CYP: Who we are
Chicagoland Youth Pops is on a mission- a mission to bridge the gap between the incredible experience of symphonic playing and the music our students love. There is a misconception out there that you have to play Mozart to become a better musician. While Mozart is awesome (!), the number one factor for any musical growth is motivation. Will you be excited to learn, practice, and perform the music that is on your music stand? For many students out there, the answer is no. We want to change that.
We also want to make the symphony experience more approachable, more fun, and more engaging for our audiences. Our concerts may not be traditional in the sense that you’re used to (and we think this is a very good thing). Ever wanted to “play” a full orchestra like Garage Band? Ever seen a youth orchestra make a tik tok live on stage? Want to see a live orchestra of students synch original film scores to movies ALSO made by students? No option for flipping the concert hall on its head is off the table for CYP. If we dream it up, let’s make it happen!
WHo can play?
CYP will be made up of talented musicians 13 to 18 years old, from the Chicagoland area. Of course, we are always happy for applicants who play a traditional orchestral instrument, BUT we also love if you play or do something else. Electric guitar? Digital audio production? Sitar? Koto? Bagpipes? WE WANT YOU!
Not sure if you are ready? GIVE IT A TRY!
Meet the Director
Dr. Dan Schwartz, DMA Executive Director & Music Director
Simply put, Dan loves music. All kinds of music. With a doctorate in oboe performance and education, Dan spent the first 10 years of his career as a professor of oboe at the University of Oklahoma and member of the Oklahoma City Philharmonic.
A native of Wheeling, Illinois, Dan is now back home, on faculty at Lake Forest College and Roosevelt University, as well as performing as the prinicipal oboe of the Illinois Symphony.
Dan cannot be more excited about CYP and cannot wait to make music with the amazingly talented students of Chicagoland!
