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The InterSchool Orchestras of New York (ISO) was founded in 1972 by Annabelle F. Prager as a response to the limited opportunities for school children in both public and private schools to play in an orchestra. It has since grown to include four beginning orchestras, two intermediate orchestras, a symphonic band, and an advanced orchestra. An essential part of its mission is that no child ever be turned away because of lack of financial resources; 50% of its students receive some financial aid, including all members of the top orchestra.
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Currently, it is led by Artistic Director Jeffrey Grogan, Executive Director Waddy Thompson, and Board President Barbara Tracy. Its music director for much of its history was Jonathan Strasser.
ISO was recognized by the League of American Orchestras with the 2004 Bank of America Award for excellence in orchestra education.
Ensembles
The Morningside, Turtle Bay, Queens East, and Trinity-Florentine Orchestras welcome beginners with basic skills on their instruments. Morningside Orchestra is conducted by Erika Boras, the ISO at Turtle Bay Orchestra by Barry Stern, the Trinity Florentine Orchestra by Matthew Rotjan, and Queens East by Joseph Seifers.
The Carnegie Hill Orchestra, under the direction of Steven Rochen, provides further training for intermediate-level musicians, who perform original orchestral music and arrangements.
The Concert Orchestra, conducted by Lawrence Markiewicz, is made up of more advanced players.
The Symphonic Band, founded and conducted by Brian Worsdale, provides performing opportunities for intermediate and advanced wind, brass, and percussion players.
Musicians in the ISO Symphony all receive full scholarships in recognition of their placement in this elite ensemble of the most advanced players. Artistic Director Jeffrey Grogan conducts the Symphony in the great works of the orchestral repertoire.
All ensembles regularly perform at prominent venues such as Symphony Space, Carnegie Hall, and Alice Tully Hall. They also perform free community concerts in schools, senior centers, parks, and other locations. The symphony also goes on tour to places such as Scotland or Spain.
Other Programs
ISO works closely with schools to provide free lessons to beginning students. Through the Teaching Internship Program, advanced ISO musicians give free weekly music lessons to beginning students at the Julia Richman Education Center. Students playing less common instruments (viola, contrabass, French horn, oboe, and bassoon) can receive free lessons through the Endangered Instrument Program.