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About Houston Young Artist's Concert

 

Special Message from ……….

 

1987--


“Houston is a city that nurtures its young musicians and a concert such as this that features some of the best and brightest of these talents is a treat indeed!
David Tomatz 
Director
School of Music
University of Houston

“This concert serves aspiring musicians of Houston metropolitan area by providing an atmosphere in which the exceptional talent of today may grow to be the virtuoso of tomorrow.” 
Robert Linder
Dean of Fine Arts
Houston Baptist University

“This concert is a wonderful idea - a city such as Houston has an astounding array of talent. To recognize some of these young talents is a wonderful encouragement in a very competitive field.”
James Mathis
Concert Pianist

“These talented young people should prove to be a source of admiration and inspiration for their peers as well as increasing an appreciation for the fine arts.”
Lawrence B. Wheeler
Association Professor of Viola
School of Music at University of   Houston

1988-


“Young musicians may be regarded as cultural treasures, as they form the bedrock of our musical future. As such, they should be encouraged, supported and applauded. The Houston Young Artist’s Concert allows this to happen in a very public and thrilling way.”
David Tomatz
Director
School of Music
University of Houston

“It was exhilarating to hear so many wonderfully gifted young musicians at the auditions for the gala-concert. Houston is so fortunate to have these talented students and their outstanding teachers in its community.
David Renner
Associate Professor of Piano
University of Texas at Austin

“There were so many gifted young people that choosing among them was difficult; yet their number and talent bode well for the art of music in Houston, America and the world.
Charles Sepos
Composer and Educator

“The Houston Young Artist’s Concert is a means by which the most talented young musicians of Houston may gain the experience and public exposure necessary for serious musical development.
Luke Douglas Sellers
Music Director
Bay Area Youth Symphony
Assistant Conductor
Shepherd Symphony
Rice University

1989-


“Young musicians may be regarded as cultural treasures, as they form the bedrock of our musical future. As such, they should be encouraged, supported and applauded. The Houston Young Artist’s Concert allows this to happen in a very public and thrilling way.

David Tomatz
Director
School of Music
University of Houston

“What a wonderful opportunity is given these gifted young musicians to bring their music and art to an ever growing audience! I heartily applaud the concept and efforts of the Houston Young Artist’s Concert.
Mary Norris
Pianist, Professor Emiritus
Shepherd School of Music
Rice University

“It was quite exciting to hear so many young musicians playing virtuoso repertoire with such command over their instruments. What made their performances so extraordinary was the maturity of expressiveness and finesse they exhibited.
Andrew Levin
Music Director of Symphony
North Orchestra

“The Houston Young Artist’s Concert should be a model for all communities that want to provide a highly visible platform for their emerging talents. It was indeed a pleasure to be part of this year’s selection process. Bravo to the students, parents, teachers, contributors and especially the organizing committee for making this special event possible.
Dr. David Neuber
Associate Professor of Double Bass
University of Texas at Austin
Principal Double Bass
At the Austin Symphony Orchestra

 

1991-


“Young musicians may be regarded as cultural treasures, as they form the bedrock of our musical future. As such, they should be encouraged, supported and applauded. The Houston Young Artist’s Concert allows this to happen in a very public and thrilling way.

David Tomatz
Director at School of Music
University of Houston

“I want all of Houston to know what fabulous musical talent abounds under the aegis of Houston Young Artist’s Concert. Parents, teachers and students have worked very hard to bring inspired music making to this community. My heartiest congratulations to all of you.
Adrian Gnam
Music Director
At University of Houston
Symphony Orchestra

“It was a special privilege to assist in the screening of so many outstanding young musicians, many of whom possess world-class talents. I congratulate the participants, their teachers and their families. I commend the organizers of the Houston Young Artist’s Concert on a truly marvelous endeavor.
Danielle Martin
Professor of Piano
The University of Texas at Austin

“The musical level of achievement in the Houston Young Artist’s Concert is truly outstanding and congratulations are due to each participant. Houston is indeed fortunate to have such a wealth of talent.
Henry Rubin
Violinist
Professor, school of music
University of Houston

1993-


“Young musicians may be regarded as cultural treasures, as they form the bedrock of our musical future. As such, they should be encouraged, supported and applauded. The Houston Young Artist’s Concert allows this to happen in a very public and thrilling way.

David Tomatz 
Director
School of Music
University of Houston

“Bravo to all those associated with the Houston Young Artist’s Concert. Houston is enormously rich in young talent and the concert will be superb. What a positive way to encourage young musicians providing an import concert opportunity rather than ranking winners in some sort of musical pecking order.
Nancy Garrett
Professor of Piano
The University of Texas at Austin

“I believe that the Houston Young Artist’s Concert reflects one of the “highest standards Eof its kind in the entire country. I also believe Houston, Texas to be one of the very great artistic centers of the world serving its young musicians as no other metropolitan area can. What a terrific combination.
Franz Anton Krager
Director of Orchestras
University of Houston

“I was astonished and very touched by the enormous talent I heard today. There were no losers in my heart. As a city we should be proud of our talent.
Shirley Trepel
Professor of Cello
The Shepherd School of Music

“As a music director of Houston Young Artist’s Concert my greatest reward is to see how the young artists and young audience become one united by the Joy of music making.
Sophia Gilmson
Professor of Piano Pedagogy
The University of Texas at Austin

 

1996-


“Young musicians may be regarded as cultural treasures, as they form the bedrock of our musical future. As such, they should be encouraged, supported and applauded. The Houston Young Artist’s Concert allows this to happen in a very public and thrilling way.

David Tomatz
Director
School of Music
University of Houston

“In my role as adjudicator, I was very impressed with the high level of artistic values ingrained in the talented participants during the Houston Young Artist’s Concert  Audition. It should be very rewarding to hear these fine young musicians come together for an evening of music-making ‘par excellence.
Robert Linder
- Conductor

“The Houston Young Artist’s Concert is a unique project in that talented students have their excellent preparation rewarded with a truly artistic experience  Eparticipation in a professional concert. I know of no other event that encourages the collaborative playing of peers, introducing them at a young age to a musical experience that is a great joy to all musicians.
Dr. Betty Mallard
Associate Professor
School of Music
University of Texas at Austin

 

“I was enormously impressed by the quality of the participants (and their accompanists) in the Houston Young Artist’s Concert auditions. I suspect no other city in the Southern and Southwestern USA could have put on such a show.
Dr. William Race
Professor of Piano
School of Music
University of Texas at Austin

“It was a great pleasure to be a judge because of the wonderful display of talent. The auditions were very beautifully run.
Robert Rudie
Violinist, Music Director
Of Salon Concerts in Austin

“The level of playing was extraordinarily high. Obviously, there is a lot of good teaching going on in the Houston area.
Dr. Timothy Woolsey
Professor of Piano
Southwest Texas State University

“September 29, 1996 is a day I will never forget! We heard one outstanding young musician after another  Eevery eight minutes  - for the entire day. In fact, never have I heard so many exceptional performances by youngsters from one city. Only a few decades ago, most of them would have worn the label ‘prodigy'.
Phyllis Young
Professor of Cello and String Pedagogy
University of Texas at Austin

“The playing was as good as it would have been in Leningrad.
Sophia Gilmson
Music Director of HYAC
Assistant Professor
Piano Pedagogy School of Music
University of Texas at Austin

 

1999-


“A delightful approach to the presentation of music-makers at their best.

Dr. Robert Radmer
Instructor of Viola
Southwest Texas State University

“The organizers of the Houston Young Artist’s Concert are to be applauded for providing this wonderful opportunity for young musicians to display their talents.
Dr. Keith Winking
Associate Professor of Trumpet
Southwest Texas State University

“It is fabulous to have a concert such as HYAC available to the youth of Houston. The originators obviously possessed much foresight and vision to see the constant development of artistic skill and talents among our young is so needed in our society. My hat goes off to the staff, volunteers and young artists of this fine project.
Hope Shiver
Professional Vocalist Soloist

“I was impressed with the high level of musicianship demonstrated by people at such a young age. It was a privilege and pleasure to be involved with this project.
Richard Macdowell
Associate Professor of Clarinet
University of Texas School of Music

“What an outstanding concept for a competition! And what a labor of love by all who are involved  Eorganizers, workers, judges, students & parents. To culminate in walking on to such a beautiful stage and playing such wonderful music is truly the ultimate reward. What a joy to be in a small part of the process.
Dr. Lynn F. Ledbetter
Associate Professor of Violin
Southwest Texas State University

“It is exciting to hear top level music making where students are listening to their sound production, technically fluent, and are communicating profound musical thoughts. Thank you for allowing me to take part in today’s auditions.
Carolyn True
Pianist

 

“These auditions are a joy for all of us. Bravo to the administrators, volunteers, participants, teachers, and parents!
Dr. Ruth E. Morrow
Piano Soloist and Teacher

“Thank you so much for including me in this wonderful project - Houston Young Artist’s Concert. I heard a lot of fine talent which was obviously prepared by great teaching that Houston is famous for. Congratulations to all the dedicated students, parents, and organizers. Y’all run a great show!
Samuel Wong
Piano Faculty Member
International Institute for Young Musicians

 

“This project is a tribute not only to the wonderfully talented young artists who participate, but also to the vision, devotion, and energy of the teachers, who imagined and organized the event. It is one of the most pleasant of activities to come to Houston to hear such an extraordinary level of talent and preparation. Other communities could well use this as a model; it is a fine goal to which young artists may aspire, and an event in which the entire community can take much pride.
Lita Guerra
Professor of Piano
Acting Associate Dean
College of Fine Arts
University of Texas

“Regard the Houston Young Artist’s Concert which it was my pleasure and privilege to judge, I was very impressed by the high level of the competitors and the professional way each aspect of the event was maintained. One goes away with the impression that the future of music  Eat least in the Houston area is quite secure. Again, it was a pleasure and an honor to be a part of this wonderful event.
Philip Lewi
Professor of Violin and Chamber Music
University of North Texas

“For the Houston Yong Artist’s Concert, the sky is the limit.
Sophia Gilmson
Music Director
HYAC and Assistant Professor
Piano Pedagogy School of Music
University of  Texas at Austin

2001-


“Young musicians may be regarded as cultural treasures, as they form the bedrock of our musical future. As such, they should be encouraged, supported and applauded. The Houston Young Artist’s Concert allows this to happen in a very public and thrilling way.

Dr. David Tomatz
Director, School of Music
University of Houston

“The level of young artists participating demonstrated the highest qualities of talent and teaching, congratulations!
Paul Olefsky
Professor of Cello/Chamber Music
University of Texas at Austin

“HYAC is commended for recognizing outstanding young musicians and for providing ample opportunities for those musicians to perform for all kinds of audiences. Bravo to all of the competitors and the volunteers who make this event so successful.
Esther Wang
Lecturer in Accompanying
University of Texas at Austin

“The HYAC offers an exciting incentive for young musicians to strive to achieve the very best that their skills and love of music make possible. The auditions, administration and presentations are extraordinarily well organized. The resulting concerts are occasions for great pride….
Robert Rudie
Former Concertmaster
American Symphony
New York City Ballet

“HYAC is unusual in that it is a high-caliber competition and a source of significant outreach concerts at the same time. I am most impressed that the young musicians are encouraged to explore their abilities as collaborators and chamber musicians, as well as to celebrate their gifts as soloists.
Timothy Lovelace
Assist. Professor of Accompanying
University of Texas at Austin

“The large number of truly gifted young musicians was astounding, and led me to believe that Houston is one of the cultural capitals of the U.S. The professional demeanor of the young performers and the level of artistry were well above what I might have expected.
Kristin Wolfe Jenson
Assist. Professor of Bassoon
University of Texas at Austin

“This is a wonderful program giving gifted young musicians an opportunity or their musical talents to be heard. This experience is one that most musicians would not receive until later in their development, however with HYAC programs their potential can be realized at a very early age.
Scott D. Plugge
Graduate Music Advisor
Assist. Professor of Saxophone
University of Texas at Austin

“What a wealth of Houston talent was on display at the finals! Over 90 young musicians performed with confidence, poise and flair, demonstrating their innate love of music and their obviously very fine training. Bravo, all!
Gregory Allen
Professor of Piano
School of Music
University of Texas at Austin

“I was very impressed and encouraged to hear the high level of many of the HYAC voice competitors. It was a pleasure to hear many young healthy voices with much potential for successful future careers.
Ana Trevino Godfrey
Soloist, Mercury Ensemble
Teacher at Bridge’s School

 “As co-founder and Music Director of Houston Young Artist's Concert since its inception, I can’t be objective. I simply love it!!
Sophia Gilmson
Music Director of HYAC
Assist. Professor of Piano Pedagogy
University of Texas at Austin

2003-


“Young musicians may be regarded as cultural treasures, as they form the bedrock of our musical future. As such, they should be encouraged, supported and applauded. The Houston Young Artist’s Concert allows this to happen in a very public and thrilling way.

David Tomatz
Director, School of Music University of Houston

“This is a superbly run competition and a wonderful chance for those young musicians of the Houston area.
Andrew Wilson
Assistant Professor of violin and Viola
Coordinator of Strings at Sam Houston University

“What a wonderful variety of expertly trained, talented young musicians, and what joy they must bring to the audiences who are so fortunate to hear and see them perform! These young people are to be applauded for their exceptionally high artistic level, poise and love of music. Congratulations to these outstanding musicians, their teachers, and all those who make Houston Young Artist’s Concerts possible.
Jackie Hofto
Lecturer in Flute and Outreach Coordinator
University of Taxes at Austin

“Discovering new talent is always a joy. Discovering many new talents in one day is a special privilege and a great joy. This becomes possible because of the tradition established by the Houston Young Artist’s Concert Audition. Bravo!
Vagram Saradjian
Professor of Piano
Stephen F. Austin State University

“In judging preliminary competition of pianists for the Houston Young Artists Concerts, I was impressed with the general high caliber talent from the Houston area students. These young pianists displayed artistic levels of expression, nuance and color and I am sure they will gain much from the experience afforded them by this unique opportunity.
Linda Parr.
Professor of Piano
Stephen F. Austin State University

“It was a rare treat hearing all the superb young musicians who competed in the preliminary round of HYAC. The final round judges will certainly have their hands full choosing the winners! The organization is to be commended on the service they provide in introducing the public to so many gifted young talents.
Bruce Williams
Principal Violist of the Austin Symphony

“I really like the concept behind the Houston Young Artist’s Concert, which is providing opportunities for talented young musicians to share their music making. The audition had more the flavor of discovering which young people had something special to contribute than that of a stand-off to find out who was better than whom.
Dr. Andrew Parr
Professor of Piano
Stephan F. Austin University

“I was such a pleasure, privilege, and delight to hear so many talented and well-trained young singers in the Houston Young Artists Auditions. It bodes well for the future of classical music that we have such gifted young people in our community. Congratulations to all.
Robyn Reso
Doctoral Candidate in Vocal Performance
University of Houston

“I am impressed and amazed by the HYAC which is such a wonderfully conceived and organized event which gives a bountiful array of talent in the Houston area an opportunity to be seen and heard. Congratulations to all of the expert teachers, families and friends who also makes these events possible.
David Renner
Professor of Piano
University of Texas at Austin

“Houston Young Artist’s Concert has been one of my most treasured musical experiences. I intend to stay young with Houston Young Artist’s Concert.
Sophia Gilmson
Music Director of HYAC
Assist. Prof. Piano
University of Texas at Austin

2005-


“It was a thrill to see and hear such talented young performers giving their all in the preliminary round of the HYAC competition. I feel privileged to participate in what this great organization is doing for Huston’s young instrumentalists and singers.

Dr. Isabelle Ganz,
Mezzo-Soprano, Affiliate Artist in Voice
Moore’s School of Music
University of Houston

“Houston Yong Artist’s Concert attracts energetic and talented people that care about young musicians and the future of great music making. Michael Lowe
Conductor, Pianist, Artistic Director
Houston Chamber Orchestra

“I found the program extremely impressive and the performance level very high. Houston Young Artist’s Concert gives to a lot of students opportunity to perform and to learn how to be an artist.
Vincent Frittelli
Violinist, Associate Professor of Violin
School of Music
University of Texas at Austin

“Houston Young Artist’s Concert provides an invaluable opportunity for Houston’s young musicians to perform and reach new musical heights for themselves and for the community. Through HYAC these young performers experience the joy of making and sharing music with others and will take that joy of making music with them for the rest of their lives. Congratulations to HYAC and to the performers that make it all possible.
Richard Nunemaker
Clarinetist, Bass Clarinetist, Saxophonist
Houston Symphony Orchestra (38 years)

“I was amazed by the high quality of performances by so many young pianists at this well organized event. Piano playing in Houston is alive and thriving!
Dr. Clive Swansbourne
Pianist

“In a world where so many competitions exist to eliminate talent, it was wonderful to be a part of the Houston Young Artists Ecompetition. Wonderfully affirming it fosters and encourages the talents and dreams of Houston’s young musicians.
Alan Austin
Violinist, Executive Director
Immanuel and Helen Olshan Texas Music Festival

“It is a great pleasure to hear the energy and inspiration of these young players. I congratulate HYAC on making this opportunity available and I am reminded yet again that the future of music is in good hands.
James Dunham
Violist, Professor of Viola and Chamber Music
Shepherd School of Music
Rich University

“It was an honor and privilege to adjudicate this year’s auditions and hear so many talented young performers. Kudos to Houston Young Artist’s Concert for providing such a wonderful opportunity for dedicated musicians! Here they receive the chance to communicate the beauty of their art to a wider public while fostering and deepening an appreciation for classical music. What better combination could there be?
Elizabeth Gutierrez
Pianist, Composer, Associate Professor of Piano
University of Texas at San Antonio

“Being a former resident of Houston, I had heard many wonderful things about HYAC over the years. I witnessed their program, first hand this year, and found those rare reviews to be right on target. The auditions were very well conceived and the performers were simply amazing!
Dr. Nathaniel O. Brickens
Trombonist, Professor of Trombone
University of Texas at Austin
Immediate Past President
International Trombone Association

“Houston Yong Artist’s Concert has been one of my most treasured musical experiences.    I intend to stay young with Houston Young Artist’s Concert.
Sophia Gilmson
Pianist, Asst. Professor of Pedagogy
University of Texas at Austin
Music Director of HYAC

2007-


“I enjoyed hearing such wonderfully prepared young pianists recently at the HYAC. These students  Eages 8 to 14  Eplayed difficult repertoire with brilliant technique and musicianship. As budding young artists, most all were a great pleasure to hear. I also think that the purpose of HYAC is wonderful  Ein finding performance opportunities for these students and at the same time enriching the cultural lives of the Houston area communities!

Linda Parr
Pianist, Professor
Stephen F. Austin State University

 

“I really like the concept of the Houston Yong Artist Concert Auditions. Deserving students are rewarded with the opportunity to be heard by a wider audience in recital. I heard pianists today that are striving for excellence at an impressively early age. Congratulations to them and to the teachers who inspire them.
Andrew Parr
Pianist, Professor
Stephen F. Austin State University

“I heartily congratulate Houston Young Artist’s Concert organization for their efforts toward presenting some of Houston’s very finest young talent. The level of singing that I heard from these young people in today’s first round was exemplary.
Tom Jaber
Director of Choral Activities
Shepherd school of Music
Rice University

“It was a pleasure to hear so many excellent young musicians, and very hard to choose the winners. Obviously, there is a great deal of talent in the Houston area, and lots of excellent teaching!
Richard Lavenda
/Clarinetist, Professor of Composition & Theory
Shepherd school of Music
Rice University

 

“The performance level of young artists in Houston is astonishing! Congratulations to the teachers for nurturing these talents! Congratulations to the students for such hard work well done! Please let me know if you think that will be OK or if you need anything else. It was a pleasure to meet you! I hope we will keep in touch in the future.
Dr. Misha Galaganov
Violist, Associate Professor of Viola,
Co-director: Chamber Music Roundup
Editor: Da Capo Newsletter Texas Christian University

“It has been an absolute pleasure to hear all of the participants of the HYAC. There were exceptional moments of artistry with fantastic display of brilliance. It is amazing to see and hear the next generation of musicians. It gives me great faith that the incredible ******
from the ages lives on through inspired performances of young people. Whether these performers become professional musicians or extremely accomplished amateurs, this great art form will continue to find a voice because of the organizations like HYAC.

Michelle Schumann
Pianist, Artistic Director
Austin Chamber Music

“I was amazed by the very high level of talent and skill that I witnessed today. Many performances were downright inspiring. What a joy to hear these young performers!
Jessica Mathaes
Violinist, Concertmaster
Austin Symphony

“Houston Young Artist’s Competition is an extraordinary music feast for anyone who is honored of being invited as a judge. The quality of the participants is very high and the talent permeating from the young performers is inspiring. HYAC is an impressive organization.
Hakan Rosengren
Clarinetist, Worldwide Concert
California State University at Fullerton

“Thanks to HYAC, music will always be part of children’s everyday life and will uplift their spirits and minds. I feel very fortunate to witness the dedication and commitment of the participants of the 2006 audition.
Alain Declert
Program Director
International Festival-Institute at Round Top
Music Director of HYAC

 

 

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