Frank Almond Named 2014 Artist-In-Residence of Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra

Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra (MYSO) has announced that Frank Almond will serve as MYSO's 2014 Artist-in-Residence, a newly created position generously sponsored by the Johnston Family. An internationally celebrated violinist who holds the Charles and Marie Caestecker Concertmaster Chair with the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra (MSO), he founded and directs the beloved Frankly Music Chamber Concert Series in Milwaukee. A devoted educator, he has held academic positions at San Diego State University, Texas Christian University, and Northwestern University, and recently joined the faculty of the Chicago College of Performing Arts at Roosevelt University.

"MYSO is delighted to partner with Mr. Almond to offer this unique opportunity to our young musicians," said Executive Director Linda Edelstein. "As a master artist, chamber musician and dedicated educator, he brings a wealth of experience and expertise to our students and our organization. We are extremely pleased to create this new role for him at MYSO and welcome him enthusiastically."

Mr. Almond's Residency with MYSO will include solo performances in concert with MYSO's nationally-recognized ensembles, Senior Symphony and Chamber Orchestra. Additionally, Mr. Almond will perform throughout MYSO's 2015 international concert tour to Vienna, Austria and Budapest, Hungary held June 28-July 8, 2015. Tour concerts will include a pre-departure performance in Milwaukee, as well as multiple performances throughout the European tour. An enthusiastic youth educator, Mr. Almond will also provide extensive student support in rehearsals, sectionals and coaching sessions for the full range of MYSO string ensembles, including MYSO's introductory programs for underserved Milwaukee youth.

"Musicians and members of MYSO's artistic staff are thrilled to be able to work with and benefit from Frank's world-class knowledge and experience," stated Carter Simmons, Artistic Director. "This partnership will further enhance MYSO's commitment to artistic excellence in all we do. We can't wait to get started."

MYSO and Frankly Music will expand upon its present collaboration to host open Frankly Music dress rehearsals for each Frankly Music series with time for discussion, questions and answers for current MYSO families. Further expanding this partnership, Mr. Almond's Residency will also include the introduction of a Young Artist Showcase, jointly presented by both organizations. The showcase will highlight select MYSO chamber ensembles, chosen from MYSO's Davidson Chamber Ensemble Program by a mutually-selected panel. Mr. Almond will personally coach these selected ensembles throughout their rehearsal.

"I'm honored and excited to begin this more formal collaboration with MYSO, an exemplary organization that has literally changed the lives of thousands of young musicians over the years, touching every sector of the Milwaukee community and beyond," stated Frank Almond. "I'm very much looking forward to all the various events this season."

Mr. Almond's residency will begin in August.

For more information, please call Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra, at 414-267-2906, or visit our website at www.myso.org.

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