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DANSE MACABRE | CAMILLE SAINT-SAENSFUNERAL MARCH OF A MARIONETTE | CHARLES GOUNODNIGHT ON BALD MOUNTAIN | MODEST MUSSORGSKYSYMPHONY NO. 7: II. ALLEGRETTO | LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVENJURASSIC PARK HIGHLIGHTS | JOHN WILLIAMS/ARR. CALVIN CUSTERPN
We are here to make Great Falls abetter place to live through thetransformative power of music!The Great Falls Symphony Association, foundedin 1959, is a beacon of culture and inspirationfor our community, now proudly celebratingover six decades of enriching lives. Our missionis simple yet profound: to bring world-classmusic and educational programs that uplift,inspire, and unite the Great Falls community.We believe that music has the power toelevate the spirit and nurture the soul, and weare dedicated to being a cornerstone of thearts in Montana.Our Symphony features a 75-memberprofessional orchestra, a 100-memberSymphonic Choir, and our acclaimedCascade Quartet, all showcasing a dedicationto excellence. Additionally, our YouthOrchestra program, launched in 1996, providesa vibrant platform for over 100 youngmusicians from grades 6-12 to develop theirtalents. Through orchestra, chamber music,and a range of educational programs, wetouch the lives of more than 40,000 peopleeach year. Whether through our 7-concertclassical series, inspiring guest artists, or ourdynamic Youth Matinees that have reachedover 125,000 students, we are committed tobringing music to every corner of our region.Music is more than entertainment—it’s a vitalforce that connects us, moves us, and makesus stronger. At the Great Falls Symphony, wesee each note as an opportunity to enrichlives, foster creativity, and build a stronger,more vibrant community. Through partnershipswith organizations far and wide, we bring joyand culture to all. Together, we make GreatFalls not just a place to live, but a place tothrive—through the power of music.Because at the heart of it all, we believe in themagic of music, and that magic starts righthere with you. Kyara Nelsen, based in Missoula, Montana, isa dynamic and accomplished musician andconductor, now entering her third season asMusic Director and Programs Manager forthe Great Falls Symphony Association’sYouth Orchestra program. With a passion forfostering musical growth and creatinginspiring educational experiences, KyaraNelsen is committed to inspiring the nextgeneration of musicians and music loversthroughout Montana.Her professional work takes her across thestate weekly. In addition to her work with theGreat Falls Youth Orchestra, she serves asConcertmaster for the Butte SymphonyOrchestra. Additionally, she brings herexpertise to Flathead Valley CommunityCollege in Kalispell, where she teachesmusic theory, aural skills, private musiclessons, and directs the college orchestra.Kyara Nelsen returned to her nativeMontana in 2021 after earning her secondmaster’s degree in orchestral conductingfrom Florida State University. She also holds amaster’s in viola performance and abachelor’s in violin performance from theUniversity of Montana. Her mentors include distinguishedconductors such as Dr. Alexander Jiménez ofFSU and Dr. Luis Millán of UM, and herinstrumental training has been guided byesteemed teachers Dr. Pamela Ryan, Dr.Margaret Baldridge, and Mr. John Peskey.
YOUTH MATINEE FALL 202208