NSYS Philharmonia

Why Play In A Youth Philharmonia?

Playing in a full orchestral setting is a special opportunity for young musicians: the repertoire and the sheer sound of the symphony orchestra creates an unparalleled musical experience. In this ensemble, students learn to be a vital part of a musical team and experience how each instrument and each player is crucial in creating an excellent musical performance. The opportunity to play this great repertoire allows each student to perform to their full potential, therefore building enthusiasm for music and for their chosen instrument.

The Philharmonia is an excellent place for those musicians who wish to experience the full symphony experience but may not quite be ready to play at the level of the Symphony. The Philharmonia helps students to grow and challenge themselves musically by improving their playing abilities, stylistic understanding, and sight reading abilities and prepares them for eventual membership in the NSYS Symphony. Every NSYS concert features a musical selection which combines the members of the Symphony and Philharmonia in joint performance, creating an extraordinary large-ensemble sound and providing a mentoring experience between the older and younger players.

Morgan Schwab, director

Morgan Schwab, Philharmonia Director, is orchestra and band director at Fairhaven Middle School and maintains a large private violin/viola teaching studio in Bellingham. She is also Principal Viola for the Whatcom Symphony Orchestra and has considerable expertise as a violist and orchestral musician. In addition, she is a graduate of Western's Music Department and faculty for Western's summer chamber music camp.

Requirements to be a member of the Philharmonia

Philharmonia students should have two years of private instruction or commensurate school ensemble participation and should be in at least 5th grade. String players should be able to play a two octave G and C major scale and a piece of their choice at their audition. Wind and Brass players need to be able to play a one octave chromatic scale in concert C and F plus a piece of their choice. Percussionists need to be able to read music and play snare drum and bass drum. Piano skills are an asset. NSYS conductors will determine placement and seating in the appropriate ensemble.

See "Rehearsals" page for current audition schedule.