Schaumburg Youth Orchestra boasts Conductor of the Year

As the Schaumburg Youth Symphony Orchestra stands poised to mark its 25th anniversary this summer, founding Director Joseph Malmquist has another reason to celebrate: his recognition as 2014 Youth Orchestra Conductor of the Year by the Illinois Council of Orchestras.

Unlike some awards in which candidates know they're nominees or finalists first, Malmquist was unaware he was in the running until learning he'd won.

"I had absolutely no idea," the Conant High School music teacher said. "I hope this just gives a stamp of credibility on the organization."

The orchestra likely doesn't need much more help to be embraced by the Schaumburg-area community. While there were fewer than 25 student musicians when it was created, the orchestra now boasts well over 200 members, said Betsy Armistead, Schaumburg's cultural services director.

"Joe was our founding director 25 years ago and has made a tremendous difference in the life of the program," Armistead said. "He is a great guy. He is foremost a great educator and musician. He has the ability to work with young people, motivate them and just bring out the best in them."

The orchestra began with a letter sent in the late 1980s by student Heidi Beckman to Schaumburg Mayor Al Larson, asking whether such an endeavor was possible. Larson brought the idea to Armistead, who knew from working in Elgin that it could be pulled off.

Malmquist said he got involved not necessarily to be the director, but simply to ensure it would be a quality organization complementary to the needs of his high school students.

He wasn't aware he was making a quarter-century commitment at the time, but the students have made it easy for him to stay motivated.

"They so love what they're doing, and want to be better at it," Malmquist said.

The orchestra has toured such far-flung places as Europe and Japan, tying in with students' historical and cultural education.

Larson has observed Malmquist's work with students both in Schaumburg as well as on international tours.

"It's certainly well deserved," Larson said of Malmquist's latest recognition. "He's been an inspiration to everyone he's come in contact with."

Rob Pileckis, who's worked with Malmquist as production supervisor at Schaumburg's Prairie Center for the Arts, said his commitment to the orchestra and its members is irreplaceable.

"It really begins with the genuine interest he has in every member of his orchestra," Pileckis said. "He's there to do more than just teach music, he's there to instill a sense of self-worth."

Pileckis said the community should be grateful for the length of Malmquist's service, given that his talents are probably in high demand.

"Somehow, this is his baby," Pileckis said of the orchestra. "I don't think he feels his job is done here yet."