Empire State Youth Orchestra Announces Annual “Playathon” At Crossgates Mall

Over 600 members of the Empire State Youth Orchestra (ESYO) will converge at Crossgates Mall in Albany for their annual all-day “Playathon,” this Saturday, February 1.

Lead by music director Carlos Agreda, this is the biggest fundraiser that the organization hosts every year. Even though music lovers in the community can enjoy the event for no cost, the goal is to raise a total of $65,000.

”Playathon represents a valuable opportunity to increase awareness about ESYO and to have a relaxed and direct connection with the community. Some members of the community might not realize how much they love classical music, and if they aren’t able to come to the concert hall then we will come to their space! At Playathon we want to provide exposure and show how fun symphonic music actually is. It’s a chance to see all our ensembles in action and for people to see how much the young musicians love playing music.”

Carlos Ágreda.

Setting up in the lounge area on the first floor near Burlington Coat Factory, the event will feature 13 musical ensembles that includes everything from classical and percussion to jazz. Sponsored by Albany Medical Center; University at Albany Foundation and; Wilson, Elser, Moskowitz, Edelman & Dicker LLP; it is the only time attendees will get to see all performing ensembles come together to share their love of music with the public.

The all day music event ensures that ESYO can stay true to the driving force behind their organization: that no capable musician is left behind regardless of financial restrictions.

Included in the day is John Keal Music Company’s “Instrument Petting Zoo” where aspiring musicians of all ages can try out brass, woodwinds, and strings. There will also be live auctions were a attendee will have the opportunity to conduct an ensemble during the event. Additional information about ESYO’s program and concerts can be found at esyo.org.  

“Our Playathon raises critical funds to support scholarships and tuition assistance so that all youth may pursue musical excellence and have serious fun, too.”

Rebecca Calos – ESYO’s Executive Director.

PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE 

10:30AM – 11:15AM – Percussion Ensembles

11:30AM – 11:45AM – Concertino Strings (Dave Beck conducting)

11:55AM – 12:20PM – String Orchestra – Auction**

12:35PM – 1:15PM – Wind Orchestra + Choirs – Auction**

1:25PM – 2:05PM –  CHIME  (Yates, VC, Proctors)

2:20PM – 2:50PM – Symphony Orchestra – Auction**

2:55PM – 3:25PM – Rep Orchestra – Auction**

3:30PM– 4:05PM – Symphony Orchestra – Auction**

4:20PM – 4:40PM – Rep Jazz Orchestra

4:45PM – 5:05PM – Youth Jazz Orchestra

5:20PM – 5:50PM – Rep Orchestra – Auction**

5:55PM – 6:30PM – Symphony Orchestra – Auction**

** Auction to Conduct Ensembles


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