Midori and Amir Kats in rehearsal with the AYS. Photo by Mike Kruchoski

Past Residencies

Alaska / Duluth / Des Moines / Albuquerque / South Dakota / Vermont / Montana / Winston-Salem

Albuquerque, New Mexico: January 2006

The Albuquerque Youth Symphony (AYS) and New Mexico Symphony Orchestra (NMSO) collaborated in their residency week to present two side-by-side concerts in which both orchestras performed with Midori. Leading off the program was Bach's Concerto for Two Violins, in which Midori's co-soloists were AYS members, backed by the NMSO. Violinists Caroline Lee and Cameron Boyack played the first and third movements, while AYS oboist Josephine Gonzales played the duet with Midori in the work's middle movement, providing a unique take on the work. Next came Benjamin Britten's Violin Concerto, a work heard less often, played by Midori and the NMSO under the baton of Guillermo Figueroa. The second half began with the third movement of Bruch's Violin Concerto in G Minor by the AYS with Midori, led by conductor Amir Kats; the NMSO returned to the stage to close the program with Dvorák's Slavonic Dances.

In addition to extensive rehearsals with both orchestras, Midori participated in a variety of activities throughout the week. A local violin shop, Robertsons & Sons, hosted a masterclass by Midori in their recital hall. Many AYS members and their parents took notes as Midori shared her advice with two violinists and a string quartet from the AYS. The NMSO and AYS hosted an advocacy luncheon for local community leaders at the Artichoke Café. An AYS string quartet performed for guests, and Midori spoke about the importance of local support for arts and music opportunities for young people.

Sami Bounkeua in a masterclass with Midori. Photo courtesy of Kristine Purrington, AYS.

At the time of Midori's residency, the Albuquerque Youth Symphony Program was celebrating its 50th season, and currently oversees five youth orchestras ranging from third graders through high school age musicians. During the residency, Midori had the opportunity to listen to all five groups' rehearsals. Learn the history and latest news of AYS programs at www.aysmusic.org.