EXPANSION OF BSO MUSICIAN COACHINGS
One year ago , we introduced a new opportunity for advanced OrchKids students : receiving monthly coachings from our own BSO musicians . Nine students and Seven BSO musicians were involved in this inaugural cohort in which BSO musicians coached students one-on-one at their OrchKids site and the Meyerhoff to help them prepare for auditions and performances , continue developing proper technique , and offer mentorship on pursuing music as a career . This year , the cohort has grown to 15 students and 12 BSO musicians ! Students will work with their coach twice a month for further engagement and learning opportunities . We ’ re also excited to introduce two new opportunities within the coaching space : chamber music coaching and masterclasses . Both of these new opportunities allow students to increase collaboration with their peers and gain perspective on ideas they may not have otherwise heard in a private lesson . We ’ re thrilled to continue this exciting engagement with our fantastic BSO musicians .
Right : OrchKids student Jayden Moore in his coaching session with BSO violist Lisa Steltenpohl .
student feature :
ASHLEY GONZALEZ
A member of the inaugural BSO musician coaching cohort , Ashley González is a shining star in the OrchKids program . Ashley started playing the flute at OrchKids when she was in third grade at Highlandtown Elementary / Middle School # 215 and is now a ninth grader at Baltimore School for the Arts . Earlier this year , Ashley received the 2023 Marin Alsop Citizenship Award , a prestigious award given to students who embody the traits of its namesake , OrchKids Founder and BSO Music Director Laureate , including commitment , leadership , and service . Reflecting on the experience performing on stage at the Meyerhoff at the OrchKids 15-Year Celebration Concert , Ashley said “ It was a dream come true , really ” as “ my goal is to join the BSO , Baltimore Symphony Orchestra , and be one of the flautists there , as my dream job .” A few months after this performance , Ashley flew to
Left : Ashley González performing in the Latin Ensemble at the OrchKids 15-Year Celebration Concert .
Michigan to attend the Interlochen Arts Camp on a full scholarship ! Ashley has grown into an incredible , dedicated young musician , and we cannot wait to see her musical journey continue at OrchKids and beyond .
JAN-FEB 2024 / OVERTURE 29