November 16, 2016

Jamestown, NY – “As we begin our 30th season, we are excited about some changes we have made and the opportunities we continue to offer serious music student in our region,” said Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony (CRYS) board president Katie Derrenbacher. “It is the support of so many in the community that makes these opportunities possible!” 

At their November meeting, CRYS board members launched their annual fund drive for the 2016-2017 season.

Derrenbacher continued, “In keeping with the changing times – like the closing of the Suzuki Strings program in the Jamestown Public Schools and the demands made on student musicians – CRYS has made some changes as well. Serious music students can find a spot in one of our three orchestras, each with a slightly new focus, all continuing under the professional leadership of Maestro Bryan Eckenrode.” 

Prelude Strings remains the orchestra for beginning string players, now primarily middle schoolers. Young Artists Orchestra (YAO) will be a full orchestra for mid-level and above players, primarily upper middle and high school students. The most advanced orchestra, formerly the Youth Symphony, is now the String Chamber Orchestra, exclusively for string players in high school and college. Students who study another instrument as well as a string can play in both YAO and the String Chamber Orchestra.

Orchestra students are selected by teacher recommendation. In order to determine correct ensemble and seating placement, auditions are planned for Saturday and Sunday, January 7 and 8, 2017. Audition application forms need to be completed by December 16. 

Weekly rehearsals for Prelude Strings begin on Friday, January 13, 2017, 4 to 5:30 p.m., at Christ First United Methodist Church on Lakeview Avenue in Jamestown. YAO and the String Chamber Orchestra begin rehearsals at the Reg Lenna Center for The Arts in downtown Jamestown on Saturday, January 14, 2017. YAO will rehearse 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and Chamber Orchestra, 12:15 to1:45 p.m.

Plans are being made for a spring enrichment experience for all CRYS students to hear the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra perform “Star Wars and More: The Best of John Williams.” The trip will include supper at Dinosaur Bar-B-Que and a “backstage” get-together with some of the orchestra members.

CRYS students pay tuition, but no one is turned away for inability to pay. CRYS receives essential funding from foundations and other organizations in the community. While parents, board members and students all participate in fund raising, support by individuals and local organizations and businesses is significant. 

The Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony shows appreciation for its contributors by recognition on its website and in printed concert programs. Donors can also receive complimentary admissions to the Spring Gala Concert scheduled for Sunday, May 7, 2017, at Chautauqua Institution’s Elizabeth Lenna Hall.

Tax-deductible contributions to the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony can be mailed to P.O. Box 3454, Jamestown, NY  14702.

To learn more about CRYS and its programs for young musicians, call (716) 664-2465, ext. 202, or visit the website at www.CRYouthSymphony.com or the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony’s Facebook page.  

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September 23, 2016

Jamestown, NY – The Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony (CRYS) board welcomed three new members and their new manager at their September meeting.

Joining the board were Julia Herman, Nancy Larson, and Tim Pryzbelinski. Tammy Lachner is CRYS’s new manager.

“It’s exciting to begin our 30th season with these great additions,” said President Katie Derrenbacher, “and we’re looking forward to some of the changes we are making!”

With degrees from Jamestown Community College, the University at Buffalo, and a Masters of Science in Adolescence Education from St. Bonaventure University, Julie Herman served as CRYS manager for the past four seasons and is now joining the board. A resident of Conewango, New York, she is employed by Gowanda Central School District as a teaching assistant. 

Recently retired after 40 years in the optical business locally, Nancy Larson is a graduate of SUNY Fredonia with majors in French horn and Music Education. She is now actively performing in several groups including New Horizons Band of Western New York, Jamestown Area Community Orchestra, Jamestown Community College Concert Band, Jamestown Municipal Band, Warren Symphony Orchestra, Chautauqua Institution’s Thursday Morning Brass, as well as pit orchestras for JCC and Lucille Ball Little Theatre.

 Tim Przybelinski teaches grades 5-12 band at Chautauqua Lake Central School.  He holds a Bachelor of Music Education degree from Penn State University and a Master of Music in trombone performance degree from the University of Delaware.  A Jamestown native, he graduated from Jamestown High School and was also a Youth Symphony student.

CRYS’s new manager, Tammy Lachner, is a graduate of Southwestern Central School and Jamestown Community College. The owner of Tammarie Designs, she has a website with a blog and Etsy shop. Her son participates in CRYS’s Young Artists Orchestra. 

In addition to Derrenbacher, continuing CRYS board members are Michelle Battaglia, Michelle Carlson, Sarah Flaherty, Kathy Geary, and Lana Huston. 

Derrenbacher noted that the closing a few years ago of the Suzuki Strings program in the Jamestown Public Schools has made a difference in the ages at which students reach different performance levels. At the same time, student musicians have many demands on their time. As a result, she said, “We are continuing to have three orchestras, but we are changing their make-up and – in one case – their name.”

Prelude Strings will remain the orchestra for beginning string players. These students will now be primarily middle schoolers, instead of the elementary students of the past. 

The Young Artists Orchestra (YAO) will include players of orchestral instruments at NYSSMA level III or IV and above, primarily upper middle and high school students.

The most advanced orchestra, formerly the Youth Symphony, will become the String Chamber Orchestra, exclusively for string players in high school and college. Students who study another instrument as well as a string can play in both YAO and the String Chamber Orchestra.

Distinguished performer and conductor Bryan Eckenrode is CRYS Music Director and Conductor for rehearsals that begin in January.

Orchestra participants are selected by teacher recommendation. Students will be auditioned in early January for proper placement in one of the three orchestras. 

For more information about the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony and opportunities for young musicians, call (716) 664-2465, ext. 202, or visit www.CRYouthSymphony.com.

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May 17, 2016

Jamestown, NY – Following their recent Spring Gala Concert at Chautauqua Institution’s Elizabeth S. Lenna Hall, the board of the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony (CRYS) is announcing some new directions. 

“Circumstances change over time, and we are changing with them,” said board president Tanya Anderson.

Anderson noted that the closing a few years ago of the Suzuki Strings program in the Jamestown Public Schools has made a difference in the ages at which students reach different performance levels. At the same time, student musicians have a lot of demands on their time.

“After careful examination and much thought,” Anderson said, “we are continuing to have three orchestras, but we are changing their make-up and – in one case – their name.”

Under the leadership of Music Director and Conductor Bryan Eckenrode, CRYS will continue to offer classical music education and performance opportunities to serious music students from middle school through college. 

Prelude Strings will remain the orchestra for beginning string players. These students will now be primarily middle schoolers, instead of the elementary students of the past. 

The Young Artists Orchestra (YAO) will include players of orchestral instruments at NYSSMA level III or IV and above, primarily upper middle and high school students.

The most advanced orchestra, formerly the Youth Symphony, will become the Strings Chamber Orchestra, exclusively for string players in high school and college. Students who study another instrument as well as a string can play in both YAO and the Strings Chamber Orchestra.

“We’ve found that, with all their extracurricular sports and musical demands, it’s increasingly been a challenge to have enough non-string players to maintain a balanced performance group,” Anderson said. “At the same time, it is important for string players to have the opportunities CRYS provides. Our solution is to make our ‘senior’ orchestra strings only.”

The change will provide some exciting possibilities for these students, including a different repertoire and performance options.

All three orchestras will begin rehearsals after the holidays, preparing for the traditional Spring Gala Concert in May. Prelude Strings rehearses on Friday afternoons at Christ First United Methodist Church, while the Young Artists and Strings Chamber Orchestras rehearse at the Reg Lenna Center for the Arts on Saturday mornings.

The CRYS board will also be filling the orchestra manager’s position and is accepting applications through June 30. Interviews will be held in August for the part-time position that begins October 1, 2016. A full job description and an application form are online at www.CRYouthSymphony.com.

For more information about the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony, visit their Facebook page and website, www.CRYouthSymphony.com. 

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March 16, 2015

Jamestown, NY – The board of the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony (CRYS) is reminding the community of the closing of their annual fund drive.

“It’s important to us to show our appreciation to all our contributors,” said CRYS President Tanya Anderson. “We need to hear from our supporters soon, so they don’t miss out.”

CRYS sponsors three orchestras: Prelude Strings for beginning string players, Young Artists Orchestra for intermediate musicians, and the Youth Symphony for highly talented and motivated musicians in high school and college.  

CRYS students have weekly rehearsals led by Music Director and Conductor Bryan Eckenrode, as well as coaching by other music professionals. Additional learning opportunities include an annual field trip to hear a professional orchestra and an intense weekend workshop at Chautauqua Institution for the Youth Symphony.

The Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony is in the final stages of its annual fund drive. Among the ways CRYS shows appreciation for its contributors are by recognition on its website and in printed concert programs and complimentary admissions to its Spring Gala Concert on Sunday, May 3, 2015, in the Reg Lenna Center for The Arts.

Students pay tuition for their training with CRYS, but significant tuition assistance is provided. CRYS receives important support from foundations and other organizations in the community. While parents, board members and students participate in fund raising events, donations from individuals and local businesses are essential. 

Tax-deductible donations to the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony can be mailed to Post Office Box 3454, Jamestown, NY  14702.

For more information about CRYS, visit their Facebook page or website at www.cryouthsymphony.com.

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December 10, 2014

Jamestown, NY – Time is running out for young musicians to enroll in one of the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony (CRYS) orchestras for the 2014-2015 season.

Music teachers are encouraged to contact CRYS for this distinctive opportunity for their students who show special talent or interest in performing.

This is CRYS’s 28th season of offering classical music education and performance opportunities to serious music students from elementary school through college. Acclaimed performer and conductor Bryan Eckenrode is the Music Director and Conductor of all three student orchestras.

January 9, 2015, will be the first rehearsal of the season for Prelude Strings. These beginning string musicians rehearse on Friday afternoons in the chapel on the Lutheran Campus on Falconer Street in Jamestown.

CRYS’s other two orchestras begin their Saturday rehearsals on January 10, 2015, on the stage of the Reg Lenna Center for The Arts in downtown Jamestown. The Young Artists Orchestra (YAO) is for intermediate string, brass, wind and percussion players. The Youth Symphony, CRYS’s premier performance group, is composed of highly talented and motivated advanced high school and college musicians.

In March, Youth Symphony musicians will participate in a weekend of concentrated coaching, rehearsing, and fun at Chautauqua Institution.

In April CRYS students will travel to Rochester for a meet-and-greet with members of the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra (RPO). Then they will enjoy an evening performance of the RPO accompanying The Peking Acrobats in Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre.

The rehearsals and Chautauqua Weekend are in preparation for the three orchestras’ Spring Gala Concert on Sunday, May 3, 2015, in the Reg Lenna Center for The Arts.  

Orchestra students are selected by teacher recommendation. Students in YAO and the Youth Symphony audition in order to determine correct ensemble and seating placement. YAO auditions will be scheduled for Saturday, January 3, and Youth Symphony auditions for Sunday, January 4. Audition Application Forms need to be completed by December 19. 

To learn how your child or student can participate in one of the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony orchestras, call (716) 664-2465, ext. 202, or email jherman12@outlook.com. For more information, visit www.CRYouthSymphony.com.

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November 12, 2014

Jamestown, NY – The Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony (CRYS) has launched its annual fund drive for the 2014-2015 season. 

“We are excited about the wonderful opportunities that CRYS offers to talented and motivated young musicians and for what we offer to the community,” said board president Tanya Anderson.

Anderson pointed out that CRYS students give performances, several of which are free, that enrich the community, and that the students are enriched as well. “We know that whether music becomes their profession or their pastime, our students’ participation in a demanding performance group will have a long-term positive impact on their lives.”

At their November meeting, CRYS board members sent letters to previous and potential contributors, asking them to support the new season.

CRYS sponsors three orchestras: Prelude Strings for beginning string musicians, Young Artists Orchestra (YAO) for intermediate musicians, and the Youth Symphony for highly talented and motivated musicians ages 13 through college. 

This 28th season will open with the advanced string players of the Youth Symphony performing their Chamber Concert on Sunday, November 23, at 7 p.m. in SS. Peter & Paul Church, 508 Cherry Street in Jamestown. The program ranges from Mozart and Pachebel’s Canon to Lennon & McCartney and “Jazz Pizzicato.”

Under the professional leadership of Maestro Bryan Eckenrode, CRYS Music Director and Conductor since 2003, students have learning opportunities that are unique in the Chautauqua area. 

The Youth Symphony has a Chautauqua Weekend of intensive coaching and rehearsals at Chautauqua Institution in early spring. 

After trips the past two springs to meet some of the musicians of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra and hear them perform, in April CRYS students will journey to Rochester to hear the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra accompany The Peking Acrobats in Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre.

Rehearsals for all three orchestras begin in January, with Prelude at Lutheran on Friday afternoons and the Youth Symphony and YAO at the Reg Lenna Center for The Arts in downtown Jamestown on Saturday mornings.

CRYS students pay tuition, but no one is turned away for inability to pay. CRYS receives essential funding from foundations and other organizations in the community. While parents, board members and students all participate in fund raising, support by individuals and local organizations and businesses is significant. 

CRYS shows appreciation for its contributors by recognition on its website and in printed concert programs and through complimentary admissions to the Spring Gala Concert on Sunday, May 3, 2015, in the Reg Lenna Center for The Arts.

Tax-deductible contributions to the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony can be mailed to P.O. Box 3454, Jamestown, NY  14702.

For more information about CRYS and its programs for young musicians, call (716) 664-2465, ext. 202, or visit www.CRYouthSymphony.com.

Organizations that would like to have an ensemble from CRYS perform for them can call (716) 664-2465, ext. 202, or email CRYSymphony@mac.com.

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November 11, 2014

Jamestown, NY – The Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony (CRYS) is opening its 2014-2015 season with their Chamber Concert on Sunday evening, November 23.

The advanced string players of the Youth Symphony will perform at 7 p.m. in the beautiful SS. Peter and Paul Church, 508 Cherry Street in downtown Jamestown. 

Acclaimed CRYS Music Director and Conductor Bryan Eckenrode will conduct the concert, and a freewill offering will be taken.

In addition to holiday selections, the program will feature music from Mozart, Gluck and Janacek to Karl Jenkins, whose Palladio many will recognize from a familiar diamond advertising campaign.

The chamber orchestra will also perform some of these at the Chautauqua Mall at 7 p.m. on Friday, November 14, and at the Scandinavian Foundation’s holiday dinner the next evening.

CRYS sponsors three orchestras: Prelude Strings for beginning string musicians, Young Artists Orchestra (YAO) for intermediate musicians, and the Youth Symphony for highly talented and motivated musicians in high school and college. 

Rehearsals for all three orchestras begin in January, with Prelude at Lutheran on Friday afternoons and the Youth Symphony and YAO at the Reg Lenna Center for The Arts in downtown Jamestown on Saturday mornings.

Chosen by teacher recommendation, CRYS students have learning opportunities that are unique in the Chautauqua area. 

In March the Youth Symphony will have a Chautauqua Weekend of intensive work with coaches at Chautauqua Institution in preparation for the Spring Gala Concert on Sunday, May 3, in The Reg. 

In April, students from all three orchestras will travel to Rochester to hear the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra accompany The Peking Acrobats in Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre. 

Orchestra members pay tuition, but no one is turned away for inability to pay. Tax-deductible contributions to the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony can be mailed to P.O. Box 3454, Jamestown, NY  14702.

For more information about CRYS and its programs for young musicians or to schedule an ensemble to perform for your organization, call (716) 664-2465, ext. 202, or visit www.CRYouthSymphony.com.

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September 17, 2014

Jamestown, NY – The Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony (CRYS) board welcomed two new members at their September meeting.

CRYS gives music students in the southwestern New York/northwestern Pennsylvania region the opportunity to perform classical music in one of three orchestras.

“It’s exciting to begin our 28th season with two great additions to our board, Julie Pavlak and Dan Klinczer,” said President Tanya Anderson. “These professionals are sure to further enhance what we offer our young musicians!”

Both of the new board members are teachers in area schools. 

Julie Pavlak teaches third grade at Falconer, where she was a student herself. A graduate of SUNY Fredonia, she is the Boosters secretary for the Falconer Marching Band. Now a Jamestown resident, Pavlak is very active in the lives of her three children, one of whom is a current CRYS student.

Dan Klinczar is the Director of Bands at Clymer Central School where he has taught instrumental music in grades 4-12 since 2010. A recent transplant to Jamestown from Olean, Klinczar graduated from Hamburg High School, received his undergraduate degree in Music Education from Mansfield University of Pennsylvania, and is currently studying at Kent State University for his Master’s in Music Education. 

In addition to President Anderson, returning CRYS board members are Michelle Battaglia, Michelle Carlson, Katie Derrenbacher, Kathy Geary, and Lana Huston. 

Distinguished performer and conductor Bryan Eckenrode is Music Director and Conductor for all three CRYS orchestras. Under his direction, the advanced string players of the Youth Symphony will begin rehearsals on September 20 for their Chamber Concert on Sunday evening, November 23, in SS. Peter & Paul Church in downtown Jamestown, New York. 

CRYS’s two other performing groups are the Young Artists Orchestra, composed of intermediate instrumental students, and Prelude Strings, the beginning strings orchestra. These and the full Youth Symphony begin rehearsals after the holidays for their Spring Gala Concert on Sunday afternoon, May 3, 2015, in Jamestown’s Reg Lenna Center for The Arts.  

In the spring, the Youth Symphony will have its annual Chautauqua Weekend of intense rehearsals, coaching, and a good time socializing. A spring enrichment experience is being planned for all three orchestras to travel to hear a professional orchestra concert. 

Orchestra participants are selected by teacher recommendation. Prior to the beginning of rehearsals in January, the students will be auditioned for proper placement in one of the three orchestras. 

Upon request, ensembles from the Youth Symphony can be available to perform for local groups.

For more information about the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony and opportunities for young musicians, call (716) 664-2465, ext. 202 or visit CRYouthSymphony.com.

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September 1, 2014

Jamestown, NY – The Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony (CRYS) is beginning its 28th season of offering young musicians in the southwestern New York/northwestern Pennsylvania region the rare opportunity to perform classical music in an orchestra with a renowned professional conductor.

Rehearsals for the Chamber Orchestra, the string players of CRYS’s most advanced orchestra, the Youth Symphony, begin on Saturday, September 20. Rehearsals are on the stage of Jamestown’s Reg Lenna Center for the Arts from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Under the direction of Maestro Bryan Eckenrode, the Youth Symphony is composed of highly talented and motivated musicians ages 13 through college. The advanced string players will perform a Chamber Concert on Sunday, November 23, at 7 p.m. 

Rehearsals for the full Youth Symphony, including wind, brass and percussion players, begin Saturday, January 10, 2015, in the Reg Lenna Center for the Arts. 

In the spring, the Youth Symphony has a Chautauqua Weekend. The students stay overnight at Chautauqua Institution’s Bellinger Hall, where they have intense rehearsals, coaching, and a good time socializing.

Rehearsals for CRYS’s other two orchestras start in January. The first rehearsal for Prelude Strings, the beginning string orchestra, will be on Friday, January 9, 2015, from 4-5:30 p.m. The Young Artists Orchestra (YAO) of intermediate level musicians begins rehearsals on Saturday, January 10, 2015, on the stage of the Reg Lenna Center for the Arts. YAO rehearses from 9-10:30 a.m.

An enrichment experience is being planned for next spring for all three orchestras, similar to trips the past two seasons to Pittsburgh’s Heinz Hall to hear the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra (PSO). In 2013 CRYS students heard the PSO as they accompanied a screening of The Wizard of Oz and this past April they enjoyed “Bugs Bunny at the Symphony.”

CRYS Music Director Bryan Eckenrode will conduct all three orchestras in their Spring Gala Concert on Sunday, May 3, 2015, in the Reg Lenna Center for the Arts in downtown Jamestown.  

Eckenrode made his Lincoln Center debut in 2003, returning in 2006. On the faculties of Canisius College, Niagara University and Jamestown Community College, he is also the director of the string department at Villa Maria College, Buffalo, and principal cellist with the Western New York Chamber Orchestra and the Southern Tier Symphony. He performs with several other orchestras and conducts the Warren (Pennsylvania) Philharmonic Orchestra, the Buffalo City Strings, and the Vivace String Camp Orchestra at Houghton College.

Orchestra students are selected by teacher recommendation. Ensembles from the Youth Symphony can be available to perform for local groups.

For information about how your child or student can participate in the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony as well as to schedule ensemble presentations by these young musicians, call (716) 664-2465, ext. 202, or visit www.CRYouthSymphony.com.

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April 21, 2014

Jamestown, NY – The three orchestras of the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony (CRYS) have been rehearsing since January for their Spring Gala Concert.

The intermediate instrumental students of the Young Artists Orchestra and the Youth Symphony’s highly talented and motivated high school and college musicians rehearse on the stage of the Reg Lenna Center for the Arts

Prelude Strings, CRYS’s orchestra for beginning string musicians, will join these two orchestras for their concert at “The Reg” on Sunday, May 4, at 4 p.m..

All the young people perform under the leadership of CRYS conductor and music director Bryan Eckenrode. 

Maestro Eckenrode’s broad background includes serving as principal cellist of the Western New York Chamber Orchestra and Southern Tier Symphony, both of which he has also guest conducted, and the British Columbia (Canada) Mozart Festival Orchestra. He is also conductor and music director of the Warren Philharmonic Orchestra. Eckenrode has recorded not only as a cellist, but as a bagpiper and flutist. He is an adjunct professor at Canisius College and Jamestown Community College, director of the string department at Villa Maria College, and on the music faculty at the renowned Nichols School in Buffalo.

Music on the program will wide-ranging, including Goldsmith’s “Viva Vivaldi,”  Strauss’s “Thunder and Lightning Polka,” “Menuetto” from Mozart’s Symphony No. 39, “Largo” from Handel’s Xerxes, Brahms’s “Hungarian Dance No. 5,” and “Led Zeppelin Reunion.”

The Young Artists Orchestra and the Youth Symphony will combine to close the program with “Last Friday Night (T.G.I.F.)/Edge of Glory.”

A reception will be held on the mezzanine of the theatre following the performance.

Tickets are $12 for adults and $8 for students. They can be purchased through the box office of the Reg Lenna Center for the Arts, in person at 116 East Third Street, by phone at (716) 484-7070, or online at www.reglenna.com.

CRYS receives support from local foundations and other community organizations and individuals, including a significant individual contribution this season from Jon and Aubin Gren.

For more information about the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony, call (716) 664-2465, ext. 202, visit www.CRYouthSymphony.com. 

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April 14, 2014

Jamestown, NY – “Bugs Bunny at the Symphony” -- “that rascally rabbit” and his friends Elmer Fudd, Daffy Duck, Tweety, Wile E. Coyote, the Road Runner, Yosemite Sam and more -- really? 

Yes, that’s what students in the three Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony (CRYS) orchestras enjoyed on Saturday, April 12. The fun fusion of classical music and classic animation was performed by the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra and conducted by the show’s creator, Emmy Award-winner George Daugherty. Daugherty has been touring the United States and Canada with “Bugs Bunny at the Symphony” since last fall. 

Before the performance CRYS musicians met with Andrew Wickesberg, violist in the Pittsburgh Symphony and conductor of Symphonette, the string orchestra of the Three Rivers Young Peoples Orchestras. Then they took their seats in Pittsburgh’s beautiful Heinz Hall and watched some of everyone’s favorite Looney Tunes cartoons, combined with their original scores. There was a special on-screen guest appearance by Tom and Jerry, as well as two new Looney Tunes 3D theatrical shorts. The concert showcased the most beloved and iconic cartoon shorts in animation history, including “What’s Opera, Doc?,” “The Rabbit of Seville,” “Baton Bunny,” “Rhapsody Rabbit” and many others.

Following the matinee performance, the group had dinner at the Spaghetti Warehouse.

“It was a wonderful experience for the adult chaperones as well as the students,” said CRYS board president Tanya Anderson. “Inspired as well by last year’s trip to hear the Pittsburgh Symphony accompany The Wizard of Oz, we’re looking forward to making a musical field trip an annual event for our young musicians.”  

CRYS has three orchestras: Prelude Strings for beginning string players, Young Artists Orchestra for intermediate musicians, and the Youth Symphony for highly talented and motivated musicians in high school and college.  Under the leadership of music director and conductor Bryan Eckenrode, they have learning opportunities that are not available anywhere else in the Chautauqua area, including an intense weekend workshop at Chautauqua Institution.

All CRYS students have been preparing for their annual Spring Gala Concert on Sunday afternoon, May 4, 2014, in the Reg Lenna Center for the Arts in downtown Jamestown.

For more information about the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony, call (716) 664-2465, ext. 202, or visit the website at www.CRYouthSymphony.com.

For ticket information about the May 4 concert, call (716) 484-7070 or visit www.reglenna.com. 

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April 1, 2014

Jamestown, NY – A weekend of intensive musical study at Chautauqua Institution can be expected to result in a more finely tuned performance.

That was the plan of the students and instructors at the recent Chautauqua Weekend for the Youth Symphony of the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony (CRYS).

Their acclaimed conductor and music director Bryan Eckenrode lead rehearsals for the Youth Symphony’s performance at their Spring Gala Concert on Sunday, May 4, at 4 p.m. in the Reg Lenna Center for the Arts.

Every spring the Youth Symphony, the premier orchestra of the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony (CRYS), spends an overnight at Chautauqua. There these highly talented and motivated high school and college musicians have full ensemble rehearsals, sectionals with coaches, and a wrap-up demonstration. They also enjoy a pizza party and relaxation as part of their stay at Bellinger Hall. 

“This was a wonderful opportunity for our students,” said CRYS board president Tanya Anderson. “We look forward to presenting a concert on May 4 that all the community will enjoy!” 

Significant funding for the Chautauqua Weekend was provided by a grant from the Blossom Fund of the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation. The Blossom Fund also made a grant in support of Maestro Eckenrode’s honorarium.

At the Spring Gala, Eckenrode will also conduct CRYS’s Prelude Strings of beginning string musicians and the Young Artists Orchestra of intermediate string and wind players. 

For more information about the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony, call (716) 664-2465, ext. 202, or visit the website at www.CRYouthSymphony.com.

For ticket information about the May 4 concert, call (716) 484-7070 or visit www.reglenna.com. 

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March 15, 2014

Jamestown, NY – The Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony (CRYS) has received two grants from the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation.

“We are thrilled with this support and so grateful to the Community Foundation,” said CRYS board president Tanya Anderson, in acknowledging the awards.

Both grants are funded through the Community Foundation’s Blossom Fund. One supports the honorarium for Conductor and Music Director Bryan Eckenrode and the other funds CRYS’s Chautauqua Weekend.

Widely acclaimed for both his performance and his conducting, Eckenrode took the helm of CRYS in 2003. At that time there was a single orchestra, which is now the Youth Symphony, CRYS’s premier performance group of highly talented and motivated high school and college musicians.

Under Eckenrode’s leadership, two more orchestras were formed: Prelude Strings for beginning string musicians and the Young Artists Orchestra for intermediate string, brass, wind and percussion players. 

The Chautauqua Weekend is an immersion experience for the Youth Symphony. Scheduled for the end of March, the Weekend includes an overnight at Chautauqua Institution’s Bellinger Hall, private lessons with expert instructors, participation in small group lessons, and extensive rehearsing.

“The entire experience is a preparation for our Spring Gala Concert on Sunday, May 4, at the Reg Lenna Center for the Arts,” Anderson noted. The May concert features performances by all three CRYS orchestras.  

In April, CRYS students will take a trip to Pittsburgh’s Heinz Hall. There they will have a meet-and-greet with members of the Pittsburgh Symphony before their performance of “Bugs Bunny at the Symphony,” a concert of all cartoon music.

For more information about the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony, call (716) 664-2465, ext. 202, or visit the website at www.CRYouthSymphony.com.

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December 14, 2013

Jamestown, NY – If you know a young musician who shows special talent or interest in performing, now is the time to encourage his or her teacher to contact the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony for a unique opportunity.

Under the leadership of Music Director and Conductor Bryan Eckenrode, the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony (CRYS) has begun its 27th season of offering classical music education and performance opportunities to serious music students from elementary school through college. 

January 10, 2014, will be the first rehearsal of the season for CRYS’s beginning string musicians. Prelude Strings rehearses on Friday afternoons in the chapel on the Lutheran Campus on Falconer Street in Jamestown.

CRYS’s other two orchestras begin their Saturday rehearsals on January 18, 2014, on the stage of the Reg Lenna Center for the Arts in downtown Jamestown. The Young Artists Orchestra (YAO) is for intermediate string, brass, wind and percussion players. The Youth Symphony, CRYS’s premier performance group, is composed of highly talented and motivated high school and college musicians.

In March CRYS students will travel to Pittsburgh for a meet-and-greet with members of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra. Then they will enjoy a matinee performance of Saint-Saens’s The Carnival of the Animals in magnificent Heinz Hall.  Cartoon artist Joe Wos from the Toonseum will illustrate the animals as the orchestra performs.

On the last weekend in March, Youth Symphony musicians will participate in a weekend of concentrated coaching, rehearsing, and fun at Chautauqua Institution.

These rehearsals are all in preparation for the three orchestras’ Spring Gala Concert on Sunday, May 4, 2014, in the Reg Lenna Center for the Arts.  

Orchestra students are selected by teacher recommendation. 

To learn how your child or student can participate in one of the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony orchestras, call (716) 664-2465, ext. 202, or visit www.CRYouthSymphony.com.

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November 10, 2013

Jamestown, NY – An evening of lovely and lively music will reward the audience at the November 24 Chamber Orchestra Concert.

The advanced string players of the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony (CRYS) will perform that Sunday at 7 p.m. at SS. Peter and Paul Church, 508 Cherry Street in downtown Jamestown. 

CRYS music director and conductor Maestro Bryan Eckenrode will conduct the performance. 

The first part of the program will feature compositions by Mozart, Vivaldi, Bach, Tartini, and Grieg. More contemporary fare will follow after intermission, including Leroy Anderson’s “Plink, Plank, Plunk” and traditional Christmas selections.

The concert is free and open to the public. A freewill offering will be taken. 

On the faculties of Canisius College and Niagara University, Eckenrode is also the director of the string department at Villa Maria College in Buffalo and conductor of the Warren Symphony. Currently principal cellist with the Western New York Chamber Orchestra and the Southern Tier Symphony, he has performed and recorded with many orchestras. He made his Lincoln Center debut in 2003, returning in 2006.  

CRYS sponsors three orchestras: Prelude Strings for beginning string musicians, Young Artists Orchestra (YAO) for intermediate musicians, and the Youth Symphony for highly talented and motivated musicians ages 13 through college. 

Rehearsals for all three orchestras begin in January, with Prelude at Lutheran on Friday afternoons and the Youth Symphony and YAO at the Reg Lenna in downtown Jamestown on Saturday mornings.

Chosen by teacher recommendation, CRYS students have learning opportunities that are unique in the Chautauqua area. 

Plans are being made for an enrichment experience similar to last season when CRYS students met some of the musicians of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra before hearing them accompany a screening of The Wizard of Oz in Pittsburgh’s magnificent Heinz Hall. 

Next March the Youth Symphony will have a Chautauqua Weekend of intensive work with coaches at Chautauqua Institution in preparation for the Spring Gala Concert on Sunday, May 4, in the Reg Lenna Center for the Arts. 

Orchestra members pay tuition, but no one is turned away for inability to pay. Tax-deductible contributions to the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony can be mailed to P.O. Box 3454, Jamestown, NY  14702.

For more information about CRYS and its programs for young musicians or to schedule an ensemble to perform for your organization, call (716) 664-2465, ext. 202, or visit the website at www.CRYouthSymphony.com.

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November 4, 2013

Jamestown, NY – The Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony (CRYS) is opening its 27th season with chamber performances by the advanced string players of the Youth Symphony.

On Friday evening, November 15, at 7 p.m. these musicians will perform at the Chautauqua Mall in Lakewood. The next morning, Saturday, November 16, at 10:30 a.m. they will be in the chapel on the Lutheran campus, 715 Falconer Street, Jamestown.

CRYS music director and conductor Bryan Eckenrode will conduct both performances, which are free and open to the public.

These performances will lead up to the full Chamber Concert on Sunday evening, November 24, at 7 p.m. at SS. Peter & Paul Church, 508 Cherry Street in downtown Jamestown. This is also a free concert.

CRYS sponsors three orchestras: Prelude Strings for beginning string musicians, Young Artists Orchestra (YAO) for intermediate musicians, and the Youth Symphony for highly talented and motivated musicians ages 13 through college. 

Chosen by teacher recommendation, CRYS students have learning opportunities that are unique in the Chautauqua area. 

Last March CRYS students met some of the musicians of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra before hearing them accompany a screening of The Wizard of Oz in Pittsburgh’s magnificent Heinz Hall. Plans are being made for a similar enrichment experience this season.

In the spring the Youth Symphony has a Chautauqua Weekend of intensive work with coaches at Chautauqua Institution in preparation for the Spring Gala Concert on Sunday, May 4, in the Reg Lenna Center for the Arts. 

Rehearsals for all three orchestras begin in January, with Prelude at Lutheran on Friday afternoons and the Youth Symphony and YAO at the Reg Lenna in downtown Jamestown on Saturday mornings.

Orchestra members pay tuition, but no one is turned away for inability to pay. Tax-deductible contributions to the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony can be mailed to P.O. Box 3454, Jamestown, NY  14702.

For more information about CRYS and its programs for young musicians or to schedule an ensemble to perform for your organization, call (716) 664-2465, ext. 202, or visit the website at www.CRYouthSymphony.com.

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October 16, 2013

Jamestown, NY – Board President Tanya Anderson announced the launching of the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony’s annual fund drive. 

“It is rare that a community our size can offer an opportunity of this caliber,” said Anderson. “And we know that whether music becomes their profession or their pastime, our students’ participation in a demanding performance group will have a long-term impact on their lives.”

CRYS sponsors three orchestras: Prelude Strings for beginning string musicians, Young Artists Orchestra (YAO) for intermediate musicians, and the Youth Symphony for highly talented and motivated musicians ages 13 through college. 

At their recent meeting, board members sent letters to local individuals and businesses, requesting support for the Youth Symphony’s 2013-2014 season.

This 27th season will open with the advanced string players of the Youth Symphony performing their Chamber Concert on Sunday, November 24, at 7 p.m. in SS. Peter & Paul Church, 508 Cherry Street in Jamestown.

Under the professional leadership of Maestro Bryan Eckenrode, CRYS music director and conductor since 2003, students have learning opportunities that are unique in the Chautauqua area. 

The Youth Symphony has a Chautauqua Weekend of intensive coaching and rehearsals at Chautauqua Institution in early spring, with a closing performance in the Elizabeth Lenna Hall. 

Last March CRYS students met some of the musicians of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra before hearing them accompany a screening of The Wizard of Oz in Pittsburgh’s magnificent Heinz Hall. Plans are being made for a similar enrichment experience this season.

Rehearsals for all three orchestras begin in January, with Prelude at Lutheran on Friday afternoons and the Youth Symphony and YAO at the Reg Lenna Center for the Arts in downtown Jamestown on Saturday mornings.

CRYS students pay tuition, but no one is turned away for inability to pay. CRYS receives essential funding from foundations and other organizations in the community. While parents, board members and students all participate in fund raising, support by individuals and local businesses is critical to CRYS’s survival. 

Among the ways the Youth Symphony expresses appreciation to its contributors is by recognition on its website and in printed concert programs and through complimentary admissions to the Spring Gala Concert on Sunday, May 4, 2014, in the Reg Lenna Center for the Arts.

Tax-deductible contributions to the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony can be mailed to P.O. Box 3454, Jamestown, NY  14702.

For more information about CRYS and its programs for young musicians, call (716) 664-2465, ext. 202, or visit the website at www.CRYouthSymphony.com.

Organizations that would like to have an ensemble from CRYS perform for them can call (716) 664-2465, ext. 202, or email CRYSymphony@mac.com.

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September 18, 2013

Jamestown, NY – The Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony (CRYS) board welcomed Michelle Battaglia as a new member at their September meeting.

“As we begin our 27th season, we are delighted to welcome Michelle Battaglia to work with us,” said President Tanya Anderson. “With planning our concerts, the Chautauqua Weekend, and an enrichment opportunity to hear a professional orchestra, we have a full agenda!”

The advanced string players of the Youth Symphony have begun rehearsals for their Chamber Concert on Sunday evening, November 24, in SS. Peter & Paul Church in downtown Jamestown. These highly talented and motivated musicians include Jamestown Community College students who earn credit for their participation.

CRYS’s two other performing groups are the Young Artists Orchestra, composed of intermediate instrumental students, and Prelude Strings, the beginning strings orchestra. All students are selected by teacher recommendation. These and the full Youth Symphony orchestra begin rehearsals after the holidays.

Battaglia brings a broad musical background to her new responsibilities. Currently the Middle School Band Director at Falconer Central School, she also teaches General Music and Music Appreciation. Her primary instrument is the trumpet. 

Prior to her career as a music educator, Battaglia served in the Navy as a member of the Atlantic Fleet Band and Navy Band New Orleans for ten years and six years with the Army National Guard as a member of the 199th Army Band, aka The Governor’s Band, of New York. Following her retirement from the Armed Services, she received both her Bachelors of Music Education and Master’s in Music Performance from SUNY Fredonia. Current CRYS board member Peter Lindblom was her professor of trumpet.

Battaglia performs with local groups and ensembles including the Jamestown Area Community Orchestra, the Living Christmas Tree, the Jamestown Municipal Band, the Jamestown Community College Band and Musicals, and the Jubilee Brass Quintet. A performer and conductor of the Lucille Ball Little Theatre of Jamestown, she also holds a private lesson studio in her home in Jamestown. 

As a new board member of CRYS, Battaglia said she looks forward to working with exceptional students who have the ability to change the direction of music in our schools and our county.

In addition to President Anderson, returning CRYS board members are Michelle Carlson, Anne Dolce, Katie Derrenbacher, Kathy Geary, Lana Huston, Peter Lindblom, and Laurie Volpe.

The 7 p.m. November 24 Chamber Concert is free and open to the public. A free will offering will be taken.

For more information about the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony and opportunities for young musicians, call (716) 664-2465, ext. 202 or visit CRYouthSymphony.com.

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September 3, 2013

Jamestown, NY – Young musicians in the southwestern New York/northwestern Pennsylvania region have a rare opportunity: to perform classical music in an orchestra with a renowned professional conductor.

Rehearsals for the Chamber Orchestra, the string players of the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony (CRYS), begin on Saturday, September 14.

Under the direction of Maestro Bryan Eckenrode, the Youth Symphony is composed of highly talented and motivated musicians ages 13 through college. The string players will perform a Chamber Concert on Sunday, November 24, at 7 p.m. in Jamestown’s SS. Peter and Paul Church.

Rehearsals for the full Youth Symphony, including wind, brass and percussion players, and the Young Artists Orchestra of intermediate level musicians will begin Saturday, January 18, 2014, in Jamestown’s Reg Lenna Civic Center. Prelude Strings, the beginning string orchestra, start rehearsals on Friday, January 10, 2014, on the Lutheran campus. 

Last March the three orchestras traveled to Pittsburgh’s Heinz Hall to hear the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra accompany a screening of The Wizard of Oz. A similar enrichment experience is being planned for the 2013-2014 season, possibly to hear the Rochester Philharmonic or the Cleveland Orchestra.

In the spring, the Youth Symphony has a Chautauqua Weekend. The students stay overnight at Chautauqua Institution’s Bellinger Hall, where they have intense rehearsals, coaching, and a good time socializing.

CRYS Music Director Bryan Eckenrode will conduct all three orchestras in their Spring Gala Concert on Sunday, May 4, 2014, in the Reg Lenna Civic Center in downtown Jamestown.  

Eckenrode made his Lincoln Center debut in 2003, returning in 2006. On the faculties of Canisius College, Niagara University and Jamestown Community College, he is also the director of the string department at Villa Maria College, Buffalo, and principal cellist with the Western New York Chamber Orchestra and the Southern Tier Symphony. He performs with several other orchestras and conducts the Warren (PA) Philharmonic Orchestra, the Buffalo City Strings, and the Vivace String Camp Orchestra at Houghton College.

Orchestra students are selected by teacher recommendation. Ensembles from the Youth Symphony can be available to perform for local groups.

For information about how your child or student can participate in the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony as well as to schedule ensemble presentations by these young musicians, call (716) 664-2465, ext. 202, or visit www.CRYouthSymphony.com.

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May 16, 2013

Jamestown, NY – The Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony (CRYS) received an award from the United Arts Appeal of Chautauqua County Projects Pool Grant Program to support the guest artists at their recent Spring Gala Concert. 

The concert was held in the Reg Lenna Civic Center in downtown Jamestown with performances by all three CRYS orchestras:  Prelude Strings, the beginning string musicians; Young Artists Orchestra of intermediate students; and the Youth Symphony of highly talented and motivated musicians ages 13 through college.  

The United Arts Appeal grant supported the appearances of guest artists Evelyn Loehrlein, principal flutist with the Huntsville (Alabama) Symphony Orchestra (HSO), and Sidney King, instructor of double bass at the University of Louisville School of Music. 

Ms. Loehrlein played the solo in the Youth Symphony’s performance of Charles T. Griffes’s “Poem for Flute and Orchestra.” The Youth Symphony closed the program with Mr. King’s composition “Duende al Rogo! (Buleria)” in which he was the soloist. 

A reception was held on the mezzanine of the theatre following the concert.

Under Conductor and Music Director Bryan Eckenrode, the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony offers classical music education and performance opportunities to serious music students from elementary school through college. Students are accepted into CRYS orchestras on the basis of teacher recommendations. 

The concert was also funded in part by the New York State Council on the Arts Decentralization Regrant Program supported by Governor Andrew Cuomo and administered by the Cattaraugus County Arts Council.

For more information about the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony, visit www.CRYouthSymphony.com. 

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April 22, 2013

Jamestown, NY – The senior performing orchestra of the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony (CRYS) recently had an intense Chautauqua Weekend in preparation for their Spring Gala Concert on Sunday afternoon, May 5.

The highly talented and motivated musicians, ages 13 through college, that make up the Youth Symphony enjoyed sectional rehearsals with coaches, full rehearsals under the direction of conductor and music director Bryan Eckenrode, and some social time.

Their 4 p.m. concert in downtown Jamestown’s Reg Lenna Civic Center will also include performances by Prelude Strings, the beginning string musicians, and the Young Artists Orchestra of intermediate instrumental students.

Guest artists Evelyn Loehrlein, principal flutist with the Huntsville (Alabama) Symphony Orchestra (HSO), and Sidney King, instructor of double bass at the University of Louisville School of Music, will be featured. 

Included on the program will be “Poem for Flute and Orchestra” by Charles T. Griffes, “Marche Militaire Francaise” from the “Algerian Suite” by Camille Saint-Saens, Tchaikowsky’s “Sleeping Beauty Waltz,” “Adagio” from Mendelssohn’s Symphony No. 3, Leroy Anderson’s “Blue Tango,” and “Duende al Rojo! (Buleria”) by guest artist Sidney King. 

A reception will be held on the mezzanine of the theatre following the performance.

The Chautauqua Weekend was made possible in part by a grant from the Chautauqua Regional Community Foundation.

The concert is funded in part by the New York State Council on the Arts Decentralization Regrant Program supported by Governor Andrew Cuomo and administered by the Cattaraugus County Arts Council.

Tickets are available at the Reg Lenna Civic Center Box Office, 116 East Third Street, (716) 484-7070, or can be ordered on-line at www.reglenna.com.

For more information about the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony and pictures from the Chautauqua Weekend, visit www.CRYouthSymphony.com. 

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April 13, 2013

Jamestown, NY – The Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony (CRYS) has learned that they will be receiving a major grant to support their Spring Gala Concert.

The Sunday, May 5, performance in the Reg Lenna Civic Center in downtown Jamestown will be funded in part by the New York State Council on the Arts Decentralization Regrant Program supported by Governor Andrew Cuomo and administered by the Cattaraugus County Arts Council. 

The $2000 grant supports the appearances of guest artists Evelyn Loehrlein, principal flutist with the Huntsville (Alabama) Symphony Orchestra (HSO), and Sidney King, instructor of double bass at the University of Louisville School of Music. 

“This is wonderful news,” said CRYS Board President Tanya Anderson. “We are grateful for this award, as it will be a great help to us in bringing these talented professionals to our community!”

Under the direction of Bryan Eckenrode, CRYS offers classical music education and performance opportunities through its three orchestras: Prelude Strings, the beginning string students; Young Artists Orchestra, intermediate instrumental students; and the Youth Symphony, highly talented and motivated musicians ages 13 through college. All three orchestras will perform at the Spring Gala that will be followed by a reception.

Loehrlein and King are looking forward to rehearsing and performing with the Youth Symphony. A passionate advocate of music education, Ms. Loehrlein was the founding director of the Symphony School of the HSO. She initiated partnerships with community organizations and five public school systems to provide innovative music education programs in the elementary schools. Mr. King has long been involved in music education, teaching and coaching many youth ensembles as well as giving numerous solo performances in public and private schools. 

Tickets for the 4 p.m. concert are available at the Reg Lenna Civic Center Box Office, 116 East Third Street, (716) 484-7070, or can be ordered on-line at http://reglenna.com/.

For more information about the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony, call (716) 664-2465, ext. 202, or visit www.CRYouthSymphony.com.

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April 1, 2013

Jamestown, NY – The Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony (CRYS) invites the community to participate in upcoming fund raisers they have planned.

On Monday, April 15, diners from 4-8 p.m. at the Pizza Hut at 995 Fairmount Avenue in Jamestown can have 20% of their meal or take-out donated to CRYS. All participants have to do is present a flyer that can be obtained from any orchestra member or printed out from CRYS’s website, www.CRYouthSymphony.com. 

On Saturday, April 13, young musicians will greet customers and give them the opportunity to support CRYS at Brigiotta’s Farmland Produce and Garden Center, 414 Fairmount Avenue in Jamestown. They will also have Tag Days on Friday through Sunday, April 26-28, at WalMart, 350 E. Fairmount Avenue, Lakewood.

“With the constant challenge of raising funds, we are truly grateful to these community-minded businesses in our area for giving us these opportunities to make it so easy for folks to support us,” said President Tanya Anderson.

CRYS sponsors three orchestras: Prelude Strings, the beginning string students; Young Artists Orchestra, intermediate instrumental students; and the Youth Symphony, highly talented and motivated musicians ages 13 through college.  

All three orchestras have been rehearsing for their Spring Gala Concert on Sunday, May 5, at 4 pm in the Reg Lenna Civic Center in downtown Jamestown. Tickets for the concert are available at the Reg Lenna Civic Center Box Office, 116 East Third Street, (716) 484-7070.

For more information about the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony, call (716) 664-2465, ext. 202, or visit the website at www.CRYouthSymphony.com. 

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March 21, 2013

Jamestown, NY – The Chautauqua Region Community Foundation recently recognized the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony (CRYS) with a Community Service Grant to support the honorarium for its conductor and music director, Bryan Eckenrode.

Eckenrode has been the driving force of CRYS since he took its musical reins in 2003. At that time there was a single orchestra, which is now the Youth Symphony, CRYS’s premier performance group of highly talented and motivated musicians ages 13 through college.

Under Eckenrode’s leadership, two more orchestras were formed: Prelude Strings for beginning string musicians and the Young Artists Orchestra for intermediate string, brass, wind and percussion players. 

In announcing the grant award, CRYS board president Tanya Anderson noted that, “The board, parents and students of all three of the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony orchestras are so grateful to the Community Foundation for this tremendous support. It is wonderful to have our work affirmed in such a significant way!”

All three orchestras are rehearsing now for their Spring Gala Concert on Sunday, May 5, at 4 p.m. in the Reg Lenna Civic Center in downtown Jamestown. Thanks to Eckenrode’s professional connections with them, Sidney King, double bass, and Evelyn Loehrlein, flute, will be guest artists at the performance.

Tickets for the concert are on sale at the Reg Lenna Civic Center Box Office, 116 East Third Street, (716) 484-7070.

For more information about the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony, call (716) 664-2465, ext. 202, or visit the website at www.CRYouthSymphony.com. 

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March 18, 2013

Jamestown, NY – What could be more exciting for a young musician than the opportunity to meet professional musicians and then hear them perform!

On Saturday, March 16, students of the three Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony (CRYS) orchestras had the rare experience of a pre-concert visit with members of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra. Then the young people and their chaperones took their seats in the beautiful 2,676-seat Heinz Hall and heard the Orchestra accompany a screening of The Wizard of Oz.

Following the concert, everyone enjoyed dinner at Bucca di Beppo in Pittsburgh’s Station Square. On their trip back to Jamestown the students talked of the memories they made that will last a lifetime.

“It was a truly amazing day,” noted CRYS board member and trip organizer Anne Dolce. “This is the first CRYS has arranged an outing like this, but it was such a good experience that I know we will want to plan similar trips in the future!” 

CRYS has three orchestras: Prelude Strings for beginning string players, Young Artists Orchestra for intermediate musicians, and the Youth Symphony for highly talented and motivated musicians ages 13 through college.  Under the leadership of music director and conductor Bryan Eckenrode, they have learning opportunities that are not available anywhere else in the Chautauqua area, including an intense weekend workshop at Chautauqua Institution.

The Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony is in the final stages of its Annual Fund Drive. Included in the ways CRYS shows appreciation for its contributors are by recognition on its website and in printed concert programs and through complimentary admissions to the Spring Gala Concerts on Sunday, May 5, 2013, in the Reg Lenna Civic Center.

CRYS receives critical support from foundations and other organizations in the community. While parents, board members and students participate in fund raising events, donations from individuals and local businesses are essential to CRYS’s survival. Board members were especially appreciative of a significant individual contribution this season from Jon and Aubin Gren.

Tax-deductible donations to the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony can be mailed to Post Office Box 3454, Jamestown, NY  14702.

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January 2, 2013

Jamestown, NY – The Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony (CRYS) has received a grant from the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation to support their Chautauqua Weekend in the spring.

Under the leadership of Music Director and Conductor Bryan Eckenrode, the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony (CRYS) has begun its 26th season of offering classical music education and performance opportunities to serious music students from elementary school through college. 

The Chautauqua Weekend is an immersion experience for the Youth Symphony, CRYS’s premier performance group of highly talented and motivated high school and college musicians, Scheduled for April 19-20, the Weekend includes an overnight at Chautauqua Institution’s Bellinger Hall, private lessons with expert instructors, participation in small group lessons, presentations from professional musicians, and a public performance at Chautauqua’s Elizabeth S. Lenna Hall. 

The event prepares the musicians for the Spring Gala Concert on Sunday, May 5, at the Reg Lenna Civic Center, which includes performances by all three CRYS orchestras: Prelude Strings for beginning string musicians, Young Artists Orchestra (YAO) for intermediate string, brass, wind and percussion players, and the Youth Symphony.  

In March, CRYS students will take a trip to Pittsburgh where they will have a meet-and-greet with members of the Pittsburgh Symphony before the orchestra accompanies a screening of The Wizard of Oz in Heinz Hall.

Orchestra students are selected by teacher recommendation. Rehearsals are supervised by CRYS manager Julia Herman, who also assists Maestro Eckenrode with recruiting and scheduling ensemble performances at community events.

Prelude Strings rehearses on Friday afternoons on the Lutheran campus on Falconer Street in Jamestown. The Young Artists Orchestra and Youth Symphony rehearse on Saturday mornings in the Reg Lenna Civic Center in downtown Jamestown. 

For information about how your child or student can participate in the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony as well as to schedule ensemble presentations by these young musicians, call (716) 664-2465, ext. 202, or visit www.CRYouthSymphony.com.

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December 21, 2012

Jamestown, NY – Under the leadership of Music Director and Conductor Bryan Eckenrode, the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony (CRYS) has begun its 26th season of offering classical music education and performance opportunities to serious music students from elementary school through college. 

Rehearsals start the first week in January for all three CRYS orchestras: Prelude Strings for beginning string musicians, Young Artists Orchestra (YAO) for intermediate string, brass, wind and percussion players, and the Youth Symphony, CRYS’s premier performance group of highly talented and motivated high school and college musicians.  

Beginning January 4, Prelude Strings rehearses on Friday afternoons on the Lutheran campus on Falconer Street in Jamestown. The Young Artists Orchestra and Youth Symphony rehearse on Saturday mornings in the Reg Lenna Civic Center in downtown Jamestown, beginning January 5. 

Next March, CRYS students will take a trip to Pittsburgh where they will have a meet-and-greet with members of the Pittsburgh Symphony before the orchestra accompanies a screening of The Wizard of Oz in Heinz Hall.

In April, Youth Symphony musicians will participate in a weekend of concentrated coaching, rehearsing, and fun at Chautauqua Institution.

All three orchestras will perform at the Spring Gala Concert on Sunday, May 5, 2013, in the Reg Lenna Civic Center in downtown Jamestown.  

Orchestra students are selected by teacher recommendation. Rehearsals are supervised by CRYS manager Julia Herman, who also assists Maestro Eckenrode with recruiting and scheduling ensemble performances at community events.

For information about how your child or student can participate in the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony as well as to schedule ensemble presentations by these young musicians, call (716) 664-2465, ext. 202, or visit www.CRYouthSymphony.com.

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December 21, 2012

Jamestown, NY – Under the leadership of Music Director and Conductor Bryan Eckenrode, the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony (CRYS) has begun its 26th season of offering classical music education and performance opportunities to serious music students from elementary school through college. 

Rehearsals start the first week in January for all three CRYS orchestras: Prelude Strings for beginning string musicians, Young Artists Orchestra (YAO) for intermediate string, brass, wind and percussion players, and the Youth Symphony, CRYS’s premier performance group of highly talented and motivated high school and college musicians.  

Beginning January 4, Prelude Strings rehearses on Friday afternoons on the Lutheran campus on Falconer Street in Jamestown. The Young Artists Orchestra and Youth Symphony rehearse on Saturday mornings in the Reg Lenna Civic Center in downtown Jamestown, beginning January 5. 

Next March, CRYS students will take a trip to Pittsburgh where they will have a meet-and-greet with members of the Pittsburgh Symphony before the orchestra accompanies a screening of The Wizard of Oz in Heinz Hall.

In April, Youth Symphony musicians will participate in a weekend of concentrated coaching, rehearsing, and fun at Chautauqua Institution.

All three orchestras will perform at the Spring Gala Concert on Sunday, May 5, 2013, in the Reg Lenna Civic Center in downtown Jamestown.  

Orchestra students are selected by teacher recommendation. Rehearsals are supervised by CRYS manager Julia Herman, who also assists Maestro Eckenrode with recruiting and scheduling ensemble performances at community events.

For information about how your child or student can participate in the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony as well as to schedule ensemble presentations by these young musicians, call (716) 664-2465, ext. 202, or visit www.CRYouthSymphony.com.

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November 28, 2012

Jamestown, NY – The Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony (CRYS) is opening its 26th season with two chamber performances by the string players of the Youth Symphony.

On Friday evening, December 7, at 7 p.m. these musicians will perform at the Chautauqua Mall. The next evening, Saturday, December 8, also at 7 p.m. they will offer a full concert, complete with seasonal fare, at SS Peter and Paul Church at 508 Cherry Street in Jamestown. 

CRYS music director and conductor Bryan Eckenrode will conduct both performances, which are free and open to the public.

Rehearsals for all three CRYS orchestras begin right after the holidays. Prelude Strings, for beginning string musicians, rehearses at Lutheran on Friday afternoons. The Young Artists Orchestra (YAO) for intermediate string, brass, wind and percussion players, and the Youth Symphony for highly talented and motivated musicians ages 13 through college, rehearse on Saturday mornings at the Reg Lenna Civic Center in downtown Jamestown. 

In March, CRYS students will travel to hear the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra accompany a presentation of The Wizard of Oz in Pittsburgh’s Heinz Hall. There will be a meet-and-greet with orchestra members before the concert and a pizza party afterward at Buca di Beppo. 

Orchestra members pay tuition, but no one is turned away for inability to pay. Tax-deductible contributions to the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony can be mailed to P.O. Box 3454, Jamestown, NY  14702.

For more information about CRYS and its programs for young musicians or to schedule an ensemble to perform for your organization, call (716) 664-2465, ext. 202, or visit the website at www.CRYouthSymphony.com.

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November 15, 2012

Jamestown, NY – The Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony (CRYS) recently received a grant from Pizza Hut’s Raising Dough for Kids Foundation toward its trip next spring to hear the Pittsburgh Symphony.

“We are planning a wonderful experience for our young musicians,” said CRYS board president Tanya Anderson, “and we are so grateful to Pizza Hut for this help in covering our costs.”

After the holidays, rehearsals will begin for all three CRYS orchestras: Prelude Strings for beginning string musicians, Young Artists Orchestra (YAO) for intermediate musicians, and the Youth Symphony for highly talented and motivated musicians ages 13 through college.

Next March, CRYS students will travel to hear the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra accompany a screening of The Wizard of Oz in Pittsburgh’s stunning Heinz Hall. Prior to the performance, the students will have a meet-and-greet with the musicians. Plans are for a pizza party after the concert at the popular Buca di Beppo restaurant. 

The string players of the Youth Symphony will be at the Chautauqua Mall on Saturday evening, December 7, at 7 p.m. The next evening they will present their full concert, including some holiday favorites, at SS. Peter and Paul Church in downtown Jamestown, also at 7 p.m. There is no charge for either of these performances.

CRYS students pay tuition, but no one is turned away for inability to pay. For more information about CRYS and its programs for young musicians, call (716) 664-2465, ext. 202, or visit the website at www.CRYouthSymphony.com.

Organizations that would like to have an ensemble from CRYS perform for them can call (716) 664-2465, ext. 202, or email CRYSymphony@mac.com.

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November 10, 2012

Jamestown, NY – The Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony (CRYS) board has made some changes this year to offer an even more enriching experience for their students.

Maestro Bryan Eckenrode has been CRYS music director and conductor since 2003. Under his professional leadership, students have learning opportunities that are unique in the Chautauqua area.

During this 26th season, students in CRYS’s three orchestras --  Prelude Strings for beginning string musicians, Young Artists Orchestra (YAO) for intermediate musicians, and the Youth Symphony for highly talented and motivated musicians ages 13 through college – will be doing more performances as ensembles in the community. The first of these, featuring the Youth Symphony string players, will be at 7 p.m. on Friday, December 7, at the Chautauqua Mall. 

A holiday flavor will highlight the Chamber Concert by the Youth Symphony string players on Saturday, December 8, at 7 p.m. at SS Peter and Paul Church, 508 Cherry Street in Jamestown.

Rehearsals for all three orchestras begin right after the holidays, with Prelude at Lutheran on Friday afternoons and the Youth Symphony and YAO at the Reg Lenna Civic Center in downtown Jamestown on Saturday mornings.

In March, CRYS students will travel to hear the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra accompany a presentation of The Wizard of Oz in Pittsburgh’s Heinz Hall and to meet some of the musicians. In mid-April, the Youth Symphony will have a weekend of intensive coaching and rehearsals at Chautauqua Institution. The annual Spring Gala in May will feature two professional musician/educators who will rehearse and perform with the orchestras. 

CRYS students pay tuition, but no one is turned away for inability to pay. CRYS receives essential funding from foundations and other organizations in the community. While parents, board members and students all participate in fund raising, support by individuals and local businesses is critical to CRYS’s survival. 

At their recent meeting, board members sent letters to local individuals and businesses requesting their support for the Youth Symphony’s 2012-2013 season.

Among the ways the Youth Symphony expresses appreciation to its contributors is by recognition on its website and in printed concert programs and through complimentary admissions to the Spring Gala Concert on Sunday, May 5, 2013, in the Reg Lenna Civic Center.

Tax-deductible contributions to the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony can be mailed to P.O. Box 3454, Jamestown, NY  14702.

For more information about CRYS and its programs for young musicians, call (716) 664-2465, ext. 202, or visit the website at www.CRYouthSymphony.com.

Organizations that would like to have an ensemble from CRYS perform for them can call (716) 664-2465, ext. 202, or email CRYSymphony@mac.com.

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September 10, 2012

Jamestown, NY – The board of the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony (CRYS) has hired a manager to support the new opportunities planned for their students.

“We are looking forward to an exceptional season for 2012-2013,” said President Tanya Anderson.

She noted that rehearsals for the Chamber Orchestra, the string players of the Youth Symphony, begin on Saturday, September 22, in preparation for their Chamber Concert on Sunday, December 9, at 7 p.m. in Jamestown’s SS. Peter and Paul Church.

Newly-hired manager Julia Herman will supervise rehearsals. 

A graduate of the University of Buffalo with a master’s degree from St. Bonaventure University, Ms. Herman will also arrange concert details, help organize the Youth Symphony’s weekend retreat at Chautauqua Institution in February, and help plan the field trip for all the orchestras to meet the musicians and hear the Pittsburgh Symphony accompany a screening of The Wizard of Oz in Heinz Hall in March.

Under the leadership of Music Director and Conductor Bryan Eckenrode, CRYS offers classical music education and performance opportunities to serious music students from elementary school through college. 

Ms. Herman will also assist Maestro Eckenrode with recruiting students and scheduling ensemble performances at community events. 

Rehearsals for the wind, brass and percussion players of the Youth Symphony, highly talented and motivated musicians ages 13 through 21, will begin in early January. The Young Artists Orchestra, composed of intermediate level musicians, and Prelude Strings, the beginning string orchestra, will also begin rehearsals after the holidays. 

The Youth Symphony and Young Artists Orchestra rehearse on Saturday mornings and Prelude Strings on Friday afternoons. Orchestra students are selected by teacher recommendation. 

All three orchestras will perform at the Spring Gala Concert, scheduled for Sunday, May 5, 2013, in the Reg Lenna Civic Center in downtown Jamestown.  

For information about how your child or student can participate in the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony as well as to schedule ensemble presentations by these young musicians, call (716) 664-2465, ext. 202, or visit www.CRYouthSymphony.com.

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July 11, 2012

Jamestown, NY – The board of the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony (CRYS) is enthusiastic about changes they are making for their 2012-2013 season.

“We took a good look at what is best for our students,” observed board president Tanya Anderson, “and decided that with some schedule adjustments, we could provide them an enhanced experience.”

Under the leadership of Music Director and Conductor Bryan Eckenrode, CRYS offers classical music education and performance opportunities to serious music students from elementary school through college. CRYS students are enrolled in three orchestras: Prelude Strings for beginning string players, Young Artists Orchestra for intermediate students, and the Youth Symphony for highly talented and motivated musicians ages 13 through 21.  

Youth Symphony string players will rehearse on Saturday mornings from mid-September until their Chamber Concert, tentatively set for Sunday, November 18, 2012. In January they will be joined by wind, brass and percussion instrument students. The Youth Symphony and the Young Artists Orchestra will rehearse for the Spring Gala Concert, tentatively scheduled for Sunday, May 5, 2013, in the Reg Lenna Civic Center in downtown Jamestown.  Prelude Strings rehearse on Friday afternoons at Lutheran Social Services.

To increase performance opportunities, more ensemble appearances will be scheduled at community events. 

Plans are underway for a field trip in March to a performance of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra in Heinz Hall. In addition to hearing the PSO accompany a screening of The Wizard of Oz, students will meet with some of the orchestra members.

The CRYS board also reorganized the manager’s position and is accepting applications through July 31. A full job description and application form are on-line at www.CRYouthSymphony.com.

For more information about the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony, visit www.CRYouthSymphony.com. 

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April 25, 2012

Jamestown, NY – Special features will abound during the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony’s Spring Gala Concert celebrating the completion of its 25th season.

Under the direction of conductor and music director Bryan Eckenrode, the 4 p.m. concert on Sunday, May 6 will include performances by Prelude Strings, the beginning string musicians; Young Artists Orchestra, intermediate instrumental students; and the Youth Symphony, highly talented and motivated musicians ages 13 through 20.  

Youth Symphony alumnus Alyssa Schwartz is returning to perform a flute solo with the orchestra. A graduate of Falconer High School and Michigan State University, Ms. Schwartz was principal flute with the MSU Philharmonic Orchestra and Symphony Band. She has won numerous scholarships and competitions, including MSU’s National Honors College Scholarship. She will be attending West Virginia University in the fall to achieve her Master’s Degree in Music Performance.

The concert will mark the premiere of Kenny Hultin’s orchestral arrangement of the classic rock band OneRepublic’s “Secrets.” A Jamestown High School graduate and Youth Symphony alumnus, Hultin will play string bass with the Youth Symphony for the performance. The United Arts Appeal of Chautauqua County recently awarded CRYS a grant for his work. 

Augmenting the Youth Symphony’s bassoon section will be Julie Muckinhaupt Paterniti and Elizabeth Rusch Fetters.

Also a CRYS alumnus, Ms. Paterniti is a graduate of Jamestown High School and SUNY Fredonia. She has performed with the Fredonia Woodwind Quintet Camp, Alfred University Symphony Orchestra, and is currently with the Warren Philharmonic Orchestra. 

Ms. Fetters is joining CRYS for her violinist sister Mary Worley’s final concert. A graduate of Warren Area High School with music degrees from Indiana University of Pennsylvania and Kent State University, Ms. Fetters teaches middle school music for Harford County (Maryland) Public Schools. Among her musical accomplishments are being a founding member of the Upper Chesapeake Wind Ensemble and having numerous articles published on bassoon pedagogy.

Local media personality Dennis Webster will serve as emcee for this special event.

Following the performance, a gala reception will be held on the mezzanine of the theatre.

Tickets for the May 6 concert are $10 presale or $12 at the door for adults; ages 12 and under are $8 presale or $10 at the door, and there is no charge for those five and under. Presale tickets are available from members of the orchestras and the Reg Lenna Civic Center box office, (716) 484-7070.

This concert is funded in part by the New York State Council on the Arts Decentralization Regrant Program administered by the Cattaraugus County Arts Council and the United Arts Appeal of Chautauqua County Projects Pool Grant Program.

For more information about the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony, visit www.CRYouthSymphony.com. 

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April 17, 2012

Jamestown, NY – The Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony (CRYS) is holding “Dine to Make a Difference” on Saturday, April 28. 

“Raising funds is a constant challenge, so we’re especially grateful to Bob Evans for giving us this opportunity to make it so easy for folks to support us,” said President Tanya Anderson.

On Saturday, April 28, for anyone who presents a special flyer when they dine, Bob Evans restaurant will donate 15% of their purchases to the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony. The restaurant, at 2798 North Main Street by the I-86 Exit 12 in Jamestown, is open 6 am to 10 pm.

Flyers are available from any orchestra member or by calling (716) 664-2465, ext. 202. They can also be printed out from the CRYS website, www.cryouthsymphony.com/. 

CRYS sponsors three orchestras: Prelude Strings, the beginning string students; Young Artists Orchestra, intermediate instrumental students; and the Youth Symphony, highly talented and motivated musicians ages 13 through 20.  

All three orchestras have been rehearsing for their Spring Gala Concert on Sunday, May 6 at 4 pm in the Reg Lenna Civic Center in downtown Jamestown. This performance will complete the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony’s 25th season. 

Tickets for the concert are available from orchestra members and at the Reg Lenna Civic Center Box Office, 116 East Third Street, (716) 484-7070.

For more information about the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony, call (716) 664-2465, ext. 202, or visit the website at www.CRYouthSymphony.com.

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April 16, 2012

Jamestown, NY – Board members of the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony (CRYS) are thrilled that one of their musicians has been recognized by the United Arts Appeal of Chautauqua County (UAA).

CRYS is receiving an award from the UAA’s Projects Pool Grant Program for an honorarium for Kenneth Hultin. Hultin has made an orchestral arrangement of the classic rock band OneRepublic’s “Secrets” for performance by the Youth Symphony at their Spring Gala Concert. A celebration of the completion of CRYS’s 25th season, the concert will be on Sunday, May 6 at 4 p.m. at the Reg Lenna Civic Center. 

Descriptions of Hultin by CRYS Music Director and Conductor Bryan Eckenrode as “exceptionally talented” and Jamestown High School Orchestra Director and CRYS vice president Katie Derrenbacher as having “a natural understanding of music” contributed to winning the award.

A 2010 graduate of Jamestown High School, Kenny taught himself to play string bass during the summer before his junior year and was principal chair bass player his remaining two years in high school. 

For the JHS Orchestra’s Awards Concert his senior year, Kenny organized and rehearsed a string ensemble with a drum set  that played his arrangement of a collection of Lady Gaga songs. The video on YouTube (“JHS orchestra performs Lady Gaga Medley”: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h_A6oMoka0g) “went viral” with more than 19,000 hits. At the awards event he received the College of Outstanding Musicians Award and the National School Orchestra Award, “the highest honor you can bestow upon a member of the high school orchestra to recognize excellence in playing and contributions to the ensemble.

Primarily self-taught, Kenny plays guitar, keyboard, upright bass, electric bass, cello, and “dabbles in” other instruments. While at Jamestown Community College during the last academic year, he played in the symphonic band, jazz band and rock ensemble. He has played with the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony since his senior year in high school and is now a member of the Warren Philharmonic Orchestra. 

As a fan of video games, he has made orchestral arrangements of video game music. His works have been performed by the Vivace String Camp at Houghton College, Hamburg Central Schools, and the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony, where he premiered several works. He is working on a commission for the Nichols School in Buffalo.

Unique in our area, the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony offers classical music education and performance opportunities to serious music students from elementary school through college. Under the direction of Maestro Bryan Eckenrode, students are enrolled in CRYS’s three orchestras: Prelude Strings for beginning string musicians, Young Artists Orchestra for intermediate students, and the Youth Symphony for highly talented and motivated musicians ages 12 through 20.  

All three orchestras will be performing at the May 6 concert.

Tickets for the concert are $10 presale or $12 at the door for adults; 12 and under are $8 presale or $10 at the door, and there is no charge for ages five and under. Presale tickets are available from members of the orchestras and the Reg Lenna Civic Center box office, (716) 484-7070.

For more information about the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony, visit www.CRYouthSymphony.com. 

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April 10, 2012

Jamestown, NY – Thanks to the cooperation of several local businesses, members of the three orchestras that are part of the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony (CRYS) will be doing some special fund raising.

On Saturday, April 21, young musicians will greet customers and give them the opportunity to support CRYS at Anderson Cleaners on Hunt Road, Brigiotta’s Farmland Produce and Kmart on Fairmount Avenue, and Little Caesar’s Pizza in the Southside Plaza on Foote Avenue. 

They will be at Brigiotta’s again on Sunday, April 22.

Participants will come from all three orchestras: Prelude Strings, the beginning string musicians; Young Artists Orchestra, intermediate instrumental students; and the Youth Symphony, highly talented and motivated musicians ages 13 through 20.  

These students have all been rehearsing for their Spring Gala Concert on Sunday, May 6 at 4 pm in the Reg Lenna Civic Center in downtown Jamestown. This performance will close the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony’s 25th season. 

Tickets for the concert are available from all orchestra members and at the Reg Lenna Civic Center Box Office, 116 East Third Street, (716) 484-7070.

For more information about the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony, call (716) 664-2465, ext. 202, or visit the website at www.CRYouthSymphony.com. 

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April 3, 2012

Jamestown, NY – “I don’t know what we’d do without the wonderful support of the Community Foundation!”

That was Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony (CRYS) board president Tanya Anderson’s reaction to the recent grant CRYS received from the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation. 

The Community Service Grant was in support of the honorarium for CRYS Conductor and Music Director Bryan Eckenrode. 

Anderson noted that Eckenrode has been the driving force of CRYS since 2003, when there was a single orchestra. Under his leadership, two more orchestras have been formed: Prelude Strings for beginning string musicians and the Young Artists Orchestra for intermediate string, brass, wind and percussion players. The Youth Symphony remains the premier performance group of highly talented and motivated musicians ages 13 through 20.  

All three orchestras are rehearsing now for their Spring Gala Concert on Sunday, May 6 at 4 pm in the Reg Lenna Civic Center in downtown Jamestown. 

“This is a very special event for us,” Anderson said, “as it celebrates the completion of our 25th season. We invite all the community to join us for wonderful music and a beautiful reception afterward.”

Tickets for the concert are available from all orchestra members and at the Reg Lenna Civic Center Box Office, 116 East Third Street, (716) 484-7070.

For more information about the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony, call (716) 664-2465, ext. 202, or visit the website at www.CRYouthSymphony.com. 

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March 26, 2012

Jamestown, NY – The New York State Council on the Arts Decentralization Program is helping the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony (CRYS) celebrate the completion of its 25th Season by awarding a grant for the Spring Gala Concert on Sunday, May 6.

“We are so pleased and grateful,” said CRYS Board President Tanya Anderson. “This award will help us make our concert in the Reg Lenna Civic Center a real celebration!”

The grant program is administered by the Cattaraugus County Arts Council. Youth Symphony Manager Melissa Harrison accepted the $1500 check and Certificate of Appreciation at the recent Award Reception at the Seneca Allegany Administration Building in Salamanca. 

Under the direction Bryan Eckenrode, CRYS offers classical music education and performance opportunities to serious music students from elementary school through college. CRYS students are enrolled in three orchestras: Prelude Strings for beginning string players, Young Artists Orchestra for intermediate musicians, and the Youth Symphony for highly talented and motivated musicians ages 13 through 20. CRYS students are selected by teacher recommendation.

Among the special features of the 4 pm 25th anniversary concert on May 6 will be the inclusion of invited CRYS alumni who are now professional musicians as well as a gala reception following the performance.

For more information about the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony, call (716) 664-2465, ext. 202, or visit www.CRYouthSymphony.com.

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March 1, 2012

Jamestown, NY – With funding provided by the first H. James Abdella Fund for the Arts Award presented by the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation, the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony (CRYS) had a weekend of concentrated study and rehearsals at Chautauqua Institution.

On February 24-25 CRYS conductor and music director Bryan Eckenrode led the Youth Symphony, the organization’s senior orchestra, in an intensive workshop at Chautauqua Institution, preparing for the Spring Gala Concert on May 6. 

Activities for the weekend included full ensemble rehearsals, sectionals with coaches, a pizza party and relaxation, and a performance for parents at the conclusion. The students enjoyed the food and overnight at Chautauqua’s Bellinger Hall. 

Under Eckenrode’s direction, CRYS offers classical music education and performance opportunities to serious music students from elementary school through college. CRYS students are enrolled in three orchestras: Prelude Strings for beginning string players, Young Artists Orchestra for intermediate musicians, and the Youth Symphony for highly talented and motivated musicians ages 13 through 20.  

The Community Foundation also made a recent grant to support Maestro Eckenrode’s annual honorarium.

Rehearsals have begun for all orchestras for the Sunday, May 6 concert in Jamestown’s Reg Lenna Civic Center. CRYS students are selected by teacher recommendation. Teachers and students who would like more information about CRYS and its scholarships are invited to call (716) 664-2465, ext. 202, or visit the website at www.CRYouthSymphony.com.

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February 16, 2012

Jamestown, NY – It was Jim Abdella’s love for and support of the arts that inspired his family to establish the H. James Abdella Fund for the Arts at the Chautauqua Regional Community Foundation.

The musicians of the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony (CRYS) are honored to be the recipients of the first grant from this fund.

“Jim Abdella was such a well-liked and respected member of the Jamestown community,” noted CRYS board president Tanya Anderson. “We hope he would be pleased that his legacy is enabling our most accomplished musicians to hone their skills even further.”

Under the direction of Maestro Bryan Eckenrode, CRYS offers classical music education and performance opportunities to serious music students from elementary school through college. CRYS students are enrolled in three orchestras: Prelude Strings for beginning string players, Young Artists Orchestra for intermediate musicians, and the Youth Symphony for highly talented and motivated musicians ages 13 through 20.  

One aspect of the training for the Youth Symphony is an intense weekend at Chautauqua Institution, filled with full ensemble rehearsals, sectionals with coaches, and a concluding performance for parents. While the students pay tuition to be part of the orchestra, there is no additional fee for this exceptional experience. 

The grant from the H. James Abdella Fund for the Arts will cover a major portion of the costs for the Chautauqua Weekend, to be held February 24-25.

Rehearsals are now beginning for the Spring Gala Concert on Sunday, May 6 at the beautiful Reg Lenna Civic Center in downtown Jamestown. Some scholarship money from a Chautauqua Region Community Foundation grant is still available for students who would like to join Prelude Strings, the Young Artists Orchestra, or the Youth Symphony at this time.

CRYS students are selected by teacher recommendation. Teachers and students who would like more information about CRYS and its scholarships are invited to call (716) 664-2465, ext. 202, or visit the website at www.CRYouthSymphony.com.

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January 31, 2012

Jamestown, NY – If you’re looking for a way to brighten up a winter Sunday afternoon, the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony has just what you need. 

At 4 pm on Sunday, February 12, Jamestown Community College’s Scharmann Theatre will swell with beautiful music from some of the area’s most talented young musicians.

Performing will be the Young Artists Orchestra, composed of intermediate string musicians, and the Youth Symphony, highly talented and motivated musicians ages 14 through 21. 

Maestro Bryan Eckenrode, CRYS music director and conductor, has been rehearsing the groups on music by Schubert, Beethoven, Hasse and more. The two orchestras will combine to play the theme from Star Wars by John Williams and the finale from Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture.

Concert tickets at the door are $7 for adults and $5 for children. Pre-sale tickets for $5 and $3 can be purchased from orchestra members or by calling (716) 664-2465, ext. 202, and leaving a message.

After this performance, Prelude Strings, the CRYS orchestra for beginning string musicians, will start rehearsals for their participation in the Spring Gala concert on May 6. Thanks to a grant from the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation, there is scholarship money available for students who would like to join Prelude Strings, the Young Artists Orchestra or the Youth Symphony.

CRYS students are selected by teacher recommendation. Teachers and students who would like more information about CRYS and its scholarships are invited to call (716) 664-2465, ext. 202, or visit the website at www.CRYouthSymphony.com.

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January 13, 2012

Jamestown, NY – Following a beautiful performance by the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony’s Chamber Orchestra before the holidays, board members recently completed the last step in their 2011-2012 annual fund drive.

“We’ve had a good response to our Annual Fund Drive for our 25th season,” observed Youth Symphony board president Tanya Anderson. “Our recent special mailing to our previous contributors is our final push.”

Each year, up to 100 students are enrolled in CRYS’s three orchestras: Prelude Strings for beginning string players, Young Artists Orchestra for intermediate musicians, and the Youth Symphony for highly talented and motivated musicians ages 13 through 21.  

Under the direction of music director and conductor Bryan Eckenrode, students have learning opportunities that are not available anywhere else in the Chautauqua area, including an intense weekend workshop at Chautauqua Institution.

CRYS musicians are selected by teacher recommendation, and Ms. Anderson noted that there are still openings for qualified students. Teachers and students can get more information about CRYS and its scholarships by calling (716) 664-2465, ext. 202, or visiting www.CRYouthSymphony.com.

The Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony receives critical support from foundations and other organizations in the community. While parents, board members and students participate in fund raising events as well as selling tickets to concerts and program ads, individuals and local businesses are essential to CRYS’s survival. Board members were especially appreciative of a significant individual contribution this season from Jon and Aubin Gren.

Included in the ways CRYS shows appreciation for its contributors are by recognition on its website and in printed concert programs and through complimentary admissions and preferred seating at the Winter and Spring Concerts. The Winter Concert will be at 4 pm on Sunday, February 12, 2012, at Jamestown Community College’s Scharmann Theatre and the Spring Gala on Sunday, May 6, 2012, in the Reg Lenna Civic Center.

Tax-deductible contributions to the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony can be mailed to Post Office Box 3454, Jamestown, NY  14702.

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November 28, 2011

Jamestown, NY – Rehearsals begin this Saturday for two of the orchestras of the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony (CRYS). 

Following their recent chamber concert with selections ranging from Bach’s Brandenburg Concerto to Paint It Black by the Rolling Stones, the string musicians of the Youth Symphony will be joined by advanced brass, wind and percussion players. Their first rehearsal will be December 3 on the stage of the Reg Lenna Civic Center in downtown Jamestown.

Rehearsals also begin at the Reg on Saturday for the intermediate musicians of the Young Artists Orchestra. 

Both groups are led by CRYS music director and conductor Bryan Eckenrode. A celebrated performer and director, Eckenrode has been at the helm of CRYS since 2003, inspiring students with his energy, expertise, experience and enthusiasm.

In addition to perfecting their musical skills through rehearsals, workshops, and performances, CRYS students and their families receive free or reduced admission to concerts presented by the Jamestown Concert Association and the Western New York Chamber Orchestra. Tuition assistance is available thanks to a grant from the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation. 

Students for both these orchestras are selected by teacher recommendation.

Rehearsals begin for CRYS’s third orchestra, Prelude Strings for beginning string musicians, on Friday, February 24 at Lutheran Social Services.

For more information about the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony and opportunities for young musicians, call (716) 664-2465, ext. 202, or visit www.CRYouthSymphony.com.

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November 16, 2011

Jamestown, NY – From Bach’s Brandenburg Concerto to Paint It Black by the Rolling Stones, this Sunday’s (November 20) Chamber Concert by the string musicians of the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony (CRYS) promises something for everyone --  and it’s free!

These highly talented and motivated 13 to 21 year olds, including music students from Jamestown Community College, will perform at 7 pm in the beautiful SS. Peter and Paul Church at 508 Cherry Street in downtown Jamestown.

“We’re grateful for the support we receive from the community,” noted CRYS president Tanya Anderson. “This is our opportunity to offer something in return!”

CRYS music director Bryan Eckenrode will conduct the performance, for which a freewill offering will be taken.

Among the other works on the program will be Monn’s Cello Concerto, Strauss’s Pizzicato Polka, Norman Della Joio’s Choreography, and two arrangements by the group’s bass violinist Kenneth Hultin from the video game Silent Hill.

The Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony has two other performing groups: the Young Artists Orchestra is composed of intermediate level musicians, and Prelude Strings is the beginning strings orchestra. All students are selected by teacher recommendation.

The full Youth Symphony and Young Artists Orchestra begin rehearsals on Saturday, December 3. Prelude rehearsals begin in February. 

In addition to perfecting their musical skills through rehearsals, workshop, and performances, CRYS students and their families receive free or reduced admission to concerts presented by the Jamestown Concert Association and the Western New York Chamber Orchestra. Tuition assistance is available thanks to a grant from the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation. 

For more information about the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony and opportunities for young musicians, call (716) 664-2465, ext. 202, or visit www.CRYouthSymphony.com.

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November 10, 2011

Jamestown, NY – “As we begin the Annual Fund Drive for our 25th season, we’re looking forward to giving back as well.” 

That’s how board president Tanya Anderson described the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony’s (CRYS) fund raising mailing for 2011-2012 and plans for its free Chamber Concert on Sunday, November 20 at 4 pm.

“The Youth Symphony’s string students will open the season with a beautiful performance at SS. Peter and Paul Church. It is our gift to the community,” Anderson added.

This week board members mailed a letter to previous and potential supporters that included an invitation to the performance that is free and open to the public. SS. Peter and Paul Church is at 508 Cherry Street in downtown Jamestown. 

Each year, up to 100 students are enrolled in CRYS’s three orchestras: Prelude Strings for beginning string musicians, Young Artists Orchestra for intermediate musicians, and the Youth Symphony for highly talented and motivated musicians ages 13 through 21.  

Maestro Bryan Eckenrode has been CRYS music director and conductor since 2003. Under his professional leadership, students have learning opportunities that are not available anywhere else in the Chautauqua area.

The Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony receives significant support from foundations and other organizations in the community. And while parents, board members and students participate in several fund raising events in addition to selling tickets to concerts, individuals and local businesses are critical to CRYS’s survival.

Among the ways the Youth Symphony expresses appreciation to its contributors is by recognition on its website and in printed concert programs and through complimentary admissions and preferred seating at the Winter and Spring Concerts. The Winter Concert will be on Sunday, February 12, 2012, at Jamestown Community College’s Scharmann Theatre and the Spring Gala on Sunday, May 6, 2012, in the Reg Lenna Civic Center.

For more information about CRYS and its opportunities for young musicians, call (716) 664-2465, ext. 202, or visit the website at www.CRYouthSymphony.com.

Tax-deductible contributions to the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony can be mailed to Post Office Box 3454, Jamestown, NY  14702.

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November 10, 2011

Jamestown, NY – “As we begin the Annual Fund Drive for our 25th season, we’re looking forward to giving back as well.” 

That’s how board president Tanya Anderson described the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony’s (CRYS) fund raising mailing for 2011-2012 and plans for its free Chamber Concert on Sunday, November 20 at 4 pm.

“The Youth Symphony’s string students will open the season with a beautiful performance at SS. Peter and Paul Church. It is our gift to the community,” Anderson added.

This week board members mailed a letter to previous and potential supporters that included an invitation to the performance that is free and open to the public. SS. Peter and Paul Church is at 508 Cherry Street in downtown Jamestown. 

Each year, up to 100 students are enrolled in CRYS’s three orchestras: Prelude Strings for beginning string musicians, Young Artists Orchestra for intermediate musicians, and the Youth Symphony for highly talented and motivated musicians ages 13 through 21.  

Maestro Bryan Eckenrode has been CRYS music director and conductor since 2003. Under his professional leadership, students have learning opportunities that are not available anywhere else in the Chautauqua area.

The Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony receives significant support from foundations and other organizations in the community. And while parents, board members and students participate in several fund raising events in addition to selling tickets to concerts, individuals and local businesses are critical to CRYS’s survival.

Among the ways the Youth Symphony expresses appreciation to its contributors is by recognition on its website and in printed concert programs and through complimentary admissions and preferred seating at the Winter and Spring Concerts. The Winter Concert will be on Sunday, February 12, 2012, at Jamestown Community College’s Scharmann Theatre and the Spring Gala on Sunday, May 6, 2012, in the Reg Lenna Civic Center.

For more information about CRYS and its opportunities for young musicians, call (716) 664-2465, ext. 202, or visit the website at www.CRYouthSymphony.com.

Tax-deductible contributions to the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony can be mailed to Post Office Box 3454, Jamestown, NY  14702.

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November 3, 2011

Jamestown, NY – The Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony (CRYS) is kicking off its 2011-2012 season with a free concert on Sunday, November 20.

The string players of the Youth Symphony have been rehearsing since September for the Chamber Concert at 7 pm in the beautiful SS. Peter and Paul Church at 508 Cherry Street in downtown Jamestown.

The Chamber Orchestra, composed of highly talented and motivated 13 to 21 year olds, includes students from throughout the area, including music students from Jamestown Community College.

Accomplished musician and CRYS music director Bryan Eckenrode is leading rehearsals and will conduct the performance. 

The Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony has two other performing groups. The Young Artists Orchestra is composed of intermediate level musicians, and the Prelude Strings is the beginning strings orchestra. All students are selected by teacher recommendation.

The full Youth Symphony and Young Artists Orchestra begin rehearsals on Saturday, December 3. Prelude rehearsals begin in February. 

The public is invited to the November 20 Chamber Concert at no charge. A freewill offering will be taken.

For more information about the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony and opportunities for young musicians, call (716) 664-2465, ext. 202, or visit www.CRYouthSymphony.com.

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September 16, 2011

Jamestown, NY – Three new members recently participated in their first meeting of the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony (CRYS) board.

 “As we begin our 25th season, we are delighted to have Michelle Carlson, Anne Dolce and Megan Volpe join us in making this our best year ever!” said President Tanya Anderson.

The string players of the Youth Symphony have begun rehearsals for the opening performance of the season. On Sunday evening, November 20 CRYS’s acclaimed musical director Bryan Eckenrode will conduct the 7 pm Chamber Concert in the beautiful SS. Peter and Paul Church in downtown Jamestown. These highly talented and motivated musicians, aged 13 through 20, include Jamestown Community College students who earn credit for their participation.

The Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony has two other performing groups: the Young Artists Orchestra is composed of intermediate instrumental students, and the Prelude Strings is the beginning strings orchestra. All students are selected by teacher recommendation.

In addition to President Anderson, returning CRYS board members include Katie Derrenbacher, Kathy Geary, Lana Huston, Peter Lindblom, DeeDee Schuver, Judith Stevens, and Laurie Volpe.

The 7 pm November 20 Chamber Concert is free and open to the public. A free will offering will be taken.

For more information about the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony and opportunities for young musicians, call (716) 664-2465, ext. 202 or visit CRYouthSymphony.com.

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September 6, 2011

Jamestown, NY – “We’re really excited that rehearsals are beginning for the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony’s 25th season!”

That’s how CRYS board president Tanya Anderson announced the first rehearsal for the Chamber Orchestra on Saturday morning, September 17 on the stage of the Reg Lenna Civic Center in downtown Jamestown.

Anderson explained that the Chamber Orchestra is composed of the string players from the Youth Symphony, the most advanced of the three orchestras CRYS sponsors. These 12 to 21 year olds, selected by recommendation of their music teachers, will rehearse weekly until their concert on Sunday, November 20, in Jamestown’s SS. Peter and Paul Church. Among this season’s performers are four Jamestown Community College students who will receive ensemble credit for their participation. 

“We are so pleased that Bryan Eckenrode is able to continue as the conductor for all our orchestras,” noted Ms. Anderson. “An acclaimed musician himself, Bryan makes learning their difficult music a fun experience for our students!”

Wind, brass and percussion instrument students will join the rehearsals after Thanksgiving in preparation for the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony Winter Concert on Sunday, February 12, 2012, in JCC’s Scharmann Theatre. The Young Artists Orchestra, composed of intermediate level musicians, will also begin rehearsals then for the same performance.

Prelude Strings, the beginning string orchestra, gets underway in February. Students in both the Young Artists Orchestra and Prelude Strings are also selected by teacher recommendation.

All three orchestras will perform at the Spring Gala on Sunday, May 6, in the Reg Lenna Civic Center. 

Tuition assistance for CRYS students is available through a grant from the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation.

For information about the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony and this remarkable opportunity for young musicians, call (716) 664-2465, ext. 202 or visit CRYouthSymphony.com.

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August 24, 2011

Jamestown, NY – “We’re just thrilled and very grateful for the support we received from Rotary!” 

That’s how President Tanya Anderson expressed the reaction of the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony (CRYS) board to receiving a grant recently from the Rotary Club of Jamestown.  

Anderson continued, “After a very positive 2010-2011 season, we’re adding some new board members this fall and planning to take on new challenges for next season. Rotary’s support gives a real boost to our efforts!” 

Each year, up to 100 or more students are enrolled in CRYS’s three orchestras: Prelude Strings for beginning string musicians, Young Artists Orchestra for intermediate instrumental students, and the Youth Symphony for highly talented and motivated musicians ages 13 through 20. 

All three orchestras are under the direction of accomplished musician and CRYS conductor and music director Bryan Eckenrode. The strings players of the Youth Symphony will begin rehearsals on Saturday, September 17, with their Chamber Orchestra performance opening the new season planned for Sunday evening, November 20 at SS. Peter and Paul Church in downtown Jamestown.  

Thanks to a grant from the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation, scholarship money is available to help students who need tuition assistance.

CRYS students are selected by teacher recommendation. Teachers and students who would like more information about CRYS and its scholarships are invited to call (716) 664-2465, ext. 202, or visit the website at CRYouthSymphony.org.

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April 30, 2011

Jamestown, NY – Rehearsals are intensifying as the date approaches for the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony’s Mother’s Day concert in the Reg Lenna Civic Center.

At 4 pm on Sunday, May 8 all three youth orchestras will offer separate performances then join forces to conclude the program with Solstice, a piece composed for the occasion by prize-winning composer Carmen J. Aquila.

Maestro Bryan Eckenrode, conductor and music director for the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony, will conduct all three orchestras: Prelude Strings, the beginning string musicians; Young Artists Orchestra, intermediate instrumental students; and the Youth Symphony, highly talented and motivated musicians ages 13 through 20.  

After joining the young musicians during their rehearsals to explain the composing process, composer Aquila will be at the concert to address the audience and meet them at a reception in his honor afterward. 

A Music Instructor and Program Coordinator of the Music Department at Villa Maria College of Buffalo, Aquila’s works and orchestrations have been performed in places as diverse as Toledo, Ohio and Beijing, China. A graduate of SUNY Fredonia and Bowling Green State University, he receives commissions regularly as a composer and orchestrator and also teaches piano and voice privately. 

Tickets for the May 8 event are $10 presale or $12 at the door; ages 12 and under are $8 presale or $10 at the door. Children five and under are free. Presale tickets are available from members of the orchestras and the Reg Lenna Civic Center box office (716.484.7070).

This concert is made possible in part by support from the United Arts Appeal of Chautauqua County Projects Pool Grant Program and the Judith J. Anderson Family Foundation.

For more information about the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony, visit www.CRYouthSymphony.com. 

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April 21, 2011

Jamestown, NY – The highlight of the Mother’s Day concert in the Reg Lenna Civic Center will the performance by all three Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony (CRYS) orchestras of Solstice, a piece composed just for the occasion by prize-winning composer Carmen J. Aquila.

“We are so honored that the United Arts Appeal of Chautauqua County has awarded a grant to support our Meet the Composer project,” said CRYS board President Tanya Anderson. “This is truly a wonderful opportunity for our young musicians!”

Ms. Anderson noted that an earlier grant was awarded by the Judith J. Anderson Family Foundation. 

Under the direction of conductor and music director Bryan Eckenrode, the 4:00 pm concert on Sunday, May 8 will feature performances by Prelude Strings, the beginning string musicians; Young Artists Orchestra, intermediate instrumental students; and the Youth Symphony, highly talented and motivated musicians ages 13 through 20.  

In rehearsals preceding the concert, Mr. Aquila will meet with the orchestra members and discuss the composing process. He will address the audience before the performance of his composition at the concert, and it will be followed by a reception in his honor.

“I am very excited to be working with these fine young musicians under so gifted a conductor as Bryan Eckenrode,” Aquila observed.  “It has been a rewarding challenge to compose Solstice for them, and I look forward to the rehearsals and performance.

A Music Instructor and Program Coordinator of the Music Department at Villa Maria College of Buffalo, Aquila’s works and orchestrations have been performed in places as diverse as Toledo, Ohio and Beijing, China. In addition to receiving commissions regularly as a composer and orchestrator, he also teaches piano and voice privately.

Aquila earned his Bachelor of Music in composition with honors from the State University of New York at Fredonia and his Masters in Music in composition was awarded with honors from Bowling Green State University. His compositions have received notable awards, including the Cleveland Chamber Symphony’s “Music by Emerging Composers.”

Tickets for the May 8 event are $10 presale or $12 at the door for adults; 12 and under are $8 presale or $10 at the door, and there is no charge for ages five and under. Presale tickets are available from members of the orchestras and the box office of the Reg Lenna Civic Center.

For more information about the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony, visit www.CRYouthSymphony.com. 

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April 14, 2011

Jamestown, NY – The Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony’s conductor and music director led an exciting weekend of music study recently with the organization’s senior orchestra.

Bryan Eckenrode directed the Youth Symphony, highly talented and motivated musicians ages 13 through 20, in an intensive workshop at Chautauqua Institution, preparing for the Spring Gala Concert on Mother’s Day, May 8, in the Reg Lenna Civic Center.

The Chautauqua Weekend was made possible in part by funding from the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation. In addition, the Community Foundation also made a grant in support of Maestro Eckenrode’s honorarium.

"This was such an amazing opportunity for our students, and we're so grateful to the Community Foundation for helping make it possible," said Katherine Derrenbacher, vice president of the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony (CRYS) board and the organizer of the weekend. “Bryan is both an exceptional musician and a wonderful teacher -- you can almost see our students grow under his leadership!” 

Activities for the weekend included full ensemble rehearsals, sectionals with coaches, a pizza party and relaxation, and a demonstration for parents at the conclusion. The students enjoyed the food and overnight at Chautauqua’s Bellinger Hall. 

CRYS students are selected by teacher recommendation. Teachers and students who would like more information about CRYS and its scholarships are invited to call (716) 664-2465, ext. 202, or visit the website at web.mac.com/crysymphony/CRYS_Web_Site/Home.html.

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March 16, 2011

Jamestown, NY – “It’s a wonderful day when there are two checks from local foundations in the Youth Symphony mailbox!

That’s how Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony (CRYS) board president Tanya Anderson expressed her delight at receiving grants from both the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation and the Judith J. Anderson Family Foundation.  

The Community Service Grant from the Community Foundation will go toward the honorarium for CRYS’s Conductor and Music Director Bryan Eckenrode. 

“Bryan is an amazingly accomplished musician who is able to engage and inspire our young musicians,” Anderson noted. “We are incredibly fortunate to have someone of his caliber working with our students.”

Each year, up to 100 students are enrolled in CRYS’s three orchestras: Prelude Strings for beginning string musicians, Young Artists Orchestra for intermediate string musicians, and the Youth Symphony for highly talented and motivated musicians ages 12 through 20.

The grant from the Judith J. Anderson Family Foundation supports the Meet the Composer project that will be a special feature of CRYS’s Spring Gala Concert on Mother’s Day, May 8, at 4 pm in the Reg Lenna Civic Center in downtown Jamestown. As the culmination of that event, prize-winning composer Carmen J. Aquila of Buffalo’s Villa Maria College will conduct all three orchestras in the joint performance of a special work he is composing for the occasion.

Because of an earlier grant from the Community Foundation, there is scholarship money available for prospective orchestra members. “It’s not too late,” Anderson observed. “Students who would like to participate in a CRYS orchestra, including those needing financial assistance, should contact us immediately.” 

CRYS students are selected by teacher recommendation. Teachers and students who would like more information about CRYS and its scholarships are invited to call (716) 664-2465, ext. 202, or visit the website at web.mac.com/crysymphony/CRYS_Web_Site/Home.html. 

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February 7, 2011

Jamestown, NY – Whether your Valentine is your spouse, a friend, a grandparent or other relative, here’s a sure-to-please way to celebrate a special day with them: take them to the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony (CRYS) Winter Concert!

At 4 pm next Sunday afternoon (February 13), Jamestown Community College’s Scharmann Theatre will swell with beautiful sounds from some of the area’s most talented young musicians.

In extending the invitation to the community to enjoy the concert, CRYS board president Tanya Anderson observed, “I guarantee that if you’ve never heard the CRYS orchestras before, you’ll be amazed at the quality of their musicianship and the professionalism of their presentation!”

Performing will be the Young Artists Orchestra, composed of intermediate string musicians, and the Youth Symphony, highly talented and motivated musicians ages 12 through 20. 

Maestro Bryan Eckenrode, CRYS music director and conductor, has been rehearsing the groups on music by Grieg, Rachmaninoff, Mussorgsky, Offenbach, Gershwin and more. 

Prelude Strings, the CRYS orchestra for beginning string musicians, starts rehearsals next week for the Spring Gala concert on May 8. Thanks to a recent grant from the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation, there is scholarship money available for students who would like to join Prelude Strings as well as the Young Artists Orchestra or the Youth Symphony.

Concert tickets at the door are $7 for adults and $5 for children. Pre-sale tickets for $5 and $3 can be purchased from orchestra members or by calling (716) 664-2465, ext. 202, and leaving a message.

CRYS students are selected by teacher recommendation. Teachers and students who would like more information about CRYS and its scholarships are invited to call (716) 664-2465, ext. 202, or visit the website at web.mac.com/crysymphony/CRYS_Web_Site/Home.html.

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February 2, 2011

Jamestown, NY – Thanks to a grant from the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation, the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony (CRYS) has scholarship money available to offer prospective orchestra members. 

Each year, up to 100 or more students are enrolled in CRYS’s three orchestras: Prelude Strings for beginning string musicians, Young Artists Orchestra for intermediate string musicians, and the Youth Symphony for highly talented and motivated musicians ages 12 through 20. 

In announcing scholarship availability, CRYS board President Tanya Anderson said, “The Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony board is so grateful to the Community Foundation for providing scholarship money for prospective orchestra members. Many families are struggling during these challenging economic times, and we’re thrilled to be able to offer this wonderful opportunity to all young musicians, not only those with financial means.”  

The Young Artists Orchestra and the Youth Symphony members are hard at work rehearsing for their Winter Concert on Sunday, February 13, in Jamestown Community College’s Scharmann Theatre. Maestro Bryan Eckenrode, CRYS music director and conductor, will conduct the 4 pm performance. 

CRYS students are selected by teacher recommendation. Teachers and students who would like more information about CRYS and its scholarships are invited to call (716) 664-2465, ext. 202, or visit the website at web.mac.com/crysymphony/CRYS_Web_Site/Home.html.

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January 24, 2011

Jamestown, NY – The Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony (CRYS) recently appointed Melissa Ferraloro to manage the Youth Symphony and Megan Shay, the Young Artists Orchestra. 

“As our students prepare for their Winter Concert, it’s great to have our new managers on board,” said CRYS board President Tanya Anderson. 

The Young Artists Orchestra and the Youth Symphony members are hard at work rehearsing for the Winter Concert on Sunday, February 13, in Jamestown Community College’s Scharmann Theatre.

Maestro Bryan Eckenrode, CRYS music director and conductor, will conduct the 4 pm performance.

Each year, up to 100 students are enrolled in CRYS’s three orchestras: Prelude Strings for beginning string musicians, Young Artists Orchestra for intermediate string musicians, and the Youth Symphony for highly talented and motivated musicians ages 12 through 20.  

“CRYS is just about to complete a very successful Annual Fund drive,” Anderson added, “which may have been inspired by the beautiful performance of the Youth Symphony’s string students at last fall’s season-opening Chamber Concert.” She stated that CRYS is especially grateful to the Sheldon Foundation for its generous Director's Discretionary Grant on behalf of Alexis Singleton.

Among the ways the Youth Symphony recognizes its contributors is by naming them on its website and in printed concert programs and through complimentary admissions and preferred seating at performances. Anderson noted that tax-deductible contributions are still greatly appreciated and can be sent to the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony, P.O. Box 3454, Jamestown, NY  14702.

Tickets for the February 13 concert are $5 pre-sale for adults ($7 at the door) and $3 for children ($5 at the door). Prior to the concert, they can be purchased from orchestra members or by leaving a message at (716) 664-2465, ext. 202.

For more information about CRYS and its opportunities for young musicians, call (716) 664-2465, ext. 202, or visit the website at web.mac.com/crysymphony/CRYS_Web_Site/Home.html.

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November 30, 2010

Jamestown, NY – “We’re already seeing a great response – it’s really exciting!” 

That’s how board president Tanya Anderson described the initial returns to the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony (CRYS) mailing for its 2010-2011 annual fund drive. 

“The Youth Symphony’s string students opened the season beautifully at our recent Chamber Concert, which may have inspired this strong support,” Anderson added.

Each year, up to 100 students are enrolled in CRYS’s three orchestras: Prelude Strings for beginning string musicians, Young Artists Orchestra for intermediate string musicians, and the Youth Symphony for highly talented and motivated musicians ages 12 through 20.  

Maestro Bryan Eckenrode has been CRYS music director and conductor since 2003. Under his professional leadership, students have learning opportunities that are not available anywhere else in the Chautauqua area.

While the students, parents and board members engage in a number of fund raising events in addition to selling tickets to their performances and CRYS receives significant support from foundations and other organizations in the community, individuals and local businesses are important to its success.

“In this season of giving, the Youth Symphony will be especially grateful to those who remember us during our annual fund drive,” Anderson concluded.

Among the ways the Youth Symphony expresses appreciation to its contributors is by recognition on its website and in printed concert programs and through complimentary admissions and preferred seating at performances. 

The Winter Concert will be on Sunday, February 13, 2011, at Jamestown Community College’s Scharmann Theatre. The Spring Gala Concert will be on Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 8, 2011, in the Reg Lenna Civic Center.

For more information about CRYS and its opportunities for young musicians, call (716) 664-2465, ext. 202, or visit the website at web.mac.com/crysymphony/CRYS_Web_Site/Home.html.

Tax-deductible contributions to the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony can be mailed to Post Office Box 3454, Jamestown, NY  14702.

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November 10, 2010

Jamestown, NY – The Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony (CRYS) is kicking off its 2010-2011 season with a free concert on Sunday, November 21, featuring the string players of the Youth Symphony. 

“The community supports us, and we want to offer something in return,” noted CRYS treasurer Judith Stevens. “It’s also very motivating for our most advanced students to have a performance opportunity so early in the season!”

Accomplished musician and CRYS musical director Bryan Eckenrode will conduct the 7 pm Chamber Concert in the beautiful SS. Peter and Paul Church at 508 Cherry Street in downtown Jamestown.. 

The Chamber Orchestra, composed of highly talented and motivated 12 to 20 year olds, includes students from throughout the area as well as several Jamestown Community College students.

The Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony has two other performing groups. The Young Artists Orchestra is composed of intermediate level musicians, and the Prelude Strings is the beginning strings orchestra. All students are selected by teacher recommendation.

The public is invited to the November 21 Chamber Concert at no charge. A free will offering will be taken.

For more information about the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony and opportunities for young musicians, call (716) 664-2465, ext. 202.

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November 3, 2010

Jamestown, NY – The new members of the board of the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony (CRYS) are looking forward to an exciting season.

“With our first performance on Sunday, November 21, it’s great to have Kathy Geary, Dee Dee Schuver and Laurie Volpe on board to help ensure its success!” noted President Tanya Anderson.

CRYS’s acclaimed musical director Bryan Eckenrode will conduct the 7 pm Chamber Concert in the beautiful SS. Peter and Paul Church at 508 Cherry Street in downtown Jamestown.. 

The Chamber Orchestra, the string players of the Youth Symphony, will be featured in this opening performance of the season. These 12 to 21 year olds are exceptional musicians and include Jamestown Community College students. 

The Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony has two other performing groups. The Young Artists Orchestra is composed of intermediate level musicians, and the Prelude Strings is the beginning strings orchestra. All students are selected by teacher recommendation.

In addition to President Anderson, returning CRYS board members are Katie Derrenbacher, Lana Huston, Peter Lindblom and Judith Stevens.

The November 21 Chamber Concert is open to the public. A free will offering will be taken.

For more information about the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony and opportunities for young musicians, call (716) 664-2465, ext. 202.

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September 15, 2010

Jamestown, NY – “The Reg is a magnificent performance hall: right from the start, the talented young musicians of the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony are in a setting that inspires their best efforts!” 

That’s how board vice president Katie Derrenbacher described the beginning of the Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony’s 24th season, starting this Saturday (September 18) with its Chamber Orchestra’s first rehearsal on the stage of the Reg Lenna Civic Center in downtown Jamestown.

“And we are so fortunate to have Bryan Eckenrode as the conductor for all our orchestras,” added Mrs. Derrenbacher. “Not only is he acclaimed throughout the region for his musicianship, he is able to make learning challenging music a fun experience!”

Mrs. Derrenbacher noted that the Chamber Orchestra’s string players, 12 to 21 year olds on approval of their music teachers, will rehearse weekly until their concert on Sunday, November 21, at SS. Peter and Paul Church. Among this season’s performers are four Jamestown Community College students who will receive ensemble credit for their participation. 

Wind students will join the rehearsals after Thanksgiving in preparation for a Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony concert on Sunday, February 13, 2011, in JCC’s Scharmann Theatre. The Young Artists Orchestra, composed of intermediate level musicians, will also begin rehearsals for the same performance.

Prelude Strings, the beginning string orchestra, gets underway in February. Students in both the Young Artists Orchestra and Prelude Strings are selected by teacher recommendation.

All three orchestras will perform at the Spring Gala on Sunday, May 8, in the Reg Lenna Civic Center. 

For information about Chautauqua Regional Youth Symphony tuition and polishing the skills of young musicians, call (716) 664-2465, ext. 202.