In Memory of
Ann Koonsman

Fort Worth Youth Orchestra mourns the loss of Honorary Board Member Ann Koonsman. Ann was invited as an honorary board member in 2004 by Willa Dunleavy, who was serving as president of the board at the time.

"In addition to her time as an incredible leader of the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra, Ann was an integral member of the FWYO's honorary board and called our Orchestra Hall home for much of her career" said Andrew Reynolds, Executive Director. "Her commitment to advancing orchestral music in Fort Worth and widening its audience through tenacity was felt by many members of the FWYO and we will miss her enthusiasm."

July 21, 2021

For Immediate Release

The Fort Worth Youth Orchestra (FWYO) is thrilled to announce the appointment of Brian Youngblood as Conductor of the FWYO Wind Ensemble, a new experience for the 2021-2022 Season! Mr. Youngblood comes to the FWYO from Texas Christian University, where he currently serves as Associate Director of Bands and Assistant Professor of Music.

"I am thrilled to join the conductors of the Fort Worth Youth Orchestra!" said Mr. Youngblood. "I look forward to leading the FWYO Wind Ensemble in its first season and working with the talented student musicians in the group."

The Wind Ensemble, part of the FWYO 2019-2022 Strategic Plan, will launch in November and continue an abbreviated season to avoid overloading wind students during the busy marching and football  season. Comprised of the best wind and percussion players across DFW, this ensemble will work on the rapidly growing body of music that is unique to the band sector. Exposure to this music is essential for these students prior to college, teaching band, or employment in numerous professional private and military bands.

The virtual audition window for the group will begin on July 28, 2021 and continue until September 19, 2021. Wind Ensemble will rehearse on Sunday afternoons at Orchestra Hall. Financial aid is available for qualified applicants. Those interested in auditioning for the group should visit FWYO.org for more information.