Mission

Ensemble Monterey Chamber Orchestra enriches the cultural life of the Central Coast, performing music that is adventurous, challenging and unique.

The Big Idea

We are working to create the next generation of fine classical musicians. On two of our four Monterey concerts this season we will highlight young artists from Youth Music Monterey's (YMM) South County Strings Program, based in Soledad, and Youth Orchestra Salinas (YoSal). The performers will present their best work to our audience and to their extended families, and then have the opportunity to watch our seasoned musicians play as well. This past spring, we featured students from the El Sistema Pajaro (North County) program, just a few weeks after the devastating floods in Pajaro. Some players couldn't make the performance, but those that did delighted our audience members who can't wait for them to return. Expanding the program to include YMM and YoSal performers is eagerly anticipated by our ticket holders.

I am Amalia Diaz, Music Director of the El Sistema Pajaro Orchestra program. El Sistema is a visionary movement that uses ensemble music to transform the lives of children: teaching the importance of teamwork, promoting self-confidence, and instilling the value of social responsibility. I thank Ensemble Monterey for giving our beginning orchestra the opportunity to participate in the concert offered in Monterey. Our students were excited to perform and their parents were proud to see them sharing the stage with professional musicians. The Monterey community was welcoming and encouraging and motivated our children to do their best and they exceeded our expectations in behavior and musical performance. Most of our families had never attended a formal concert and they enjoyed the music and their children's participation. This amazing opportunity showcased what we do; demonstrating that music can bring equality to our society and unify communities towards a common goal.

- Amalia Diaz