Announcement: Tuition Increase for 2025-2026

Announcement: Tuition Increase for 2025-2026 

Dear Parents and Guardians, 

We hope this message finds you well. We are writing to inform you about an important update regarding the tuition fees for the upcoming 2025-2026 academic year. After careful consideration and extensive discussions, the Board of Directors has approved a 20% increase in tuition fees. This decision was made to ensure the continued excellence and sustainability of our programs. 

• Tuition Increase: AYPO’s tuition fees have not kept pace with the post-pandemic inflation, and so we have no option but to raise the tuition in the coming season both to address our existing funding deficit and to cover projected losses of federal grant revenue. This adjustment will cover higher operational fees, including the costs of rehearsal and performance venues. Further, this will allow us to maintain the high quality of education, including working with our incredible artistic staff and coaches from the National Symphony Orchestra, Kennedy Center Opera House Orchestra, The President's Own Marine Band, and more, and experiences at the professional-level performance venues we offer to our students. We assure you that our administrative costs are the bare minimum to support the operations. 

• Financial Aid: We understand that the tuition increase may pose a challenge for some families. To support those in need, we have increased our budget for financial aid scholarships. We are committed to providing assistance to ensure that all qualified students have access to our programs and are considered regardless of their families' financial situation.  

We will be including detailed information and guidance on how to apply for financial aid in future messaging; feel free to visit https://www.aypo.org/tuition-financial-aid for our current application. Our goal is to ensure that every family is aware of the available support and how to access it. 

• Sibling Discount: New this year, we are introducing a sibling discount to help families with multiple children enrolled in our programs. We are still working out the details of this discount, and they will be communicated shortly. 

• Musician resources: Every AYPO musician will receive, as part of tuition, a professional recording of every orchestra and ensemble concert, four (4) complimentary tickets to any regular orchestra concert event, and an AYPO t-shirt, if requested. 

We appreciate your understanding and support as we navigate these changes. Our commitment to providing exceptional educational opportunities remains steadfast, and we are confident that these adjustments will help us continue to deliver the best possible experience for our students. 

Thank you for your continued trust and partnership in advancing your AYPO musicians in the most premier group in the area. We look forward to sharing with you soon exciting season plans during America’s 250th celebrations! 

AYPO Announces the Appointment of Miranda Southwood as Executive Director

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

AYPO kicks off 60th season with the appointment of Miranda Southwood as Executive Director  

**September 21, 2024** – The American Youth Philharmonic Orchestras (AYPO) proudly announces the appointment of **Miranda Southwood** as its new Executive Director, effective September 10, 2024. This exciting news comes as AYPO celebrates its 60th anniversary, marking a momentous occasion for the organization and setting the stage for an even brighter future. 

Miranda Southwood has been a vital force within AYPO since joining in 2018, where she has shown unwavering dedication and a forward-thinking approach. During her tenure as Director of Finance & Operations, she played a pivotal role in enhancing the organization’s financial and administrative framework, while also overseeing the Senior Division Orchestras and Chamber Ensemble programs. Her contributions have improved day-to-day operations and strengthened the organization’s foundation for future growth. 

With a deep passion for music and education, Miranda’s qualifications are extensive. She holds an M.B.A. and an M.A. in Arts Administration from the University of Cincinnati, a B.M. in Violin Performance, and a B.A. in Arts Administration from the University of Kentucky. Her career includes roles with the National Symphony Orchestra, Kentucky Symphony Orchestra, Aspen Music Festival and School, and other prestigious arts institutions, positioning her perfectly to lead AYPO into its next chapter. 

Following her appointment as Interim Executive Director, Miranda led strategic initiatives to modernize AYPO’s technological infrastructure and expand the administrative team, all while maintaining AYPO’s reputation as Northern Virginia’s premier youth orchestra. Her leadership has been instrumental in ensuring that AYPO continues to provide an exceptional platform for young musicians to thrive. 

AYPO President retired Ambassador Allan Mustard commented, “Miranda combines two sets of qualities, devotion to music and musicianship coupled with extraordinary administrative and organizational skill. She is the perfect person to lead AYPO into the future.”  

Under Miranda’s leadership, the organization is poised to expand its programming and community outreach, reaffirming its commitment to shaping the next generation of musicians. 

With a rich history and a bright future ahead, AYPO is excited to embark on this new chapter with Miranda Southwood at the helm. 

For more information, please contact: 

Allan Mustard, Board President 
President@aypo.org | www.aypo.org  

About AYPO 
American Youth Philharmonic Orchestras provide a prestigious and transformational set of growth opportunities in classical music performance for young musicians from all backgrounds in the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area. Seven orchestras and six ensembles change students’ lives through excellence in instruction and instilling excellence in musicianship as well as social responsibility via outreach to the community. 

AYPO Welcomes Sarah Pultz, Director of Development, to the team

Sarah Pultz joins AYPO after nearly seven years at The Shakespeare Theatre Company in Washington, D.C. During her tenure as their Director of Development Operations, she successfully managed a budget of $9 Million a year and roughly 3,000 donors and members. She introduced many current best practices, including an up-to-date moves management system, innovative data reporting, and revolutionary fundraising software and systems, enabling the department to raise the budget by roughly $2 Million. Sarah pays special attention to staff retention and positivity and is focused on maintaining healthy, sustainable work environments that encourage productivity. With her focus in her last role, which was development operations, she has a special skill set in CRM and database management, emphasizing the importance of reporting and historical data. Prior to her work at the Shakespeare Theatre Company, Sarah spent half a year at the Fisher Center at Bard College in a Development Communications role and before that worked in the Community Engagement Department at the Kennedy Center. In both of these roles, she developed excellent communication and interpersonal relationship-building skills, along with graphic design and social media skills. With a background in Theatre, Music, and Fine Arts, Sarah has always been a passionate supporter of the arts. Providing space and skill development for up-and-coming artists is central to her drive as a fundraiser. In joining AYPO, she is excited to establish a sustainable form of fundraising that will keep the organization growing year after year and continue to provide space and opportunity for young musicians. 

AYPO Musicians Compose Pieces for Percussion Ensemble Instrumentation

AYPO graduated Senior Percussionists, Nikhil Kuntipuram, Ryan Healy, and Myah Tokajer all wrote pieces this year for percussion ensemble instrumentation. Kuntipuram and Healy premiered and performed their work with the AYPO Percussion Ensemble at their June concert. Tokajer’s piece was also premiered with her school percussion chamber group at their final concert of the school year which was comprised of multiple AYPO percussionists!

Takajer's composition "Orange," performed by a chamber ensemble comprised of Langley High School percussion students.

Myah Tokajer

Ryan Healy

Nikhil Kuntipuram

Happy 100th Birthday to Mimi Rosenberg!

Happy centennial birthday to Mimi Rosenberg, who served as conductor of the String Ensemble and the past Chamber Orchestra for 28 years! Mimi worked with Harold Rubenstein and Gerald Brobst to help create the group. She is also the conductor featured on our 60th anniversary logo. Her passion towards music education has shaped what our organization has become and we are thankful for her years of dedicated service. Congratulations to Mimi on becoming a centenarian!

Senior Spotlight: Brandon Bae, Violin

What is your current AYPO ensemble?

Philharmonic (AYP)

What AYPO ensembles have you played in and for how long?

AYDO 16-17, AYDO 17-18, AYSE 18-19, AYCO 19-20, AYSO 20-21, AYP 21-22, AYP 22-23, AYP 23-24

What college/university do you plan on attending this fall?

Virginia Tech to study Mechanical Engineering

What do you hope to do after graduation or your more long-term goals?

“Get into an engineering job around cars or rockets.”

A favorite, or memorable AYPO experience?

“Playing in Capital One Hall for the first time in my sophomore year which got pushed back due to the snow.”

What musician, conductor, or orchestra inspires you and why?

“Hilary Hahn because she practices so much and is so dedicated to the grind.”

Your advice for young musicians?

“Don’t stress too much about your playing, there’s always time to improve and grow.”

Congratulations, Brandon!

Senior Spotlight: Colin Surabian, Double Bass

What is your current AYPO ensemble?

Philharmonic (AYP)

What AYPO ensembles have you played in and for how long?

AYSE 19-20, AYCO 20-21, AYSO 21-22, AYP 22-23, AYP 23-24

What college/university do you plan on attending this fall?

Massachusetts Institute of Technology to study Chemical Engineering and Music

What do you hope to do after graduation or your more long-term goals?

“At MIT, I hope to both study engineering (chemical or mechanical) and pursue music in its many forms, ranging from classical to jazz to rock. In college, I also hope to start/join several music groups/bands and experience the Boston music scene. Beyond college, I plan to continue my musical endeavors, especially by performing and writing music in my own groups, while also pursuing engineering through a business lens, possibly engineering and marketing different inventions to better the world.”

A favorite, or memorable AYPO experience?

“One of my favorite AYPO experiences was the first concert of the 2022-2023 season, where AYP played Tchaikovsky's Symphony No. 4. The double bass part for this piece is one of the best classical bass parts that I have ever played, and I believe the rest of the bass section had a similar thought. We all had a blast rehearsing and performing this piece, with its fast, dynamic, and beautiful melodies throughout, and from playing this piece alone, all of us vastly improved our bass and orchestral technique.”

What musician, conductor, or orchestra inspires you and why?

“Dr. Dixon inspires me tremendously. Not only is he a fabulous conductor shaping the orchestra with powerful advice and rehearsal strategies and engaging musicians with his lively, outgoing, and humorous spirit but he also has incredible dedication. For every AYP rehearsal and concert, Dr. Dixon travels from Pennsylvania to work with the aspiring AYP musicians, ensuring the progress, learning, and success of AYP's multitude of student musicians. Dr. Dixon's incredible personality, dedication, and ability to prepare orchestras for strong concerts, has inspired me greatly throughout my music journey in high school and beyond.”

Your advice for young musicians?

“Never stop playing and never give up; music is anything but a linear process, and it will have a plethora of setbacks, and what matters is that you acknowledge the setbacks and approach them from a different angle. One of the most crucial pieces of advice that I can offer is that music is a form of art and expression that should be fun! Do not just focus on what is "required" of you at school, auditions, and different orchestras. Yes, these requirements are important, but what is more important is that you are enjoying the music. I did this by branching out from classical into jazz, rock, and funk, playing songs that I love and teaching myself skills of improvisation and stage presence in the process. Once you discover the things you love in music, the skills, techniques, and mastery will follow.”

Congratulations, Colin!

Senior Spotlight: Emily Yeh, Viola

What is your current AYPO ensemble?

Philharmonic (AYP)

What AYPO ensembles have you played in and for how long?

AYDO 17-18. AYSE 18-19, AYCO 19-20, AYSO 20-21, AYP 21-22, AYP 22-23, AYP 23-24

What college/university do you plan on attending this fall?

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University to study Viola Performance and Biology

What do you hope to do after graduation or your more long-term goals?

“Medical School.”

A favorite, or memorable AYPO experience?

“The funniest/scariest thing that’s ever happened is when AYP was performing our concert and the electricity in the hall went out due to a storm, so Dr. Dixon held up a light-up metronome to try to keep everyone together.”

What musician, conductor, or orchestra inspires you and why?

“Dr. Dixon - he is so patient and calm and genuinely cares about the orchestra and his musicians. It’s an honor to work with a conductor that loves the music just as much as he loves the musicians.”

Your advice for young musicians?

“No matter what, never quit your instrument. Although you may not see it, you’re making progress every day and if you quit now, that will be one of your biggest regrets in the future.”

Closing Thoughts?

“I just wanted to thank AYPO as a whole and give a special thanks to all of the musicians who have taught me such valuable lessons. AYPO has shaped me as a musician and given me exposure to a priceless experience. I wouldn’t be the musician or person I am today without this organization, so thank you!”

Congratulations, Emily!

Senior Spotlight: Arsenii Zharkov, Viola

What is your current AYPO ensemble?

Philharmonic (AYP)

What AYPO ensembles have you played in and for how long?

AYSE 19-20, AYCO 20-21, AYSO 21-22, AYP 22-23, AYP 23-24

What college/university do you plan on attending this fall?

Amherst College to study Mathematics

What do you hope to do after graduation or your more long-term goals?

“I want to become a math professor to teach and do research at an institution like Princeton University, MIT, or Williams College.”

A favorite, or memorable AYPO experience?

“One time after there was a long break from rehearsals and the next one was on a Tuesday, I forgot my instrument at school and didn’t realize until it was too late, so since I couldn’t play at rehearsal without my instrument, I had to call in an absence.”

What musician, conductor, or orchestra inspires you and why?

“Tabea Zimmerman has been an inspiration to me as a well-versed violist - her artistry and emotional depth in interpreting repertoire ranging from Bach to contemporary works inspires me through her ability to bring new life into every piece she plays.”

Your advice for young musicians?

“Playing in an ensemble is all about being able to listen to your surroundings as you play, so beyond learning how to play well on your own, learn how to sightread well enough to still be able to blend in to your section when rehearsing parts you haven’t practiced as much.”

Congratulations, Arsenii!

Senior Spotlight: Ian Larkin, Trumpet

What is your current AYPO ensemble?

Philharmonic (AYP)

What AYPO ensembles have you played in and for how long?

AYP 23-24

What college/university do you plan on attending this fall?

The Eastman School of Music to study Trumpet Performance

What do you hope to do after graduation or your more long-term goals?

“Become an orchestral trumpet player.”

A favorite, or memorable AYPO experience?

“My favorite memory has been sectionals with Steve.”

What musician, conductor, or orchestra inspires you and why?

“Joshua Kauffman inspires me as he is an extremely versatile trumpet player that can play any style with ease. He’s also extremely open with reviews on gear and shows tons of new players to listen to.”

Your advice for young musicians?

“Slow practice and listening to professionals are extremely important parts of becoming a better musician.”

Congratulations, Ian!

Senior Spotlight: Terran Henderson, Bassoon

What is your current AYPO ensemble?

Philharmonic (AYP)

What AYPO ensembles have you played in and for how long?

AYCO 20-21, AYCO 21-22, AYSO 22-23, AYP 23-24

What college/university do you plan on attending this fall?

University of Pittsburgh to study Electrical Engineering

What do you hope to do after graduation or your more long-term goals?

“I hope to become an engineer and work on the electronics and computer systems of aircraft and spacecraft.”

A favorite, or memorable AYPO experience?

“Movement 9 of the Enigma Variations.”

What musician, conductor, or orchestra inspires you and why?

“Major Nolan of the United States Marine Band - he was an inspiration to play under, and his attitude should be mirrored by all.”

Your advice for young musicians?

“The only thing I wish I had done more of is practice. Everyone repeats it, but practice- it is so important.”

Congratulations, Terran!

Senior Spotlight: Ethan Larimore, Violin

What is your current AYPO ensemble?

Symphonic Orchestra (AYSO)

What AYPO ensembles have you played in and for how long?

AYSO 22-23, AYSO 23-24

What college/university do you plan on attending this fall?

University of California Los Angeles to study Mathematics/Economics

What do you hope to do after graduation or your more long-term goals?

“I plan to continue making music through UCLA's undergraduate orchestras.”

A favorite, or memorable AYPO experience?

“Playing Tchaikovsky''s Romeo and Juliet for my first AYSO concert.”

What musician, conductor, or orchestra inspires you and why?

“A former stand partner of mine, Zayd Khan, has greatly inspired me through my musical journey. His dedication and expertise has inspired me toward being the best musician I can be.”

Your advice for young musicians?

“Keep practicing! For your goals to come one day, make today day one.”

Congratulations, Ethan!

Jason Love named American Youth Philharmonic Orchestras’ new Artistic Director

Annandale, May 20, 2024 - American Youth Philharmonic Orchestras and its Board of Directors are pleased to announce that Jason Love has joined the organization as Artistic Director. Love will begin his tenure as Artistic Director on June 1, prior to the start of the AYPO 60th Anniversary season. Love will be responsible for establishing and overseeing artistic objectives, coordinating with the artistic staff to ensure coherent offerings that meet the stated mission and goals of AYPO, and ensuring program excellence. 

A highly experienced performer and educator, Love comes from Columbia Orchestra where he served as Music Director. In that role, he managed the selection of repertoire and guest artists, the design of all educational programming, the development of marketing, community engagement, and strategic planning initiatives. 

Dedicated to education as much as directing, Love served for thirteen years in the Greater Baltimore Youth Orchestras (now the Baltimore Symphony Youth Orchestras). There, he oversaw a multi-level orchestral program, led international tours to Austria, Japan, Russia, the Czech Republic, and Estonia, and forged partnerships with other community institutions including Morgan State University, the Baltimore Symphony, and Peabody Conservatory. 

Love has also served as conducting teacher at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, conductor and instructor at the Governor’s School of North Carolina, music director at New Horizons Chamber Ensemble, and conductor at the Chesapeake Youth Repertory Orchestra. An accomplished violoncello recitalist and teacher, Love has also made solo appearances with the Piedmont Symphony Orchestra, the Frederick Symphony, and Columbia Summer Strings. Love holds a Master of Music in Conducting and Bachelor of Music in Violoncello Performance from the Peabody Institute of The Johns Hopkins University. 

His many awards and accolades include the American Prize for Orchestral Programming, a “Howie” Award for Outstanding Achievement in the Arts in Howard County, MD, a Peabody Conservatory Alumni Achievement Award recognizing outstanding contributions to Music in Maryland, and honorary citations by the State of Maryland and Howard County General Assembly. 

Of Love, AYPO President and Board Chair Ambassador (retired) Allan Mustard said, "We are excited to have someone of Jason's experience and caliber as our artistic director. This is a special position requiring more than skills in music. It blends music, music education, and diplomacy in coordinating the progressively challenging repertoire of our seven orchestras, and Jason fits that bill perfectly." 

With his appointment, Love brings a vision for a youth orchestra program that forges strong lifelong connections and a passion for great music. “I believe that connection can inspire different but equally amazing outcomes: Even for some alumni who don’t continue to play regularly or at all, they say their experience in the group was central to how they experience the arts, how they see the world, and how they live their lives.” said Love. 

Love’s dedication to building supportive, collaborative, and excellent programs, selecting challenging, relevant, and inspiring repertoire selection, and philosophy of whole child flourishing, will no doubt bring AYPO to an incredibly transformative and exhilarating era. 

Senior Spotlight: Nikhil Kuntipuram, Percussion

What is your current AYPO ensemble?

Philharmonic (AYP) & Percussion Ensemble

What AYPO ensembles have you played in and for how long?

DO/SE 19-20, CO/SO 20-21, AYP 21-22, AYP 22-23, AYP 23-24

What college/university do you plan on attending this fall?

Princeton University to study Public and International Affairs with a Minor in Music Performance

What do you hope to do after graduation or your more long-term goals?

“I hope to attend university to advance both my academic and music career. I plan to combine my passions for international relations and music to learn how to utilize the arts as a tool for cultural diplomacy.”

A favorite, or memorable AYPO experience?

“Both trips I got to experience with AYPO were some of the most memorable experiences of my life (the Orlando trip with AYSE in 2019 right before COVID, and the Indianapolis trip in 2024 with the AYPO Percussion Ensemble).”

What musician, conductor, or orchestra inspires you and why?

“The National Symphony Orchestra has always been a group which I have fondly looked up to. I remember vividly going to the Kennedy center with my family since I was a kid, and it was a significant factor which sparked my musical interest. Just years later getting to play alongside them with AYP was truly an exciting moment for me.”

Your advice for young musicians?

“Try to reflect on why you do music in the first place. Sometimes, we end up getting in our heads while we strive for perfection, but remember what music does for you. For me, it not only brings me joy, but it facilitates connection, friendships, and lasting memories.”

Any closing thoughts?

“I just want to say that AYP has given me some of the closest friends I have, and I hope to take the memories I've made with this organization throughout the rest of my life. I'm so thankful for all the amazing directors and staff who have helped me grow since I was 12 when I joined the organization. I'll miss this group a lot!”

Congratulations, Nikhil!

Senior Spotlight: Nikhita Kuntipuram, Flute

What is your current AYPO ensemble?

Flute Ensemble

What AYPO ensembles have you played in and for how long?

Flute Ensemble 2020-2024

What college/university do you plan on attending this fall?

Franklin & Marshall College to study Neurology with a Premed Track

What do you hope to do after graduation or your more long-term goals?

“Become a health care professional.”

A favorite, or memorable AYPO experience?

“Trying to play bass flute with a mask on.”

What musician, conductor, or orchestra inspires you and why?

“Dr. Lawrence Walker, Herndon Regional Wind Ensemble Director. He has helped and cultivated music in my community and beyond.”

Your advice for young musicians?

“Have fun with it!”

Congratulations, Nikhita!

Senior Spotlight: Elizabeth Stein, Violin

What is your current AYPO ensemble?

Philharmonic (AYP)

What AYPO ensembles have you played in and for how long?

AYP 23-24

What college/university do you plan on attending this fall?

The Peabody Institute of The John Hopkins University to study Violin Performance

What do you hope to do after graduation or your more long-term goals?

“After high school and college, I hope to pursue music as a career. I enjoy teaching and playing in orchestra and chamber ensembles, so I would love to continue to use those passions for (as Bach said) "Soli Deo Gloria."

A favorite, or memorable AYPO experience?

“When AYP played the violent first few lines of Shostakovich's 10th symphony, 2nd mvt, under a guest conductor, with impressive concentration and unity.”

What musician, conductor, or orchestra inspires you and why?

“I have been inspired by Dr. Dixon, in his love of music and his care for the students in AYPO themselves.”

Your advice for young musicians?

“I don't remember hearing anyone say they regretted learning how to play an instrument - it's usually the opposite! You can do a lot with music, especially as you start to play at a higher level, so although you may not love practicing now, there are many benefits that can come from your perseverance in learning your instrument.”

Congratulations, Elizabeth!

Senior Spotlight: Ryan Healy, Percussion

What is your current AYPO ensemble?

Philharmonic (AYP)

What AYPO ensembles have you played in and for how long?

AYP 21-22, AYP 22-23, AYP 23-24

What college/university do you plan on attending this fall?

The University of Virginia to study Business

What do you hope to do after graduation or your more long-term goals?

“I hope to find a career path I truly enjoy and then find a job in the field.”

A favorite, or memorable AYPO experience?

“When AYP was performing last year, there was a concert where a musician’s phone started ringing and it was a loud obnoxious guitar ring tone, but we just had to keep playing because real performers don’t stop.”

What musician, conductor, or orchestra inspires you and why?

“Dr. Thompson from Ohio who conducted the Symphonic Band for District 12 two years ago. He was funny, and very reasonable.”

Your advice for young musicians?

“Remember that music is fun! Even as you may have auditions and difficult parts, it is fun to play and experience all kinds of music.”

Any closing thoughts?

“I realized this last year, but I’m truly grateful for AYP for allowing me to play such beautiful pieces with so many other skilled players. Sometimes, I’m just in rehearsal and I take a moment to appreciate how incredible it is that I can play with such a good orchestra and perform pieces I’ve never even known before. It’s been fun!”

Congratulations, Ryan!

Senior Spotlight: Karolina Lickunas, Violin

What is your current AYPO ensemble?

Philharmonic (AYP)

What AYPO ensembles have you played in and for how long?

AYSE 19-20, AYCO 20-21, AYSO 21-22, AYSO 22-23, AYP 23-24
JCE Mentor

What college/university do you plan on attending this fall?

The University of Chicago to study Molecular Engineering and Computer Science

What do you hope to do after graduation or your more long-term goals?

“I plan to continue creating music and playing in musical ensembles while leading a successful career in the MedTech field.”

A favorite, or memorable AYPO experience?

“A memorable AYPO experience was signing AYPO t-shirts during the last AYSO orchestra rehearsal before our concert (not to mention all of the intense yet fun and exciting violin sectionals I've participated in)!”

What musician, conductor, or orchestra inspires you and why?

“The AYP orchestra I played in this year ('23 - '24) has truly inspired me. Through weekly rehearsals, I've had the opportunity to get to know some of the most talented, bright, and motivated players, staff, and conductors, and I am so grateful to have learned from and grown with them.”

Your advice for young musicians?

“My advice for young musicians is to cherish your musical talents, the ensembles you are part of, the music you get to play, the mentors you get to learn from... It's easy to get lost in the hours of practice or the measures of challenging music. However, I urge you to shift your attention and truly appreciate.”

Congratulations, Karolina!

Senior Spotlight: Genevieve Britten, Oboe

What is your current AYPO ensemble?

Philharmonic (AYP)

What AYPO ensembles have you played in and for how long?

AYSO 21-22, AYSO 22-23, AYP 23-24

What college/university do you plan on attending this fall?

Butler School of Music at the University of Texas to double major in Oboe Performance and English

What do you hope to do after graduation or your more long-term goals?

“I hope to spend this summer with my friends and family before locking in at UT.”

A favorite, or memorable AYPO experience?

“My favorite AYPO experiences are chatting with friends during breaks, making silly mistakes in rehearsal to laugh about later, and finally presenting the result of our hard work in concert.”

What musician, conductor, or orchestra inspires you and why?

“My peers inspire me most, because we learn from each other. The musicians I know through AYPO, summer festivals, and other events have never failed to be dedicated and supportive.”

Your advice for young musicians?

“Keep practicing - it's worth it!”

Any closing thoughts?

“My time in AYPO has been a blast. Thank you to all the staff for making it happen!”

Congratulations, Genevieve!

Senior Spotlight: Ruth Christino, Cello

What is your current AYPO ensemble?

Philharmonic (AYP)

What AYPO ensembles have you played in and for how long?

ASYO 22-23, AYP 23-24
(Music Buddies Mentor 22-24)

What college/university do you plan on attending this fall?

Penn State University School of Music to study Music Education

What do you hope to do after graduation or your more long-term goals?

“I hope to become a K-12 music teacher in public school.”

A favorite, or memorable AYPO experience?

“Playing the Romeo and Juliet Fantasy Overture at my very first concert.”

What musician, conductor, or orchestra inspires you and why?

“Gustavo Dudamel inspires me because of his passion and belief that music can change lives and traverse differences between people.”

Your advice for young musicians?

“Don't let anyone tell you why to play. That's up to you.”

Congratulations, Ruth!