The Orchestra Residencies Program with Midori was a one-of-a-kind music education program that brought young musicians into a powerful, immersive experience of collaboration, artistic discovery, and personal growth. Designed to deepen students’ understanding of music beyond technique, the residency invited participants to engage as creative partners in the rehearsal and performance process. CYSO string students were honored to work closely with renowned violinist and humanitarian Midori, alongside New York City-based violinist and educator Clara Kim.
From March 26-30, students participated in inspiring masterclasses with Midori and interactive workshops with Clara Kim, exploring not just how to play music, but how to interpret, question, and connect through it. The residency culminated in a collaborative performance that reflected the students’ artistic growth and the relationships built throughout the week.
The week of residency culminated in an exciting final concert. On Sunday, March 30, the Logan Center for the Arts was filled with music, inspiration, and a profound sense of connection as CYSO presented a breathtaking concert featuring a mixed ensemble of students from Overture Strings through Symphony Orchestra.
The Midori residency was such a unique and amazing experience. It was the first time students from all ensembles from OS to SO have played together. What I loved was seeing how the older students took on leadership roles, supporting and guiding our younger students. It was amazing to see how our young musicians rose to the challenge of the music being performed and in doing so, improved their confidence and ensemble skills.
Anne Huynh McTighe, CYSO Assistant Director of String Ensembles
The program opened with Derek Bermel’s Spring Cadenzas, showcasing Midori’s virtuosity and the students’ sensitive accompaniment. Bach’s Double Concerto followed, with students performing in duo with Midori. Students performed in duo with Midori with poise and confidence, delivering beautiful, polished performances that underscored the depth of talent within CYSO’s ranks. The dialogue between soloists and orchestra revealed a deep musical understanding, no doubt enriched by the week of workshops and rehearsals with Midori.
The program concluded with Massenet’s Meditation from Thaïs —a moving and meditative finale that filled the hall with a luminous, almost transcendent calm. Midori’s tone shimmered with warmth and emotion, matched by the ensemble’s delicate touch.
The concert was met with a standing ovation, a fitting tribute to the unforgettable collaboration between Midori and CYSO’s talented young musicians. More than just a performance, the afternoon was a celebration of mentorship, excellence, and the transformative power of music.
We are deeply grateful to Midori and Clara for an extraordinary orchestra residency experience. Your artistry, generosity, and commitment to music education made a lasting impression on all of CYSO’s students, staff, and parents involved!
Click here to see more photographs from the residency.
