Empire State Youth Orchestra (ESYO) is getting their own dedicated music space in the Capital District. The music center is the first of its kind in Scotia, bringing in students from all ages to participate in the program.
Although ESYO has been around since 1979, most of its programming has existed in other facilities. The opening of the center will allow for the organization to expand programming, function all year round, and create a musical sanctuary. The center expects to serve up to 1,000 students from K-12.
Most music programs across the state only manage to only have enough funds for band or limited rehearsal time. ESYO will allow students to have access to a variety of different ways to approach music.
In the face of cuts to arts and culture in the latest New York State budget, Executive Director Rebecca Calos finds that the new building is coming at a crucial time. “I think it’s really incumbent upon partners like Empire State Youth Orchestra to advocate and help to secure funding that then benefits a regional music cohort of students.”
The massive amount of funding has allowed them to keep their main program, CHIME, free for students in grades K-12. It’s an after-school program that currently functions in other public schools across Schenectady. With the new campus building, students will be able to go directly to the center and spend time with friends.
“We built this space intentionally for young people,” Calos said, emphasizing the importance for this third space. “It’s designed for them to kind of feel comfortable being messy in that space and not feel like they’re taking up the space of a college professional or something.”
CHIME’s programming will expand as a result of the center opening. Not only will they admit more students, but they are also working on an initiative to have a summer program. Having close partnerships with campuses such as SUNY Schenectady allows for the possibility of summer-camp style programming.
Calos expresses hope that the creation of the building will lead to more of them across the state. “Across the nation, you could count on your hand how many [music centers] exist.” She explained.
“Most students who engage in music at this age continue to play well up until they’re 80 or 90 years old,” She added, stressing the importance of music as a third space for the youth. “They’re still picking up their instruments, so it’s really a lifelong pursuit.”
The building will open to the public later this year. To learn more about the organization, click here.
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