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The Long Bay Youth Symphony (LBYS) and Long Bay Youth String Ensemble (LBYSE) are easily considered two of the Symphony’s greatest accomplishments in our 36-year history. Being a part of so many young musicians’ journeys is an invaluable experience for the music directors, youth managers, and patrons alike. It's a treasure for us to witness even just a moment in the careers of the many students who come through either—and often both—youth groups. Because we are typically a part of their musical careers while they are in middle and high school, we are often curious about what they go on to do when they graduate beyond our youth symphonies.
I had the pleasure of corresponding with Abigail Stewart and Grace Leonard, two LBYS alumni, who have gone on to do amazing things in their budding musical careers:
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(Grace Leonard)
What is your instrument and how did your journey with it start?
I play the Viola! My journey with the instrument began in 6th grade strings class at St. James Middle School.
Can you speak a little about your time in the Long Bay Youth Symphony (how long you were a part, your greatest takeaways, etc.)?
I was in the Long Bay Youth Symphony for three years. LBYS taught me how to effectively play in an ensemble, exposed me to great symphonic repertoire, and introduced me to some of my closest friends.
Where are you now and how is music still a part of your everyday life?
I am currently a student at the Cleveland Institute of Music, a conservatory in Cleveland, Ohio. At CIM, I study and practice every day with the hope of becoming a professional musician. I aspire to play in an orchestra, play in a string quartet, teach, or all three!
Is there any advice you would give to young musicians who are maybe in the early stages of learning their instrument?
My biggest piece of advice to a younger musician would be to be consistent as possible with your practice. The early stages of learning a stringed instrument is quite similar to building muscle. It is more effective to practice one hour every day than three hours every three days! On that note, it is important to remember that the road to success, whatever it may be, is a journey. Do not be discouraged if your goals are not reached right away! Little by little, with practice, you will find your way.
(Abigail Stewart)
What is your instrument and how did your journey with it start?
My main instrument is the French Horn. As an indispensable member of the orchestra, the horn plays an integral part of the melody and counter-melody often during the emotionally climatic parts of the music. It is capable of such poetic and dynamic sound, especially in movie and game soundtracks. The yearning to be an instrumentalist who can convey such emotion and grandeur is what urged me to pick up the horn as my main instrument.
Can you speak a little about your time in the Long Bay Youth Symphony (how long you were a part, your greatest takeaways, etc.)?
I had the pleasure to be a part of the Long Bay Youth Symphony for two non-consecutive years. The routine of practice, rehearsal, and performance depicts the life of an orchestral musician, and sets an example for those who want to pursue a career in the world of classical music. The experience of working with other musicians weekly taught me the importance of reliability and collaboration. Long Bay Youth Symphony helped me realize the aspect I value the most in orchestral performance is the tight-knit closeness one feels to their peers and the music itself while sharing the experience of making music.
Where are you now and how is music still a part of your everyday life?
I’m currently an undergraduate student at Peabody Institute at Johns Hopkins University studying Music for New Media where I learn the art of composing for games and movies. Analyzing movie and game soundtracks has become a part of my daily life and has allowed me to appreciate video games and cinema from a completely different perspective. In order to further comprehend the artistry and details of composition, I have recently started taking composition lessons with an established British composer, Dr. Tristan A. L. Latchford, and had the pleasure of performing in his most recent recorded concert series, ‘An Organist’s Songbook,’ which will be released in October.
Is there any advice you would give to young musicians who are maybe in the early stages of learning their instrument?
One’s love and passion is the best motivator for art and craft. Learn to appreciate and have fun with daily tasks like practicing and ear training. Although they can be exhausting at times, remember that your passion and fun was the reason you started and chose to continue this journey and you will be able to look at those practice sessions with a lighter heart and approach practice in a more fun way. Also, don’t limit yourself to the bare minimum participation in performances. If you take every opportunity you encounter, the experience of collaboration with your peers will greatly strengthen your skills and confidence.
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Come out and witness the talent of these young musicians for yourself! The first LBYS Fall Concert takes place Nov. 29 at 7:30 p.m. at the MBHS Music & Arts Center. Tickets are $10 for adults and free for students. Whether you are seeing them perform for the first time or come to every concert, you will leave knowing it is a true privilege to be even a small part of their musical journeys.