I first heard about the Philharmonic Association one year ago, while I was a junior in high school. I was currently enrolled in the Beginning Strings class of Cary High School, taught by Ms. Partridge. She let me and my sister (who was also a beginner at the time) know about TYSO, which she thought would be great for us to participate in. She was certainly right! It was one of the best experiences of my life as a new string player. The conductors were all so nice and giving, and the children seemed very eager and excited to play. It was my first time playing with an actual orchestra besides my little Beginning Strings orchestra.
Later the following year, while I progressed with my bass, Ms. Partridge thought my sister and I were ready for TYS, which is one level below the highest, TYP. Not even having a year's experience with bass, I was both thrilled and terrified! It was my very first audition, and - like any other self-conscious player - I thought I did terribly and cried the whole way home! But just a few weeks later, I found out that those tears were unnecessary, because I received the news that I was first chair bassist! Co-Principal chair! This has been the greatest accomplishment I've ever achieved. I couldn't have been more thrilled.
I met great players, and was amazed at everyone's abilities. Playing beautiful pieces of music with a room full of other eager musicians was very exciting, and it has been the greatest musical experience of my life. I'm so grateful to PA that they offer this to young musicians. Without them, I wouldn't have gotten where I am today (which is still Co-Principal bassist for TYS)!