The Final Movement Begins: A Three-Concert Finale to Season 102

A Birthday, An Unfinished Symphony, and 102 Years of Music

Posted on February 13, 2026

There is something beautifully fitting about celebrating Portland Youth Philharmonic’s birthday alongside Valentine’s Day. Founded in 1924 and now marking 102 years, PYP was born from a love of music and community. That same spirit filled the orchestra’s first concert in 1925 and continues to shine today, reminding us that music remains one of the most powerful ways to express connection, emotion, and joy.

That historic debut introduced Portland audiences to a young orchestra with extraordinary ambition and heart. Among the works performed was Schubert’s Symphony No. 8 in B minor, known as the “Unfinished,” conducted by founding music director Jacques Gershkovitch. Including this piece in PYP’s first concert helped establish an artistic identity rooted in emotional honesty and expressive depth. More than a century later, those qualities still shape the orchestra’s sound and spirit.

Schubert’s “Unfinished” carries a feeling of suspended motion. Its melodies feel emotionally complete while leaving space for imagination about what comes next. That idea resonates strongly with PYP’s story. The orchestra’s beginnings were bold and full of promise, and that sense of forward momentum has continued ever since.

Click to watch PYP perform Schubert’s Symphony No. 8 in B minor, “Unfinished.”

For PYP, “unfinished” feels less like something missing and more like an invitation to keep growing. Each generation of musicians adds its own voice to the orchestra’s evolving story. Rehearsals build confidence and discipline. Performances create shared memories between players and audiences. What began in 1924 is still unfolding today, carried forward by students who continue to shape what the orchestra can become.

That sense of continuation is especially meaningful as PYP looks toward an exciting new chapter with the development of its future home. This new space represents more than a physical building. It signals growth, opportunity, and a deeper investment in young artists. Expanded rehearsal and learning environments will allow the organization to serve more students, strengthen educational programs, and create spaces where collaboration and mentorship can flourish.

Much like Schubert’s symphony invites listeners to imagine what comes next, PYP’s future home opens the door to new possibilities. It will be a place where students develop not only musical technique, but confidence, teamwork, and artistic voice. The vision honors the orchestra’s roots while equipping today’s musicians to carry the tradition forward.

As Portland Youth Philharmonic celebrates 102 years, we honor both the courage of its founders and the energy of the musicians who sustain its legacy. The music that filled the hall in 1925 still echoes in performances today, but the story is far from complete. With a new home on the horizon and a community committed to nurturing young artists, the next chapter promises even greater connection, expression, and joy.

Happy birthday, to us! Like Schubert’s “Unfinished,” our story continues to unfold, inviting each new generation to step in, add its voice, and shape the music still to come!

102 Years of Music — Help Shape PYP’s Next Chapter!

Posted on February 11, 2026

On February 14, Portland Youth Philharmonic celebrates its 102nd birthday, a milestone that reflects more than a century of young musicians discovering confidence, discipline, and joy through music. Every generation of students builds on the last, supported by families, alumni, and community members who believe in the power of music education. As we celebrate this moment, we invite you to help shape what PYP’s second century looks like.

Meet the Musicians Breakfast — March 18

PYP’s annual Meet the Musicians Breakfast Fundraiser is our largest spring fundraising event and a powerful way to experience our mission in action. Guests enjoy live performances by Camerata and Portland Youth String Ensemble, hear directly from students and artistic leadership, and gain an inside look at how PYP transforms young lives.

This year’s keynote speaker, PYP alum and American String Quartet violist Daniel Avshalomov, represents the lifelong impact of a PYP education. The event is fast-paced, inspiring, and focused on direct support for student programs — no auction, just an invitation to invest in the future of these musicians. Whether attending as a guest, sponsor, or table host, your participation helps sustain the programs that make PYP possible.

Register / Donate

PYP Alumni Monthly Giving Challenge

We are also calling on PYP alumni to help carry the legacy forward. Through the Alumni Monthly Giving Challenge, new recurring gifts from alumni will be matched dollar for dollar by conductor David Hattner, up to $10,000!

Even modest monthly contributions provide meaningful support for scholarships, coaching, and outreach programs that reach thousands of students each year. It’s a simple, sustained way for alumni to give the next generation the same opportunities that shaped their own PYP experience.

Learn more!

Looking Ahead

Celebrating 102 years is about honoring our history while investing in what comes next. With your support, Portland Youth Philharmonic can continue inspiring young musicians and strengthening our community for decades to come.

Want to learn more ways you can support PYP? Contact our Development Director .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

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.

Get Tickets!

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.

Join us!

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.

RSVP!

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!

Music Theory at PYP: Building Confidence, Curiosity, and Musical Excellence!

Posted on December 4, 2025

Many people know Portland Youth Philharmonic for the concerts, the energy on stage, and the incredible level of young musicians who perform each season. What often goes unseen is the work that happens long before the lights come up. One of the essential parts of the PYP experience is music theory. It is not an add on or an extra class. It is a core part of how young players develop skills, knowledge, confidence, and curiosity as musicians.

Each week, students dedicate time to understanding how music works. Theory classes introduce concepts that make playing in an orchestra easier and more rewarding. Young musicians learn rhythm, pitch, notation, and sight reading. They explore how melodies and harmonies interact. They study musical structure so they can recognize patterns in the scores they are preparing. Most of all, they learn to listen, think, and make connections between what they see on the page and what they create with their instrument.

These classes are practical and rooted in real musical situations. Lessons are designed to support the repertoire students work on in rehearsals. When players understand the rhythm and form of a piece before they arrive in the rehearsal room, they come prepared to learn, collaborate, and respond. That preparation leads to more focused rehearsals and deeper musical conversations. It helps students move beyond simply playing notes and toward making musical decisions with intention.

Theory at PYP is taught by local educators, students, and friends of the organization who know what young musicians need to grow. Teachers bring real world musical experience into the classroom, whether they are professional performers, composers, or coaches. The learning environment is relaxed but rigorous. Students ask questions, share ideas, and help one another solve musical problems.

Music theory reflects PYP’s mission of musical excellence. The goal is not just to perform difficult pieces. The goal is to help students understand music deeply enough that they can express ideas, lead sections, and grow into thoughtful artists. A strong foundation in theory supports creativity, confidence, and long term musical development. Young musicians who build these skills often find that sight reading becomes easier and that they can step into new ensembles with more ease.

PYP believes that developing musicians should have the tools to succeed now and in the future. Theory is one way the organization invests in that success. When young people understand how music fits together, they become more flexible, engaged, and curious players. They are ready for challenges on stage, in rehearsals, and in whatever musical path they choose next.

Understanding music makes making music even better!

PYP’s Forever Home: Returning to Our Roots in Irvington

Posted on November 13, 2025

More than 100 years ago, Portland Youth Philharmonic began its story in Portland’s Irvington neighborhood, where founder Mary V. Dodge led one of the city’s first youth orchestras. Today, after generations of rehearsing in borrowed spaces across the metro area, PYP is returning to those same roots with the purchase of its first permanent home: the historic Central Lutheran Church on NE 21st Avenue.

The building was designed in 1950 by Pietro Belluschi, one of Oregon’s most influential architects. His use of natural light, warm wood, and textured brick created a space that feels peaceful and timeless. It is a fitting environment for an organization built on careful listening, creativity, and community.

This purchase is a major moment in PYP’s history, but it is also just the beginning. The building needs significant work before it can open its doors to students and families. Renovation planning is underway, and the next year will be focused on research, design, and preparing the space for music education.

A New Chapter Built on Over a Century of Music

For decades, PYP has dreamed of having a place that could truly be its home. This dream is now taking its first steps toward reality. Musical Director David Hattner reflects on what this future means.

“Our new home is transformative,” he says. “For more than a century, the Portland Youth Philharmonic has brought young musicians together all over the city. Now, for the first time, we will have a true home, a place where our music, our instruments, and our community all come together. It means more music, more flexibility, and a deeper connection between our musicians, families, and the community that supports us.”

PYP currently serves more than 300 young musicians each year through large ensembles, chamber music, coaching, and educational outreach. Owning a building will allow the organization to deepen that work and expand what is possible for future generations.

Honoring the Building’s Past and Preparing for Its Future

The former church is listed on the Oregon Registry of Historic Places and is widely recognized as an important example of early Northwest Modern design. Preserving its character is a top priority.
“We are honored to become stewards of this incredible piece of Oregon’s architectural history,” says Executive Director Noreen Murdock. “This is a wonderful opportunity to develop an excellent space for music education and performance while preserving a beautiful and important existing structure.”

Early plans include upgrading acoustics, creating flexible rehearsal spaces, improving accessibility, and building storage areas for instruments and equipment. These goals will take time. PYP is working with architects and consultants to learn what the building needs before construction can begin.

Board President Leslie Wu notes the dedication behind reaching this milestone. “PYP becoming a homeowner has been no small feat,” she says. “The PYP Board and staff have spent countless hours taking this building from dream to reality for the organization. This new era marks an incredible opportunity for the PYP community and for the Portland metro area at large. We are very excited to see PYP grow into its new role as a convenor of the arts community in a building that is a work of art in itself.”

A Home for Music and Community

Once renovations are complete, the building will be a place where students can rehearse, learn, create, and connect. PYP plans to offer workshops, open rehearsals, sectional coaching, youth development programs, and space for partner organizations to gather. Alumni, neighbors, and schools will be welcomed in as well.

The path ahead is exciting and full of possibilities. The purchase was finalized in late October, and administrative offices will begin transitioning into the building later this fall. Renovation work and program planning will continue throughout 2025 and 2026.

To learn more about the project, or learn how to support this work, contact .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

Hillsboro Violinist Leo Trajano Wins the 2025 PYP Concerto Competition

Posted on October 9, 2025

Seventeen-year-old violinist Leo Trajano from Hillsboro, Oregon, has been named the winner of the 2025 Portland Youth Philharmonic Concerto Competition. As the top prize winner, Leo will perform as soloist with PYP at the March 7, 2026 concert at the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall.

For Leo, preparing for the competition was all about focus, rest, and positive energy. “This was obviously an opportunity that I wanted a lot,” he said. “The week prior, I practiced the piece a lot, but two days beforehand I made sure to get 11 hours of sleep, catch up on rest, and just try to relax, and channel positive energy and really nail my performance.”

Leo says he felt proud of his playing that day. “I feel like I did the best I could, and I knew it was really competitive because there are so many great players in this orchestra. It felt like an honor to be selected, and I’m just really excited to have this opportunity to play with an orchestra like PYP.”

Leo’s love for violin began nine years ago, after an entire year of convincing his parents to let him play. “I was begging my parents for a year straight just because I loved the sound. It’s like a singer,” he said. “They finally let me play, and I never really lost that love for the instrument.” He began through the Suzuki method and quickly discovered a passion for playing in orchestras. After starting in MYS, Leo joined PYP and found the experience transformative.

“Well, it’s a privilege just being in this orchestra,” he shared. “It’s really one of the great American youth orchestras. I just love the sound as a whole. Mr. Hattner really gets us to play to the highest level we possibly can. The amount of technical accomplishment from each individual musician, combined into one giant orchestra, is a really spectacular experience. I always look forward to it every week.”

When he’s not performing with PYP, Leo stays active musically through his high school choir. “Besides PYP, I also enjoy being in my high school choir. The enthusiasm and passion that all of my friends bring every day to school is very inspiring,” he said.

Leo also finds inspiration in professional violinists like María Dueñas, whose energy and lyricism deeply influence his approach. “I had the privilege of seeing her play the Gabriela Ortiz Violin Concerto with the LA Phil, and I absolutely adore her playing,” Leo said. “She’s so energetic and always brings so much lyricism to her playing. I always try to replicate the energy she has.”

Asked what advice he would give to others learning an instrument, Leo offered a thoughtful perspective: “You should only take it as seriously as you want. There are so many different ways to play your instrument, and being open-minded is important. Taking it too seriously can take the life out of it, so keep it enjoyable.”

Audiences can hear Leo perform live with the Philharmonic Orchestra on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at 7:30 PM at the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall. Tickets and season subscriptions are available now at

    Flames of Transformation  

Turning the Page: Season 102 Begins!

Posted on September 3, 2025

The start of a new season is always a time of renewal. As the summer heat begins to fade and the first hints of autumn arrive, the musicians of Portland Youth Philharmonic are preparing to gather once again. In just a few days, the rehearsal hall will be filled with the familiar sounds of tuning strings, the warmth of brass, and the rhythmic energy of percussion as we begin our 102nd season.

The first rehearsal is always a milestone. It is where strangers become section-mates, new friendships form, and returning members reunite with the people who have become their musical family. For some, it will be their very first rehearsal with PYP, the start of a journey that will challenge and inspire them in ways they cannot yet imagine. For others, it is a continuation, the next step in years of growth and dedication. Together, they will bring new music to life, measure by measure, until the notes on the page transform into the powerful sound of a full symphony orchestra.

Season 102 is filled with extraordinary music. From Grainger’s beloved Lincolnshire Posy to Beethoven’s radiant Emperor Concerto featuring pianist Lucy Joo, and Gabriela Ortiz’s vibrant La Calaca, the repertoire promises both challenge and reward for our musicians. Later this fall, we will bring the holidays to life with the world premiere of Bruce Stark’s Popcorn Fantasia alongside Bernstein’s cinematic On the Waterfront Suite. The season will conclude with a brilliant finale featuring Copland’s El Salón México, Montgomery’s Starburst, and Stravinsky’s dazzling Firebird Suite.

But before any of that can happen, it begins here in the rehearsal room. Each note rehearsed, each phrase refined, and each moment of collaboration builds toward the performances that our audiences will experience on stage. Behind every concert is the quiet work of dozens of rehearsals, where musicians learn not only the music but also the patience, resilience, and teamwork that will serve them for years to come.

There is still time to be part of this season! We are continuing to host auditions into the fall, and financial aid is available for all programs. No one is ever turned away from Portland Youth Philharmonic because of the inability to pay. If you or someone you know is interested in joining, we encourage you to take this step and become part of a community where music, growth, and opportunity go hand in hand.

As we turn the page into a new season, we look forward to sharing this journey with our community. The first rehearsal is less than a week away, and soon the hall will once again ring with the sound of PYP’s young musicians, ready to grow, create, and perform together.

Here is to Season 102, a year of inspiration, discovery, and unforgettable music.