Upcoming Events at PYP: March Highlights You Won’t Want to Miss!
Posted on January 22, 2026
Spring is right around the corner, and with it comes one of the most exciting stretches of the season at Portland Youth Philharmonic. Our students have been working hard behind the scenes, building their skills, sharpening their focus, and preparing for three standout events that celebrate everything we love about PYP: incredible performances, meaningful community connection, and the shared joy of live music.
Whether you’re a longtime supporter, a first-time concertgoer, a parent looking for a fun family activity, or someone who simply loves hearing young musicians shine, there is something coming up for you.
March 7: Flames of Transformation (Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall)
Our next major Philharmonic Orchestra performance takes place on Saturday, March 7, at Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, and it’s a program that explores transformation in more ways than one, through music and through the growth of young artists.
A highlight of the concert is Jessica Meyer’s Turbulent Flames, a bold and emotionally charged work filled with raw energy, tension, and powerful momentum. PYP is proud to be part of the national consortium that commissioned this piece, supporting a living composer whose voice continues to bring fresh perspective to the orchestral stage.
The concert will also feature Leo Trajano, winner of the 2025 PYP Concerto Competition. A 17-year-old violinist from Hillsboro, Oregon, Leo is a member of the Philharmonic Orchestra and has distinguished himself through expressive playing, technical poise, and a focused, grounded musical presence. His artistry reflects the heart of PYP’s mission: developing young musicians who bring passion, precision, and individuality to every performance. Leo will take center stage as soloist in Max Bruch’s Scottish Fantasy, a sweeping and virtuosic showpiece full of drama, lyricism, and folk-inspired color.
Rounding out the program is Howard Hanson’s Symphony No. 3, a cinematic, lyrical American masterpiece returning to the PYP stage after many years. Music Director David Hattner calls it “due for a comeback,” and the work provides a stunning platform for the orchestra’s expressive range, rich sound, and storytelling power.
March 14: Cushion Concert (OMSI)
Looking for something family-friendly, relaxed, and memorable? Cushion Concerts are back!
On March 14, PYP invites families to OMSI for two Cushion Concert performances at 12:30 PM and 2:30 PM, designed especially for children ages 3–8. Performed by the Portland Youth String Ensemble and conducted by Inés Voglar Belgique, Cushion Concert is a playful introduction to live classical music, created for young listeners and first-time concertgoers.
What makes Cushion Concert such a favorite is the welcoming vibe: kids can move, react, and experience the music in a way that feels open and fun. Even better, families can play real instruments before each performance, creating hands-on curiosity and a deeper connection to the music.
Cushion Concert is proudly sponsored by Kennedy Violins, and it’s one of the most joyful ways to experience PYP’s mission in action.
March 18, 2026: Meet the Musicians Breakfast Fundraiser (The Avenue)
Just a few days later, we hope you’ll join us for one of the most important events of the year: PYP’s 2026 Meet the Musicians Breakfast Fundraiser, our main annual fundraising event.
This complimentary breakfast takes place on Wednesday, March 18, 2026 at 7:30 AM at The Avenue (631 NE Grand Ave, Portland). Guests can look forward to intergenerational conversation, guest speakers, and special performances by Portland Youth String Ensemble and Camerata PYP.
This event is an incredible opportunity to connect with PYP’s community and to directly support the programs that inspire and impact young people across our region. In fact, your support helps PYP reach 20,000+ young people throughout the Portland area and beyond.
Whether you attend as a guest, host a table, or become a sponsor, you’ll be helping ensure that PYP continues to provide high-level musical experiences, mentorship, and opportunities for the next generation of musicians.
RSVP by March 4, 2026 to participate.
Join Us This March!
These upcoming events offer three very different ways to experience PYP, but they all share the same spirit: young musicians working hard, growing together, and bringing something powerful to the stage.
We hope you’ll join us, and thank you, as always, for being part of the PYP community!
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