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Thousands of Utahns have played in Utah Youth Symphony or one of its associated ensembles in the orchestra's 60-plus-year history; many have gone on to careers in music.
Now flutist Gina Luciani, a Utah Youth alumni, is giving a recital in hopes of inspiring other young musicians.
"It's great for the kids in Utah Youth Symphony to hear people who have actually gone into music," said Luciani, who played in Utah Youth for five seasons (three as principal flute) and now is a graduating senior at Los Angeles' prestigious Colburn Conservatory of Music. "I would have liked to have something like this when I was in Youth Symphony."
Luciani will play music of Bach, Bizet, Delibes, Dutilleux and Mozart; assisting her will be pianist Jed Moss and her former teacher, Laurel Ann Maurer.
"Gina is a wonderful player," said Barbara Scowcroft, who is marking her 25th season as music director and conductor of Utah Youth Symphony. "It's been fun to hear her develop and continue as an artist. She plays with great colors and a beautiful technique."
Violinist Jenny Oaks Baker, a top-selling recording artist and former member of the National Symphony Orchestra who is arguably Utah Youth's highest-profile alumnus, performed a benefit concert with the youth orchestra in October 2008. Scowcroft said she's excited about making such homecomings regular events.
Other former UYS players of note include violinist Kristopher Tong, who plays in the Borromeo Quartet and teaches at the New England Conservatory of Music; violinist Serena McKinney, a Colburn School graduate and member of the Janaki String Trio; Matthew Johnson, the Utah Symphony's new associate principal cellist; and Sarah Brough, a violinist in the Pittsburgh Symphony. Scowcroft was delighted to fill in for Brough on the Pittsburgh Symphony's European tour last spring, while the younger violinist recovered from arm surgery.
Catherine Reese Newton —
A flutist's return
Flutist Gina Luciani, former member of the Utah Youth Symphony and current alumni adviser to the group, will give a recital.
When • Tuesday, Jan. 4, at 6:30 p.m.
Where • Dumke Recital on the top floor of Gardner Hall, 1375 Presidents Circle, University of Utah
Admission • Free, but donations to Utah Youth Symphony and Ensembles will be accepted.