The Center for Future Audiences and the Colorado Springs Philharmonic recently brought professional artistry to the local youth music community. Specifically, on April 20th, Music Director Chloé Dufresne visited the Colorado Springs Youth Symphony (CSYSA) for a special masterclass. Upon her arrival, she met with CSYSA Music Director Gary Nicholson and engaged with local supporters over light snacks. They discussed her recent collaboration with Itzhak Perlman and the exciting new “CounterPoint” series with Theaterworks.
Following this meet-and-greet, Chloé moved to the podium to work with the talented young musicians. Furthermore, the rehearsal served as a parent appreciation event, allowing families to watch the professional coaching in action. Chloé began with the fourth movement of their program, displaying an incredibly animated conducting style. She utilized sweeping arm movements and even stood on her toes to emphasize the music’s growth. Consequently, the orchestra’s sound became more resonant as she coached the strings on staccato techniques and building tension.
Subsequently, the focus shifted to the challenging third movement. Chloé worked meticulously with the woodwinds on their timing and helped the strings refine their quality of sound. Even as the session progressed into a Saint-Saëns violin concerto, her energy remained high. She frequently asked the students questions to spark their own musical thinking. “Listen, don’t rush,” she reminded the ensemble while refining the soloist’s performance.
The evening concluded with a chorus of “bravo” for the soloist and the full orchestra. Chloé shared her genuine joy for the music, ending the session with a celebratory group selfie with the students. We are proud to support these connections between the Colorado Springs Philharmonic and the rising stars of the CSYSA. These interactions truly ensure that the future of orchestral music in our city remains bright and inspired.
