Frances Hackley
The Robson Ranch Music Club hosted the Youth Symphony of Denton on March 3. This talented group of young musicians played a program of assorted pieces by Mozart, Handel, Telemann, Sibelius, Beethoven, and Ravel’s entire Bolero. The 50-minute program was orchestrated with dynamic beauty and precision, leaving the audience captivated. Three of the organization’s ensembles took part in the performance: the Philharmonic Chamber Ensemble, Symphony Chamber Ensemble, and the larger Youth Symphony.
The symphony is under the direction of Damia Cleaver and Hyunseok (Hank) Chang. The two met one another while teaching private lessons at a local middle school. During a break, they began talking and discovered that they both had a dream of starting a youth orchestra in the City of Denton. They found that First United Methodist Church of Denton had a Fine Arts program, and they were willing to let them meet there and be a part of their program. Meetings were held, and about 40 families showed interest. Auditions were planned, and two ensembles were formed. Eighteen students were placed in the Preparatory Orchestra, and 31 were placed in the Symphony Orchestra. The first concert was held on Nov. 2, 2019! Then, just months later, COVID-19 hit. They had a rough start, but the group has grown and flourished in just the last couple of years. They now have their rehearsals at UNT and have opened the symphony to adults who still wish to rekindle and satisfy the playing of their instrument.
The mission of the Youth Symphony of Denton is to provide an exceptional musical experience for the students in the Denton and surrounding areas, offering an opportunity to develop musically while performing standard orchestral repertoire, hoping to help students achieve greater depth in their music studies as they move through the different ensembles of the Youth Symphony.
If you are interested in joining the symphony or perhaps supporting a child’s tuition, go to www.youthsymphonydenton.com.
The Music Club realizes the importance of music in the development of youngsters and is an ongoing supporter of the Borman Elementary Orchestra Program. Studies show, in general, that children who learn to play an instrument or read music do far better in school than children who do not. Learning an instrument improves cognitive skills, teaches patience and responsibility, boosts self-esteem, enhances coordination and brain growth, increases math and reading skills, and allows them to experience the joy of music. Borman needs some assistance with maintenance, supplies, and the costs of participating in competitions. If you would like to help, please consider donating. Go to our website, rrmusicclub.com. Also note while you are there our upcoming events: “Robson’s Greatest Hits: 20 Years of Memories” concert on April 20 and 21, Cinco de Mayo Dance/Karaoke on May 3, and the Robson Choir singing the national anthem at the RoughRiders game on May 26.