Carter Simmons came to MYSO as a bright-eyed graduate student studying under the tutelage of Professor Thomas Dvorak. At that time Mr. Simmons only knew one thing; he wanted to pursue a career in his biggest passion - music. From music coordinator to MYSO Artistic Director, he has grown with us both as a musician and as an individual over the last 25 years.

 

When reflecting on the importance of seeing former students come back, Mr. Simmons responds, "It's really rewarding to witness the result of a great relationship that was founded in a musical experience... It's also gratifying to see them come back because you can tell that they are checking in to see if what they experienced is still being experienced by others." Help us commemorate Mr. Simmons' 25 years with us by making a donation in his honor.

Monday, January 8, brought together MYSO/MFY alumni of all ages to reminisce about their musical experiences and to dust off their instruments to rehearse with the Senior Symphony. Ms. Margery Deutsch, Senior Symphony Music Director, and Mr. Carter Simmons, Artistic Director and Music Director of Metropolitan Symphony Orchestra and Chamber Orchestra, welcomed  back alumni from 1973-2017 during a pre-rehearsal reception. Attendees met fellow alumni, shared memories about rehearsing, performing, and touring, and heard organizational updates.

 

Andy Sajdak (2000) sits in with the cello section. Photo: Home Bound Photography

 

Thank you to all who attended. We welcome visiting alumni any time of the year!