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In 2007, the Charleston Symphony Orchestra and the College of Charleston joined forces to create the Youth Orchestra of the Lowcountry (YoLow), composed of talented young musicians from across the region.
YoLow provides an unique opportunity to: · experience the challenge and satisfaction of rehearsing and performing classical music with the best young musicians from throughout the region. · leverage opportunities to perform, and interact with college-level and professional musicians in an orchestral environment. · refine your passion for, and commitment to, orchestral music of the highest standards.
The Youth Orchestra of the Lowcountry is open to talented instrumentalists in grades 9-12 throughout the coastal Carolina region. Exceptionally talented middle school students may be considered. Participants are chosen through an annual audition process, with weekly rehearsals and performances from September through May.
Current Conductor Mr. Richard Marcus earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education from the University of Iowa and a Master’s Degree in Conducting from Butler University in Indianapolis, Indiana. He is also a graduate of the University of Calgary’s Wind Conducting Diploma Program. He has directed bands, orchestras, and choirs in elementary, middle, and high schools in Georgia, Illinois, and Switzerland. He has served as Music Director or Guest Conductor for several professional and community orchestras including the Methodist Chamber Orchestra, Indianapolis Chamber Orchestra, the Valley Civic Orchestra, and the Athenaeum Pops Orchestra. At the College of Charleston, Mr. Marcus serves as the conductor of the Wind Ensemble and the assistant conductor of the Chamber Orchestra. Guest Conductors David Stahl, Music Director, Charleston Symphony Orchestra Brief History The Youth Orchestra of the Lowcountry had its beginnings in the early 1970’s as an expansion of early string programs in the Charleston County Schools. Two string orchestras, the West Ashley Strings and the East Cooper Strings were formed to combine students in the various school programs into larger, more advanced ensembles. In the mid 1970’s, the two string orchestras were combined with winds and percussion to become the Charleston County Youth Orchestra led by Ruth Goldsmith, John Steffa, and David Ezell. During Ralph Rizzolo’s tenure as manager of the Charleston Symphony, the organization became the Charleston Symphony Youth Orchestra. Former conductors of the Youth Orchestra include Won Mo Kim, Stuart Malina, Ed Ritchen, and Rex Conner. |
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Youth Orchestra of the Lowcountry |
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A Collaboration Between the College of Charleston and the Charleston Symphony Orchestra with Support from the Charleston County School District |
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About YoLow |