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The PYO Music Institute’s 84th Anniversary Season was a resounding success, filled with stunning performances, distinguished guests, and significant milestones. From captivating concerts at The Kimmel Center to inspiring educational initiatives, this season highlighted the exceptional talent and dedication of our young musicians. Let’s take a look back at some of the most memorable moments of the 2023-2024 season.
A Grand Opening with Brahms and Elgar
The season opener set a high bar with a dynamic performance by the Philadelphia Youth Orchestra at Verizon Hall on Sunday, November 13th. Under the direction of Maestro Louis Scaglione, the orchestra delivered an inspiring rendition of Brahms Symphony No. 2 and Elgar’s Enigma Variations. This powerful start was made possible by the generous support of the presenting sponsor, Republic Bank.
A Mesmerizing Performance Featuring Prokofiev and Richard Amoroso
Continuing the momentum, on March 3rd, the Philadelphia Youth Orchestra performed Prokofiev’s Violin Concerto No. 2 with the incredible Philadelphia Orchestra violinist and PYO alumnus, Richard Amoroso. Held at Verizon Hall, Amoroso’s virtuosic performance left the audience in awe and highlighted the exceptional synergy between the soloist and the orchestra.
9th Annual Showcase Concert
One of the season’s most significant highlights was the 9th Annual Showcase Concert on Sunday, February 11th at The Kimmel Center. This extraordinary event featured performances by all PYOMI ensembles, making it a true celebration of the Institute’s diverse musical talents. The day began with a Plaza Stage show at 1 pm, followed by a grand performance in Verizon Hall at 2 pm.
Hosted by CBS Philadelphia News Co-anchor Ukee Washington, the Showcase Concert was our most-attended event of the year, drawing over 1,000 attendees to both shows. The enthusiasm and energy of the performers, combined with the support of a large and appreciative audience, made this a truly memorable occasion. The concert was a testament to the hard work and dedication of our students and educators, showcasing the incredible breadth and depth of talent within the PYO Music Institute.
Annual Gala: Stories of the Future
A major highlight of the season was undoubtedly the PYO Music Institute’s Annual Gala 2024: Stories of the Future, held on Friday, March 22nd at The Union League of Philadelphia. This event is the Institute’s largest fundraiser of the year and plays a crucial role in supporting its students and programs.
The Gala celebrated the vibrant community of diverse students, families, faculty, and patrons that make up the PYO Music Institute. The evening was hosted by WRTI 90.1 FM Classical Host, Meg Bragle, spotlighting the incredible stories of our students and alumni–the heartbeat of our community. The event included an Art Show and Sale by our community partners, Studio Incamminati, an exquisite dinner and concert, featuring a mesmerizing solo performance of Beethoven’s Romance for Violin and Orchestra No. 2 with guest violinist Michael Ludwig, and dancing with CTO Midtown Express.
Thanks to the generous support of our guests, the Gala raised over $185,000 in support of Tune Up Philly students and our financial aid fund. This incredible success ensures that the future stories of hundreds of young musicians will continue to benefit from the transformative power of music education. See our Stories of the Future Gala video to learn more.
Save the Date! The PYO Music Institute Annual Gala 2025 will be held on Friday, March 28, 2025, at The Union League of Philadelphia. Join our community of supporters for our extraordinary 85th Anniversary Season and contribute to the narrative of the Philadelphia region’s most talented students.
Jazz and Brass Shining Bright
The Philadelphia Youth Jazz Orchestra’s 2nd Annual Festival Concert on May 4th featured an unforgettable solo by baritone saxophonist Joshua Lee. The same day, the Philadelphia Youth Symphonic Band and Bravo Brass delivered a joint concert at Temple Performing Arts Center, delighting audiences with fan favorites like selections from “Star Wars” and “The Magnificent Seven.”
Celebrating Young Talent: PYAO’s 10th Annual Young Artists Solo Competition
Elliot Anderson, PYAO’s Concertmaster, won the prestigious 10th Annual Young Artists Solo Competition, impressing our panel of judges with his performance of Camille Saint-Saëns’ Introduction and Rondo Capriccioso. Anderson’s solo performance at PYAO’s 29th Annual Festival Concert on Sunday, June 2nd was a testament to his hard work and dedication, earning him well-deserved accolades. Maestra Rosalind Erwin also led the orchestra with an exhilarating performance of Tchaikovsky’s Sixth Symphony, concluding PYAO’s season with grandeur.
An Epic Finale: Mozart’s Sinfonia Concertante
The PYO’s 84th Annual Festival Concert on Sunday, June 2nd was another standout event, featuring Mozart’s Sinfonia Concertante with guest soloists and Philadelphia Orchestra members William Polk on violin and PYOMI alumna Kerri Ryan on viola. This epic performance transported the audience to the heart of classical elegance. The evening was a fitting culmination of a season filled with musical excellence.
Honoring Excellence in Music Education
On the same day, the Institute proudly announced Nina L. Wilkinson as the winner of the 11th Annual Ovation Award. This award, recognizing outstanding music educators, highlighted Wilkinson’s remarkable impact on her students and the broader community. Her dedication to nurturing young musicians has left an indelible mark on the Philadelphia music education landscape. See our 2024 Ovation Award Presentation Video here.
Distinguished Service Awards
Also during the 84th Annual Festival Concert, three students were honored with Distinguished Service Awards. French Hornist Evan Bretz, Percussionist Joe Fiore, and PYO Concertmaster Gabriela Salvador-Riera were recognized for their exceptional commitment and leadership within the Institute. Their contributions over the past years have been invaluable to the PYOMI community.
Expanding Horizons with New Ensembles
The season also saw the introduction of two new program divisions: Prysm Strings-New Jersey and the Philadelphia Youth Concert Band (PYCB). Under the direction of Dr. Harley Givler, PYCB aims to develop young wind, brass, and percussion instrumentalists, while Prysm Strings NJ, led by Michael Ludwig and Rachael Ludwig, expands opportunities for string players in the region. These additions reflect PYOMI’s commitment to expanding access to high-quality music education.
