| The orchestra's stated goals have altered
little in 45 years. Its primary purpose is to draw together exceptionally
gifted young players in order to give them the opportunity to rehearse
and perform challenging music not normally available to them at the school
level. Many styles and periods are represented in order to expose players
to as wide a musical spectrum as possible. The orchestra also serves as
a "training ground" for the development of orchestral techniques
which might later serve the player in a conservatory, at college or even
in a community orchestra. Furthermore, by bringing together so many gifted
young men and women from all over Long Island, the orchestra serves as
a cultural and social gathering place offering its players a unique opportunity
to meet, work with and get to know their musical peers.
Four concert programs are prepared and presented each season. During the course of a single season a wide variety of repertoire is offered, featuring music in almost every style and from many musical periods. Some of this music is technically and interpretively challenging and would not normally be available to the average high school student. Emphasis is placed on interpretive and musical skills and the development of an understanding and appreciation of the work of many great masters. Any player who remains in the orchestra for two or more seasons is likely to have seen and played almost the complete spectrum of orchestral styles. Some other features of LIYO's operation are its annual scholarship competition in which $2,000 is given in awards to graduating members of the orchestra who intend to continue their studies of music in some form.
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In addition the orchestra has a special
participation feature in which members are given the opportunity of selecting
one major work through a process of nomination, campaigning and an eventual
vote. This work is performed as part of the orchestra's May concert. One
of the most noteworthy features of LIYO, which makes it different from
all other orchestras of its kind worldwide, are its annual summer
concert tours, of which 33 have been made in the past 33 summers.
Virtually every part of the world has been visited since the first trip
in 1971, in some cases more than once.
While only a portion of the LIYO's graduates strive for careers in the world of professional music a surprising number have taken their places in a multitude of symphony orchestras around the country and the world, including such renown ensembles as the orchestras of Philadelphia, Boston, New York, Cleveland, St. Louis, Pittsburgh, Los Angeles, and the Metropolitan Opera. Several hundred are teaching as well, many in the music departments of schools all over Long Island as well as around the nation. While hardly claiming to be responsible for the success of these talented young musicians, LIYO believes that it added an important element to their development by being available to them in the right place at the right time - but whether its alumni pursue careers for themselves in professional music or simply enjoy and participate in musical activities as a beloved adjunct to their other activities in adult life, LIYO feels that it has justified its position in the musical life of Long Island. |
