One of the most prestigious, charitable organizations in the Capital District, and it's made up of children aged 9 to 18; the Empire State Youth Orchestras is made up of 300 students and has been growing steadily for at least 30 years. I was lucky enough to be a member of the Wind Orchestra (just one of 11 ensembles that make up the organization), for four years, and Repertory Orchestra for my senior year of high school, and I don't have the words to say just how grateful I am. As every alumnus will tell you, ESYO was one of the defining factors in their childhood and growth as a musician. I can't imagine my life without ESYO, or without all of the connections I've made through it, and I can't wait to see what it will bring for me in years to come.
As a student in a small school, a focus on the arts was definitely lacking, and it showed in my musicianship. There was definitely a feeling of being the big fish in a tiny pond. But I remember being so nervous for my first audition, I couldn't even breathe and walked out sobbing. Despite this, I began my ESYO journey in the fall of 2010, and would soon find that what once a small pond was actually just a puddle. The Capital District is absolutely full of legendary talent, and even people younger than me were on their way to professionalism. A puddle is no place for a fish to thrive, and stepping into my first rehearsal meant making my way into the lake for the first time.
From that first day in the Wind Orchestra to my last concert with the Repertory Orchestra, I've seen so much improvement in not only myself, but my colleagues who grew along with me. This year's top musicians just returned from sharing their talents around Portugal, and seeing the success of my former ensemble-mates via Facebook, or Snapchat, reminds me that no matter where we may end up, we were all given a better opportunity, thanks to ESYO. We've learned to compete, to strive, to cooperate, and ultimately, to make beautiful music.
Volunteering for ESYO also gave me my passion for teaching. I've led many a "musical petting zoo," and the realization that children had potential to grow, with guidance, hit me when I knelt across from a 3-year-old girl, holding up a tuba while showing her to "make a horsey noise." Though I'm sure she has long ago, I won't forget that resounding, albeit weak and out of tune, B flat she produced. ESYO taught me how to be personable and approachable. ESYO showed me that working with the public can make a difference. Ultimately, ESYO showed me the reigns of doing what I love, and showed me exactly what it is that I love.
So thank you, ESYO. For those weekly rehearsals, grueling sectionals and heartbreaking auditions. Thank you for the rivals you thrust upon me, and the friendships that stemmed from such rivalries. Thank you for the opportunities to make astounding music with other enthusiastic young people. Finally, and most importantly, thank you for showing me that "Hearing is Believing."
