Oklahoma Youth Orchestras (OKYO) 2023-24 Season Finale Program

2023-24 SEASON PROGRAM SPRING FINALE CONCERT SERIES

ORTE

• Wisdom Teeth Removal

• Dental Implant Surgery • Jaw Surgery • Soft Tissue Grafting

Hayden G. Fuller, DDS, MS Periodontal Surgeon

Jeremy C. Goodson, DDS Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon

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

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

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

STUDENT LEADERSHIP COUNCIL

PRESIDENT

Eddy Kang VICE PRESIDENT Sakura McCool SECRETARY Kinley Collum HISTORIAN Elaina Ballje

SOCIAL MEDIA INTERNS

Blaine Pettitt  Sherman Tan

CORE MEMBERS

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

Dell Conductor, Oklahoma Youth Philharmonic

Conductor, Oklahoma Youth Winds

Sarah Neely Associate Conductor, Oklahoma Youth Winds

James Segovia, Jr. Conductor, Percussion Ensemble

Sarah Grote Conductor, Festival Strings Edmond

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

Mark Osborn Conductor, Festival Strings Norman

Courtney Monk Conductor, Sinfonia & Conductor, Studio Rockestra

Janey Akagha Conductor, Festival Winds

Dr. Charlene

Dr. Matthew Mailman

THE ARTISTIC & SUPPORT TEAMS

ARTISTIC TEAM

Coach

Percussion Coordinator

ADMINISTRATIVE TEAM

Iris Gracia Communications Manager

Kris Markes Executive Director

Program Manager for Students & Families

Ahmari Sango Intern

Francisco Venegas Program Manager for Concerts & Logistics

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

Michael Corts

Hope Bruening

Young Strings

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

Registration is now open for the 2024 Summer Symphony String Camp: June 17-21, 2024

Camp will fill fast — click now to reserve your spot!

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 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

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.

2023-24 SEASON PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE

Season Presenting Concert Sponsor: Richard and Glenna Tanenbaum

INTERESTED IN JOINING THE FUN?

The audition window for our advanced ensembles and registration for non-auditioned ensembles opens May 6. Check it out!

Our

2024 Play It Forward™ Campaign is Now Underway!

OKYO helps make the world a better place serving students of all ages and abilities through eleven ensembles and programs. Our success is only possible because of the support from our community and generous donors like you! When you contribute to the OKYO Play It Forward™ campaign this year, your gift will be doubled! Through the generosity of the Ad Astra Foundation and the OKYO Board of Directors, we have a matching challenge of up to $15,000. That means every dollar raised will become two dollars - doubling the impact of your contribution to OKYO!

Your support will help ensure that we will continue to provide excellence in music education for our community and harness the transformative power of music for students in Oklahoma. Giving is easy at www.okyomusic.org.

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

NOV. 3-5 SPOTLIGHT

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. 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!

FAMILY ADS

Abygail

PENELOPE CLINE

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

Love, Mom, Dad & Zoe

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

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

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

Keegan-

We 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

WYATT

MAY 4, 2O24 — 2:30PM

OKLAHOMA CITY COMMUNITY COLLEGE

VISUAL & PERFORMING ARTS THEATRE

Star-Spangled Banner

STUDIO ROCKESTRA

Ms. Courtney Monk, Conductor

John Stafford Smith, arr. Peter Markes

Everything is Awesome arr. Ralph Ford

Avengers

King’s Court .

Alan Silvestri, arr. Robert Longfield

FESTIVAL STRINGS

Kristin Geist, Festival Strings OKC Conductor

Sarah Grote, Festival Strings Edmond Conductor

Mark Osborn, Festival Strings Norman Conductor

. Susan H. Day

Morning Lights ........................................ Brian Balmages

Fiddles on Fire .......................................... Mark Williams

SINFONIA

Ms. Courtney Monk, Conductor

Ms. Hope Bruening, Young Strings Coach

(You Are) Amazing .................................... Brian Balmages

Icarus ................... Emma Neasby (OKYO Composer-In-Residence)

The Storm Chasers ......................................... Mark Lortz

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

SPRING SEASON FINALE CONCERT SERIES PERFORMANCES

FEATURING THE 2023-2024

COMPOSER-IN-RESIDENCE

Season Presenting Concert Sponsor: Richard and Glenna Tanenbaum

My name is EMMA NEASBY and I am a Senior Music Education and Composition Major at Oklahoma City University. I am from Bixby Oklahoma and my primary instrument is the Trombone! I love to write new music and spend time with my friends and family.

For as long as I can remember I have always wanted to be a music teacher. My past and present teachers/mentors continue to inspire me to become a better educator/composer. Some of my long term career goals are to go teach in public school and on the collegiate level while also composing new music.

EMMA NEASBY

Senior Music Education and Composition Major at Oklahoma City University 2023-2024 OKYO

Composer-In-Residence

The main way I will be reaching those goals is to earn my bachelors and go straight into graduate school so I can gain more education to teach my future students. After that I plan to teach in the public school for a few years before going back to school to get my doctorate and from there teach college/high school. I have composed Orchestral, Band, Renaissance fair, chamber music and more!

The piece “Icarus” is about how Icarus flew too close to the Sun, but instead of being afraid of falling, he is fascinated by its beautiful glow. When he gets burned he looks up at the Sun one last time and feels content with looking at it for the last time.

I am so grateful to have been chosen as the OKYO Composer- InResidence this season, and want to thank everyone who supported me! Thank you Edward Knight and Jeff Grogan!

The audition window for our advanced ensembles and registration for non-auditioned ensembles opens May 6. Check it out!

OKLAHOMA YOUTH ORCHESTRA

Mr. Jeff Grogan, Conductor

Cello Concerto in B minor .............................. Antonín Dvorák

I. Allegro

Sophie Deng, Cello

Concerto Competion Winner of The Louise Francelia Waldorf Prize for Excellence in Solo Performance

Concertino for Marimba and Orchestra Paul Creston I. Vigorous

Cole Llanusa, Marimba

Concerto Competion Winner of The Louise Francelia

Waldorf Prize for Excellence in Solo Performance

The Planets Gustav Holst

I. Mars, the Bringer of War

II Venus, the Bringer of Peace

VI. Uranus, the Magician

V. Saturn, the Bringer of Old Age

IV. Jupiter, the Bringer of Jollity

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

SPRING SEASON FINALE CONCERT SERIES

PERFORMANCES

FEATURING SOLO PERFORMANCES BY THE 2023-2024 SEASON CONCERTO COMPETITION WINNERS

Season Presenting Concert Sponsor: Richard and Glenna Tanenbaum

SOPHIE DENG

Cellist & Concerto Competion Winner of The Louise Francelia Waldorf Prize for Excellence in Solo Performance

SOPHIE DENG , 17, started studying cello at age four with Dr. Meredith Blecha-Wells at Oklahoma State University.

She was a member of the National Youth Orchestra of the United States of America (NYO-USA) in 2023, and NYO2 in 2021 and 2022. Sophie won the Grand Prize at the OKCPhil Young Musician Competition in 2022 and performed with OKCPhil twice as the featured soloist in 2023. Sophie made her solo debut with the South Kansas Symphony Orchestra in 2021 after winning the South Kansas Concerto Competition. From 2015 to 2017, she placed first at the Oklahoma City Orchestra League Keith Competition and was the Overall Winner in 2017, which was later featured on KOCO. Sophie won first place at the American Protégé International Concerto Competition in 2017, performing at Carnegie Hall for the third time as a winner. She has performed in masterclasses by Richard Aaron, Carter Brey, Alan Harris, Hans Jørgen Jensen, Zuill Bailey, Melissa Kraut, Sara Sant’Ambrogio, Joshua Roman, Brannon Cho, Julie Albers, Cicely Parnas, and Colin Carr. She is currently the Principal Cellist at the Oklahoma Youth Orchestra. Sophie will attend the San Francisco Conservatory of Music on a full scholarship to pursue a bachelor’s degree in cello performance, studying under Professor Richard Aaron.

When Sophie is not practicing the cello, she enjoys baking, figure skating, making pottery, and doing pilates.

COLE LLANUSA

Marimbist & Concerto

Competion Winner of The Louise Francelia Waldorf Prize for Excellence in Solo Performance

COLE LLANUSA , 18, began studying percussion when he was 12. His teachers have been Seth Adams, Austin Smith, and Tommy Dobbs. This is Cole’s first year in OKYO, and the Concerto Competition is his first competition win.

His other accomplishments include OKMEA All-State Jazz Band for vibraphone, and CODA Honor Band and Oklahoma Summer Arts Institute as a member of the percussion section. Cole has competed in the Great Plains Marimba Competition where he made the semifinal round and where he performed in a Master Class with Blake Tyson. He is also an accomplished pianist, having played for nine years and making consistent 1+ ratings at state contest.

Cole is an active member of the marching band, wind ensemble and jazz ensemble at Moore High School where he also serves on the band leadership committee as leader of the front ensemble. He will attend Oklahoma City University in the fall to pursue a degree in percussion performance.

MAY 5, 2O24 — 4:00PM

OKLAHOMA CITY COMMUNITY COLLEGE

VISUAL & PERFORMING ARTS THEATRE

FESTIVAL WINDS

Ms. Janey Akagha, Conductor

Blazing Bones of the West arr. Michael Story

Cantina Band

John Williams, arr. Michael Kamuf

Over the Rainbow Harold Arlen, arr. Warren Barker

Hannah Elrod, Vocal Soloist

You’re Welcome

Lin-Manuel Miranda, arr. Matt Conaway

OKLAHOMA YOUTH WINDS

Dr. Matthew Mailman, Conductor

Ms. Sarah Neely, Associate Conductor

National Emblem March .......................... Edwin Eugene Bagley

Think About It ......................................... Jennifer Jolley

Sequoyah and the Talking Leaves ....................... Edward Knight

Nimrod from Enigma Variations, Op. 36 ...... Edward Elgar, arr. Alfred Reed

Logan Edwards, Conductor

Gravity Wave ......................................... Brian Balmages

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

SPRING SEASON FINALE CONCERT SERIES

PERFORMANCES

FEATURING A SOLO PERFORMANCE AND A GUEST CONDUCTOR

Season Presenting Concert Sponsor: Richard and Glenna Tanenbaum

CHAMBER ORCHESTRA

Ms. Kristin Geist, Conductor

Ms. Hope Bruening, Young Strings Coach

Balletto from Ancient Airs and Dances, Suite No. 1 Ottorino Respighi, arr. Robert McCashin

Ballad of Inis Mór Doug Spata

Blue Rhythmico Kirt Mosier

OKLAHOMA YOUTH PHILHARMONIC

Dr. Charlene Dell, Conductor

Tragic Overture ............................ Johannes Brahms, arr. Leidig

Fugue in G Minor (the Little) ........................ J.S. Bach, arr. Cailliet

Berceuse and Finale from the Firebird Suite ............... Igor Stravinsky, arr. Merle J. Isaac

Slavonic Dance No. 8, Op. 46........................... Antonín Dvorák

The audition window for our advanced ensembles and registration for non-auditioned ensembles opens May 6. Check it out!

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

Stephan Zhang†

Laura Pollack†

Eddy Kang†

Jiho Yoon

Abby Tai

Nina Hsu

Alice Hsu

Stephen Gunn

Greyson Alexander

Alex Kim

Elise McNair

Sherman Tan

Eden Bales

Danzel Chen

Mary Hufnagel

Elizabeth Hufnagel

Maxwell Xie

VIOLIN II

Sophia Stoops*

Collin Anderson**

Lila Bales**

Sakura McCool

Melody Chen

Kinley Collum

Hannah Yoon

Patrick Thai

Kyle Chen

Grace Slovak

Emmy Xiang

Joy Yang

Lauren Kim

Alice Wei

Margot Knudtson

Elise Buyten

Nicklas Yong

VIOLA

Austin Braun*

Miranda Huang

Penelope Cline

Luke Huang

Alex Prodan

Leina Cheng

Nicole Xiang

Taksh Vaghela

Jimmy Escobar

Alex Ji

CELLO

Sophie Deng*

Connor Braun

Bella Tai

Sophia Shelton

Kathy Liu

Aiden Kim

Julia Ungvari

Noah Koo

Ely Gonzalez

Andrew Zheng

Jonah Fletcher

Riley Robinson

Adrian Clements

Lucy Kershen

Elizabeth Rathgeb

Brown

Brownie Brimage

Christopher Kim

BASS

Jason Samuels*

Pax Hayman

Henry Stoops

Patrick Markes

Katie Hsieh

FLUTE

Olivia Friedemann

Emma Martin

Jacob Rubin

Michelle Shay

OBOE

Ryan Black

Jordan Carter

Isabella Genevro

ENGLISH HORN

Isabella Genevro

CLARINET

Elaina Ballje

Braxen Butler

Kelsey Waters

BASSOON

Jalen Anderson

Quin Satterfield

Aubrey Ketch^

Emma Stoddard^

HORN

Tristan Christy

Caleb Eneff

Dane Frost

Wyatt McNickle

Brennon Nave

Michael Pulliam^

Katelyn Thomas^

TRUMPET

Owen Acosta

Andrew Knisely

Keegan Lassiter

TROMBONE

Jaxon Davis

Mac Hust

Brandon Lowe^

EUPHONIUM

Drake Desmond

TUBA

Luke Matthews

HARP

Chelsea Bushong^

Emily Duncan^

PIANO

Ellie Baker

OKLAHOMA CITY UNIVERSITY CONDUCTING ASSISTANTS

Samuel Brady Rueff Frazao

Joshua Tobias

† Co-Concertmaster

* Principal

** Co-Assistant Principal

^ Special Thank You to OCU students and professional musicians for their participation in today’s concert

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

Hannah Wang

Kelvin Xie†

VIOLIN II

Madeline Braun*

Noah Eskridge

Emily Harl

Isaac Jones

Sophia Juarez-McDonald

Emma Keller

Greyson Morehead

Jayden Nguyen

Tatum Rodriguez

Ava Tu

VIOLA

Sydnee Alfred

Antonio 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

Gracie Lux

Carly Rogers*

OBOE

Alec Bazzell

Ayson Thelin*

OBOE

Alec Bazzell

CLARINET

Olivia Han

Laura Hendrasaputra*

BASSOON

Levi Atkinson**

Jonah White**

HORN

Colten Cosby

Adelyn White*

Luke Wilson

Sam Brady^

TRUMPET

Landon Arnold*

Nathan Lam

Isaac Marks

TROMBONE

Ethan Lam

Chloe Walker*

Emma Neasby^

TUBA

Brendan Richards*

HARP

Emily Duncan^

† Concertmaster

†† Assistant concertmaster

* Principal

** Co-principal

*** Assistant Principal

^ Special Thank You to OCU students and professional musicians for their participation in today’s concert

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

Madilynn Davis

Abigail Ha

Lacy Hare

Abigail Lewis

Ishaa Mehta

Sofia Pico Rodriguez

OBOE

Delilah Evans

Travis Voth

CLARINET

Maren McIntyre

Alden Miller

Lavender Phillips

Sophia Reeves

BASSOON

Emma Lansford

ALTO SAX

Bentley Ricks

Aiden Walker

BARI SAX

Malachi Bilbrey

HORN

Trey Brown

Benjamin Wick

TRUMPET

Jameson Barton

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

CaidenJohn Welch

OKLAHOMA CITY UNIVERSITY CONDUCTING ASSISTANT

Logan Edwards

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.

James Segovia, Jr.

Conductor, Percussion Ensemble

Michael Corts Percussion Coordinator

“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

AUDITIONED ENSEMBLES

PERCUSSIONISTS

Asa Byrne

Noe Cruz

Caden Hughes

Cole Llanusa

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

Sarah Rasheed

Natalie Ross

Sabina Stanfield

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

Sarina Phung

Delynda Roberts

Timofey Rusakov

Leslie Sosa

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 I

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

Kaitlyn Ellis

Alice Epperson

Evelyn Gardocki

Alex Goodson

Addelane Kenworthy

Abygail Mayo

Kenneth Nguyen

Matthew Patton

Reilly Robertson

Stella Rosenhamer

Lilia VanNoy*

Layla Whitson

VIOLA

MJ Andes*

Isaac Bishop

Daniel Bond

Lola Gannon

CELLO

Allegria Florez*

Daphne Goodrich

Daniel Jones

William Kempf

Vivian King

Zoie Madison Leano

Adriana Lottie

Joseph Maliszewski

Trinidad Rodriguez

Zuzanna Wojtas

Virginia Kemper † 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

Sadie Carlton*

Abbey Carmichael*

Anasophia Melendrez^

OBOE

Ian Morris

Haven Scheuffele

Maria Villalobo

CLARINET

Parker Reeves

Jana Denise Suarez

Alden Miller*

Lavender Phillips*

Sophia Reeves*

BASS CLARINET

Callum Fairclough

BASSOON

Landry Blair

ALTO SAX

Jacob Ellis

Jake Wendling

Audrey Adkisson**

TENOR SAX

Asa Borjas***

BARI SAX

William Patton

HORN

Sedona McElroy

Elijah McMillin

Heloha Tate

Trey Brown*

Michael Pulliam^

TRUMPET

Zechariah Burke

Michael Feary

Jose Herrera

Skylar Willoughby

Riley Cooper*

Sydney Willoughby*

TROMBONE

Thomas Arvidson

Aiden Blackburn****

Henry Bosnyak

John Rathgeb Brown

Vincent Markes

Anderson Murray

TUBA

Blake Sivils^

PERCUSSION

Ava Caldwell

*OYW Volunteer

**Classen SAS HS Volunteer ****Festival Winds Student Mentor

^ Special Thank You to OCU students and professional musicians for their participation in today’s concert

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

Students are listed alphabetically.

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

Samantha 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

Preston Studer

Kaden Thomas

VIOLA

Kiera Chao

Claire Gregg

Moira Jones

George Schmidt

Aaron Starbuck

Felicity Stobaugh

Kylie Williams

CELLO

June Frost

Alison Mitchell

Isabella Mitchell

Keira O’Brien

BASS

Zoe Harmon

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

VIOLIN

Valeria Diaz

Brooklyn Henderson

Callista Jensen*

Helena Nechtow

Charity Prentice**

Ignacio Scaperlanda

VIOLA

Violet Conway*

Julia Glancy

Elise Monk

CELLO

Liam Murphy**

BASS

Michael Berg

GUITAR

Jake Johnson

PIANO

Bridger Jackson

DRUMS

Jonah Mosley *Principal **Mentor

Students are listed alphabetically.

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.

Registration is now open for the 2024 Summer Symphony String Camp: June 17-21, 2024

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.

Camp will fill fast — click now to reserve your spot!

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:

CIVIC CENTER MUSIC HALL

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:

NICK BARNABY

ANDY BARRINGTON

DUSTIN BORJAS

SAM BRADY

HOPE BRUENING

OKYO SECTIONAL COACHES

GENEVIEVE CLARKSON JEREMY SCOTT

VICTOR DJONORH SHELBY SWANSON

REGINA KENTON DON THOMAS

DEBBIE MCDONALD LEON WILLIAMS

PETER MARKES

OKYO GUEST EDUCATORS

BRIAN BALMAGES, Composer & Conductor

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

ALEX LEE, Director of Orchestras, Southwest Oklahoma State University

BRANDI PHILIPS, Orchestra Director, Otto Middle School, Plano, TX

SHANGHAI QUARTET, one of the world’s foremost chamber music ensembles, with special interest in providing masterclasses for string students

JANAE TAYLOR, Orchestra Director, Renner Middle School, Plano, TX

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 throughout this program

OKLAHOMA CITY ARTS PARTNERS

Conductor’s Circle Members GRATITUDE WITH TO ALL

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

Joe and Kathryn Rodano

Ulises and Lindy Serrano

Joseph and Theresa Thai

MUSICIAN

$1,000 — $2,499

Anonymous

Kimberly Fletcher

Kris and Peter Markes

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

Jose Batty

Alexis Carter-Black

Dawn Bond

Mark and Debra Cobb

Mr. and Mrs. Lloyd Eisenhour

Ningwei Ge in honor of Jeffrey Grogan

Dawn Hallman

Mark Parker

Catherine Reaves in honor of Zack Reaves

Dee Reece in honor of Jeffrey Grogan

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

Judy Wang in honor of Olivia Wang

SUPPORTERS

PATRON

$100 — $499

Karen Allen in memory of Tristan Allen

Anonymous

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

Laura Reese

Hairong Song in honor of Serena Cai

Robert Thurman

Beth Tollefson

Duc Tu

Susan Weed

Larry and Leah Westmoreland 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

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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