
Philadelphia, PA – Philadelphia Youth Orchestra (PYO) concertmasters joined an exclusive Masterclass with David Kim, internationally acclaimed Concertmaster of The Philadelphia Orchestra, on Saturday, January 18. This exceptional session was designed to prepare them for their highly anticipated concert on March 2 at the Kimmel Center’s Marian Anderson Hall.
The Masterclass focused on Ein Heldenleben (A Hero’s Life) by Richard Strauss, a sweeping tone poem that vividly depicts the journey of a hero through its lush orchestration and dynamic storytelling. A cornerstone of the orchestral repertoire, Ein Heldenleben features a virtuosic violin solo that represents the hero’s partner and muse, a role requiring both technical brilliance and profound emotional expression.
The PYO violinists, dedicated high school students, refined their technique and interpretation of this complex work under Kim’s expert guidance. For PYO Concertmaster and PMAY Artist Miro Raj, this Masterclass presented a unique opportunity to master Strauss’s demanding solo passages and gain deeper insight into the dramatic storytelling that defines the work.
David Kim, a Juilliard-trained artist and global performer, has been a guiding force in classical music for decades. His insightful teaching style and artistry provides PYO’s young musicians with invaluable inspiration and practical tools for tackling one of the repertoire’s most challenging and evocative pieces.
Maestro Louis Scaglione, Director and Conductor of PYO, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “This Masterclass represents an exclusive and extraordinary opportunity for our students to work with a consummate artist. David Kim’s mentorship undoubtedly elevates these young artists’ excellence and provides memories that will last a lifetime.”
The March 2 concert marks a significant moment for PYO, as the students will perform on the same stage that hosts The Philadelphia Orchestra, reinforcing PYOMI’s mission of providing world-class training and opportunities to the next generation of musicians.
For more information and tickets, please visit the Ensemble Arts website.