This week, the Neponset Valley Philharmonic Orchestra and the New York Chamber Virtuosi made separate announcements that they are changing their names and updating their mission statements. The 65-member Neponset Valley Philharmonic Orchestra, founded in Massachusetts in 2007, becomes Symphony Nova, a professional training orchestra, with added programs for its musicians that include skills such as grant writing, tax preparation and personal finances, mock auditions, and creating and performing educational concerts. Symphony Nova and Music Director Lawrence Isaacson perform three classical and one pops concert per season, with each program offered once in downtown Boston and once in the Neponset Valley, south of Boston. The New York Chamber Virtuosi has become the Leora Chamber Orchestra. Leora—founded by composer/clarinetist Jessica Sibelman in 2009 with members who are graduates of Juilliard, the Manhattan School of Music, Mannes College of Music, and the New England Conservatory of Music—announced that its updated mission is “to bring light to our community; to break down the barrier between audience and performer; and inspire through music.” During the 2012-13 season, Leora will perform chamber concerts and themed soirées at venues in New York and New Jersey, with additional programs to include a lecture series and visits to schools and nursing homes.
Posted July 23, 2012
