Alumni

Beyond enriching my musical education, the YAO has proven an invaluable resource in developing my interpersonal and professional skills. YAO guided me in becoming a person of my own; through four seasons of concerts, showcases, and competitions, there is no other organization I can think of that is as empowering and beneficial to music students. In sum, the fact that the YAO provides such fine and honest music-making to Las Vegas — all while remaining tuition free — is a blessing I was glad to be a part of.
-Benel Higuchi, violin (2015-2019)

I was asked to join the YAO for a concert when I was a junior in high school. That opportunity marked the first time I ever played an entire symphony: Mozart’s 40th. Since then and with the most gratitude for Yunior and the YAO, I’ve grown into the musician I am today, studying clarinet at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music. Yunior inspired me as a musician, conductor and teacher; the standards he demands leads to a quality associated only with the best
ensembles. I’m excited to see what YAO does next! -Ivan Ferguson, clarinet (2017-2018)

I was a part of YAO for about 2 years during my undergraduate degree at UNLV. I really enjoy my time during YAO because it really helped me with my professional development as a musician. YAO is a very unique environment where expectations are very high and trains young musicians on how to become professionals. Being able to work with musicians from across Las Vegas was real treat and hope a lot of young musicians get to experience this group! I graduated with a BM in Music Education at UNLV and will be pursuing a Masters in Trumpet Performance the Fall 2019 at the University of Utah with Teaching Assistant position. -Bronson Pascual, trumpet (2017-2018)

The Young Artists Orchestra has given me a consistent and high level orchestral experience week to week for the past three years, and I owe much of my orchestral and musical training to the orchestra. The YAO is an asset to the Las Vegas community. -Jordan Farber, bassoon (2016-2019)

Playing in the YAO for two years has not only enhanced my personal playing ability, but has exposed me to many wonderful and talented musicians throughout the city. The difficulty of music in the orchestra also pushed me to adjust to the pace and demand of college auditions and performances. The welcoming community created by my fellow Young Artists helped foster my own passion for music, leading me to continue my music career through college and encourage others to discover the joys of the music world. Overall, my time with the YAO has helped me grow as a musician and guided me on my daunting search for an inevitable college major. -Devin Lopez, cello (2016-2018)