Salute to Youth
American Fork Symphony
Monday, April 29th, 7pm, AF Junior High

Step into a world where talent knows no bounds, as the American Fork Symphony proudly presents “Salute to Youth” – a mesmerizing concert program celebrating the remarkable prowess of young soloists and conductors. Prepare to be enthralled by the sheer virtuosity and passion of these rising stars as they take center stage, showcasing their extraordinary skill and musicality. From breathtaking concertos to stirring orchestral works, this captivating event promises an unforgettable journey through the power and beauty of music.

The American Fork Symphony was organized in 1993 under the direction of Conductor Dr. Gordon Childs. Dr. Childs had retired from the University of Wyoming with the rank of Professor Emeritus of Music and had moved to Orem, Utah. The symphony was part of the American Fork Arts Council, and was partially funded by American Fork City and grants from the Utah Arts Council, the National Endowment for the Arts, and private contributors. In the next few years Diane Soelberg became associate conductor. Diane Soelberg was Director of Instrumental Music at Timpanogoes High School. In 2002 Dr. Childs retired as conductor and Diane Soelberg became conductor. The next year Diane Soelberg accepted the position of Music Director at BYU Idaho. Alan Allred and Dr. Terry Hill were chosen for the positions of co-conductors. In 2003, the American Fork Symphony became a member of the Timpanogos Arts Foundation after all Arts Council programs were transferred to the foundation.

The professional career of Alan Allred includes work as a conductor, educator and violinist. Dr. Terry Hill’s career has included work as a conductor, educator and violist. Dr. Hill retired as conductor in 2011. Alan Allred retired as conductor in 2012. Conductors now are Shauna Smith and Dr. Adam Lambert. Shauna Smith has a Bachelor’s and a Master’s Degree in Music Education from BYU. Dr. Lambert has a Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree in Music Education from BYU and a Doctorate from the University of North Texas.

The American Fork Symphony has proven itself to be a valuable addition to the cultural life of American Fork and surrounding communities. As part of a non-profit organization, the Symphony provides an opportunity for all instrumental musicians to develop their talents while providing enrichment to the musical life of the valley. Because the Symphony provides good music which speaks to the inner spirit of people of all ages, it is a vital asset to our need for beauty, balance and discipline. There are opportunities for both adult and youth soloists to perform. The 90 members of the symphony are from American Fork and surrounding communities from Draper to Payson. The Symphony is a professional level orchestra.

If you’re interested in joining or volunteering with the American Fork Symphony, send an email to

americanforksymphony@gmail.com

or contact us through our facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/AFSymphony/

“I’m honored to be a part of this organization. It fills a void in my life. I grew up in a very musical family and raised a very musical family. Music is the language of my heart. To be able to participate in the AF Symphony, is truly a blessing in my life. And to be able to share this opportunity with my wife (2nd Violin) makes it even more remarkable!!  Thank you AF Symphony for making this possible.” ~ Brett Johnson, Tuba & Percussion (3rd year with the Symphony) from Highland.

“I just started playing French horn for the AFS this season after a long period where I wasn’t able to play in an ensemble setting. I have absolutely loved my experience so far! It is so good to be a part of an ensemble of people who want to be there and who care deeply about the music being played. Having a concert to work towards fills me with purpose and happiness. The rehearsals are the highlight of my week, which is often busy and chaotic with the demands of my degree. I have thoroughly enjoyed playing with the symphony, and I intend to continue to do so for a long time to come.” ~ Julia Price, French Horn (1st season with the Symphony) from Provo.

“I started playing with the AF Symphony when I was in high school, 17 years ago. After I got married and my family grew, my husband and I brought our tiny children with us to rehearsals as it took both of us to efficiently move my instrument. My children grew with a love of dancing to the music at rehearsals. This was a remarkable way to expose them to a vast variety of classical music. Now that I have 5 children at home, staying dedicated to the AF Symphony keeps me playing my harp as it would otherwise sit untouched for long periods of time as I tend to the ever-present duties of being a mother. I am grateful to be a member of the American Fork Symphony.” ~ Brittany Snedecor, Harp (17th season with the Symphony) from Pleasant Grove.

“My 92 yr old father in-law doesn’t get out much but enjoyed coming to our July patriotic concert. He loved standing up  and being recognized for being in the Air force. He felt thanked and appreciated for his service and it was a highlight  of the year for him.” ~ Gayle Stratford, 2nd Violin (1st year with the Symphony) from American Fork.

“I love being part of the symphony!  It’s fun to be able to make something that is more beautiful  than what I could make on my own. Also, I cherish the friendships that I have made during the years I’ve been in the orchestra.” ~ Penny Linford, 2nd Violin (12th Season with the Symphony) from Alpine.

“I played my instrument all through Jr. High and high school then went off to college. During my time at college I really missed playing. When I learned about the American Fork Symphony it gave me the opportunity to play again, and I am thankful for it. Not only am I thankful for the opportunity to play in the symphony but the opportunity to share music with others when they come to the symphony’s concerts. I.e.!)” ~ Megan Ebert, Double Bass (2nd season with the Symphony) from American Fork.

“The symphony has provided an opportunity to share music that I would have in no other way. It has helped me maintain sanity.” ~ Ronald Smith, Clarinet (15th season with the Symphony) from Cedar Hills.

“I have played in the symphony since the beginning and I love the friendships that I’ve built with other musicians. We are one, whether we are young or old, male or female. It’s a fun creative outlet where I can forget the cares of the rest of the world. I am grateful for the opportunity that I have of performing with the American Fork Symphony every year.” Judy Swift, Trumpet (25 season with the Symphony) from Provo.

“Over the last 18 years of playing with the symphony, I have seen the orchestra grow in numbers and skill. We have had many talented conductors lead us. It is rewarding to give our patrons and families of our community a way to develop a love for the performing arts.” ~ Elise Clark, Cello (19th season with the Symphony) from American Fork.

“I love the fact that we take all comers – from high school grads thru senior folks like me.  It’s so nice to be able to dust off that instrument that many of us loved in a earlier phase of life, to be able to improve our skills, and perform with really great like-minded people.” ~ Shannon Moedl, 2nd Violin (3rd season with the Symphony) from American Fork.

“I have really enjoyed the opportunity of playing great music with others who do it just for the love of music.  Thanks AF Symphony.” ~ Bill Owen, Bassoon (19th season with the Symphony) from Highland.

“I feel very blessed and lucky to be able to perform with so many other talented musicians who share my love of music. I’ve been performing with the symphony for over 10 years and am so grateful for the positive impact performing with this group has had on my life. After graduating high school, I felt like a part of me was missing. When I began performing again with the American Fork Symphony a year later, I felt whole again. Music has always been a big part of my life and I am so grateful for to be able to call myself a member of this wonderful symphony.” ~ Jacob Ovard, Percussion, Bass, Violin & Piano (11th Season with the Symphony) from Spanish Fork.

“I have loved being able to play with this group. The improvements over the last 25 years are apparent and my grandchildren love coming to the concerts. It is a major highlight in my life.” ~ Julie Wood, Clarinet & Alto Saxophone (25th season with the Symphony) from Highland.

“I love the symphony! I think its great to have opportunity to play organized music for those interested to continue playing. For me personally, it has brought back an element in my life that was very important in my youth. It brings more balance to my life and adds to the quality of life. It feels good to be a part of the group and the camaraderie builds with each season. I feel that my children have been inspired with the concerts and their interest in continuing and improving their own  musical careers has increased. I hope to keep playing with these guys as long as I’m able. I send a big thank you to American Fork Symphony!” ~ Brad Freytag, Cello (5th season with the Symphony) from Orem.

“I hadn’t touched the violin in almost twenty years when I saw a poster advertising the AF Symphony. I wasn’t sure I could still play, but I was recently divorced and changed careers and needed something. I have never been a solo player, but there’s something amazing about being part of an orchestra. I called Maxine, and she said I was welcome, so I pulled out the violin. I had to buy all new strings and a new bridge. I was surprised to learn, I could actually still play. Being in the orchestra fills me with joy. I also love that the orchestra makes our concerts friendly to the smallest of children. I have grandkids and a niece that have come to almost every concert since they were babies. I always worry how well they will sit through a whole concert, but they all love the music. I am so glad they have that opportunity to participate as audiences members.” ~ Jen Stockett, 2nd Violin (9th season with the Symphony) from Daniel.

“The American Fork Symphony has provided a great opportunity for me to continue playing my violin throughout the past 25 years.” ~ Carol Jensen, 1st Violin (24th season with the Symphony) from Cedar Hills.