top of page
Search
Writer's pictureareynolds51

FWYO to Tour in Spain June 6-16

Updated: Jun 6



June 4, 2024 - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


Sixty members of the Fort Worth Youth Orchestra from Fort Worth, Texas will be in Spain from June 6-16 for a performance tour with many guests as well. The FWYO has a tradition of performing internationally, embarking on over 15 performance tours in its 60 year history.


"Performing internationally is not only a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for our students to travel while young, but is also critical to their education" said Music Director and Youth Orchestra Conductor, Dr. German Gutierrez. "Many of our alumni perform in orchestras around the world and while music is an international language, experiencing the cultural differences of playing in other countries is valuable for young musicians."


Dr. Germán Gutiérrez (Music Director & Youth Orchestra Conductor), conducts at the FWYO Finale Concert on May 5 featuring many of the works from the Tour (Peter Liu Photography)

The Fort Worth Youth Orchestra had the honor of being awarded 2nd place in the Youth Orchestra division of the American Prize and is conducted by Texas Christian University's Dr. German Gutierrez, who is known for his specialty in Latin American music for orchestra.


"We are excited to continue this tradition of traveling with the Orchestra" said Andrew Reynolds, Executive Director. "Our previous tour to Spain was attempted in 2020, but was unfortunately cancelled due to the pandemic. We're excited that after a brief pause, we can continue this important - and fun - tradition and pick up right where we left off."


A large community of supporters has also stepped up to ensure many students can attend, securing over $27,000 for the Global Experience Financial Aid Fund that was used to support students who otherwise would be unable to attend. "We're thankful for the many donors that have helped us make this trip a reality for our students" said Andrew. "We have made a commitment as an organization to break down financial barriers in music education, and experiences like this are where economic disparities come to the forefront."


Cristobal Soler works with FWYO students during a visit in May, 2024. (Peter Liu Photography)

In addition to the performance tour, Spanish conductor Cristobal Soler - who recently was awarded the prestigious top conducting role at the Valencia Municipal Symphonic Band (one of the only full-time concert bands in the world) - attended the FWYO Finale concert in May to work with all students, providing a link to the experience for everyone and a valuable preview of the connections they will make in Spain.




Works for the tour will include selections from

  • Rodeo by Aaron Copland

  • Symphony No. 2 in B Minor by Alexander Borodin

  • Carmen Suite No. 1 by Georges Bizet

  • La Vida Breve: Interlude and Dance by Manuel de Falla

  • Nimrod from the Enigma Variations by Edward Elgar

  • Oblivion by Astor Piazzolla

  • Deep in the Heart of Texas by June Hershey (lyrics) and Don Swander (music)

  • La Boda de Luis Alonso by Gerónimo Jiménez

  • Aquarela do Brasil by Ary Barroso (arr. John Wasson)

  • El Choclo & La Cumparsita by Ángel Gregorio Villoldo & Matos Rodríguez (arr. Alejandro Drago)

  • Colombia Tierra Querida by Lucho Bermúdez (arr. Lucho Bermudez/ Rubén Darío Gómez Prada)

  • Pueblito Viejo by José A. Morales

Follow along on Instagram and Facebook this week!


Ticket links and performance information is below:


Spanish Conductor Cristobal Soler (Left), FWYO Music Director & Youth Orchestra Conductor Dr. Germán Gutiérrez (center), and FWYO Board Member and former FWSO conductor Miguel Harth-Bedoya (Right) connected after the Finale Concert on May 5, 2024. (Photo Cred: Andrew Reynolds).


June 8th - 8:00 pm - Lliria at Teatro Unió Musical - General Seating until full - Free


June 11 - 8:00 pm - Barcelona at L'Aliança del Poble Nou Casino - Tickets

Featuring soprano Dr. Patricia Caicedo


June 13 8:00 pm - Cullera at Auditori municipal de Cullera - Tickets



June 14 - 8:00 pm - Vall d’Uixo at Auditorio La Vall d’Uixo - Tickets



###


Press Inquiries: Lauren Arie - larie@fwyo.org / 817-923-3121 x18

392 views0 comments

Recent Posts

See All

Kommentare


bottom of page