The Mariposa Yosemite Symphony Orchestra (MYSO), founded in 2002 by Les Marsden, has grown to include 60 musicians and has performed in three counties, including iconic locations within Yosemite National Park. The orchestra’s mission is to provide inspiring symphonic works to visitors and residents of Mariposa and the surrounding areas, while also engaging with the San Francisco and broader Bay Area communities through collaborations, concerts, and educational outreach.
In This Article
Key Points
- The MYSO was founded in 2002 and has grown to include 60 musicians, performing in Mariposa, Yosemite, and surrounding areas.
- Notable performances include concerts at Yosemite National Park’s Glacier Point, which have gained international attention.
- The orchestra engages with San Francisco and Bay Area communities through collaborations, concerts, and educational outreach.
The Orchestra’s Foundation and Mission
Les Marsden founded the Mariposa Yosemite Symphony Orchestra in 2002 with the mission to provide soaring and inspiring symphonic works to visitors and residents of Mariposa and Yosemite. Since its founding, the orchestra has grown to include 60 musicians and has a history of performances in three counties.
Notable Performances and Collaborations
The MYSO has performed in unique venues within Yosemite National Park, including a once-in-a-lifetime concert at Glacier Point on August 21, 2016. This performance, commemorating the Centennial of the National Park Service, gained international attention and was described by author Norman Lebrecht as the “Orchestra Portrait of the Year”.
The orchestra also collaborates with San Francisco and Bay Area musicians and cultural institutions, bringing classical music to diverse audiences in both rural and urban communities.
Community Engagement and Educational Outreach
As a program of the Mariposa County Arts Council, the MYSO plays a role in educational programs and outreach efforts in San Francisco and the Bay Area. These efforts include workshops, collaborative performances, and bringing classical music to diverse audiences.
The Orchestra and Yosemite: A Unique Cultural Intersection
The MYSO’s performances in Yosemite National Park blend natural beauty with musical artistry, enhancing the visitor experience and impacting the perception of classical music and natural conservation. The orchestra’s reach extends into neighboring counties, influencing the Northern California cultural scene.
Challenges and Opportunities
Performing in outdoor and remote locations like Yosemite presents logistical challenges, but also opportunities for growth, including potential new venues and partnerships in San Francisco and beyond. Technology plays a role in expanding the orchestra’s reach and engagement with a wider audience.
FAQ
How was the Mariposa Yosemite Symphony Orchestra founded?
The Mariposa Yosemite Symphony Orchestra was founded in 2002 by Les Marsden to provide inspiring symphonic works to visitors and residents of Mariposa and Yosemite.
What are some notable performances by the MYSO in Yosemite National Park?
A notable performance by the MYSO was the once-in-a-lifetime concert at Glacier Point on August 21, 2016, commemorating the Centennial of the National Park Service. This performance gained international attention.
How does the MYSO engage with the San Francisco and Bay Area communities?
The MYSO engages with San Francisco and Bay Area communities through collaborations, concerts, and educational outreach, including workshops and collaborative performances.
What role does the MYSO play in the Mariposa County Arts Council?
The MYSO is a program of the Mariposa County Arts Council and plays a role in educational programs and outreach efforts in San Francisco and the Bay Area.
Are there any upcoming performances by the MYSO in San Francisco or Yosemite?
While specific upcoming performances are not mentioned in the provided search results, the MYSO continues to perform in Yosemite National Park and engage with San Francisco and Bay Area communities through collaborations and concerts.
