The Center for Future Audiences and the Colorado Springs Philharmonic were thrilled to host the middle school band and choir students from Cañon Exploratory School this past Friday. The group arrived with instruments in hand and a lot of excitement—and thanks to some “miracle traffic” from Cañon City, they were early to dive into a day of professional mentorship!
Joye Levy, Director of the Center for Future Audiences, kicked things off with a behind-the-scenes tour of the Pikes Peak Center. For all but one student in the group, this was their first time in the hall. Joye highlighted everything from the specialized acoustics to the “hidden” jobs that make a concert happen.
The students then split up for masterclasses with our very own Sergei Vassiliev and Bob Jurkscheit. With over 30 years of combined experience, these pros didn’t hold back. Sergei shared a beautiful solo from Rhapsody in Blue, while Bob gave the percussionists a “gear tour” of the orchestral stage—the glockenspiel and castanets were big hits! Meanwhile, the vocal students worked with the Children’s Chorale on the specific techniques needed to fill a massive hall like the Pikes Peak Center.
The “cherry on top” was a visit from guest artist Kenneth Overton. Kenneth chatted with the students about his 23-year career, from the Met Opera to the Tony Awards. He even shared some pro tips on how to manage your diet and breathing when performing at high altitudes.
After a much-needed pizza break at Fargo’s, the students returned to sit in on the dress rehearsal for Gershwin: Porgy and Bess. Seeing the very techniques they just practiced being used by professional musicians made for a full-circle moment. We are so proud to support the CES music program and can’t wait to see these talented students back in the audience soon!
