Houston Young Artists’ Concert
Mayors White, Brown and Parker have all been pleased to write letters of support for Houston Young Artists’ Concert.
I was honored to serve as a judge for the Houston Young Artist Competition, and throughout the day, as we listened to a variety of remarkable young musicians, I was reminded of the wealth of young artistic talent we have in Houston.
—Dr. David Ashley White, Department Head - Moore's School of Music at the University of Houston
Hats off to the Houston Young Artists’ Concert organization for providing this unique opportunity to showcase the artistry of Houston’s outstanding young musicians. I would like to congratulate all the participating students, their teachers and parents on their success and for their contribution in helping to keep the art of great musical expression alive and vibrant in the Houston community.
—Dr. Charlotte Mueller, Pianist and Faculty at Lee College in Baytown
The competition was incredible. I was thrilled by the quality of all the performers and had to make some very difficult decisions. I applaud the HYAC in its efforts in championing new talent. Congratulations to all the competitors and I encourage them to continue developing their considerable talents.
—Dr. Jane Perkyns, TUTS’ Humphreys School of Musical Theatre Faculty
It was truly an honor to be invited to take part in the Houston Young Artists’ Concert auditions as a judge. HYAC is a brilliant organization in which it gives students an opportunity to show their talents and I hope it can continue to cultivate the next generation’s talents and potential in the arts.
—Eddy Xiao, Conductor and Composer
There is so much hidden talent in Houston, this was absolutely refreshing and inspiring.
—Travis Pratt, Tenor
I was honored to be a part of the wonderful organization, Houston Young Artists’ Concert. It was inspiring to hear young musicians with such strong dedication to artistic excellence. Congratulations to the performers, their parents, and teachers. I am looking forward to hearing their future performances.
—Chizu Kataoka, Violinist
I was very impressed both with the level of the young talent and with the superb work of the teachers. Choosing just a handful of finalists was extremely difficult and I hope every one who didn’t advance this year will consider auditioning in the future. If you are attending the concert – I know you are in for a memorable treat.
—Anonymous
The skill displayed by the guitarists of HYAC showed that our city will continue to have a tradition of talented musicians. They were a pleasure to work with and hear.
—Chase Harris, Guitarist
The HYAC auditions are fantastic opportunities for these talented young individuals to put their abilities to the test.
—Joseph Mishler, Voice
I was very impressed to hear so many talented musicians perform with artistry and excitement at the HYAC auditions. It was always pleasing to witness young musicians who grasp the required balance of technical poise and musical understanding necessary to express the character of their pieces with abandon and joy. It is that joy in playing that makes all the difference! As an organization HYAC offers these young and gifted performers admirable and attainable goals towards which they may steer their ambitions. Bravo!
—Michael Zuraw, Pianist and Founder & Director of Aperio: Music of Americas
The HYAC auditions dazzled me with the variety, accomplishment and exuberance of our city’s youthful talent. I was excited and moved by the creativity and dedication shown by these budding artists, and by their teachers. Thanks to HYAC, we can all look forward to a richer future.
—Brian Connelly, Pianist from Shepherd School of Music at Rice University
I enjoyed hearing such wonderfully prepared young pianists recently at the HYAC. These students ages 8 to 14 played difficult repertoire with brilliant technique and musicianship. As budding young artists, most all were a great pleasure to hear. I also think that the purpose of HYAC is wonderful in finding performance opportunities for these students and at the same time enriching the cultural lives of the Houston area communities!
—Linda Parr, Pianist Professor at Stephen F. Austin State University, 2007
I really like the concept of the Houston Young Artist Concert Auditions. Deserving students are rewarded with the opportunity to be heard by a wider audience in recital. I heard pianists today that are striving for excellence at an impressively early age. Congratulations to them and to the teachers who inspire them.
—Andrew Parr, Pianist Professor at Stephen F. Austin State University, 2007
I heartily congratulate Houston Young Artist’s Concert organization for their efforts toward presenting some of Houston’s very finest young talent. The level of singing that I heard from these young people in today’s first round was exemplary.
—Tom Jaber, Director of Choral Activities for Shepherd School of Music at Rice University, 2007
It was a pleasure to hear so many excellent young musicians, and very hard to choose the winners. Obviously, there is a great deal of talent in the Houston area, and lots of excellent teaching!
—Richard Lavenda, Clarinetist and Professor of Composition & Theory for Shepherd School of Music at Rice University, 2007
The performance level of young artists in Houston is astonishing! Congratulations to the teachers for nurturing these talents! Congratulations to the students for such hard work well done!
—Dr. Misha Galaganov, Violist and Associate Professor in Viola and Chamber Music at Texas Christian University, 2007
It has been an absolute pleasure to hear all of the participants of the HYAC. There were exceptional moments of artistry with fantastic display of brilliance. It is amazing to see and hear the next generation of musicians. It gives me great faith that the incredible ****** from the ages lives on through inspired performances of young people. Whether these performers become professional musicians or extremely accomplished amateurs, this great art form will continue to find a voice because of the organizations like HYAC.
—Michelle Schumann, Pianist and Artistic Director at Austin Chamber Music, 2007
I was amazed by the very high level of talent and skill that I witnessed today. Many performances were downright inspiring. What a joy to hear these young performers!
—Jessica Mathaes, Violinist and Concertmaster at Austin Symphony, 2007
Houston Young Artist’s Competition is an extraordinary music feast for anyone who is honored of being invited as a judge. The quality of the participants is very high and the talent permeating from the young performers is inspiring. HYAC is an impressive organization.
—Hakan Rosengren, Clarinetist and Professor of Music at California State University, Fullerton, 2007
Thanks to HYAC, music will always be part of children’s everyday life and will uplift their spirits and minds. I feel very fortunate to witness the dedication and commitment of the participants of the 2006 audition.
—Alain Declert, Program Director at International Festival-Insitute at Round Top, 2007