Dear SDYS Friends and Family,
We hope this letter finds you well and doing your best to cope with what continues to be one of the greatest disruptions most of us have experienced in our lifetimes. We miss seeing you and hope that the day we can come together at concerts and events happens soon.
After a busy spring, where we successfully transitioned all SDYS programs online, and then a quieter summer than normal, canceling the International Youth Symphony program as well as plans to offer new summer classes, this is a good opportunity to reconnect with you and share SDYS’ plans for our milestone 75th Anniversary season.
Like many local school districts, SDYS will begin the year with virtual classes to protect the best interests of our students and staff. While we initially won’t have traditional concerts, the good news is that we have developed an outstanding plan for ensemble classes, making use of state-of-the-art technology to facilitate meaningful music-making experiences for our students. We’ll also be offering special student opportunities as well as online enrichment classes. Even though we can’t meet in person, the music doesn’t stop, and neither does SDYS’ new vision to enrich lives through music. This work will culminate in an online celebration for our community in November.
We are planning to resume in-person operations no later than January and can’t wait to welcome you back to performances. A 75th Anniversary postcard will arrive in the mail soon that highlights some wonderful events we are currently planning, including guest artists, collaborations, outdoor performances, and a very special celebration for the 25th anniversary of music director Jeff Edmons. After a planned season-ending celebration in June, we’re looking forward to bringing back the International Youth Symphony program as well as offering new classes in Summer of 2021.
Our theme for the upcoming season is to “Celebrate 75 Years of Families” at SDYS and we are grateful to all of you for your continued support. Many non-profits and arts organizations are facing challenging times and uncertain futures. As we look to the next 75 years of service to young people and their families, you are vital to helping us fulfill our mission and change young lives across San Diego County. If you are able to support our efforts, we appreciate anything you can do to help us meet our goals.
We’re starting the countdown now to a joyous 75th Anniversary. Don’t forget to mark your calendars when you get the postcard and look for a special birthday video on September 6 to kick things off.
Stay healthy and safe,
Dr. Michael Remson, President & CEO
