Dear Friends and Supporters of SSYO,
We are sorry to inform you that the upcoming season for the Saratoga Springs Youth Orchestra has been canceled. Unfortunately, despite our best efforts to identify musicians for the 2011-2012 season there were not enough student musicians and the right mix of instruments enrolled to form an orchestra.
The decision to cancel was very difficult for the Board, and one we did not take lightly. Our concern rested with the musicians who counted on the quality instruction they received under the direction of Maestro Longobardi.
For SSYO to meet our goal of operating a “quality” youth music program we need a minimum of 20 high level musicians with the right proportion of string instruments by the first rehearsal date. This did not happen, we had 9 wonderful musicians far short of the 20 necessary.
So What Happens Next With SSYO?
It is the Board’s intent to conduct an internal assessment of the organization, and develop a plan towards bringing the orchestra back beginning fall 2012. We have obtained a tentative commitment from Maestro Longobardi to remain connected to SSYO during this interim period with the hope of beginning in Fall 2012. Please be assured we are committed to having a stronger, better, SSYO in the near future.
I would like to thank all of you for your interest in SSYO and your dedication to our youth music program. We will keep you informed of our progress.
