The Corvallis Youth Symphony (CYS) was founded in 1982 by Charles Creighton to provide talented students with musical experiences to enhance and extend music education in the schools.
Beginning that year with forty-four students from two local high schools, CYS has since grown to over seventy students from schools throughout the mid-Willamette Valley and the central coast.
Training
CYS students receive exceptional orchestra training. The conductor, Charles Creighton, selects standard classical repertoire which will challenge and inspire students. Several times a year, sectional rehearsals are held (i.e., each section of the orchestra rehearses by itself) and for these rehearsals, professional musicians from Oregon orchestras and faculty from area music schools are brought in to coach the students.
Performances
CYS gives two formal concerts each year and hosts the Classical Cabaret and a children's concert. Guest artists who have performed with CYS include The Amelia Piano Trio, the composer Alan Hovhaness, conductor Hans-Dieter Resch, and pianists Daniel Epstein, and Tian Ying. February 2006 saw the return of Pink Martini and CYS.
Membership
Membership in CYS is by audition only. Students admitted into CYS are required to participate in their school band or orchestra, if their school has one.
Fees
Fees for participation in CYS are $350/year. Limited financial aid is available. Rehearsals are held on Monday evenings from 6:30 to 9:00 at Crescent Valley High School.
Some scholarships are awarded each year for additional training, such as summer music camp or private lessons with a special teacher.
Conductor
Charles Creighton
Music Director
Corvallis Youth Symphony
Charles Creighton, founder and Music Director of the Corvallis Youth Symphony, holds Masters degrees in piano performance and conducting from the University of California.
More Information
© 2003-2007 Corvallis Youth Symphony Association