Pittsburgh Youth Symphony Orchestra

Last night’s Beyond the Notes session was the second part of Creativity and Music with special guest Dr. Pius Cheung. Mr. Cheung and PYSO Music Director Earl Lee analyzed, discussed and then led the orchestra in live readings of original pieces written by their fellow PYSO members. It was a joy to witness such creativity and innovation within PYSO to bring life to five new pieces of music. Read the full story and learn more about each piece on our blog:... https://pyso.org/beyond-the-notes-creativity-and-music/ See more

We recently heard from Andrew Griffin, who played viola with PYSO from 2003 to 2004. Andrew is currently playing viola for the new Broadway musical Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of the Temptations. Check out our blog to hear about some of Andrew's favorite PYSO memories! https://pyso.org/pyso-alum-andrew-griffin-appointed-viola-/

For today’s High Notes, we hear from bassist Kobe Coleman, who has played the double bass with PYSO for 2 seasons. When asked how PYSO has been an influence, Kobe wrote, PYSO made a difference in my life because it cemented one of my primary paths for the future. I was also able to form many great relationships through PYSO. Thank you, Kobe!... https://pyso.org/high-notes-kobe-coleman/

This week’s High Notes will be featuring Luke Pedersen, a bassist who has been with PYSO for 3 years. Luke has an impressive list of musical accomplishments, including being a section leader for the Pittsburgh Youth Philharmonic Orchestra and the Chartiers Valley High School Orchestra. Luke has also played in the PMEA State Orchestra and was 2nd Chair Bass in the PMEA Region Orchestra. Although I do not plan to pursue music as a profession, through PYSO I have experienced t...he value of hard work and the results that it yields and believe that this lesson will carry over into whatever field I do pursue. PYSO has given me the opportunity to play challenging pieces with dedicated, talented musicians all striving to perform at their highest level. See the full story on our blog: https://pyso.org/high-notes-luke-pedersen/ Photo courtesy of Holl Photography.

This season, PYSO will be recognizing our talented musicians through a series called High Notes. Stay tuned to learn more about PYSO members, as they continue to develop and grow as musicians. We recently heard from violinist Riley Fichtenmayer, who has played with PYSO for 2 years. I started playing violin through Chartiers Valley Intermediate School in 3rd grade. I have since then developed a love for music and performing, and will continue that passion in a university or ...conservatory with an intended major of violin performance. Recently, I was Concertmaster of the 2020 PMEA District Orchestra. Also, I was Concertmaster of the Pittsburgh Youth Philharmonic Orchestra for two years, including their 2018 European tour to Germany, Switzerland, and France. Lastly, in November 2019 my YC2 quartet, the Concordia Quartet, was selected to play at the Curtis on Tour Pre-Concert at Carnegie Music Hall in Oakland. My current teacher is Roy Sonne, retired PSO violinist, and I have been under his instruction for the past 3 years. PYSO has given me the opportunity to be challenged alongside many talented musicians. The rigorous environment will be important for when I move on to pursue music in college. I loved performing and rehearsing at Heinz Hall, and I can’t wait to get back to it! Thank you Riley! Stay tuned as we continue to feature PYSO musicians in our High Notes series. https://pyso.org/high-notes-riley-fichtenmayer/