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Published on 11/27/1995 All articles from this issue

Review of California Youth Symphony

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By Jim Barnhart

Special to the Town Crier

An accolade to our young musical athletes

On Nov. 19, the California Youth Symphony under the direction of the Conductor, Leo Eylar, gave a stimulating program at the Performing Arts Center in San Mateo. Proof was amply provided that these young and gifted performers are capable of fine ensemble, which includes eight members from Los Altos and Los Altos Hills.

After more than 50 years of concert going in New York, as well as Southern and Northern California, I cannot recall ever having seen or heard the results equaling those obtained by Leo Eylar. Watching this young man conduct reminds me of the sorcerer in the movie "Fantasia." His hands are pure magic, obviously backed-up by a copious supply of brain-power. He has done a splendid job of fine-tuning and honing these young musical athletes into a well-balanced group.

The highlight of this program, without a doubt, was the world premiere performance of Leo Eylar's new work "Rhapsody for Orchestra." The opening section sparkles and crackles with energy, followed by a more lyrical section. The final section once again bristles with undaunted energy. There is a short fugue section which leads into an intense and dramatic close. Although short in length, this is a composition of intricate and complex melodies, assuring the listener that one can hear it again and again without the slightest loss of interest.

Anna Gingis, a former Certificate of Merit student and a winner of the 1995 California Youth Symphony Young Artist Competition, gave a brilliant performance of the Rachmaninoff Concerto No. 2. For a teenager to reach such a degree of technical proficiency is rare. It is an accomplishment for which she, her parents and teachers should be proud.

The program concluded with a splendid rendition of the Symphony No. 1, by Gustav Mahler, followed by a roaring, standing ovation. One must marvel at the effort and dedication displayed by these youngsters. Such performances make concert-going a pleasure. Such a display of talent should make America proud and the likes of that senator from North Carolina, who oppose grants to our artists, hang their heads in shame.