July 14, 2020

In these uncertain times, we are reminded daily of the importance of community, and the special community that composes all our PYO Music Institute ensembles. The wellbeing of our PYO Music Institute community is of utmost importance to us, which is why we would like to share with you what we are doing to plan for the safe return to learning together this fall. 

We have created a special committee of the Board of Trustees to examine the various scenarios under which our learning and performing season may proceed, in person and online, and to provide informed recommendations to the Board and management. The committee includes current Trustees with expertise in public health, music education, the law, and management. This group is supplemented by two highly experienced pediatricians, both with children who were PYO Music Institute musicians for many years. This group will consider various inputs to inform our response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, including guidance from state and city health and education departments, evolving scientific understanding of how the virus spreads and can be contained, and how other youth-focused organizations – music, sports, theater, etc. – are planning. 

As the committee proceeds, we will keep you regularly informed about our plans and expectations for safe participation for our students, faculty, families, staff, and audience members. We are heartened by the power of music to inspire, to bring people together, to soothe troubled hearts, and to grow tomorrow’s leaders. Thank you for your patience and commitment to safe learning. We are all in this together.