Classically cool concerts from MCS this summer

By Reader Staff

Who says classical music isn’t cool? Not the Music Conservatory of Sandpoint. They’ve formed an awesome international collaboration and our local community reaps the benefits. For the sixth year in row, MCS is hosting International Young Musician Exchange week which includes orchestra camp, master classes and community concerts. Let’s call this classically cool stuff.

Students from the AUKA Orchestra in Mexicali Mexico left to right; Salvador Lara Ochoa (flute;
17 years old, Yul Galvan Coto (clarinet; 18 years old), and Alejandro Rocha Schiaffino (Oboe; 15 years old). Courtesy photo.

The String Master Class starts the festivities. Advanced students are invited to participate in this dynamic class from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Aug. 7. Learn from guest artist Philip Baldwin of the Spokane Youth Symphony.

“We’re very excited about this continued collaboration with Phil,” MCS summer camp coordinator Ruth Klinginsmith said. “We’re getting young kids involved in classical music, and it’s so cool!”

Students interested in advancing their skills can call MCS at 208-265-4444 to register for this class that costs $25. The lesson will be held at MCS studios at 110 Main St. The public is invited to sit in free of charge. More info is available at www.sandpointconservatory.org.

Classical music lovers mark your calendars for Wednesday, Aug. 8, for a performance called Sounds of Summer. This is an international classical collaboration to be held at the Heartwood Center, 615 Oak Street, and costs only $10 for adults and $5 for students.

“This concert features exchange students from the Red Rio Nuevo Youth Orchestra AUKA in Mexico, as well as a visiting German student. Adding to the international theme is guest viola soloist Mariaya Ksondyzk from the Boston Conservatory. We’re so lucky to facilitate this team of talented musicians playing in our small town,” Klinginsmith said.

The Music Without Borders Concert: A Galactic Journey features the MCS International Summer Youth Orchestra conducted by Baldwin. This festive matinee will be held on Friday, Aug. 10 at 3 p.m. at the Panida (300 N. First Ave.). To make it extra cool, Katelyn and Laurie Shook will pop in to sing with the orchestra.

“This community event is a charitable fundraiser. Fifty percent of the $5 entry fee will be donated to Uryadi’s Village Orphanage in Ethiopia,” Klinginsmith said. “This is the second year that we’ve partnered with Uryadi to raise awareness for children who are not as fortunate as we are living in Sandpoint.”

Klinginsmith said that local violin maker, Mark Weber, has crafted two violins continuing the emphasis on collaboration. One will stay at the Conservatory and one will go to Mexico with the AUKA El Sistema Orchestra. How cool is that? 

You can find more information about the Music Conservatory of Sandpoint on their website www.sandpointconservatory.org. Or, by calling the office 208-265-4444. Also check out our “Classical Music is Cool,” bi-monthly KRFY 88.5 FM radio broadcast on Sunday evenings.