Young Artists of America at Strathmore, otherwise known as YAA, is rearing up for its fall 2018 performance, Annie Get Your Gun in Concert.
The organization was founded in 2011 by two brothers, Rolando and Kristofer Sanz, who sought to provide a place for talented young instrumentalists and vocalists to grow. Since then, YAA has expanded to become the most highly-regarded training program for collaborative performing artists in the area.
With campuses in Montgomery County, MD and Howard County, MD, YAA receives middle and high school students from all around the mid-Atlantic region, as well as from overseas for its summer intensive. These students audition in a competitive process by season or semester for a spot in this coveted program and rehearse 1-2 times per week. YAA also offers workshops and masterclasses, but stands out for its unique, individualized mentoring program.
Here, students are coached by renowned artists such as Stephen Schwartz, composer of the musical, Wicked; Emmy and Tony Award winning actress and singer, Kristin Chenoweth; Tony Award winning composer and lyricist, Jason Robert Brown; and more.
“YAA is unlike any other orchestra that is in the area. Being able to work with singers and play a different style of music is really refreshing because of all the band and classical musical I usually play!” said Giovanni Eichner, who plays the horn.
“The orchestra itself is made up of a lot of amazing and passionate musicians whom I really enjoy working with, which makes the rehearsals and final show a fantastic environment to be in, full of positive energy!” Eichner continued.
The fall performance, Annie Get Your Gun in Concert, tells the story of Annie Oakley, a sharpshooter who joins the Wild West Show and falls for Frank Butler, the resident shooting ace. Butler joins a rival show after his ego is hurt by Annie’s superior skill, and the two are pitted against each other in a riveting finale.
Mary Ellin Barrett Lerner, granddaughter of the composer, Irving Berlin, will narrate the special performance. The concert will also feature over 120 young artists, including a symphonic orchestra of 50, and over 60 vocalists.
The Sanz brothers are very excited about the performance. “We’re so happy to celebrate what would have been Irving Berlin’s 130thbirthday by showcasing so many talented young performers in some of his most timeless and well-known music.”
Callie Wen, a violinist in her third year with YAA Orchestra, writes: “I’m very excited for the upcoming show. It’s a great musical and the songs are super fun to play.”
Although Wen is sad that the imminent performances signify the end of weekly rehearsals, she remains joyful about the experience as a whole. “Playing with singers is always my favorite; it’s a collaboration between the singers and the orchestra, and really brings the show to life, ” she explained.
Members of the cast are equally excited. Allison Mintz, who plays Annie in the number “You Can’t Get a Man with a Gun,” says: “I’m super excited for the show and I’m glad we’re getting the chance to present such a lovely golden age show to a modern day audience.”
As she reflects on the rigorous rehearsal process, she anticipates “clean and wonderful” results. “I’m so glad that the show focuses on a strong and independent girl; not to mention all the catchy songs!” Mintz concludes. She also hints at an even more spectacular spring production, Les Miserables.
The single performance of Annie Get Your Gun in Concert will take place on Sunday, October 28, 2018 at 4:00 pm at The Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center in College Park, MD. Tickets can be found here: https://theclarice.umd.edu/events/2018/annie-get-your-gun-in-concert
Article by Moco Student staff writer Charese Vo of Richard Montgomery High School