By Megen Balda, Greater Twin Cities Youth Symphonies

The Greater Twin Cities Youth Symphonies (GTCYS) presented its first-ever free family concert to a capacity audience of young children and families at the majestic Ordway Center for Music on April 27. The project marked GTCYS’ first appearance on the Ordway stage in 15 years, giving student musicians a rare and thrilling performance opportunity.

Under the direction of new Artistic Director Mark Russell Smith, GTCYS’ renowned Symphony orchestra opened the audience’s eyes and ears to Modest Mussorgsky’s musical masterpiece Pictures at an Exhibition. In addition to bringing the visual artwork to life which was Mussorgsky’s inspiration for the piece, audiences met three student soloists from the orchestra, peeking inside their everyday lives. With interests in jazz band, Israeli dance, ultimate frisbee, and academics (one student scored a perfect 36 on the ACT!), GTCYS’ high school students inspired young listeners in the audience, sparking their imaginations and opening their eyes to new possibilities. Supported by the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, this is the first of what we hope will become an annual free concert.