 Who We Are |
 The Groups |
 Personnel |
 Contact Us |
| Directors Notes: Seattle Tour is scheduled for February 11-15th, 2010. Because of rule changes, this year's Abravanel Hall Youth Symphony Performance on Monday March 1, 2010 will ONLY INVOLVE PHILHARMONIA! |
Happy New Year! Rehearsals start January 5th! |
Who We Are: Directed by a passionate group of educator musicians, the Utah Valley Youth Symphony is dedicated to serving youth musicians through the performance of music from the standard orchestral repertoire at a potentially professional level. The organization is a self-funding, non-profit corporation.
The Utah Valley Youth Symphony organization continually strives to meet the challenge of its mission statement - "to support the aesthetic, social, and intellectual development of our youth and community through music."
UVYSO History: The Utah Valley Youth Symphony was first organized in 1960 by Dr. A. Harold Goodman, about the time that he assumed the Chairmanship of the Music Department at Brigham Young University. In 1970, BYU withdrew sponsorship and the orchestra languished. In 1973 the orchestra was reorganized by Dr. Goodman, Dr. Terry Hill, and Brent Taylor. Fostering performance opportunities for youth became their long-term objective. Changes to the new organization included touring opportunities and the addition of the Junior High Honor Orchestra.
In 1982 the Philharmonia was created as part of a pilot project of the National Association of Music Merchants called Friends and Music USA. Since that time, UVYSO groups have performed around the world including Dr. Robert Schuller's Hour of Power telecast, the United Nations International School, and three major concerts in Carnegie Hall (1988, 1998, and 2005). Other tours have included visits to London, Paris, Madrid, Lisbon, Vienna, Mexico City, Rio de Janeiro, Chicago, Nauvoo, Honolulu, Los Angeles, Seattle, and San Francisco.
Since 1985, the organization has supported as many as four orchestras in order to serve the needs of Utah County. Currently, UVYSO is comprised of three orchestras: String Sinfonia, whose main purpose is to prepare students for more advanced groups; Youth Symphony, whose purpose is to expose students to the full orchestra experience and bridge the gap between intermediate and advanced level music; and Philharmonia, whose purpose is to perform professional literature from the standard repertoire. Touring orchestras combine members of each of these ensembles under the banner of the Utah Valley Youth Symphony.
Sponsorship: As a non-profit organization, the Utah Valley Youth Symphony Organization depends on public support for its existence. We express gratitude to the following for their support: Alpine School District; Challenger School; Rocky Mountain Power Foundation; Jerry C. Kartchner, CPA; Summerhay’s Music Center; Utah Valley Symphony Orchestra; Utah Symphony Orchestra.
We welcome community support. If you are interested in donating, please contact us at davidbeck@uvyso.org
The Utah Valley Youth Symphony organization continually strives to meet the challenge of its mission statement - "to support the aesthetic, social, and intellectual development of our youth and community through music."
UVYSO History: The Utah Valley Youth Symphony was first organized in 1960 by Dr. A. Harold Goodman, about the time that he assumed the Chairmanship of the Music Department at Brigham Young University. In 1970, BYU withdrew sponsorship and the orchestra languished. In 1973 the orchestra was reorganized by Dr. Goodman, Dr. Terry Hill, and Brent Taylor. Fostering performance opportunities for youth became their long-term objective. Changes to the new organization included touring opportunities and the addition of the Junior High Honor Orchestra.
In 1982 the Philharmonia was created as part of a pilot project of the National Association of Music Merchants called Friends and Music USA. Since that time, UVYSO groups have performed around the world including Dr. Robert Schuller's Hour of Power telecast, the United Nations International School, and three major concerts in Carnegie Hall (1988, 1998, and 2005). Other tours have included visits to London, Paris, Madrid, Lisbon, Vienna, Mexico City, Rio de Janeiro, Chicago, Nauvoo, Honolulu, Los Angeles, Seattle, and San Francisco.
Since 1985, the organization has supported as many as four orchestras in order to serve the needs of Utah County. Currently, UVYSO is comprised of three orchestras: String Sinfonia, whose main purpose is to prepare students for more advanced groups; Youth Symphony, whose purpose is to expose students to the full orchestra experience and bridge the gap between intermediate and advanced level music; and Philharmonia, whose purpose is to perform professional literature from the standard repertoire. Touring orchestras combine members of each of these ensembles under the banner of the Utah Valley Youth Symphony.
Sponsorship: As a non-profit organization, the Utah Valley Youth Symphony Organization depends on public support for its existence. We express gratitude to the following for their support: Alpine School District; Challenger School; Rocky Mountain Power Foundation; Jerry C. Kartchner, CPA; Summerhay’s Music Center; Utah Valley Symphony Orchestra; Utah Symphony Orchestra.
We welcome community support. If you are interested in donating, please contact us at davidbeck@uvyso.org
The Orchestras:
Three separate groups allow students to advance as they grow and progress. Each group rehearses for a time appropriate to their skill and attention level. Each orchestra is directed by a dedicated, motivated and caring conductor who is supported by coaching staff.
Philharmonia: Full Orchestra
As the premier ensemble, “Phil” showcases 60-80 of the most advanced musicians performing the greatest symphonic works in the world. This group is typically perfect for high school level players with substantial school music experience and a private lesson history, although these are NOT requirements for participation. Any student demonstrating musical excellence will be admitted. Expectations for each musician are high. Technically, students should be proficient in every technique common to their instrument.
Youth Symphony: Full Orchestra
Youth Symphony features 60-80 accomplished junior high and high school musicians and performs music of various styles.This group is perfect for strong players who are seeking a full-orchestra experience in addition to their school music classes. Most players are involved with private music studies, though private lessons are NOT a requirement for participation. Any student demonstrating musical accomplishment can be accepted.
String Sinfonia: Strings Only
String Sinfonia features 25-40 students prepares elementary and junior high students for a full orchestra experience. Students should be capable of preparing music on their own.
Three separate groups allow students to advance as they grow and progress. Each group rehearses for a time appropriate to their skill and attention level. Each orchestra is directed by a dedicated, motivated and caring conductor who is supported by coaching staff.
Philharmonia: Full Orchestra
As the premier ensemble, “Phil” showcases 60-80 of the most advanced musicians performing the greatest symphonic works in the world. This group is typically perfect for high school level players with substantial school music experience and a private lesson history, although these are NOT requirements for participation. Any student demonstrating musical excellence will be admitted. Expectations for each musician are high. Technically, students should be proficient in every technique common to their instrument.
Youth Symphony: Full Orchestra
Youth Symphony features 60-80 accomplished junior high and high school musicians and performs music of various styles.This group is perfect for strong players who are seeking a full-orchestra experience in addition to their school music classes. Most players are involved with private music studies, though private lessons are NOT a requirement for participation. Any student demonstrating musical accomplishment can be accepted.
String Sinfonia: Strings Only
String Sinfonia features 25-40 students prepares elementary and junior high students for a full orchestra experience. Students should be capable of preparing music on their own.
Brent Taylor, Executive Director
A graduate of BYU, Mr. Taylor has been involved with music his entire life. He has taught high school in several states, maintained a private cello studio, and worked for many years as String Specialist in the Summerhays Music Center Pro shop. He constantly reminds us that inspiring our friends and families with great music is not only a tremendous opportunity to better our own talent, but is also part of our moral responsibility to lift the spirit of all mankind.
Britton Davis, Artistic Director and Conductor
Mr. Davis has been involved with UVYSO since 1976 in all areas of its operation. A graduate of BYU, Mr. Davis is recently retired from 30 years of exemplary teaching in Alpine School District band and orchestra programs. He currently works as String Department Manager for Summerhays Music Center in Orem and plays percussion in the Utah Valley Symphony.
David Beck, Managing Director and Conductor
Mr. Beck has been involved with UVYSO for nearly a decade, graduating Summa Cum Laude with a B.M. in violin performance from Central Washington University and a M.M. in conducting from BYU. He currently teaches orchestra at Pleasant Grove Junior High and High School and maintains a small private studio. His passion for people and music fuels his energetic commitment to the daily operations of UVYSO.
Howard Summers, Conductor
Mr. Summers earned his B.M. in Music Education and his M.M. in Trumpet Performance from the University of Utah. He is active as a teacher and performer playing trumpet in the Orchestra at Temple Square, E-flat Soprano Cornet in the Utah Premiere Brass, and teaching band and orchestra at Orem High School.
Elizabeth Jimenez, Conductor
Ms. Jimenez is the orchestra director at Canyon View Junior High and Oak Canyon Junior High. She is a graduate of the University of South Carolina where she graduated Summa Cum Laude with a degree in music education and a performer’s certificate in violin performance. She served as Vice President of USC’s ASTA chapter and taught at the USC String Project. Her teachers of note include Sou Chun Su (Atlanta Symphony), Dr. William Terwilliger, and Ryan Kho.
Christine Davis, Head Coach, Violin Coach
Mrs. Davis received her music training in violin performance from BYU under the direction of Percy Kalt. She performed with the Utah Valley Symphony for 23 years including 10 as Concertmaster. She was an adjuct faculty teacher at Utah Valley University for 8 years. Currently, she serves as Violin Principal with the Orchestra at Temple Square, teaches a private violin studio, does free-lance studio work and performing, and composes and arranges orchestral pieces that have been performed around the world.
Jennifer Stevens, Violin Coach
Jennifer Stevens earned her B.M. in Secondary Music Education at Weber State University and taught in the String Project there while pursuing her degree. She is currently teaching orchestra at Lehi Junior and Senior High Schools and is performing with local orchestra groups.
Gavin Fulwider, Violin Coach
Gavin Fulwider began studying with the late Hiroko Primrose at age 3, and graduated from all levels of Suzuki Violin. He has served as concertmaster of the Springville HS Orchestra, the Utah Valley Youth Symphony, and the Utah Valley State College Orchestra. Orchestral touring has taken him to New York, London, Paris, Austria, Switzerland, and South Africa. He currently studies with Dr. David Margetts at Utah Valley University and teaches violin lessons.
Amber Arnold, Viola Coach
Amber Wily Arnold began playing at age 11 and was a member of the Greater Richmond Youth Symphonic Orchestra in Virginia. She graduated Magna Cum Laude from BYU with a degree in Music Education and has taught both Junior High and Elementary Orchestra in Alpine School District. She currently teaches private violin and viola lessons. She is married to Jermie Arnold and has 3 children.
Cheryl Skousen, Cello Coach
Cheryl Skousen began her music at the age of eight, learning piano and violin before switching to the cello. As a student, she won awards in a variety of competitions and performed with several orchestras including the Utah All-State Orchestra and Utah Youth Symphony. In addition to teaching private cello, she performs with the Utah Valley Symphony and serves as Historian of that organization.
John Taylor, Bass Coach
John Taylor has played the bass since a young age, and has performed a variety of musical genres on that instrument. He is a graduate of BYU, earning his Music Education degree in 2008. He is currently teaching orchestra and guitar at Westlake High School in Saratoga Springs.
A graduate of BYU, Mr. Taylor has been involved with music his entire life. He has taught high school in several states, maintained a private cello studio, and worked for many years as String Specialist in the Summerhays Music Center Pro shop. He constantly reminds us that inspiring our friends and families with great music is not only a tremendous opportunity to better our own talent, but is also part of our moral responsibility to lift the spirit of all mankind.
Britton Davis, Artistic Director and Conductor
Mr. Davis has been involved with UVYSO since 1976 in all areas of its operation. A graduate of BYU, Mr. Davis is recently retired from 30 years of exemplary teaching in Alpine School District band and orchestra programs. He currently works as String Department Manager for Summerhays Music Center in Orem and plays percussion in the Utah Valley Symphony.
David Beck, Managing Director and Conductor
Mr. Beck has been involved with UVYSO for nearly a decade, graduating Summa Cum Laude with a B.M. in violin performance from Central Washington University and a M.M. in conducting from BYU. He currently teaches orchestra at Pleasant Grove Junior High and High School and maintains a small private studio. His passion for people and music fuels his energetic commitment to the daily operations of UVYSO.
Howard Summers, Conductor
Mr. Summers earned his B.M. in Music Education and his M.M. in Trumpet Performance from the University of Utah. He is active as a teacher and performer playing trumpet in the Orchestra at Temple Square, E-flat Soprano Cornet in the Utah Premiere Brass, and teaching band and orchestra at Orem High School.
Elizabeth Jimenez, Conductor
Ms. Jimenez is the orchestra director at Canyon View Junior High and Oak Canyon Junior High. She is a graduate of the University of South Carolina where she graduated Summa Cum Laude with a degree in music education and a performer’s certificate in violin performance. She served as Vice President of USC’s ASTA chapter and taught at the USC String Project. Her teachers of note include Sou Chun Su (Atlanta Symphony), Dr. William Terwilliger, and Ryan Kho.
Christine Davis, Head Coach, Violin Coach
Mrs. Davis received her music training in violin performance from BYU under the direction of Percy Kalt. She performed with the Utah Valley Symphony for 23 years including 10 as Concertmaster. She was an adjuct faculty teacher at Utah Valley University for 8 years. Currently, she serves as Violin Principal with the Orchestra at Temple Square, teaches a private violin studio, does free-lance studio work and performing, and composes and arranges orchestral pieces that have been performed around the world.
Jennifer Stevens, Violin Coach
Jennifer Stevens earned her B.M. in Secondary Music Education at Weber State University and taught in the String Project there while pursuing her degree. She is currently teaching orchestra at Lehi Junior and Senior High Schools and is performing with local orchestra groups.
Gavin Fulwider, Violin Coach
Gavin Fulwider began studying with the late Hiroko Primrose at age 3, and graduated from all levels of Suzuki Violin. He has served as concertmaster of the Springville HS Orchestra, the Utah Valley Youth Symphony, and the Utah Valley State College Orchestra. Orchestral touring has taken him to New York, London, Paris, Austria, Switzerland, and South Africa. He currently studies with Dr. David Margetts at Utah Valley University and teaches violin lessons.
Amber Arnold, Viola Coach
Amber Wily Arnold began playing at age 11 and was a member of the Greater Richmond Youth Symphonic Orchestra in Virginia. She graduated Magna Cum Laude from BYU with a degree in Music Education and has taught both Junior High and Elementary Orchestra in Alpine School District. She currently teaches private violin and viola lessons. She is married to Jermie Arnold and has 3 children.
Cheryl Skousen, Cello Coach
Cheryl Skousen began her music at the age of eight, learning piano and violin before switching to the cello. As a student, she won awards in a variety of competitions and performed with several orchestras including the Utah All-State Orchestra and Utah Youth Symphony. In addition to teaching private cello, she performs with the Utah Valley Symphony and serves as Historian of that organization.
John Taylor, Bass Coach
John Taylor has played the bass since a young age, and has performed a variety of musical genres on that instrument. He is a graduate of BYU, earning his Music Education degree in 2008. He is currently teaching orchestra and guitar at Westlake High School in Saratoga Springs.
Business Address:
Utah Valley Youth Symphony Orchestra
P.O. Box 1235
Provo, Utah 84603
E-Mail:
David Beck, Managing Director, Philharmonia Conductor: davidbeck@uvyso.org
Phone:
David Beck, Managing Director: 801-691-4669 (Business Cell)
Brent Taylor, Executive Director: 801-377-5885 (Emergencies only, please.)
Utah Valley Youth Symphony Orchestra
P.O. Box 1235
Provo, Utah 84603
E-Mail:
David Beck, Managing Director, Philharmonia Conductor: davidbeck@uvyso.org
Phone:
David Beck, Managing Director: 801-691-4669 (Business Cell)
Brent Taylor, Executive Director: 801-377-5885 (Emergencies only, please.)
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