Since 1952, a significant number of CYS alumni have graduated from our orchestra or other CYS programs and have joined the finest orchestras in the nation. Others enjoy successful careers in performing arts administration or on the faculties of distinguished schools. Their success speaks to the impact of our training program. Tracking our alumni is a work in progress. Please keep us informed by sending us a message - we value your updates!
"My 6 years in CYS were extremely influential in my career. I traveled the world, learned how to be a strong orchestral musician, and made many life long friends. I can honestly say that without CYS and Maestro Eylar I would not be where I am today." ~ Katie Buckley, harpist
ICELAND SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
Katie Buckley, principal harpist
JACKSONVILLE SYMPHONY
Deanna Tham, Assistant Conductor
OMAHA SYMPHONY
Ankush Kumar Bahl, Music Director
OPERA SAN JOSE
Virginia Smedberg, violin
ORQUESTA CIUDAD GRANADA (CITY OF GRANADA ORCHESTRA, Spain)
Kathleen Balfe, principal cellist
PHILADELPHIA ORCHESTRA
Richard Woodhams, principal oboe *
PHILHARMONIA BAROQUE ORCHESTRA
Michelle (Millard) Burr, principal bass *
SAN FRANCISCO OPERA
Lawrence Ragent, horn
SYMPHONY SILICON VALLEY
Wendell Rider, horn
"THE PRESIDENT'S OWN" U.S. MARINE BAND
Courtney Morton, piccolo
UNION SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
Deanna Tham, Music Director
Conducting Careers
BROWN UNIVERSITY
Mark Seto, Orchestra Director
CABRILLO FESTIVAL OF CONTEMPORARY MUSIC
Audrey Kwong, Director
THE CHELSEA SYMPHONY
Mark Seto, Artistic Director & Conductor
JACKSONVILLE SYMPHONY YOUTH ORCHESTRA
Deanna Tham, Principal Conductor
Other Performing, Teaching, and Administrative Careers
BOSTON CONSERVATORY
Brian Calhoon, Director of Admissions
CABRILLO FESTIVAL OF CONTEMPORARY MUSIC
Audrey Kwong, Director
CALIFORNIA YOUTH SYMPHONY
Carmina (Chua) Eylar, Orchestra Manager
OAKLAND SYMPHONY
Mieko N. Hatano, Executive Director
ST. LOUIS SYMPHONY
Audrey Kwong, Artistic Operations Manager
* Former Member/Position