St. Charles teen to conduct Chicago orchestra

The spring concert of Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestras' world-renowned Symphony Orchestra will feature the debut of a talented new student conductor.

CYSO student Alexander Carroll, 17, will make his conducting debut on the podium at Chicago's Orchestra Hall, 220 S. Michigan Ave., at 6:30 p.m. Sunday, May 19.

Carroll is the recipient of CYSO's 2018 Doug and Sharon Carroll Conducting Fellowship (no relation). He will lead his orchestra peers in a performance of Aaron Copland's "Hoe-Down" from the 1942 ballet "Rodeo." (The piece is familiar to many from its use in 1990s ads for beef.)

Carroll was chosen as Conducting Fellow by CYSO Music Director Allen Tinkham after a rigorous application process last fall. Throughout the season, he met with Tinkham to complete an independent study curriculum focused on developing his skill as a conductor and had the opportunity to conduct small ensembles and CYSO rehearsals.

"It's been thrilling to watch Alex's progression over the past few months and the skill he's developed as a conductor," said Tinkham. "Learning how to lead is an important skill, both on the podium and off, and Alex's study will serve him well as he goes on to college."

Alexander Carroll serves as co-principal bassist in CYSO's top ensemble, Symphony Orchestra. He is a senior at St. Charles East High School, where he is very involved in the performing arts, including Chamber Orchestra, Jazz workshop, Chorale, Vocal Jazz workshop, Wind Ensemble, as well as musicals and plays. Carroll is also an Eagle Scout with Scouts BSA Troop 1.

Tickets for this event are $20-$60; free for kids 7 and younger. Tickets on sale now. For details, visit cyso.org or call (312) 939-2207, ext. 310.