A Concert For Young People

Youth Philharmonic Orchestra of New England Conservatory. Benjamin Zander, Conductor; Su Jing Lee, Cello

Saturday, February 16, 2008
Mechanics Hall - 11:00 A.M.

Overview

When the tough Viennese critics attended a performance by the young 100-member YPO during a tour in Vienna and used such phrases as, “Bravo Für Ein Jugendorchester!!” the performers realized they had arrived at the peak of perfection, at least as far as the Viennese were concerned.

The YPO is the premier orchestra at the New England Conservatory Prep School in Boston, and is comprised of accomplished young musicians between the ages of 12 and 18. Under the dynamic leadership of Music Director and internationally renowned conductor Benjamin Zander (Boston Philharmonic), this group has toured the world and established itself as one of the finest youth orchestras. Public television in Boston (WGBH) has produced two documentaries, one nominated for an Emmy, of the group's tours of Chile and Argentina. Our concert will be in the grand tradition of Leonard Bernstein's TV shows back in the ‘50s that were presented as a combination of performance and discussion/explanation of the music being played. Benjamin Zander's charismatic personality will engage young people and adults alike.

Strongly recommended for ages 12 and up.

Program

  • Rossini - William Tell Overture
  • Prokofieff - Sinfonia Concertante for Cello & Orchestra, second movement
  • Berlioz - Symphonie Fantastique, first, fourth, & fifth movements