Austin and Lucas among Top 3 at Rising Stars Concerto Competition

We have more good news in this crazy-busy month of competitions!

Just this past weekend, Austin Frohmader and Lucas Jones traveled to La Crosse, Wisconsin to participate in the La Crosse Symphony Orchestra’s “Rising Stars” Concerto Competition.  It is a very fine regional competition of three states (Iowa, Minnesota, and Wisconsin) for young artists fourteen to eighteen.  In addition to cash awards, the First Prize Winner is awarded two performances with the orchestra, as well as a week of rehearsals, radio/television interviews, etc.  One of our illustrious alumni, Adam Birdsall, won this competition a number of years ago. 

Austin and Lucas were two of the three finalists with Austin taking Second Place, with the Third Place Award going to Lucas.  Both young men played beautifully and are in a great “groove”.  Jo Anne and I are very proud of their work, poised performances, and leadership.  The road trip was very excruciating as the snow created a very dangerous driving environ – especially for the Frohmaders.  Normally a two and one-half hour trip, it took the Frohmaders five hours to get to La Crosse, witnessing the results of numerous serious accidents.  But (as we all know) when we travel – all bets are off.  So – hats off to Austin – who got up the next morning after arriving extremely late the night before and “delivered the goods”.  Of course, this is a very valuable experience.  This is what happens in real life as a traveling pianist!!

Yours in Music!

Joe & Jo Anne

Austin & Lucas – Finalists in the YPSCA of the Minnesota Orchestra’s Concerto Competition

A report from the front lines . . .

We are very happy to announce that Austin Frohmader and Lucas Jones were selected – by preliminary audition – to perform in the finals of the Young People’s Symphony Concert Association of the Minnesota Orchestra’s Concerto Competition. Our young men will be performing from the stage of Orchestra Hall, downtown Minneapolis, on Saturday, January 29, 2011, at 1:00 pm.  This is a very prestigious event as our Minnesota Orchestra is considered by many to be the greatest American orchestra, and certainly, one of the finest in the world.  There are generally about a dozen students (grades seven through twelve) selected for the finals.  There is much scholarship money at stake as well as the grand prize of performing with the orchestra next year, as soloist, at Family Concerts.  The finals are especially “prickly” in that the finals consist of all instruments (not just piano).

The YPSCA Finals are generally a very low-key event.  It is about two hours in length, but one may stay as briefly – or as long – as one would like. Only the first tier is open for families and friends of the performers.  However, Jo Anne and I encourage anyone who would like to experience the finals for themselves – and to support Austin’s and Lucas’ great effort and preparation to please feel welcome to attend.  I have encouraged some of our “up and coming stars” to come just see what it is like.  I know that Nita greatly enjoyed it last year when Kenny performed in the finals.  It is free and open to the public.  Jo Anne and I will be there in the audience (in and out) – but will not be performing with the boys.

All the best to Austin and Lucas in the pursuit of their art!!

Yours in Music –

Joe and Jo Anne