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Symphony and Conservatory Collaborate on New Youth Orchestra
The Prince George Symphony Orchestra and the Prince George Conservatory of Music are collaborating on a new educational initiative – the creation of the Prince George Symphony Youth Orchestra.
The two organizations have had a history of cooperation since the formation of the conservatory by members of the symphony over 30 years ago. Despite an incredible history of the city exporting world-class violinists, string instrument instruction has been at a low point in the city of Prince George for several years. “There has been no in-school string program in the city now in over three decades,” says Shoshanna Godber, Artistic Director of the PGCM, “while we do have smaller groups at the conservatory, this new program creates an opportunity for any interested young string players in and around Prince George.”
“We feel very fortunate to have secured funding for this year and next from the BC Arts Council,” said Ken Hall, Executive Director of the PGSO, “That allows us to offer the program for free and make it accessible to all youth in the community who have the interest.”
Northern BC native Roxi Dykstra has been hired as the Music Director of the new group. She brings decades of performance and educational experience, including her ongoing position as Artistic Director of the Orchestra North Academy in Smithers, BC. “It’s so exciting to be involved with re-establishing string education in Prince George,” she said. “Playing in youth groups with other young players was a life-changing experience for me both as a player and as a person.”
PGSO Music Director Michael Hall is also directly involved with the program, working with the young participants and conducting a piece in their June 12 performance.
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Rehearsals begin Monday, April 25 at Trinity Downtown
Registration is online at https://www.pgconservatory.ca/programs/pgso-youth-orchestra
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For information or requests for interviews, contact: ken@pgso.com