Michael Repper selected as next Music Director of the New York Youth Symphony

NEW YORK, NY - The New York Youth Symphony (NYYS) is pleased to announce the appointment of Michael Repper as Music Director of the orchestra beginning in the 2017/18 season. The position is currently held by Joshua Gersen, who is stepping down at the end of this season.

Mr. Repper is joining an illustrius roster of NYYS Music Directors, including Leonard Slatkin, David Alan Miller, Miguel Harth-Bedoya, Mischa Santora, Paul Haas, among others. 

NYYS Board President and chair of the search committee, Melissa Eisenstat spoke of the organization’s delight in Michael Repper’s appointment: “On behalf of the NYYS family, we are excited to welcome Michael Repper as our Music Director Designate at this important and transitional moment in NYYS’s history. I am thrilled that Michael has accepted our invitation to lead the Orchestra into the future. Michael demonstrates the culture of artistic maturity and musical excellence we strive to achieve here at NYYS.” 

Shauna Quill, Executive Director of NYYS, added: “It’s thrilling for us to announce the appointment of Michael Repper as the next New York Youth Symphony Music Director. We expect Michael will be an important catalyst of engagement and a wonderful ambassador to our audiences as we continue expand into diverse communities to touch lives with the power of music.” 

“I am honored and humbled by this opportunity to work with an extraordinary organization such as the New York Youth Symphony” said Repper. “I have always been passionate about working with young musicians, and I will make it my mission to preserve the highest artistic standards while imagining a new and exciting future for the orchestra’s role in the community.” 

The New York Youth Symphony (NYYS) is a leader in music education, performance, and commissioning in the New York metropolitan area. Founded in 1963, the New York Youth Symphony's first performance at Carnegie Hall featured a young Israeli violinist, Itzhak Perlman. Now in its 54th season, the organization has grown significantly and offers groundbreaking and rigorous programs in composition, conducting, chamber music, jazz, and commissioning – and in the last two years, international touring opportunities. Its mission is to educate and inspire young musicians through exceptional ensemble training and performance opportunities. In addition the NYYS aims to develop the next generation of musical citizens, whose involvement in music lasts a lifetime, and whose assets built by music engagement will fuel their success in life – personal development, creativity, self-discipline, resiliency, and an ability to work well with others.