Cleveland, OH — The Contemporary Youth Orchestra (CYO) is proud to announce an exciting new partnership in residence with the Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) Department of Music. This collaboration, under the dynamic leadership of CYO’s Music Director and Conductor Kristopher Morron—himself a distinguished alum of CWRU—promises to elevate opportunities for young musicians and enrich the Cleveland music scene.
With a mission to empower middle school and high school musicians through innovative programming and education, CYO has been at the forefront of contemporary orchestral music for youth. Its partnership with CWRU's Department of Music will foster deeper connections between the orchestra and the academic community, providing enhanced access to resources, world-class faculty, and performance spaces. The residency will also open doors for mentorship and collaborative opportunities between CWRU students and CYO musicians.
“We are thrilled to come full circle by bringing the Contemporary Youth Orchestra into partnership with Case Western Reserve University, where I began my journey as a conductor,” said Kristopher Morron. “This residency will provide young musicians with unparalleled opportunities to grow and thrive in an environment that celebrates both musical excellence and innovation.”
The partnership is expected to include a series of concerts, workshops, and special events hosted at CWRU, offering young musicians and university students the opportunity to work together on innovative projects. In addition, CYO will continue its tradition of presenting cutting-edge contemporary works, providing a platform for young musicians to experience and perform new and diverse repertoire.
Through this residency, both CYO and the CWRU Department of Music aim to broaden the educational and creative horizons of their students, while reinforcing their commitment to fostering the next generation of musicians and cultural leaders.
About Contemporary Youth Orchestra:
The Contemporary Youth Orchestra is dedicated to creating an inclusive and innovative environment where young musicians can explore contemporary music. Founded in 1995, CYO is the only youth orchestra in the country that exclusively performs works by living composers, offering students unique experiences in the performance of modern music.
About Case Western Reserve University Department of Music:
The Department of Music, part of the College of Arts and Sciences, serves both undergraduate and graduate students at Case Western Reserve University and the Cleveland Institute of Music. With a commitment to scholarly and artistic excellence in a liberal arts environment, the department offers a wide range of courses, degree programs, and ensembles, with faculty expertise in historical performance practice, music education, and musicology. Through a strategic partnership, the Joint Music Program delivers world-class training in music performance, leveraging the resources of a major research university and a leading conservatory.
For more information on upcoming performances and opportunities for involvement, visit cyorchestra.org or case.edu/artsci/music.