Awards will be handed out in the spring to members aged 14 to 25 based on their contribution to the orchestra's activities during the current season.
Scholarships will be awarded on a competitive basis in the fall to young members who audition before a scholarship committee composed of the conductor, concertmaster and an outside professional musician. Winner(s) will be announced at the orchestra's November concert, and may be invited by the conductor to perform a solo work with the orchestra.
The orchestra is launching this program using its own resources. "Its future," said orchestra manager Monique Wilberg, "will depend largely on donations from benefactors. Philanthropists in the business community and individuals who support youth involvement in culture have already come forward, and we are extremely grateful to them."
The first awards ceremony will take place during the orchestra's spring concert, which happens May 24 at 7: 30 p.m. at Highlands United Church in North Vancouver.
Following the awards ceremony, the young musicians will participate in a free concert at West Vancouver Memorial Library on May 31 at 7: 30 p.m. They will perform solos of their own choice and combine to perform a new work "From Bach to the Beatles," arranged by a member of the orchestra.
