Stories

Today we celebrate the life of GTCYS’ co-founder Henry Charles Smith, who passed away last month at the age of 90. GTCYS’ Artistic Director Mark Russell Smith reflects on the […]

Nonprofit youth orchestra to celebrate milestone year with “Play it Forward” giving campaign and unique performances at Orchestra Hall in downtown Minneapolis. See more at gtcys.org/50years. ST. PAUL, Minn. (Sept. […]

We are pleased to announce that GTCYS conductor Dr. Ernesto Estigarribia will step into the Philharmonic conductor role next fall following Gary Wolfman’s retirement this spring. Since its inception in […]

After joining GTCYS’ artistic staff in fall 2012, Philharmonic conductor Gary Wolfman will retire at the end of this season following auditions. Mr. Wolfman’s artistic gifts have impacted hundreds of […]

Destyne Miller has played bass in GTCYS for four years and is currently a member of Concert Orchestra. She shares the powerful impact GTCYS has had on her life below. […]

When you play in an orchestra, you learn so much more than music. For Jayda Francis, GTCYS has been a home for her to grow as a leader and performer. […]

To celebrate Valentine’s Day, two GTCYS alumni share their love story. Andrea and Nick Lang met their senior year in GTCYS, and what started with encouragement on an English Horn […]

Kamau Rodriguez-Pegg is a talented musician. He’s been making music since he was in kindergarten, and first joined GTCYS two and a half years ago. A current violinist in Concertino […]

The talent, passion, and dedication of students and families define GTCYS. But outside rehearsal rooms and concert halls is another equally passionate group of leaders: GTCYS’ Board of Directors. Comprised […]

Steve Kriesel doesn’t just make masks. His innovations make in-person music possible during COVID-19. A GTCYS alum and current parent of a GTCYS student, Steve is the owner of the […]