The Akron Youth Symphony, under the direction of interim Assistant Conductor Christopher James Lees, presents three major concerts at E.J. Thomas Hall, in addition to other performances in the greater Akron area. One of Ohio’s oldest youth symphonies, the Akron Youth Symphony recently celebrated its 50th anniversary with a performance in world-renowned Carnegie Hall. Members of the AYS, who earn their positions through competitive auditions each year, range in age from 13 to 18 and are drawn from at least eight counties in the northeastern Ohio area.

Musicians benefit from scholarship opportunities, sectionals with Akron Symphony members, and the opportunity to compete in an annual concerto competition. They perform in a Side-by-Side concert with the ASO and may participate in the Akron Youth Symphony Chamber Music Program. Rehearsals are on Sundays from 1:15-4:15 p.m. in Guzzetta Hall, across the street from E.J. Thomas Hall on the University of Akron campus. Auditions for this group are held in May. For further information, call the Akron Symphony office at (330) 535-8131.

2007-2008 Performance Schedule

Christopher James Lees | director

Sunday at 3:00 p.m.
November 4, 2007
Carol Cartwright Hall, Kent State University
Concert Sponsor: Kent State University School of Music

Sunday at 3:00 p.m.
February 3, 2008
E.J. Thomas Hall
With the Akron Youth Philharmonic
Thomas Resnick, Damon Conn | directors

Sunday at 3:00 p.m.
April 27, 2007
E.J. Thomas Hall

AYS Series Sponsor: Lisle M. Buckingham Fund of the Akron Community Foundation

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