In Friday’s (5/20) Plain Dealer (Cleveland), Zachary Lewis writes, “When each of several past directors of the Cleveland Orchestra Youth Orchestra describes the experience as the peak of his musical career to date, it’s the happy, coincidental truth. Which is why most plan to return to Severance Hall on Sunday, May 29, along with countless current and former players, for a special reunion concert marking the group’s 25th anniversary. … In 25 years, COYO has had just six leaders, four of whom are slated to appear: Gareth Morrell, Steven Smith, Jayce Ogren and [current Music Director James] Feddeck. Missing from that list are James Gaffigan, now working in Switzerland, and the group’s founder, Jahja Ling, director of the San Diego Symphony, who may appear by video. … By all accounts, the affair should be festive. In addition to performing Wagner, Brahms, Tchaikovsky and Falla, the conductors said they look forward to seeing old pals, many of whom are now working outside music. … But the reunion isn’t the only major event in the works. Beforehand comes the regular season finale, an ambitious program Sunday featuring Barber’s Essay No. 1, the Sibelius Violin Concerto, Respighi’s ‘Pines of Rome’ and the world premiere of Matthew Smith’s ‘Chasing the Moon.’ ”
Posted May 23, 2011
