ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10) — What’s better than one orchestra? Two! The Albany Symphony Orchestra and Empire State Youth Orchestra (ESYO) will perform a free pops concert on October 13, with a chance for amateur musicians to join in.
In the third annual “Side by Side Symphony” concert, members from the Albany Symphony Orchestra and ESYO will sit side-by-side to perform musical selections from various films and television shows, as well as symphonic classics. The program will include music from “Wicked,” “How to Train Your Dragon,” “Moana,” “Jurassic Park” and more.
However, the stage will be open to more than just the professionals. Instrumentalists and singers of all ages and skill levels will be able to join the performance during several pieces.
Student and teacher instrumentalists in elementary school, middle school, high school and college will be invited to play with the two orchestras for “How To Train Your Dragon,” “Wicked Highlights” and the theme from “Spirited Away.” Interested students must RSVP online by October 3 and attend a students-only rehearsal at MVP Arena on October 13 at 11 a.m.
Singers of all ages and abilities will also be invited to perform in “How Far I’ll Go” from “Moana” and in “Ode to Joy.” Those interested must RSVP online by October 10 and attend a vocal rehearsal on October 13 at 1 p.m.
Finally, instrumentalists of any skill level can join in the concert’s grand finale performance of “Imperial March” from “Star Wars.” A finale community rehearsal for every participant will be held at 2 p.m. on October 13, with online RSVP required by October 10.
“It is a privilege to once again open the door for our young musicians to sit side by side with the outstanding professionals of the Albany Symphony, student musicians from schools across our region, and community members,” said ESYO Music Director Etienne Abelin. “For the third year, this partnership will give our students the chance to experience the joy and energy of playing as part of a professional orchestra, and to be inspired by artists they greatly admire.”
In addition to the concert, attendees will be able to enjoy an Activities Fair on the MVP Arena Concourse. There will be artwork displays, informational stands and interactive activities like an “Instrument Playground,” where children will be able to try out different musical instruments.
“Symphony Side by Side” will take place at MVP Arena, with doors opening at 12:30 p.m. and the concert kicking off at 3 p.m. Community players can RSVP to perform with the orchestras on the Albany Symphony Orchestra website. Students and teachers can also RSVP online.
“Hundreds of people coming together to perform great music is the most magnificent, life-affirming way to build and celebrate our beautiful community!” said Albany Symphony Music Director David Alan Miller.
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