InterSchool Orchestras of New York

The InterSchool Orchestras of New York (ISO) was founded in 1972 by Annabelle F. Prager as a response to the limited opportunities for school children in both public and private schools to play in an orchestra. It has since grown to include three beginning orchestras, an intermediate band, two intermediate orchestras, a symphonic band, and an advanced orchestra. An essential part of its mission is that no child ever be turned away because of lack of financial resources; 50% of its students receive some financial aid, including all members of the top orchestra.

ISO Symphony performs at Jazz at Lincoln Center, May 28, 2014

Currently, it is led by Music Director Brian Worsdale,[1] Executive Director Karen Geer,[2] and Board President Barbara Tracy.[3] Its music director for much of its history was the late[4][5] Jonathan Strasser.

ISO was recognized by the League of American Orchestras with the 2004 Bank of America Award for excellence in orchestra education.

Ensembles[6]

The Morningside, Turtle Bay, and Trinity-Florentine Orchestras welcome beginners with basic skills on their instruments. Morningside Orchestra is conducted by Matthew Rotjan and the Trinity Florentine Orchestra is conducted by George Nicholson; the two groups are exclusively string orchestras. The ISO at Turtle Bay Orchestra is conducted by Barry Stern and includes woodwind and brass instruments as well as orchestral string instruments.

The Carnegie Hill Orchestra, under the direction of Steven Rochen, provides further training for intermediate-level musicians, who perform original orchestral music and arrangements.

The Concert Orchestra, conducted by Lawrence Markiewicz, is made up of more advanced players.

The Symphonic Band, founded and conducted by Music Director Brian Worsdale, provides performing opportunities for intermediate and advanced wind, brass, and percussion players.

Musicians in the ISO Symphony all receive scholarships in recognition of their placement in this elite ensemble of the most advanced players. Music Director Brian Worsdale conducts the Symphony in the great works of the orchestral repertoire.

Performance

ISO produces up to 20 concerts a year. All ensembles regularly perform Mainstage Concerts at prominent venues such as Symphony Space, Carnegie Hall, and Alice Tully Hall. They also perform a free Community Concert Series; venues include parks, festivals, places of worship, local arts centers, and care facilities. The ISO Symphony has toured internationally, most recently to Scotland in 2014 to take part in the Aberdeen International Youth Festival.[7]

Other Programs[8]

Older ISO students serve as mentors to younger musicians as part of the Student Mentor Program. Students playing less common instruments (viola, contrabass, French horn, oboe, and bassoon) can receive reduced-cost lessons through the Endangered Instrument Program.

References

  1. ↑ , ISO Artistic Staff
  2. ↑ , ISO Administrative Staff
  3. ↑ , ISO Board of Directors
  4. ↑ "JONATHAN STRASSER's Obituary on New York Times". New York Times. Retrieved 2017-08-11.
  5. ↑ CHANNEL, THE VIOLIN (2017-03-09). "American Violinist and ‘Fame’ Conductor Jonathan Strasser Has Died". The World's Leading Classical Music News Source. Est 2009. Retrieved 2017-08-11.
  6. ↑ "ISO Ensembles". isorch.org. Retrieved 2017-08-11.
  7. ↑ "Report on the InterSchool Orchestras of New York’s Exceptional 2014/2015 Season" (PDF).
  8. ↑ "Programs of the InterSchool Orchestras of New York". isorch.org. Retrieved 2017-08-11.
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