An evening for the senses

Philadelphia Youth Orchestra, Studio Incamminati team up for showcase of artistic endeavors

“Art” comes in many forms. While most of us concentrate on the type that hangs on walls and halls, there’s also the kind seen in dance recitals, heard through music or read from a literature prospective.

What’s most impressive is when one or more of these creative skills comes together for the enjoyment or education of others.

It’s what’s been happening each spring when the Philadelphia Youth Orchestra (PYO) has mixed its music with Studio Incamminati’s vivid paintings and sculptures to create an evening of the “senses.”

Held at the venerable Union League, guests had the opportunity to peer at a plethora of artistic objects to possibly take home before heading to a sit-down dinner and a following concert by PYO’s acclaimed young musicians.

Led by the youth orchestra’s president, Louis Scaglione, participants have a variety of options to choose from when it comes to learning more about music and the maestro’s acumen at imparting his wisdom to the youths.

What’s most impressive about this orchestra is not only has it wowed audiences in this area, but its performances around the world have met with unbridled success. From appearances in Australia after the USA’s bicentennial to a trek inside China and an historic tour of all parts of Germany, PYO kept expanding its talents as well as its outreach to include Middle Eastern countries and Russia. Talk about what a “goodwill” gesture this has been not only for the USA but for allies and possible skeptics as well.

What PYO also imparts is an appreciation of and backing for music teachers from the Delaware Valley. Each year, the orchestra takes note of an instructor who’s made or is making a difference in the lyrical education, training and understanding of what it takes to become a dedicated member of any musical grouping.

Among PYO’s many attributes is its Tune Up Philly opportunities for children with limited access to music training. Another program concentrates on those with abilities for string instruments or an affinity for those made of brass. PYO’s talent is in searching out and supporting those who are serious about continuing to make music for the enjoyment of self and others.

The 78th PYO Festival will take place at the Kimmel Center on Sunday, June 10. Come and hear the music made by the up and coming stars of tomorrow.

Wynnewood residents Chris Rinaldi and Brian Powers chat with WRTI radio personality Bill Johnson, of Glen Mills.

Michael and Amy Cooley, of Villanova, catch up with the Primaveras of Chestnut Hill, Christina and Carl.

Don and Kelly Suh, of Delaware County, raise a toast to one of the artist’s charcoal renderings with Ruth Feldman, of Bryn Mawr.

Michael Ludwig, of Cherry Hill, N.J., and his wife, Rachael, stop to speak with Mt. Airy denizens Rosalind Brewin and David Schneider.

Studio Incamminati President Jay Pennie thanks Leona Shanks for her help with the annual event.

Karen Minyard, of East Falls, runs into the Ogdens of West Mt. Airy, Handsel and Lydia.

Katya Held, of Philadelphia, surveys some of the on-site paintings with Sharon Henderson, of Berwyn; Nathan Wesner, of Lafayette Hill; and Bryn Mawr gal Helen Eaton.

Dawn Opel, of West Mt. Airy, and Martha Ludwig, of Havertown, have a confab during the reception.

Mt. Airy resident Kevin Greenwald and his wife, Sunny, meet up with Narberth resident Rick Touhill.