“The only constant in life is change”
For over 15 years, the one constant in the LYS has been Keynes Chen, the music director for our symphony orchestra. Music directors, administrators, board members, and musicians have all changed over the years.
Everything except Mr. Chen.
After countless hours, hundreds of young musicians, dozens of concerts, two trips abroad, and a pandemic, Mr. Chen is ending his tenure with the LYS at the close of this season.
The LYS would not be the same organization that it is today without the influence of Mr. Chen. After their time in the LYS, students have gone on to study music at the Curtis Institute of Music, Eastman School of Music (University of Rochester), Jacobs School of Music (Indiana University), New England Conservatory of Music, and of course here in our backyard at UC-Boulder, UNC and CSU, and many more great schools. Mr. Chen touched the lives of so many musicians and we cannot thank him enough for his dedication and devotion to our cause.
Thank you Mr. Chen, for everything you've done for our young musicians and this organization.
Mr. Chen's last concert with the LYS is our Season Finale on Sunday, May18th, 2pm, at Longmont High. Come and wish Mr. Chen a fond farewell!
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Jeff Bonin
President
Longmont Youth Symphony
Featured Events
Section Coaches Wanted!
The Longmont Youth Symphony (LYS) is looking for section coaches for our Fall 2024 Season This initiative offers a unique opportunity for local musicians with an interest in music education to apply their skills and knowledge with our students.
Aims of the LYS Section Coach Program:
Provide expert knowledge and coaching to LYS student musicians. Coaches will work with both our Symphony Orchestra musicians as well as our developing wind (Symphonic Band) and string (String Ensemble) students
Offer instrument-specific pedagogy and performance instruction.
Enable coaches to gain hands-on teaching experience, including feedback from LYS Music Directors.
Develop an understanding of the professional expectations for musicians.
Requirements for Coaches:
Responsible for coaching LYS students individually or in sections, as directed. Specific direction will be given by the Music Directors
Maintain professional presentation in dress and student interaction
Commit to attending designated rehearsals, In the event of and unforeseen absence, coaches are responsible for securing a sub. Rehearsals are on Saturdays from 9am-Noon at United Church of Christ on Longmont, unless otherwise notified.
Compensation:
Mentors will receive $100 per service, with services requested by the Music Directors, as needed during the Fall and Spring semesters.
To apply, please submit a cover letter and resume outlining your technical proficiency, pedagogical knowledge, and interest in this coaching opportunity to info@longmontyouthsymphony.org.
We look forward to your application and the opportunity to welcome you into the LYS!
The Longmont Youth Symphony is committed to serving the young musicians of the St. Vrain Valley and surrounding areas. The LYS provides a resource for young musicians to further develop and excel in their musical abilities through the guidance of professional leadership and direction. By doing so, we enable our youth to entertain, educate, and expand appreciation of music within the community.
Acceptance into our Orchestra and Ensembles is by audition only. Online Auditions are currently being accepted. If you would prefer an in-person audition, please contact us to schedule one.
LYS offers:
Concerts, including ones with the Longmont Symphony Orchestra and the Boulder Symphony
Challenging music, designed to help every student grow
Exposure to a broad sampling of musical repertoire
Programs for younger musicians, in the Longmont Youth Strings Ensemble and Longmont Youth Symphonic Band.
Retreats, picnics, and fun!
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