List of Alumni from the Sacramento Youth Symphony
William E. Morrow1958-1962Horn Semi retired

Michael Gage1981-1982OboeBehavioral Health Coordinator

Mary Roberts                1982-1984        Violin              Elementary School Music Teacher
  • Being a part of the Sacramento Youth Symphony was one of the best experiences of my life and is the reason why I am a music teacher today. I would like to thank you, Mr. Neumann, for putting me on this path. Without you, my life would have been very different. You are an inspiration to us all! -Mary

Randall L. Muck          1985-1988        Cello               Music Academia/Composition & Theory
  • There was never a dull moment with this orchestra: the drve from Yuba City, the orchestra memebers, the personnel, and of course Mike Neumann. I enjoyed every note of it! A particular moment, one of many, was during the 1987 China Tour, we set off fireworks at the hotel. The whole trip was awe inspiring. My whole career was jump started with joining the SYS, and to say the least, performing Beethoven's 3rd.

Juliette Turner      1989-1991String Bass      Elementary School Music Prep Teacher

Matt Nelson   1994-1996        CelloStationary Engineer
  • Coming from a high school orchestra to a symphony was a huge shock for me. Even though it was tough in the beginning, I enjoyed every minute of it. The European tour and competition was also very memorable. I remember winning the competition and always eating at WeinerWald. It was an experience I will never forget.

Alexander Ashton 1997-2005Cello Studying music/Teaching
  • So many friends and close relationships. Went to 2 awesome tours with the symphony, 1999 To Europe and 2003 to Brazil. Was Co-Principal 2004. Too many memories and great pieces we played.

Kevin Chavez1997-1998OboeHealthcare Professional
  • One day we were rehearsing Beethoven's Seventh and Mr.Neumann stepped down from the podium and asked "would anyone else like to try?" My fellow oboeists made me go up there after watching several other members attempt.  I stepped up to the podium scared and beyond nervous.  So many eyes were on me.  It was the next few minutes that transformed me forever.  It was one of those perfect moments that will stay with me forever. I'm sure he wouldn't even remember me as I was a middle of the road oboe player at the time.  I still play in a number of gigs/groups here in So Cal and I conduct in two of them.  All thanks to Mr.Newmann.  I never got to tell him that story. I hope he reads this and knows that his actions have had a huge impact on my life.

Michael Leung1998-2004CelloStudent
  • I have so many memories from my years at SYS... some of my favorites: Pops Concerts, Veterans Day Concerts, 10 minute breaks in the middle of rehearsal when we got to rock out with our friends, sometimes on each other's instruments. The most memorable event was the 2003 Tour to Brazil - amazing friends, concerts, food. I miss SYS so much!

Olga Zhilovskiy2000-2004Violin
  • I loved playing in the SYS, especially the Premier Orchestra. Although it was a little stressful at times, it really advanced my skills as a violinist. Those were good times.

Michael Olsen 2000-2008Trumpet   Student

Jake Wise2002-2006CelloStudent at Cal Poly, SLO - Principal symphony cellist

Victoria Wooley      2004-2008Bassoon  College Student
  • I seriously loved every single second that I played with SYS. Everybody made it a wonderful experience.
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