Philadelphia Youth Orchestra

Classical organizations big and small are taking a moment to celebrate America's 250th anniversary. Here are some highlights in the week ahead.

Meet 17-year-old trumpeter Isabella Gilligan, a senior at Lower Merion High School, and principal trumpet in the Philadelphia Youth Orchestra, member of Bravo Brass, and the University of Pennsylvania Wind Ensemble.

Meet 17-year-old cellist Samuel Cao, principal cellist in the Philadelphia Youth Orchestra, the cellist in Settlement Music School’s Advanced Study Myer Schwartz Piano Trio, and a Philadelphia Music Alliance for Youth (PMAY) Artist.

Meet 16-year-old cellist Kealia Grace Smith, a member of the Philadelphia Youth Orchestra, the cellist in Settlement Music School’s Advanced Study Snitzer String Quartet, and a Philadelphia Music Alliance for Youth (PMAY) Artist.

Meet clarinetist Zakyya McClenny, a graduating senior from the Philadelphia High School for Creative and Performing Arts, who will attend the Peabody Institute in the fall as a music education major.

Meet double bassist Luke Halpern, a senior at Friends' Central School and Principal Double Bassist of the Philadelphia Youth Orchestra.

Meet 16-year-old violinist Danae Truxler, a member of the Philadelphia Youth Orchestra, Temple Music Prep Center for Gifted Young Musicians' Youth Chamber Orchestra, and a Philadelphia Music Alliance for Youth (PMAY) Artist.

This week in Fanfare: the Curtis Symphony Orchestra plays two world premieres, and Yannick leads his other hometown ensemble.

Featured in Fanfare this week: the Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, organist Nicole Keller, the Philadelphia Youth Orchestra and more.

This week in Fanfare, Meg Bragle gives thanks with a handpicked selection of music as we head toward the holiday table.