99 years is a long time, for people and orchestras, no matter how popular and well established. So when one or the other reaches that milestone of longevity, it’s cause for both astonishment and celebration. And that’s what we’ll be doing on today’s show for a very popular local institution – the Portland Youth Philharmonic. Dating back to 1924, PYP is the longest running youth orchestra in the country. It’s been an invaluable resource for young musicians and their families, as well as thousands of concert goers and music lovers throughout the decades.
To help celebrate, we’re fortunate to have David Hattner, PYP’s Musical Director, here with us to talk about the orchestra’s history, the season opening performance this Saturday at Portland’s Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, and what’s in store for Season 99. Which, by the way, wraps up in May of next year with a performance of Beethoven’s 9th.
Over the past few years, I’ve probably interviewed David more than any other guest, and he’s back with us again, which is a testament to his patience and generosity -- two traits that no doubt serve him well when working with a rehearsal hall full of extremely gifted and talented teenage musicians.
- KBOO