From Sagebrush to Stumptown: Portland Youth Philharmonic’s Journey Showcased at the Central Library’s Collins Gallery

Posted on December 6, 2024

The retrospective runs from:
November 21, 2024 - January 14, 2025

Portland Youth Philharmonic holds a unique place in the history of American orchestras. As the oldest continuously operating youth orchestra in the United States, PYP has been a cornerstone of music education and performance for over a century. A new exhibit at Multnomah County Library’s Central Library in the Collins Gallery, titled Sagebrush to Stumptown: Portland Youth Philharmonic’s Astonishing First Century, explores the remarkable journey of this iconic institution.

This retrospective offers an inspiring look at PYP’s origins, evolution, and the profound impact it has had on young musicians and the Portland community. Here’s a closer look at what makes PYP’s story so compelling and why this exhibit is a must-see.

The Sagebrush to Stumptown exhibit captures the essence of PYP’s journey through a rich collection of photographs, memorabilia, and archival materials. Visitors can explore rare items such as concert programs, posters, and recordings that illustrate the orchestra’s growth and milestones.

One highlight of the exhibit is its focus on the people behind the music—students, conductors, and community supporters whose passion and dedication have sustained PYP for over 100 years. Their stories reveal not only the challenges of running a youth orchestra but also the immense rewards of cultivating young talent.

Plan Your Visit

The Sagebrush to Stumptown exhibit is on display at the Collins Gallery in the Central Library of Multnomah County Library. The gallery offers free admission, making it accessible to all members of the community. Whether you’re a longtime supporter of PYP or someone discovering its story for the first time, the exhibit promises to leave you inspired.

As Portland Youth Philharmonic continues into its second century, it carries with it a legacy of resilience, creativity, and excellence. The Sagebrush to Stumptown exhibit invites us to reflect on that legacy while looking forward to the future of this remarkable organization.

Make time to visit and celebrate the astonishing first century of Portland Youth Philharmonic—an orchestra that has shaped the lives of countless musicians and enriched Portland’s cultural heritage in immeasurable ways.

From Sagebrush to Stumptown: Portland Youth Philharmonic’s Astonishing First Century

November 21, 2024 - January 14, 2025