History
YOCJ Through The Years
2015
“Woodwind Chamber Players,” a variety of small woodwind ensembles comprised of students from the Symphonic Orchestra is formed.
2016
Formation and debut performance of the “YOCJ Saxophone Quartet”, coached by Dr. Jordan Smith and the rebirth of the Flute Choir under the baton of Ms. Sandy Olson.
2017 – 2018
YOCJ welcomes Mr. Chris Colaneri, new Percussion Director and expands the Flute Program.
YOCJ’s first Executive Director, Larisa Epps is hired, ushering in a new era for the organization in its growth and expansion.
2019
In its 41st Season, YOCJ welcomes Oboist Barbara Witmer as the Symphonic Woodwind Coach.
2020-2021
YOCJ staff and students are committed to continuing their pursuit of music despite the global pandemic! In these unprecedented times, connections were made via many creative online Zoom presentations, mini-sessions and more!
YOCJ congratulates beloved Symphonic Director and Artistic Director, John Enz on his retirement and is thrilled to welcome long-time Assistant Artistic Director, Phillip Pugh to the role of Artistic Director.
A new and exciting partnership is formed with the Princeton Symphony Orchestra (PSO)! The partnership offers leadership of the Symphonic Orchestra under the baton of PSO’s Assistant Conductor and promises to have a profound impact on all YOCJ students by giving special access to PSO concerts, Guest Artist “Meet and Greet” opportunities, sectional rehearsals, and future Side by Side concert events.
2021
YOCJ was one of seven youth orchestras in the United States that was selected to participate in the Orchestra Residency Program (ORP) of Midori, world renowned violin virtuoso! This collaborative project aimed to provide meaningful musical experiences to keep the next generation of musicians engaged and excited even from afar! Included were several workshops and two select ensembles that rehearsed and performed a virtual online concert with Midori as soloist in a Concertino for Violin and Orchestra by composer Derek Bermel.