Exploring different parts of the world through music, senior Joseph Yoo had the honor of participating in the National Youth Orchestra of the United States of America (NYO-USA). The program lasted from July 20 to August 15.
NYO is a free program in which players are chosen via audition to partake on a tour to some of the greatest music capitals of the world. After participating in a multi-week training residency in New York City, the students were able to travel with professional music ambassadors. For the 2024 summer trip, the orchestra headed to South America.
Yoo first got into music at the age of 6, when he started playing the piano. However, when Yoo picked up the flute, he transitioned from a solo musician, to a collaborative musician. He then started playing music with others in various bands and orchestras, making him recognize the true value of combined efforts and the sharing of differing perspectives within the world of music.
Yoo worked alongside world renowned conductor, Marin Alsop and pianist Jean-Yves Thibeaudouex. After sending audition videos, the orchestra ended up consisting of 103 musicians including 4 flutists. Starting late July, the summer began with a two-week residency at Purchase College which consisted of daily rehearsals, sectionals, studio classes and practice sessions.
Following the practices, the group traveled to New York University while continuing rehearsals and attending performances of youth orchestras from all over the world, at Carnegie Hall.
“This program stood out to me because of the opportunity it provided to work with the most talented musicians and to gain inspiration and training from the most renowned professional musicians throughout the nation,” Yoo said.
One of Yoo’s favorite sites in South America was in the capital of Argentina, Buenos Aires. At Teatro Colon, a music hall the group performed at, they were able to watch a live tango show; experiencing the fascinating dance from its place of origin.
“What particularly intrigued me about this venue was the beauty and significance of its construction; the symmetrical design of the hall and the allegorical frescoes of Raul Soldi on the ceiling were truly admirable,” Yoo said.
One of Yoo’s biggest impacts regarding music, and his motivation to sign up for the program, was his flute coach and principal flutist of the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra, Sonora Solcum. Her advice and wisdom during flute sectionals, studio classes, and full-orchestra rehearsals were truly inspiring to Yoo, having made him the player he is today.
Over the years, music has taught Yoo lots of lessons; looking for the balance between perfectionism and practicality, or trusting your instincts. Yoo values every opportunity to play music with others and learn from professionals, thus, the trip being a momentous experience.
“Reflecting on how far the orchestra has come from the first-day rehearsal and the things I’ve learned as a performer myself since then made me proud (…) not only my own improvement as a musician but also of the overall achievement of the orchestra which was only made possible by the combined efforts of each and every player, conductor, and coach,” Yoo said.