JUNIOR THIRTEEN STRINGS
The Thirteen Strings Musicians are committed to bringing a love of classical music to today’s young people.
We are thrilled to give young musicians the opportunity to play in our Junior Thirteen Strings Orchestra. Advanced players of violin, viola, cello, and double bass, who are living or studying in the National Capital Region and are aged 18 or under on January of the following year, are invited to apply to audition starting in July for the Junior Thirteen Strings Chamber Orchestra.
The successful musicians are given two intense coaching sessions by principal members of the Orchestra while participating in regularly scheduled rehearsals in preparation for the subscription concert.
These young people work closely with members of Thirteen Strings. The highlight of the JTS program is a subscription concert performance where the juniors perform beside their professional counterparts in ensemble pieces. We also showcase young professional musicians as soloists. Recent soloists include Renée London, violin; François Fowler, guitar; Donnie Deacon, violin and viola; and Jean-Sébastien Lacombe, marimba.
With enthusiastic guest conductors such as Simon Streatfeild leading the combined forces of the Junior Thirteen Strings and their professional mentors, these students have repeatedly impressed audiences with their ability, professionalism and dedication.
Successes and Performances
The junior orchestra reached a milestone in September 2004, when the CBC, recognizing the excellence of the subscription concert involving the young artists, recorded the concert for national broadcast on Radio Two, Symphony Hall.
In February, the Junior Thirteen Strings are featured at the Viennese Winter Ball, playing as guests arrive for the glittering champagne reception. This prestigious event held at the National Gallery offers the young artists tremendous experience and exposure.
The young members of Junior Thirteen Strings are a credit to the many excellent music teachers in the region, and the equally great work done by the Ottawa Youth Orchestra and other local music organizations.