Student Musicians to Join ASO for Annual Side-By-Side Concert, 6/14

Student musicians from the Atlanta area, including members of the Atlanta Symphony Youth Orchestra (ASYO) and Talent Development Program (TDP), will perform a Side-By-Side Concert with members of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra on Saturday, June 14, 2014, at 8:00 p.m. in Atlanta Symphony Hall at the Woodruff Arts Center. ASO Assistant Conductor Joseph Young will lead the musicians in a program featuring Brahms's Academic Festival Overture, Tchaikovsky's Marche Slave, the "Berceuse and Finale" From Stravinsky's TheFirebird Suite, and the "Main Title" from John Williams's Star Wars, among others.

The Side-By-Side Concert will mark the end of an intensive week-long orchestral workshop, which allows students to participate in special coaching sessions with Atlanta Symphony musicians, sit next to Orchestra members in rehearsals, and receive nearly 30 hours of musical instruction from Mr. Young. Additionally, students will be paired with an Atlanta Symphony musician who will serve as their mentor throughout the entire workshop. Approximately 55 student musicians will participate in this year's Side-By-Side Concert, and openings are still available. Interested students must apply online at aso.org/sbsapplication by May 24, 2014.

This performance will mark Mr. Young's concert debut as ASO Assistant Conductor - a position in which he will assist with the artistic leadership of the Orchestra and serve as the primary conductor for the ASO's education and community concerts. He will also assume the role of Music Director of the Atlanta Symphony Youth Orchestra in the 2014-15 season.

Justin Blalock -the starting left guard for the Atlanta Falcons- has been an advocate for the ASO and its music education efforts since 2012 and will make a special appearance at this year's concert. Mr. Blalock, who grew up playing the tuba and continues to play the drums and guitar, recognizes the importance of music-rich educational experiences.

Tickets are $10 and may be purchased at the Woodruff Arts Center Box Office or by calling 404-733-5000. Additional details are available at aso.org/sidebyside.