Nathan Lam

Isaac Marks

TROMBONE

Ethan Lam

Chloe Walker*

TUBA

Brendan Richards*

† Concertmaster

†† Assistant concertmaster

* Principal

** Co-principal

Students are listed alphabetically.

Oklahoma Youth Winds (OYW)

Founded in 2004, Oklahoma Youth Winds (OYW) is made up of talented high school wind and percussion students. This challenging honor wind ensemble provides experience in musical preparation and performance that students can take to their own high school band programs and exposes students to literature that they may not play in their school programs.

OYW has been invited to perform as an Honor Ensemble at the Oklahoma Music Educators Association annual in-service three times since 2013.

“How do we spell OYW?

O is for “OPPORTUNITY” where students have a great setting to interact musically with other students from all over the OKC Metro and to learn about music from experts in the field .

Y is for “WHY SHOULD YOU JOIN?” Our setting is familiar but different than what most students experience in their school music programs . We cover different repertoire and provide musical training from some of the finest music teachers in the state .

W is for “WOULD YOU FIT IN?” The answer is YES! Not only are all of our students friendly, but also everyone joins at their own musical skill levels and everyone is able to grow and have fun . Our diversity of personnel is one of the things that sets us apart!”

Dr. Matthew Mailman Conductor, Oklahoma Youth Winds

Sarah Neely Associate Conductor, Oklahoma Youth Winds

AUDITIONED ENSEMBLES

FLUTE

Abbey Carmichael

Sadie Carlton*

Madiylnn Davis

Abigail Ha

Lacy Hare

Abigail Lewis

Ishaa Mehta

Sofia Pico Rodriguez

OBOE

Delilah Evans*

Travis Voth

CLARINET

Maren McIntyre

Aiden Miller*

Lavender Phillips

Jade Raper

Sophia Reeves

BASSOON

Emma Lansford*

ALTO SAX

Bentley Ricks*

Aiden Walker

BARI SAX

Malachi Bilbrey

HORN

Trey Brown

Benjamin Wick*

TRUMPET

Jameson Barton

Violet Chapman

Riley Cooper*

Jaiden Rutledge

Sydney Willoughby

Elliot Yii

TROMBONE

Aiden Blackburn

Sam Lewis*

Graham Schuetze

Benjamin Wymer

EUPHONIUM

Kaedence Bell*

Jason Keahnah-Talbot

MacKenzie Mulloy-Ray

TUBA

Sebastian Denman*

Liam Murphy

Caiden John Welch

OKLAHOMA CITY UNIVERSITY CONDUCTING ASSISTANT

Logan Edwards

* Principal Students are listed alphabetically.

Percussion Ensemble

Percussionists in OKYO generally play in up to three full ensembles: OYO, OYP, and OYW; as well as independently as the OKYO Percussion Ensemble. Percussion Coordinator Ashleigh Holmes, coordinates personnel and instrumentation. The Percussion Ensemble is led artistically by James Segovia, Jr.

“Percussion ensemble gives students the opportunity to work on techniques and repertoire that focuses on building well rounded musicians We strive to develop musicality through chamber music and explore the skills needed to be a

James Segovia, Jr. Conductor, Percussion Ensemble

Michael Corts Percussion Coordinator

AUDITIONED ENSEMBLES

PERCUSSIONISTS

Asa Byrne

Noe Cruz

Caden Hughes

Cole Llanusa

Michael Lopez

Corbin Reynolds

Rianna Stottlemyre

Anjalina Thomas

Ethan Thomas

Students are listed alphabetically.

Chamber Orchestra

Chamber Orchestra is an auditioned string ensemble that rehearses and performs literature utilizing position work, advanced rhythms, keys, bowing techniques, articulations, and expression. Student musicians will demonstrate knowledge and performance of these skills in addition to vibrato, upper position work, and musicality. Individual practice and attendance at rehearsals and concerts is important to the development and success of both the student and the ensemble.

Kristin Geist Conductor, Chamber Orchestra & Conductor, Festival Strings OKC

AUDITIONED ENSEMBLES

VIOLIN I

Emily Emrich

Stella Hong †

Sara Humphrey

Alexandria Moncriffe

Sophia Oh

Erin Paik

Sarina Phung

Delynda Roberts

Natalie Ross

Grayson Stone

Celine Tan

NingEn Tay

VIOLIN II

Abigail Asbury

Isaac Bales

Liv Caldwell

Catherine Dunn

Liliana Goodwyn

Liam Humphries

Numidia Itibrout

Audrey Lee

Vincent Li

Julianne Lovett

Erik Mays

Sarah Rasheed*

Timofey Rusakov

Leslie Sosa

Sabina Stanfield

Ellie Taylor

Waverly Toomoth

Allison Wise

Natalie Wyro

VIOLA

Maggie Kershen

Coco Kim

Michael Kouemo

Connor McLain

Kaden Phillips*

Olivia Ross

Blair Smith

CELLO

Boston Carter

Benjamin Curtis*

Karis DeMann

Phoebe Goodrich

Addison Harley

Jackson Howard

Zoe Hsu

Ethan Ince

Jamie Kang

Elizabeth Kwok

Benjamin Peters

Joy Riester

BASS

Kayden Manous*

Brennon Phillips

† Concertmaster * Principal

Students are listed alphabetically.

Sinfonia

Sinfonia is a group comprised of developing string players. Musicians focus on learning new literature, tone development, expanding bow techniques, and ensemble playing. On occasion, pieces will utilize multiple key changes and shifting throughout sections.

“Students in Sinfonia learn proper rehearsal etiquette and how to make music as an ensemble . Students’ skills are challenged with increasingly difficult repertoire and attention to phrasing, bowings, dynamics, and articulations ”

Courtney Monk Conductor, Sinfonia & Conductor, Studio Rockestra

AUDITIONED ENSEMBLES

VIOLIN

Mariel Anderson

Laura Clausen††

Callista Jensen

Emelyn Kenworthy

Victor Lightsey

Austen Liu

Camila Martinez Lopez

Charity Prentice†

Eli Scott

Anna Wilson

VIOLIN II

Michaela Brown

Carys Dunn

Alice Epperson

Evelyn Gardocki

Alex Goodson

Addelane Kenworthy

Abygail Mayo

Matthew Patton

Reilly Robertson

Stella Rosenhamer

Lilia VanNoy*

Layla Whitson

VIOLA

MJ Andes*

Isaac Bishop

Daniel Bond

Lola Gannon

Virginia Kemper

CELLO

Allegria Florez*

Daphne Goodrich

Daniel Jones

William Kempf

Vivian King

Zoie Madison Leano

Adriana Lottie

Joseph Maliszewski

Sedona McElroy

Trinidad Rodriguez

Zuzanna Wotjas

† Concertmaster

†† Assistant Concertmaster

* Principal

Students are listed alphabetically.

Festival Winds

Founded in 2021, Festival Winds is a wind ensemble for emerging woodwind, brass, and percussion students. Festival Winds is designed to challenge and develop younger students with new music and new skills.

Janey Akagha Conductor, Festival Winds

NON-AUDITIONED ENSEMBLES

FLUTE

Lizzeth Hernandez

Anasophia Melendrez**

Sadie Carlton*

Abbey Carmichael*

OBOE

Ian Morris

Haven Scheuffele

Maria Villalobo

CLARINET

Parker Reeves

Jana Denise Suarez

Jade Raper*

Alden Miller*

BASS CLARINET

Callum Fairclough

BASSOON

Landry Blair

ALTO SAX

Jacob Ellis

William Patton

Jake Wendling

TENOR SAX

Asa Borjas****

BARI SAX

Audrey Adkisson***

HORN

Elijah McMillin

Heloha Tate

Benjamin Wick*

TRUMPET

Zechariah Burke

Jose Herrera

Sydney Willoughby*

Riley Cooper*

TROMBONE

Thomas Arvidson

Aiden Blackburn****

Henry Bosnyak

Vincent Markes

Anderson Murray

John Rathgeb Brown

TUBA

Blake Sivils**

PERCUSSION

Ava Caldwell

Valencia Gonzalez

Michael Corts*****

Ashleigh Holmes*****

James Segovia*****

Matthew Voit**

*OYW Volunteer

**OCU Music Ed Students

***Classen SAS HS Volunteer

****Festival Winds Student Mentor

*****OKYO Staff

Students are listed alphabetically.

Festival Strings

Festival Strings is a non-auditioned ensemble of late elementary and early middle school string players with one to two years of experience.

Festival Strings ensembles meet in three metro locations — Oklahoma City, Edmond, and Norman — and are designed to challenge students with new music and new skills.

“We have a unique blend of middle school students from across the area, all in one ensemble . Our focus is playing sheet music while preparing for multiple concerts each season . The music is always fun but challenges the younger students to a higher level of preparation in their musical studies .”

Mark Osborn Conductor, Festival Strings Norman

Sarah Grote Conductor, Festival Strings Edmond

Kristin Geist Conductor, Chamber Orchestra & Conductor, Festival Strings OKC

NON-AUDITIONED ENSEMBLES

FESTIVAL STRINGS OKLAHOMA CITY

VIOLIN

Payton Guerrero

Grant Liu

Bradley Norwood

VIOLA

Elise Monk

FESTIVAL STRINGS NORMAN

VIOLIN

Maia Camacho Hines

Violet Ellison

Kaelyn Kinnamon

Grace Le

Sumaq Mia Maqque

Caelyn McGoodwin

Theresa Pence

Paris Tucker

VIOLA

Ruby McVay

Aaron Rathgeb Brown

Isabella Rodriguez Gonzalez

Samhitha Seshadri

CELLO

Zoe Cline

David Connelly

Brooklyn Lilliard

Naiyobe Quintanar

Philippa Deacon Wallet

BASS

Noah Drews

Avery Dykstra

Riley Merrick

Ira Tahmahkera

FESTIVAL STRINGS EDMOND

VIOLIN

Crew Caldwell

Scarlett Garber

Gemma Houts

Titus Lee

Simon Ross

Abby Stewart

Felicity Stobaugh

Preston Studer

Kaden Thomas

VIOLA

Kiera Chao

Claire Gregg

Moira Jones

Aaron Starbuck

Kylie Williams

CELLO

Alison Mitchell

Isabella Mitchell

BASS

Zoe Harmon

Students are listed alphabetically.

Studio Rockestra

Studio Rockestra is a pop and rock orchestra that explores everything from Katy Perry to Led Zepplin and famous movie music. The ensemble includes strings, woodwinds, brass and rhythm section. Studio Rockestra students will explore proper technique, improvisation, amplification and effects, while preparing for fun and unique performances.

“Students in Studio Rockestra learn and perform music from film, television, video games, and pop culture We explore alternative techniques and incorporate electric instruments while striving to expand our musical knowledge and skills ”

NON-AUDITIONED ENSEMBLES

Watch for the student roster in the April 7, 2024 Special Concert program. See pages 20-21 for the full season concert schedule.

Summer Symphony Strings Camp

The Summer Symphony Strings Camp (SSSC) is an annual commuter day camp - no audition required! SSSC is open to students in grades 5 through 8 (in the 2023-2024 school year) who have been playing for at least one year and can read music.

Students participate in orchestra rehearsals and sectionals, working with professional music educators and spend time learning more about various art forms through arts experiences presented by partners, like RACE Dance Collective.

Under the direction of Camp Artistic Director, Peter Markes, the week concludes on Friday with a Camp Closing Ceremonies concert for campers’ families.

Mark your calendars for SSSC 2024!

June 17June 21, 2024

STAY IN TUNE THIS SUMMER!

The week concludes on Friday with a Camp Closing Ceremonies concert for campers’ families.

Please CLICK HERE for important Camp information and the daily schedule.

THANKS TO OUR COMMUNITY

VOLUNTEERS

A very special thank you to the many volunteers who work throughout the season to help make the Oklahoma Youth Orchestras programs possible for so many students in Oklahoma.

MUSIC EDUCATORS, PRIVATE TEACHERS & MUSIC PROFESSIONALS

We applaud you for your work and dedication in enriching student musicians throughout Oklahoma. You might not hear it as often as you should, but your work is so important and so appreciated, as only together can we provide the comprehensive support students need to excel as musicians and as citizens.

Bravo!

REHEARSAL SPACES

A most sincere thank you to the facilities that provide vital rehearsal space for all our ensembles during our season:

OKLAHOMA CITY UNIVERSITY

WANDA L. BASS SCHOOL OF MUSIC

WHITTIER MIDDLE SCHOOL, NORMAN CIMARRON MIDDLE SCHOOL, EDMOND

PERFORMANCE VENUES

Our gratitude also goes to the facilities that provide wonderful performance space for our concerts during our season:

OKLAHOMA CITY COMMUNITY COLLEGE

PERFORMING ARTS THEATRE

OKLAHOMA CITY UNIVERSITY

WANDA L. BASS SCHOOL OF MUSIC

OKLAHOMA CONTEMPORARY

BE THE HEARTBEAT: BECOME AN OKYO SUSTAINER!

We know it can be a hassle trying to keep up with all the community groups you want to support, so we’ve got an easy option for you: sign up once with a credit card to make a monthly donation, then never worry about it again! Simply select your preferred amount per month and double check that your donation frequency is set to “monthly.” When you become an OKYO Sustainer you are the heartbeat to keep making music! Learn how!

“Giving as an OKYO Sustainer not only allows me to support young musicians on a regular, steady basis, it also conveniently breaks up my giving into manageable monthly amounts.”

– Nathan Young; OKYO Sustainer

COMMUNITY SUPPORT

SPECIAL THANK YOU TO OUR:

OKYO SECTIONAL COACHES

DUSTIN BORJAS

HOPE BRUENING

GENEVIEVE CLARKSON

REGINA KENTON

PETER MARKES

JEREMY SCOTT

OKYO GUEST EDUCATORS

DR. CLIFTON EVANS

Associate Professor of Music at University of Texas Arlington

MS. MICKEY HATCHER

Conductor of Primo Strings and Concertino Strings at the New Jersey Youth Symphony

MR. JOHN KILKENNY

Artistic and Executive Director of the Sewanee Summer Music Festival, Executive Director of the Chattanooga Symphony, and a highly sought after percussion performer

OKYO AUDIO, VIDEO & PHOTOGRAPHY

HORTON PRODUCTIONS for concert audio and video engineering services

VOLUNTEERS, PARENTS, STAFF & SUPPORTERS who provide photos from rehearsals and performances

SPECIAL CREDIT

to Michael Anderson Photography and Ulises Serrano for their photography 0throughout this program

OKLAHOMA

ARTS PARTNERS

GRATITUDE WITH TO ALL

Conductor’s Circle Members

Individuals who choose to support Oklahoma Youth Orchestras with a tax-deductible gift, through our annual Play It Forward ™ campaign, as a monthly Sustainer, or any unspecified donation, are thanked with special invitations and other expressions of gratitude throughout the year.

Please join us in applauding those who donated to OKYO between July 1, 2022 and January 31, 2024:

MAESTRO

$10,000+

Richard and Glenna Tanenbaum

ORCHESTRA

$5,000 — $9,999

Christopher Bishop

Dr. Lin-Lin Liu in memory of Louise Francelia Waldorf

CONCERTMASTER

$2,500 — $4,999

Susan Bergen

Paul and Debra Hagemeier

Claren M. Kidd

Joseph and Theresa Thai

MUSICIAN

$1,000 — $2,499

Anonymous

Kimberly Fletcher

Kris and Peter Markes

Joe and Kathryn Rodano

Ulises Serrano

Arthur and Betty Thompson

Martha Torres

BaoLien Tu

Ron and Maria Urlaub in honor of Maddie and Morgan Urlaub

David Woolly

SUPPORTER

$500 — $999

Steve Agee in honor of Kristen Agee former OYO Concertmistress

Anonymous

Alexis Carter-Black

Dawn Bond

Mark and Debra Cobb

Mr. and Mrs. Lloyd Eisenhour

Ningwei Ge in honor of Jeffrey Grogan

Dawn Hallman

Catherine Reaves in honor of Zack Reaves

David VanMeter in honor of Dr . Kim Fletcher’s musical children

Judy Wang in honor of Olivia Wang

SUPPORTERS ALL OUR

PATRON

$100 — $499

Karen Allen in memory of Tristan Allen

Anonymous

Jose Batty

Dr. Mark and Teena Belcik

Dana and Jim Bellingham

Kevin and Margaret Brown

Craig and Tracy Ferguson

Andrew Fagg

Jane Jayroe Gamble

David and Cheryl Garrett

Steven Graham and Vicky Leloie Kelly Graham

Kent and Hiromi Hood

Shirley Jones in honor of Paulette Schroeder

Julianna Kershen

Onyx Lane

Bill and Gaye McGovern

Anna McMillin in honor of John McMillin

Don Melton

Mike & Barbara Mize

Diane Moershel in honor of Charles Brockus

Kay Osborn in memory of William Osborn

Mark Osborn

Mark Parker

Laura Reese

Hairong Song in honor of Serena Cai

Robert Thurman

Beth Tollefson

Duc Tu

Susan Weed

Larry and Leah Westmorland in honor of Dr . John Clinton

Abby Williams

Jared Woolly

Nathan Young

FRIEND

$20 — $99

Anna Bradley

Sarah Chan in memory of Dr Bob Lee Kid III

JJ Compton

Don and Ginny Evans

Steven Graham and Vicky Leloie Kelly

Donald Lehman & Phyllis Ford in honor of Emily and Silas Emrich

Rachel Hagemeier in honor of Paul Hagemeier

Col. (ret.) Dean and Jeanne Jackson in memory of Sam Decker

Gloria Mooers in honor of Victoria Mooers

Parthena and Roger Owens

Dee Reece in honor of Jeffrey Grogan

Brent Robinson

Judy Schroeder

Paulette Schroeder

Paula Swing

Scott Wilson in honor of Anna Wilson

Mary Wilkinson in honor of Catherine Reaves

OKYO Sustainers

To learn how you can make an easy monthly gift to OKYO, please visit www.oyomusic.org/sustainers

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Ear Infections, Swimmer’s Ears, Ear Tubes

Ear Wax Build-up

Hearing Loss

Hoarseness

Head and Neck Masses / Cancers

Nasal Congestion

Nasal Fractures

Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Pediatric Sleep Apnea

Septoplasty

Sudden Hearing Loss

Swallowing Disorders

Thyroid Disorders

Tinnitus

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