The Philharmonic Association encourages young musicians providing them challenging support to grow their musical talents. My daughters were challenged at each orchestra level they participated in while playing engaging music. The performances were wonderful; it is amazing what the talented conductors can coach the young musicians to play. This organization deepened the musical knowledge and interest of myself and both of my daughters. I highly recommend supporting this nonprofit and attending the concerts!
This is a wonderful organization that offers significant benefits to the young musicians in our community. My daughters participated for many years and were challenged as they learned to play some beautiful music. Both of them appreciated the chance to play with their talented musician peers and have fun doing it.
I first discovered the Philharmonic Association when I was searching for a musical enrichment experience above and beyond school band for my young oboist. We were thrilled with the experience she enjoyed in Triangle Symphony. That was 9 years ago. Since then, my other two have loved their experiences in TYO, TYS and now TYP. As a parent, it's been thrilling to see how much the musicians grow throughout the season under the expert guidance of the Philharmonic Association staff.
The musicans can participate in string orchestras, full symphony orchestras, smaller chamber groups, and jazz ensembles. The level of performance is really outstanding. I love watching all the groups perform - the programming of the artistic staff keeps my kids interested and challenged and wanting to return for more year after year.
It's been rewarding to volunteer and to serve on the board of this wonderful nonprofit
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I first became aware of the Philharmonic Association when I was searching for a beyond band experience for my young musician. We joined the PA 5 years ago, and I was very impressed with the experience my child was getting in the Triangle Youth Symphony. She moved up to the Triangle Youth Philharmonic as her abilities increased. My two younger children now play in the Triangle Youth Orchestra. I was very impressed with the organization, and since have held many various volunteer positions and now volunteer on the Board of Directors.
The experiences my children, and all our young musicians are getting through the mission of the Philharmonic Association are outstanding. They are exposed to great classical music, they have the challenge of learning their individual parts, they learn how to play as part of an ensemble, and they learn responsibility to be prepared for rehearsals, and to cooperate as part of a large group.
I am always amazed at how wonderful the children sound at their concerts. Sitting in the audience, watching my young performers on the big stage at Meymandi Concert Hall is a real thrill for me, and always sends shivers down my spine. The enjoyment my children get, the lessons they are learning, and the exposure to great works of classical music are invaluable.
I have been a member of the Philharmonic Association's music ensembles for the past 6 years. I am currently in the Triangle Youth Philharmonic. This organization has given me the means to challenge myself and has helped me reach my full musical potential. That is something that no other music program has done and I am so thankful to be a part of the Philharmonic Association.
The NC Philharmonic Association is an outstanding organization! Our son has enjoyed his time with the Triangle Youth Jazz Ensemble immensely. He has learned a great deal and grown so much as a musician by playing with this group and from his director, Dr. Gregg Gelb. I also commend the operations leadership for their professionalism and dedication to the youth of the area. We are very grateful to have found this non-profit!
I have had the privilege of serving on the board of the Philharmonic Association (PA) for a number of years. The PA is an incredible organization that serves approximately 500 students who play musical instruments in eight orchestras and jazz ensembles as well as in a number of smaller ensembles. The organization fills a need that is often left unmet by the students' schools and provides professional instruction at the highest level. "The mission of the Philharmonic Association is to provide an opportunity for young musicians to learn, understand, and perform great symphonic and jazz music, to provide professional training to promote the students’ participation in and lifelong understanding and love of great symphonic and jazz music, and to increase family awareness and community interest to ensure continuing appreciation of, participation in, and financial support of these musical activities". The PA offers financial assistance to those who cannot afford to pay the participation fee and serves a very culturally and economically diverse student population.The PA operates on a shoestring budget with a limited staff, careful budgeting and planning and depends on donations and grants for funding in addition to concert revenue and participation fees. I know of no other organization that uses its resources more wisely and produces such a wonderful "product."
This is my son's third year with the PA and he plays with two of their ensembles. He plays trumpet with the Triangle Youth Jazz Ensemble II and he plays french horn with the Triangle Youth Philharmonic. This is also my third year volunteering and serving as Parent Coordinator for the TYJE II. I love the opportunities that the PA provides for so many children and it gives the the outlet to take their talent to the next level. During my three years with the PA I have watched these young musicians grow and flourish. The talent and professionalism that is demonstrated by the musicians at the concerts is breathtaking. I am so blessed to be a part of this amazing organization.
My relationship with this outstanding organization goes back almost to it's beginning even 'tho I've never had a child involved. The magnitude of the benefits to our youth who are involved with the PA cannot be summarized in a brief paragraph but know that these kids are learning so much about life, music, social interaction among many cultures, as well as personal discipline and growth and that is creating a solid foundation as they go "out into the world". With so many of the arts being cut from public school funding, it is vital that our youth have outlets for their time, talents and creativity and the PA provides exactly that for hundreds and hundreds of students. Their experiences will last a lifetime as well as careers for those who choose a music-related path.
Kay Struffolino
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The Philharmonic Association provides a phenomenal opportunity for young musicians to experience, learn and grow in the world of music. It provides professional leadership and conductors as well as personal coaching to help the kids become more comfortable with their talent and abilities while growing as musicians. The PA also provides opportunities for these musicians to experience small ensemble and large orchestra performing and, when the time comes, access to scholarships as many of them continue their music studies in college or in careers in music as performers or teachers. The PA serves over 400 of our youth each year and along with all things musical, also teaches them in many other behavioral and social areas helping to create a well-rounded student. I've watched the Artistic Director and the Executive Director work tirelessly with these young people to encourage them to be the best they can be and grow this organization as much as possible. While our schools are needing to drop so many programs in the arts.......it is filling a huge need while providing a fabulous cultural resource to the community.
I recently joined the Board of Trustees of the Philharmonic Association after volunteering in various capacities during my son's participation in three of the Association's progressive orchestras during his development as a cellist.
The PA is the primary vehicle through which developing musicians in the Research Triangle area experience orchestral training at a high level, comparable to that of youth orchestras in larger metropolitan areas of the country. The Association is exceedingly well run by Hugh and Margaret Partridge. No young person who meets the audition standards is turned away for inability to pay the tuition (which is modest for all). Standards are high, as appropriate to the skill level of the orchestra, for every sponsored group. A number of the alumni of the PA have gone on to conservatory training, and are now playing professionally in major orchestras.
It is fitting that an area as culturally and educationally rich as the Research Triangle should have an association of youth orchestras of the caliber of the PA. Having served on nearly two dozen nonprofit boards (and having acted as legal counsel to many of them), including the board of the North Carolina Symphony, I can say without reservation that I am privileged to serve the PA as a board member.
I have the privilege to serve on the Board of this Association. I am also a Cellist and had the opportunity to be involved with Youth Orchestras here and abroad.This Association is unique as to its beneficial contribution at the highest artistic level to numerous young musicians whether they contemplate or not to become professional musicians. In fact several of our "graduates" are now young professionals. ILiving in a culture which ,unfortunately, is increasingly hostile to this classical formation this Association offers to these young people a unique opportunity. This whole community should be grateful for that .
Reginald DeMatteis
My child has participated in Philharmonic Association programs since 2011. He has been involved in 4 different orchestras within the PA and each year has grown in his musicianship, technical skills, responsibility and love of music. Opportunities like this can not be provided without the huge commitment and sacrifice of its leadership who year after year continue to support the youth of this community.
There is room for every musician to participate regardless of skill level or ability to pay. Children find a community of other musicians who support and encourage them and life-long friendships are made. Young musicians get to experience what participation in a professional orchestra would be like.
I would thoroughly encourage any young area musicians to become involved in one of the many PA programs. The concerts are a wonderful capstone experience where the community can see our youth showcase their hard work and talent.
We are very lucky to have the Philharmonic Association in our area.
The Philharmonic Association is a true gift to the young musicians in our community. It offers so many different groups to participate in with fantastic, caring conductors. It truly raises the bar for musicianship for the participating musicians, and inspires and encourages them to do and be so much more than merely participating in a school music program. As the parent of several musicians, I know that most kids want to be able to perform, and the Philharmonic gives this opportunity to all its musicians.
The Philharmonic Association gives young musicians a fantastic opportunity to play challenging music in a full size orchestra at different levels of experience under guidance of accomplished professional. At every level they raise the bar and it is amazing to see the improvement the young musicians make in a single year. The performances are wonderful and getting to play in a beautiful venue like Memandy Hall is an amazing opportunity for the young musicians. The staff members ares extremely dedicated and are continuously looking for ways to broaden the participants horizon. If you live in the area go and listen to one of the upcoming performances, you will be blown away.
The Philharmonic Association is dedicated to giving young people of all ability levels the chance to experience high quality music programs they cannot get in any other way. They have high standards for the kids and for their staff and everyone rises to meet them. Nothing is dumbed down for these musicians—they are playing the best music under the best conductors.
My children have been involved in TYSO, TYO, TYS, and TYP and have truly loved working as a team with their peers. They enjoy rehearsals, but the absolute gem of the whole experience is getting to play in Meymandi Hall for their concerts! These opportunities are irreplaceable, and would not happen without the PA. We're so grateful to the Partridges and their staff for their continual work and sacrifice for the young people of this community.
When I was in high school, the opportunity to be a member of an excellent youth orchestra came my way, and the experience has stayed with me all my life. So I happily accepted a Board nomination with the Philharmonic Association 3 years ago. The PA does so much MORE for young musicians than the organization I was a part of back in high school. They always seek to expand programs or create new ones to fill needs - needs which are many because our local school system cannot provide this kind of orchestral experience for young musicians. Currently, the PA sponsors 4 levels of orchestras and a jazz ensemble. I attended the top group's spring concert a few weeks ago and was amazed at the quality - if I closed my eyes I thought I was listening to a professional orchestra. And yet, the mission of the PA is not at all to exclusively train future professional musicians. The PA is more about creating the next audience for classical music, the next Board members, the next donors - in general, the next generation of those who appreciate classical music
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I had been aware of the work the Philharmonic Association (PA) for years because of my own membership during my high school years in a youth orchestra. Only in the last few years, when I joined their Board of Directors, did I really come to understand the need this organization fills. Today schools are pushed to emphasize academic subject more and more. So often the arts are either minimized by only being offered as extracurricular activities or not offered at all. In our area, this is especially true for school orchestras. String programs have suffered cuts, and many school don't offer an orchestra experience at all.
The PA fills this void with not one, but four youth orchestras, geared to student ability, where young musicians learn and perform great orchestral works of the past and present. In addition, they sponsor a jazz ensemble that similarly allows exploration of the big band repertoire.
A unique aspect of the PA that is especially important to me is their emphasis on education. Many youth orchestras operate as pre-professional orchestras, with a primary mission of preparing their members for orchestral careers. The PA takes a broader view. Yes, a percentage of PA members do go on to become college music majors with plans for careers in music. But equally, if not more, important is their mission to create a lifelong love of and participation in music by the students. The PA creates career musicians, but also future parents who will foster a love of music in their children, future audience members, future community arts volunteers, future Board members, and future donors.
I'm very proud to be associated with them.
Gregg Gelb has done an outstanding job with the TYJE. He raises the bar to their performance, knowledge and creative problem solving. He has introduced a young singer to the group which has been an outstanding growth on the part of the students to patiently hear and tailor their style. This group makes corporate projects a breeze - because the kids are so different with different instruments including vocals- but must work together. It is deserving of a graduate thesis study. As public monies evaporate, this group needs to be known by all to provide that creative problem solving at the highest level.
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We are newcomers to this wonderful organization and are thrilled to be part of it! This Group performs alot and has fun. They sound like professionals but he Triangle Youth Jazz Ensemble recognizes that they still are still high school students. It is a nurturing and supportive environment for very talented musicians and students. Many of these students have numerous skills that make them "stand-outs" not only in this group but also at school, debate, Band, sports, youth choir and studies. Gregg Gelb does a wonderful job of encouraging the musicians overall musical talents while balancing these other academic and service attributes.
Only the highest PRAISE for Margaret Partridge and the Triangle Youth Jazz Ensemble! Our 20th Anniversary Celebration for the Center for Volunteer Caregiving was a terrific success and the Triangle Youth Jazz Ensemble Quartet had a significant role in making it so! The musicians were so professional and their musical selections were lively and fun. They really set the tone for an enjoyable evening. Working with Margaret was a dream come true- within 24 hours and in our time of need she coordinated and arranged for the Ensemble to play for us. We are absolutely delighted to have had the pleasure of working with this fine group!
Hugh and Margaret Partridge are providing a very fine service to the Raleigh area with the Philharmonic Association and all the youth ensembles it sponsors. Having known and worked with the Partridges for many years, I have seen first-hand their dedication and commitment to the young musicians in our area. They are impacting in a very positive way the lives of hundreds of music students. As a professional musician, I am keenly aware of the importance of educating future generations to appreciate and support live classical music. The Philharmonic Association most assuredly deserves your continued support.
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Having known the Partridge's for many years (30+) as friends and colleagues, I highly commend them for their outstanding contribution to music education in the Triangle area. As a violin student growing up in
southern California, I enjoyed many opportunities to play in youth orchestras and in orchestras for young professionals. Now, as a member of the North Carolina Symphony (35 years) and as a violin teacher, I can look back on my student years and realize the invaluable training and mentoring I received from giving and caring
educators.
All of which is to say that Hugh and Margaret Partridge are providing in the Raleigh area a wonderful opportunity for young musicians to come together in a very professional environment to learn the skills and discipline needed to play in an orchestra. Without the Philharmonic Association, this opportunity for our young musicians would not exist.
I have been directly associated with the Philharmonic Association as
a coach and as an audition adjudicator; also, some of my own private
students have played and are currently playing in Mr. Partridge's orchestras.
Demanding a lot from his players, Mr. Partridge gives them the awareness of what is required of a serious musician. The results
are seen and heard by the high quality of their performances. Some of my students who have played under Partridge have gone on to pursue
music as a profession; I am truly grateful for the experience and training they received.
Bravo to the Partridge's and the Philharmonic Association!
Eric McCracken, Violinist, North Carolina Symphony
My child has been a member of one of the ensembles of the Philharmonic Association for the last seven years. It has been an exceptional experience from having friends with similar interests to learning advanced music in a quality environment. This is an organization that takes up all the slack that our education system cannot cover because funding for music and the arts have been cut so drastically in the last few years. It is extremely beneficial in giving a music education to the individuals that want to pursue music to those who love it but will be come professionals in other careers. The individuals who run the program (especially Mr. and Mrs. Partridge) are extremely dedicated to giving the best possible experience for all the participants and the performances. This program never turns away any musician due to the lack of the ability to pay the fee required to play. This is very honorable and enables many students to have this great education no matter what they can afford. This is something that we should all applaud and support. There are many wonderful volunteers and incredible conductors that help make the program successful. The PA is run well and very efficiently. Please support them by coming to a concert!
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The Philharmonic Association is located in Raleigh, NC, and it is an organization that has six musical ensembles. Three of the ensembles are youth symphonies, two are string orchestras, and the sixth is a jazz ensemble of high school aged youth. The five orchestra/symphony ensembles study and perform classical music. With music education being decreased for our children in the public school system, I see the PA (Philharmonic Association) as an ESSENTIAL part of our community. I can write forever on the benefit of musical studies for students of any age; it truly develops the mind and makes children smarter. Because of the multiple levels of the PA ensembles, all children have an opportunity to learn and study classical music in an orchestra setting. The PA does not discriminate in any way with respect to someone not being able to afford the cost of participation. The PA will find a way for someone who gets into an orchestra to be able to participate; they waive fees for those who cannot afford them. That is such an honorable and great commitment and needs support from all of us. The PA works with the North Carolina Symphony enabling ensembles to have two rehearsals with an NCS coach for each orchestral section. In addition, the three top ensembles perform at the same venue as the NC Symphony. This is a great way for the young musicians to see what it is like to perform in a professional orchestra setting. Playing in a musical ensemble is a team sport for many of the youth and a great way to meet, socialize, and develop friendships with others who have similar interests and are from all over the area. The concerts are a joy for the audience as well as those performing. Many of our community come to see these young musicians as a way of enjoying classical music. The PA nurtures classical music and the minds of our children. Lastly, there are many dedicated people behind the scenes of the PA. Some of which are the conductors who give hours of their time and commitment to provide the young musicians with the best experience possible. The Philharmonic Association helps young people to develop not only as musicians but as well-rounded individuals. This is an association that I strongly support!
I've been a musician for over 40 years. Performing and composing. I feel that having this opportunity for these young adults cannot be under valued. Not only are they being exposed to classic compositions but compositions that I did not get a chance to learn until college. What a great thing. And for me the possibility that my son may decide to continue as a musician reinforces my desire to make these Sunday afternoon rehersals. Plus I get a free concert! Thanks for all you do.
Over the past year, I have had the pleasure of being involved with the Philharmonic Association, my daughter (age 10) having joined the Triangle Youth Orchestra as a violinist. I have been involved in many organizations over the years, but I must say that the Philharmonic Association is exceptional in all aspect. I have seen the dedication and passion exhibited by the leaders of the Association. I have also seen the pursuit for excellence in all that they do. The expectations for the students are high, but the yield is remarkable. Speaking from personal experience, I have seen my daughter flourish in her music since being involved with the Philharmonic Association. This is certainly an organization worthy of the title "Great Nonprofit".
I am a professional musician and teacher in the Raleigh/ Triangle area of NC. I have been playing and teaching here since 1975. Since the Philharmonic Association came into being I have seen the level of playing among our young musicians rise to a new and higher level than ever before. My students who have participated have grown so much from their experiences, both musically and in how to function in a group situation, and have produced performances that are both polished and exciting. The skills that they learn through music will help them to succeed in all of their personal and professional endeavors later in life. And the best part of the Philharmonic Association's program is that they offer these wonderful challenges and benefits to students of a wide range of ages and previous experience! The triangle area is very fortunate to have this organization!
When you enter the symphony hall to encounter over 100 talented musicians in attention for the maestro to enter and take up the baton, the mere sight is exhilarating and majestic. Then you sit down and listen to the product. You find the music is mature, the sound, vibrant, exact and approaching virtuosity. There are passages of no matter which composer they are playing that are transforming and transcendent. They sound like they are reaching up and touching the hem of God’s toga…
Love and Joy to All
AM
I am lucky that I get to have a special relationship to the Philharmonic Association. I'm a current member of the board of directors, but 12 years ago, I was playing violin in the Triangle Youth Philharmonic (TYP).
I was blessed to have such an incredible outlet for music when I was in high school. In the orchestra, we played high-level and classic works, and performed original pieces by local composers. We learned from members of the N.C. Symphony, and were directed by the talented Hugh Partridge.
But TYP meant a lot more to me than just pretty music. There I met some of my best friends, and had a magnificent time performing in places like the Spoleto Festival in Charleston, SC.
I joined the board because I believe in the organization and I wanted to make sure that other young musicians have the same life-changing experiences that TYP gave to me.
The Philharmonic Association has grown since my time in the orchestra thanks to the dedicated volunteers and staff. Now, even more kids are able to make beautiful music to share with our community.
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)!
I'm in my third year participating in the Philharmonic Association's youth orchestras. I've been playing violin since I was 4 and my private teacher encouraged me to try out for the orchestra because I had never played in that type of environment before. The first year I tried out, I was surprised that I was accepted as a Violin II in the Triangle Youth Orchestra. Then I became nervous that I would mess up in front of the whole orchestra at rehearsals. I wasn't really good at reading music then. During that year, I felt more and more comfortable in reading music and learned many other skills that are needed if you are in an orchestra.
The second year I tried out for the Triangle Youth Orchestra and the Triangle Youth Symphony. I was ecstatic when I received a call from my conductor telling me that I was accepted into both orchestras. I had to choose between being the Concertmaster of the Triangle Youth Orchestra or move up to the Triangle Youth Symphony. I never thought I would choose to take on the responsibility of a leadership position. But surprisingly, I immediately agreed to be Concertmaster. During that year, I learned how important the role is, how many people depend on you to keep the orchestra together. The skills that I learned in the first year of orchestra helped prepare me to carry out my leadership role successfully.
This year I moved up to the Triangle Youth Symphony as a Violin I. The music is more challenging, more exciting and it is definitely making me a better musician. My experience over the past few years has taught me to respect the Conductors and principals as well as the other musicians.
My daughter is now in her 3rd year with the orchestra. Since the arts are often the first thing that schools cut from their curriculum, it was her first opportunity to participate in ANY orchestra. And it's been a remarkable experience for her! She loves playing with so many different instruments in a large group of kids. It was the first time she had ever seen some of the instruments! I've watched her grow in skill and self-confidence over the past few years. I don't think she would have grown as much without the Philharmonic Association.
As a parent volunteer, I have enjoyed getting to know the students, their families, other parent volunteers, board members and the artistic staff. The Philharmonic Association is a well-run organization. I have found that the people involved have a passion for music and the desire to share it with the children in our community.
This is deffinetly a great way for kids to not only learn to read music, but to experience the fun of learning and being with friends. I have been in the orchestra for 3 years, and have deffinetely enjoyed playing in a professional orchestra. Triangle Youth Philarmonic is a must for kids just learning or want to learn how to read music from different eras.
Chandler
I am an alumnus of the Triangle Youth Symphony (98-02) and the Triangle Youth Philharmonic (02-04). When I first started playing the violin, I did not have the opportunity to play in an orchestra because my middle school did not have a strings program (the case for many students in the Triangle area). The PA was the only place I could play the violin with other students, and I absolutely loved it. It gave me a place to play challenging symphonic music, a chance to make friends from other schools, and taught me how to be a consistent member of an ensemble. I am currently beginning my musical career as a musician in a professional orchestra, and I find myself coming back to the many lessons (both musical and personal) that I learned as a student in the PA. I will always be grateful that I had the opportunity to be a musician in this organization, and look forward to hearing more about its growth and success!
My family has been with Philharmonic Association for the past seven years. Our teenage daughter recently remarked to us "Thank you for making me stick with violin all these years; it now defines who I am and I am glad to be a musician." Clearly, the PA played a great part in helping her grow, by challenging her and giving her an opportunity to be part of something big. What used to be a reason to get together with other children is now an opportunity to play great classical music and to feel good about her abilities. The musical skills that she has acquired with PA, and the ability to collaborate in making music, will stay with her for the rest of her life -- a true gift for any child.
The Philharmonic Association has been a very positive experience for my entire family. In an area where school orchestras are being eliminated, it has been very important to have an organization where children can participate in playing fine music.
The staff is dedicated and far exceed expectations on every level. Our child, who is now a young adult, brings many lessons she has learned from the PA to her job in a professional symphony. She often tells me that she feels like one of her conductors from the PA is sitting on her shoulder whispering in her ear.
Our family has made life time friends and has developed an appreciation for classical music. We still attend concerts even though our child graduated long ago. We believe the Philharmonic Association is a top-notch organization and vital to our community.
I am a high school clarinetist in the Triangle Youth Philharmonic. I do not have an orchestra at my school, but the Philharmonic Association has by far made up for that! I get the oppurtunity to meet and perform with other dedicated musicians. By having multiple orchestras, you are placed in the orchestra adequate for your playing ability. The orchestras above you inspire you to grow in your musicianship so that you can place into a more advanced ensemble. The Philharmonic Association provides wonderful repetoire for their orchestras that challenge us but are within our ability to perform. They also provide sectionals with actual members of the North Carolina Symphony! These musicians provide personal attention, kindly offering their expertise. The rehearsals are fun, but the icing on the cake is the oppurtunity to present our hard work to the public in Meymandi Concert Hall!
I am a young oboist who has participated in a Philharmonic Association youth ensemble for the past 5 years. I have enjoyed my experience in the Triangle Youth Philharmonic because we get so many opportunities to play so many great, well-known classical works. Some of my favorites have been Respighi’s The Pines of Rome, Holst’s The Planets, and the Barber Violin Concerto. I have played in many youth wind ensembles throughout my high school career but the Triangle Youth Philharmonic is the only youth group nearby that includes an entire symphony orchestra. The experience of being a woodwind player in such a large ensemble of strings is not matched by any wind ensemble. The opportunities I have had to grow as a musician are innumerable in TYP. It really is an amazing, unforgettable experience to be a part of such an ensemble.
The association does a very good job of organizing dedicated staff and volunteers, selecting glorious music, and giving spectacular concerts that give the 300 plus student musicians who participate in the various ensembles musical opportunities not found elsewhere in this area.
In addition, my experiences in the audition process and the ensemble have helped to prepare me for college auditions. And probably most importantly, I have gained a love of classical music that will last a lifetime.
My husband and I have been thrilled with the opportunities afforded our son, Sam, through the Philharmoic Association. His school did not have an orchestra, and without the opportunities offered by the Philharmonic Association, he would not have been able to enjoy an orchestral experience. For the last three years, he has been a member of the Triangle Youth Symphony and the Triangle Youth Philharmonic. This experience has been a postive one for our son on so many levels. The standards set by the Philharmonic Association are high, and when a child is accepted into the organization, they know immediately that they will be challenged to become the best musician possible. We have watched our son grow in confidence and poise, and he now approaches auditions and new opportunites enthusiastically. Because of the fine reputation of their youth programs, our son has been offered opportunities to play in local church productions and community events. He has made many new friends throughout the area that he would not have met otherwise. These friends share his love of music and the unique experience of being a part of the Philharmonic Association. Through the PA's association with the North Carolina Symphony, our son has been given the opportunity to have members of the symphony teach sectionals, and to ask questions and learn from the very best musicians. The Philhamonic Association is well run and organized. Parents are encouraged to play a large part in the week to week rehearsal preparations , and to serve as officers on different committees. This organization is run smoothly, with great support from the families involved. I have been impressed with the number of past alumni and their families, who continue to attend concerts and be involved with the Philharmonic Association. As the parents of a budding musician, my husband and I have benefited from our participation in the Philharmonic Association. We have learned alot from other parents and from our son about music and have attended concerts and community events that we might not have taken advantage of before our association with the Philharmonic Association. We highly recommend this organization to others.
Bill and Margie Sparrow
I have been involved with the Philharmonic Association for 7 years, with my daughter auditioning and joining as soon as we moved to the Raleigh area. As a parent, the Philharmonic Association has provided two of my children with musical education, guidance, and a wonderful peer group that helped them grow through those very tumultuous teen years. Being involved with the PA helped to keep them focused on music, provided weekly activity, introduced them to like-minded friends, exposed them to full orchestral music they otherwise would never have had the opportunity to play, and gave them an appreciation for working hard, teamwork, and classical music in general.
As a very involved volunteer and now board member, I appreciate seeing first-hand the difference the PA makes in young people's lives and in this community. Especially with the decrease in music education being offered in our public schools, the PA offers playing opportunities and performance opportunities this community would not have otherwise. Being involved for so many years now, I have literally seen children grow up from awkward young musicians terrified at their first performance to confident young men and women who astound the audience with their abilities. I sincerely cannot imagine this community without this organization.
The Philharmonic Association has been a blessing to us for a few years now. We have a gifted musician that was needing a place to hone his talent and grow as a musician. The PA has provided technically challenging music, sectional teaching from NC symphony musicians, chamber group opportunities, solo performance opportunities and of course training as a symphonic musician. Also, the opportunity for our son to associate with other gifted musicians has given him an environment where he feels connected. He has peers in the PA that he can relate to. The value of training these young musicians receive far exceeds the dollar investment. Hugh Partridge does a great job preparing these young musicians for a future career in music if they so choose. If you've never been to one of their concerts, you need to go...you'll be amazed!
My move to North Carolina from California came along with a professional change from the public to the private sector. I've seen, first hand, the challenges to Arts Education during tough economic times while watching California schools respond to the economic fallout of the dot.com crash at the turn of the century.
Here in North Carolina I became a supporter of the Philharmonic Association because of it's history supporting and strengthening the quality of arts education here in the Triangle. In addition to creating appreciation for the Arts, Music and The Arts education fosters a culture of creativity and innovation that will help the US compete more effectively in the competitive global economy.
Two of the current focus areas of the PA are 1) to respond to recent budget cuts to Strings programs in the Wake County Schools, and 2) to identify permanent performing and rehearsal space for the youth orchestras.
The Philharmonic Association is an organization that encompasses several youth orchestras ranging in skill level from elementary to high school, as well as chamber music groups and a jazz band. The PA serves over 300 young musicians in the Raleigh-Durham area every year. My experience with the organization has been two-fold: as a professional musician (in the North Carolina Symphony) coaching the students, and as the parent of two daughters who have participated in the Triangle Youth Philharmonic and the Triangle Youth Symphony.
I cannot speak highly enough about the wonderful work done by the Association. It plays a vital role in promoting the love of classical music among the youth in our area. In an era when arts education in public schools is shrinking, the PA has provided quality music training for thousands of children. Numerous performances are presented each year, with many students becoming highly skilled as they move up through the ranks over the years.
My daughters have loved participating in the Triangle Youth Philharmonic. The rehearsals and concerts have introduced them to the joy of performing orchestral masterworks. Once they have performed these pieces, they continue to treasure them. Often, they decide to learn other works by the same composers. Through the efforts of the Philharmonic Association, they have developed a love of classical music that will enrich them throughout their lives.
The Triangle Youth Orchestras are a vital part for our youth to experience hard work, performing and the exposure to Classical and Symphonic music. Many of my students have enjoyed being in the three different orchestras and jazz band. It also gives the youth a sociable environment outside of school and insulated computer time. The experience for each will have an impact on their future in a positive way.
It is a well run organization and invaluable to our culture here in North Carolina.
Philharmonic Association of North Carolina is an organization that has been quietly serving the youth of the Triangle in NC (and many from outside the triangle as well) year after year for 30 years. Music direction comes from highly qualified professionals and music educators in the community who give their time and expertise for the love of children and future of music. Thanks to their dedicated effort, musicians play in "youth "orchestras but the quality is well beyond their age with a maturity that would sit well in a professional orchestra. Children not only develop musical skills and hone their mental abilities through it, they also develop a deep sense of responsibility and communal belonging that will certainly help secure the future of our country. Recognizing this for what it is - a rare opportunity not available for most communities - parents and well-wishers chip in with their time to help out with the running of the the organization. Professional musicians participate in training sessions and coaching classes. For those who believe in Arts and its value in shaping the future of the world, organizations like the PA is godsend.
Personally, my story begins about 6 years back when my daughter who was then a beginner at violin joined the Triangle Youth Orchestra. She loved music but her activities with it was confined to lessons and perhaps a few minutes of practice each day. Almost from the first day she was in TYO, I noticed a change in here. She comes back from weekly orchestral practice eyes sparkling, full of stories of who-said-what, the jokes made by the conductor, and so on. She'd look forward to the 2.5hours of Tuesday evenings with an enthusiasm that was catching. She has graduated to higher orchestras in the organization now and has come a long way as a musician but the sparkle in the eyes and the enthusiasm are just the same as the first day she went to orchestra practice 6 years back. Other problems in her (teenage) life melt away and she gets back from her orchestra fully-recharged. The effect of PA and music are very evident in her school work, her social skills, her positive attitude to life etc. Now my son also is part of PA!
Please encourage PA and other Arts oriented volunteer organizations of exceptional class.
I am a professional violinist working with the North Carolina Symphony. Over the past years I have had a number of students who have participated in the Triangle Youth Philharmonic orchestra. Each student has grown tremendously as a musician while working with the group and Mr. Partridge, the conductor of the orchestra. Mr. Partridge is very strict with the students yet brings to them the enjoyment of the music. He shows them what a professional orchestra is capable of doing and his results are wonderful. The music the students get to work on is of the highest level and the performances are truly surprising. I have had some students come into a lesson feeling discouraged over the difficulty of a given passage in a piece of music. After much hard work, and when it all comes together at the performance, these students are thrilled at what they can accomplish. This is another "tiny" step in creating a future professional musician. I truly believe the Philharmonic Association and Mr. Partridge are a great asset to the area and are leading the way in helping many young people to enjoy classical music.
For the past 8 years, we have served as volunteers with the Philharmonic Association youth orchestras. The PA is a well organized group of orchestras available to the youth of the Triangle area as well as other interested young musicians throughout North Carolina. There are several orchestras that allow students of all levels of accomplishment to perform together and develop musically. As an added bonus, they perform each fall and spring in the beautiful Meymandi concert hall, just like the pros! Over the years we have watched the students grow in confidence and ability from this challenging and nurturing environment. The Philharmonic Association is one of the great musical treasures available to the students of North Carolina.
The Philharmonic Association is where talented and motivated young players in the Raleigh area get orchestral training and I have enjoyed watching and listening as the musicians work their way up through the different level orchestras and often go on to pursue music. The Philharmonic has worked to create a partnership with the North Carolina Symphony, and the young orchestras often work on repertoire which they hear the North Carolina Symphony perform - a great idea pedagogically as well as a wonderful way to get young people excited about not only playing music but listening to music. I enjoy the Honors recitals, concerto opportunities and occasional chamber music the PA provides for its students.
The Philharmonic Association inc. is a stellar resource for North Carolina youth seeking symphonic experience. The training provided local students provides for a wide range of abilities and experience. The level of talent and technical ability in the Philharmonic youth orchestras is very impressive. The Association pulls in all resources available to augment their students experience and education. As one of the Concertmasters of the North Carolina Symphony and an instructor of violin, I have been privileged to witness and help guide the development of the Philharmonic students. Each year as I preside over auditions and guide sectionals for the Philharmonic orchestras, I am respectfully impressed by the advancement in the ability of the students. This is due to the quality of training and the demands for excellence made of the students by the The Philharmonic Association. As a result, the Philharmonic Association, inc. has earned recognition as the preeminent source for developing musicians to experience and achieve excellence in symphonic education. This is an endeavor I am proud to participate in.
I am a general member of the public now, but for 3 years my son was a participant in this youth orchestra...and he had an incredible experience. The dedicated staff there was extremely diligent and hard working, despite a very tight budget. My son was able to work with members of the NC Symphony in small group sessions, and then had the experience of playing in Meymandi Hall, the exact same venue the Symphony uses for their concerts. I remember being moved to tears the first time I sat in that facility listening to those kids play - I really couldn't believe they were all high school, or younger. As a parent providing transportation to practices, I actually sat in on a lot of them, and the quality of the instruction was first class. Just yesterday, my son called to inform me he was awarded the full scholarship available at UNC Pembroke for non music majors. The professors there praised his playing, and said they had never had a bassoonist of his caliber at the school - ever. I know for a fact that this is in large part due to the high level of professionalism that the Philharmonic Association operates with, and demands of these kids. This is an extraordinary, and I am sure just about one of a kind organization.
My daughter, who is now graduating from a competitive program with a major in violin & viola performance, was a member of the Triangle Youth Philharmonic throughout high school, having previously participated in two other youth orchestras both here and in our previous state. All three were good learning experiences, but that offered by the Philharmonic Association is at a whole different level.
The Philharmonic Association provided an important compliment to her high school experience, and one from which she learned in multiple ways. It provided an opportunity to play more demanding music with a more accomplished and committed set of peers, served as a vital continuity element when her high school program experience a leadership change, gave her the opportunity to perform in a professional setting, built her confidence, reinforced her dedication, and helped open doors to related opportunities and experiences. She was already a committed musician, but her particiapation in this organization helped prepare her to be successful at the next level.
It was very heartening to see numerous other students -- with a range of strengths, challenges, and ambitions -- benefitting in similar ways. The professional music staff is clearly committed to preparing and presenting strong performances, but it seems to me that the top priorities are always the education and development of the individual student members. This is a value proposition that I admire and support.
Years of involvement with successful YMCA programs, the Boy Scouts, and Junior Achievement provide a benchmark for me. I have not had a child in the Philharmonic Association for a few years, but I am so convinced of the value this organization provides both its student members and the community that I now make the PA my main community committment. I feel my time and efforts here are productive for young people who want to play good music, whether they want to be professionals or not, whether they are affluent or poor. I believe things such as the joy of music, being responsible to yourself and to others, a work ethic, and continuing achievement help hundreds of children move toward being the kinds of adults who are vital to our community. That's what I see with the PA.
I am a musician in the Triangle Youth Philharmonic. I have been part of the organization since i was in 4th grade (around 7 years ago). I remember the first time I played in the Triangle Youth Orchestra and how in awe I was of all the big musicians and how nice everything sounded and how much fun it all was! That part hasn't changed at all. I am fifteen now, and I look forward to all my rehearsals and performances just as I did as an 8 year old. The Philharmonic Association is a wonderfully run program with top music teachers and conductors all going out of their way to support the ensemble to the best of their abilities and helping young musicians like myself be the best that they can possibly be. It has been a huge part of my life and training as a musician. We play very high quality, challenging music (such as the Planets by Holst, Beethoven's 5th Symphony, Shostakovich's 5th Symphony, and many more...) and I don't feel like I am exaggerating when I say that it must be one of the top youth programs in the country. If you have not heard us play, I would highly suggest you change that ASAP.
I'm a violist with the Triangle Youth Philharmonic, a branch of the Philharmonic Association. I began with the Triangle Youth Symphony, another branch, and have worked my way up from there. This organization has made me grow as a musician more than any other musical experience that I have ever taken part of. After joining for my first semester back in 2009, my love for music along with my personal musicianship grew tremendously. The opportunity has truly changed my life.
I have been involved with the Philharmonic Association for nine years. Both my children are musicians and have had the excellent experience of sitting in the orchestras and playing beautiful music. Because of my children's involvement I have volunteered in many different ways for the Philharmonic Association. One of the most rewarding volunteer jobs I have taken on is helping out at auditions. If you have never auditioned, you would be amazed at how stressful this process can be. The Philharmonic Association is aware of this and tries to make the audition experience positive for all children. It starts with information that Mr. Partridge (conductor of TYP) has written that goes out to the musicians on how to audition. The musicians know what is expected from them and what to expect once they arrive at the audition. The association goes to great lengths to assign days and times of auditions so the musicians are not sitting waiting their turn. The auditions are blind, this makes the auditions as fair as possible. The musicians are each assigned to an adult volunteer who walks them to their audition room and answers any questions that come up and then walks them back to their parent. My children have felt having an adult with them takes some of the pressure off and is reassuring having someone to answer questions and make sure all goes smoothly.
The Philharmonic Association has given my children a love for symphonic music they could not have gotten any where else in Wake County. One of my joys is when hearing a piece on the radio and one of my children says, “I’ve played that”. It is something they will always have with them and I can't thank Philharmonic Association enough!
The Philharmonic Association, Raleigh NC, brings a professional level of the symphonic musical experience to students that is unmatched. Imagine having a blind audition and being selected out of hundreds of applicants. Imagine rehearsing with an orchestra that would rival any symphony. Imagine playing on-stage in front of an audience of close to seven hundred people and hearing that roar of applause. Now, imagine you are only 10 years old.
From the start you are treated like a professional. You learn to know your part, collaborate with others, work as a team, and respect the music. In return you are rewarded with knowledge that will last a lifetime and prepare you not only to be a symphonic musician, but experiences that will help you in life's journey.
My daughter was a member of the Philharmonic Association for two years and the experience played an important part in furthering her abilities as a violist and musician. Participating provided her with ample opportunities for musical growth and leadership, as well as the establishment of wonderful friendships.
One aspect of the program I found particularly rewarding for my daughter, was the high level of expectations assumed by the organization and staff. So often we expect so little of young people who are really capable of so much. The Philharmonic Association sees things differently. They know and expect their participants to give their very best. The organization provides an environment that fosters and allows the participants to reach continually towards their fullest potential as well as provide pathways for future growth and opportunity.
Here are a few specifics. The music practiced and performed is always of the highest quality. The musicians perform complete symphonies by major composers such as Brahms, Beethoven, Tchaikovsky, Shostakovitch, as well as many other classical works such as overtures and concertos. The music covers a wide range from the 18th century right up to works written by living composers specifically for the Philharmonic Association performers.
The rehearsals focus on the details and nuances of musical performance such that the young musicians learn how to improve their playing and how to practice a piece of music. This even includes exposure to historic music performance practices when performing music of the 18th century.
Additionally, the players have opportunities to work with professional musicians of the highest caliber through association with the North Carolina Symphony Orchestra, including its conductor, Grant Llewellyn.
Furthermore, the participants can develop their musical skills outside the orchestral ensembles through chamber groups, a concerto competition, and recitals featuring the young musicians involved with the organization.
If you are thinking of participating, I would unreservedly recommend the Philharmonic Association. On top of all the wonderful musical opportunities, cost is also a consideration. When my daughter participated I considered the fee for participation more then reasonable. However, the organization's policy is such that no participant is turned away due to in ability to afford the cost. I am convinced that young musicians and their musical growth is at the heart of everything the Philharmonic Association does.
I honestly don't know where we would be without the Philharmonic Association. My daughter is at a small private school that does not have a high school band. Yet, she thoroughly enjoys playing the flute and wanted to be part of some type of band/orchestra. Somewhat miraculously she auditioned and made the Triangle Youth Orchestra (TYO) in the Philharmonic Assoc. She absolutely loves everything about it. . . the director, the other kids, the music, everything. If it wasn't for this orchestra, she probably would not be playing the flute because of the school she attends. Yet, she has learned so much through TYO and has been exposed to quality music/musicians that she would otherwise not be around. TYO is a top-notch organization in every aspect and we are eternally grateful for it.