05/09/2020
A letter from our director:
Dear DeKalb Youth Symphony members and families and staff,
DYS has been around since the 1970’s and I have been its conductor since 1984. It has been the musical highlight of my career and has given me countless incredible musical moments working with such talented young people. Your high school musical experience can really define one’s life and can set a path for a lifetime of performing and learning. Your commitment to DYS has been an inspiration, making this a year of musical joy and achievement. I am so pleased to announce your new DYS director is Mr. Philip Barnard, a dear friend and colleague. His background in orchestral conducting and his wide musical experience will bring out the best in you as you continue your musical adventure. I will miss all of you very much, but I know you are in good hands.
Sincerely,
Mr. Kuutti
Below is his message to you:
Dear DeKalb Youth Symphony members,
It is with a humble heart that I say how honored I am to become the director of the DeKalb Youth Symphony Orchestra. To lead such a talented and diverse group of musicians will be an exciting adventure that I cannot wait to begin. I have taught woodwinds, brass, percussion, and strings throughout my career, and I will draw on every moment of those experiences in an effort to provide the leadership each and every one of you deserves!
Speaking of leadership, it goes without saying how much Mr. Kuutti will be missed. He has been a close colleague and dear friend for many years, and while I celebrate his retirement, seeing him go will be difficult for all of us. He will always be a friend of the DeKalb Youth Symphony.
I look forward to working with your school band and orchestra directors in a collaborative way to develop future DYS concerts, events and trips that are challenging, inspiring, and exciting. I am confident of the continued success of the DeKalb Youth Symphony and look forward to achieving new heights!
Sincerely,
Philip Barnard
