The Elmhurst Symphony serves the western suburbs with youth-orientated activities dedicated to the educational and cultural enrichment of our future audience.

Robert Stanger Young Artists Auditions

The Robert Stanger Young Artist Auditions are held each winter to provide a forum for outstanding local area high school instrumentalists to compete for the opportunity to perform a concerto movement with the Elmhurst Symphony Orchestra. In addition to monetary awards, three-runners-up are invited to perform for local community groups. The auditions are sponsored in part by the Elmhurst Kiwanis Club and the Auxiliary of the Elmhurst Symphony Association. The competition will be held Saturday, February 23, 2013.  This year's competition will take place in a new location - our concert venue at the Elmhurst Christian Reformed Church, 149 W. Brush Hill, Elmhurst.

click here for audition information >>>

click here for the Application Form>>>

Please visit this section of the website after the February 23rd competition for a list of the winners, instrument they performed, High School and music teacher.

Ensemble Visits to Schools

The Elmhurst Symphony Association will sponsor ensemble visits to District 205 elementary and middle schools and several private schools in the Elmhurst area in 2012-2013.

The Elmhurst Symphony Orchestra is committed to outreach and educational programs such as this to help audiences of tomorrow come to a better understanding and appreciation of music of all types. The Elmhurst Symphony Orchestra is a non-for-profit organization. The ensemble visits are made possible in part by the City of Elmhurst Tourism Fund, the Illinois Arts Council, and Target Corporation.

Concert Previewer

Ted Hatmaker has been giving concert previews for the Elmhurst Symphony for eighteen years.  He is on the faculty of Norther Illinois University, where he teaches music theory, aural skills and composition.

Hatmaker holds a Ph. D. in music theory from the University of Iowa.  He is a published author of music theory articles which have been presented at professional conferences. Ted is a strong advocate for an educated concert audience and has given courses and many talks on what to listen for in music.  He is also an active composer; his works have received performances throughout the United States.  Ted's wife, Debbie, is a church musician and a busy accompanist in the area.  His three daughters are all professional string players.

The 2012-13 Stanger Winners are:

The Elmhurst Symphony is grateful to the Elmhurst Kiwanis Club and the Elmhurst Symphony Auxiliary for their generous and active support of the Stanger Competition and to Elmhurst Christian Reformed Church for hosting the event.
 

First Place: Jennifer Cha, Violin
Sibelius Concerto in d min; Op 47, 1st Mvmt
Teacher: Desiree Ruhstrat
Junior, Neuqua Valley High School