SALT LAKE CITY — A very unique concert took place this week at Abravanel Hall. The Utah Symphony invited high school students from throughout the state to study with and perform with the orchestra.
A collaborative musical performance
“Finlandia,” a famous work about the power of nature by composer Jean Sibelius, filled Abravanel Hall on Tuesday, May 19. More than 100 musicians performed with the Utah Symphony in its side-by-side concert, which featured professional musicians alongside their high school-age counterparts.
Maestro Markus Poschner, the new music director of The Utah Symphony, was enthusiastic about the program.
“Creating something together that none of us could have created alone, that’s fantastic,” Poschner said.
The audition and mentorship process
47 students from high schools throughout Utah auditioned and then worked with Utah Symphony musicians in groups and individually. Very few orchestras in America offer this opportunity. This decades-long program, funded by community donations, comes with the belief that it can literally change lives.
Student perspectives on professional coaching
Jacob Thiriot from Viewmont High School plays the violin and finds it valuable to see performing through the lens of a professional.
“I can see their technique, I can see their bowings (and) fingerings, and it’s really nice to be coached by someone who’s had this symphony experience,” Thiriot said.
A unique family musical connection
Ella Johnson of Skyline High School plays the cello. She has had the incredible experience of performing on the same stage with both her parents, who are Utah Symphony players.
“I think it’s really cool because I’ve grown up watching them my entire life, and to get to perform side-by-side with them is really an opportunity,” Johnson said.
The conductor's passion for students
The maestro said he was very touched by the students.
“What moves me most is their passion, really and there is so much energy,” Poschner said. “Every single, individual voice matters, regardless of where you are from.”
Preparing for a professional career
The students said one of the greatest gifts of this experience has been the invitation to sit and perform within the orchestra, as they all hope to become a professional musician.
Kyall Jewkes also from Skyline, plays the bass and said she is learning about the process musicians go through.
“What it takes for me, now in my normal life, compared to what it’s going to take on a professional level,” Jewkes said. “Just knowing that difference has been a lot, like, helpful to me to get prepared for it now.”
These young people have begun by making a beautiful, lyrical statement, which the maestro believes better connects them to the greater community and lets them know they are seen. The applause from the audience, which included parents, siblings, grandparents, teachers and friends was long and sincere.
“Art is the only process to your inner world, to your own human spirit, “ Poschner said. “ That’s really a very profound experience.”
