Pasadena Community Youth Orchestra

Summer Concert Photos!

2011-11-12T01:33:00.000-08:00

Bon jour PCYO!

It's been a while since these photos were taken, but better late than never, right? I hear the summer concert was one of the best performances on record - and I am still kicking myself that I had to miss it. As you probably know, kicking yourself is quite difficult. Your foot can't really reach your butt or your shins - two of the most popular places to kick.

Once again, the Franchot family took pictures so great, it makes my photos look like they were taken with a disposable camera. Underwater. But like, not with a waterproof camera.

Here is the link: http://www.flickr.com/photos/organize/?start_tab=one_set72157628109342662

Thank you Franchot family!

Mr. Robert sure is busy with school, but he misses each and every one of you. He hopes you are practicing, and says hello to all of his little rock stars. Maybe you will see him at the Christmas concert!

Love and music,

Fayeruz

Merci Lisa Franchot!

2011-07-09T22:48:00.000-07:00

The Fracnhot family submitted such great photos of the Spring 2011 concert, that my photos look like they were taken with a dollar store disposable camera that an elephant sat on!

Check out the Photos a la Franchot right HERE.

Thanks!

And while I'm here, this is a friendly reminder that PCYO Band Camp is August 15th-19th. Those who haven't signed up should, unless they like watching Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles reruns at home while eating stale Funyuns. Ugh.

See you then, rock stars!

Love & music,
Fayeruz

In a Galaxy Far Far Away...

2011-05-30T22:19:00.000-07:00

Well, far far away if there's traffic. PCYO held their Spring Concert and blew everyone away with their solos, jazz pieces, pop songs and grand finale with the Star Wars theme!

OK so I forgot wear pumpernickel bagels on my ears to look like Princess Leia - but let's face it - I'm no Princess Leia. So I dressed up this puppy instead. Great job, PCYO!

I've got the concert photos RIGHT HERE!

...And don't forget, Summer Camp is August 15 - 19th!

All Good Things

2011-02-05T09:58:00.001-08:00

Happy New Year, PCYO!

I'm getting nothing but good news lately:

- The turnout this semester was GREAT!

- Rock stars Pepe and Justus are baaaaaack!

- The bowling trip last week was F-U-N!

- Raymond was honored for SERIOUS achievements as an Eagle Scout. If we get stuck in a natural disaster, I am calling him!!!

- And you guys get to play a STAR WARS song?!?!

No fair! Now I am wishing I played an instrument! I can't wait to see that one performed. I'll wear pumpernickel bagels on my ears to look like Princess Leia at the concert! Keep up the great work, and keep practicing!

Fayeruz

The Best Concert. EVER.

2010-12-20T01:35:00.000-08:00

So I haven't written in a few minutes. Okay the whole season, but never mind that. I was inspired to jump online immediately and blog about the amazing holiday concert PCYO performed. It was the best one, like, ever.

Even with newcomers, all that hard work for the past few years has sharpened PCYO into a well-oiled machine! The orchestral pieces were complicated, but tight. The solos? Captivating! The parents? Beaming! The feeling? Merry!

CONGRATULATIONS PCYO AND HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!

Summer 2010 Concert

2010-08-14T22:44:00.000-07:00

"Be a light and shine," they advised. And PCYO did. They were lights. And they shone. Tears!

I had the privilege of catching the summer concert this Friday, where students and instructors showed off their hard work. Making their parents proud and their minds sharper, the kids blew me away.

To see the concert photos I took when I wasn't staring proudly with my mouth dropped open, click HERE!

Love & music,

Fayeruz

Below photo: Camille & Robert preparing for band camp
at the Regan Cabin

SUMMER CAMP STARTS MONDAY!

2010-08-07T02:09:00.000-07:00

Are you excited? You should be. You will be collaborating on a song that's a smash hit on the airwaves. But I won't spill it - you'll have to wait for it.

Speaking of waiting, a few of you still have instruments and need to return them. Please remember that PCYO works on donations, and most of those instruments were donated by people who wanted to make a difference in kids' lives. Your contribution/return will help pave the way for a new kid eager to be exposed to the arts and learn how to play. Please swing by with your instrument any time next week! Pretty please?

In the meantime, please enjoy this newsletter that Rosa and her sons created last year around Summer Camp time.

Spring Concert Photos

2010-06-09T22:48:00.000-07:00

Greetings PCYO! The 2010 Spring Concert photos are ready to be viewed, and you can see them right HERE.

PS) Don't forget to sign up for summer camp!

Love & music,

Fayeruz

All Kinds of Business!!!

2010-05-21T13:08:00.000-07:00

Okay, where do I start?

Popular answer: At the beginning

Okay....

Once upon a time, there was this Youth Orchestra, and they had so many exciting things going on, that the blogger had a hard time keeping track. The blogger obviously needed coffee, but was still excited to write about...

SUMMER CAMP!

Our most popular summer program is back! Why get pale in front of the TV when you can enjoy sunshine, music training, food and field trips? It's from August 9-13th. Apply right now on the PCYO website right HERE!

THE BIG CONCERT!

It's on May 29th! Hang in there, keep coming on Saturdays, practice at home and make your mama proud! Hopefully you took advantage of Robert and Camille's precious weekend time they put aside. Instead of sleeping in, they came to PCYO early to help students individually. Still need help? Talk to them!

THE PCYO WALK-A-THON!!

Here's a note from that foxy PCYO instructor Robert:

PCYO, through its host nonprofit organization, LCEC, is planning a Walk-a-Thon fundraiser for this September. We hope to raise a significant portion of PCYO's Fall 2010-Spring 2011 budget through this fundraiser. As you all know, the cost of putting a student through our program is many times more than the registration fee, which means most of our support comes through grants and fundraisers. In other words, we're counting on this Walk-a-Thon to carry us through the next Fall and Spring seasons.

Planning a Walk-a-Thon is a lot of work--fun, and at times tedious--and any help we can get will greater guarantee its running smoothly. We are thus calling on our friends and families to help us in making our 2010 Walk-a-Thon a success. Please let us know if you or anyone else is willing to help us plan and/or execute the 2010 Walk-a-Thon. We will have a volunteer sign-up sheet on the table at this week's rehearsal (5/22); and we will also be making an announcement at the concert (5/29).

Thank you,
Robert Regan
Assistant Director

Where do I wrap this up?
Popular answer: At the end

...then PCYO practiced hard, gave a great show and a tear was brought to everyone's eye. The summer camp was a success, and PCYO raised a ton of money during their Walk-a-Thon. Then they all lived happily ever after.

- THE END -

Sonja Einmen Rocks the Walt Disney Concert Hall

2010-05-12T02:33:00.000-07:00

Our very own PCYO Rock Star and Student Leader Sonja Einem is a proud member of the Renaissance Arts Academy Orchestra and Choir. These guys are such a big deal, they were invited by The Los Angeles Philharmonic (otherwise known as "L.A. Phil") to the Youth Orchestra Festival. PCYO loaded up some vans, got excused early and made a pilgrimage to the Walt Disney Concert Hall to see them bring the house down! I know everybody likes to make a big deal about how cool the Walt Disney Concert Hall looks, but it still seems like a crumpled ball of aluminum foil to me!

The set was great, but the one song that gave everyone goosebumps? O Fortuna, from Carmina Burana. It was both haunting and beautiful.

I get goosebumps even listening to this intense version from Harry Potter. Check it out right HERE!

Bravo Sonja! ...Wait, is that you talking on your cell phone?!?!!?

Madness! Mayhem! It's the PCYO Picnic!

2010-05-05T20:31:00.000-07:00

Hey Karl - that's not a saxophone!

2010-04-24T11:40:00.000-07:00

Deciding to terrorize children, we wonder what kind of saxophone instructor would resort to such violent methods. Did Mr. Crazycakes lose his mind? Is this his tactic for getting kids to practice more? Maybe he should quit this gig and join the military! But wait - we need him! ...Or do we?

Thank You ROSA!

2010-04-21T02:07:00.000-07:00

I must give a shout out to PCYO Supermom ROSA. She is always supporting the crew on Saturdays, emphasizing the fun in education for her children, and on a personal note, she hooks me up with the coolest photos ever! She gives me so many great pics of you rock stars, I want to blog about you all the time! But I have one of those job thingies, so....

ANYWAY - here is my favorite from Rosa's collection!

Here is her son Yael, who won a school art competition and had his painting showcased in a Santa Monica gallery. He even got to sell his painting! We were so proud, we went to see it ourselves.

Way to go Yael!

The Picnic is coming! The Picnic is coming!

2010-04-15T01:56:00.000-07:00

I heard that a lot of rock stars were missing last Saturday. I hope this isn't the case for the picnic! Who wouldn't want to enjoy an afternoon of warm sunshine, sizzling burgers and... a revolt, maybe? That's the rumor, rock stars. Like I said in my last post, all you naughty rock stars are rumored to be planning a water balloon attack - and we are READY. We DARE you. Mwah ha hAAAA!

PCYO Picnic Revolt???

2010-04-11T01:32:00.000-07:00

Well, well, well PCYO.

A little birdie told me that PCYO students are planning a revolt. Is this true? Are we really to be bombarded with water balloons? Well we've got our umbrellas, raincoats and waterproof masacara - so BRING IT.

Picnic Details
Where: Farnsworth Park
When: April 17th
Time: 10:30 AM - 2:30 PM

Former PCYO Rock Stars...on TV!

2010-03-08T12:10:00.000-08:00

Hey PCYO! Remember former PCYO Rock Stars Pepe & Justus Bradshaw? They scored a TV commercial! Check it out right here and click on the first module!

Another PCYO Night Out

2010-03-01T17:35:00.000-08:00

PCYO rock star Sebastian and his parents joined up with Robert, Camille and Safoa for yet another night on the town. They took in a Mozart symphony, and it was a night to remember. See the attached photos!

OOPS! Correction!

2010-02-26T12:15:00.000-08:00

The next PCYO class will be held NEXT Saturday, not this Saturday. Everything will be back on (French fries and all) on March 6th!

Sorry for any confusion!

For those who love FRENCH FRIES....

2010-02-24T05:59:00.000-08:00

Pay VERY close attention to class this Saturday - Camille and Robert will be handing out some very delicious prizes. But ONLY to those who have been practicing, and the ones who can answer their questions correctly. Good luck!

Big Surprise for PCYO Rock Star Sonja Einem!

2010-02-20T17:02:00.000-08:00

Our PCYO rock star Sonja Einem received an exciting surprise when Jamie Foxx and Dominic Monaghan strolled into their school to give them all new musical instruments!

Not only were brand new instruments donated to four Los Angeles schools, but our very own Sonja Einem (sporting an edgy new hairstyle) was interviewed on Fox 11. See the clip right HERE.

The instruments were donated by Fidelity Investments as part of its 2010 FutureStage music program. With funding for arts and music in L.A. Unified schools being sliced in half this year, this news could not have come at a better time.

A PCYO Night Out

2010-01-25T03:07:00.000-08:00

What happens when you keep practicing your instrument? You get to perform on stage or in the orchestra for a delighted audience. Last week, we got to be part of a delighted audience! It was a big PCYO night out for Camille, Robert, Safoa, Daniel, Bethany and friends. A famous supermodel even tagged along! She's in the middle. Isn't she beeeeeeaaaautiful?

PCYO instructors had a night on the town to see The Mikado at the Luckman Fine Arts Complex. Does the gentleman in the below photo look familiar? That's because you've seen him around campus on Saturdays - he rehearses for his mindblowing and stupendous shows just down the hall. It's the infamous Richard Sheldon!

PS) Don't forget, bring along your family and friends to PCYO for open enrollment. They're taking new students until February 6th!

Welcome Back PCYO!

2010-01-18T02:48:00.000-08:00

Well, well, well. Look who's back! The same gaggle of Rock Stars, and then some. Speaking of the "and then somes"...

Tell one, tell all, we are still enrolling new PCYO students for this season until February 6th.

That's right, tell your friends, tell your cousins, but PLEASE don't tell the Cafeteria Lady. We are taking new PCYO Rock Stars until February 6th!

Thank you Juana!

2010-01-06T16:48:00.000-08:00

A Poem for Juana

You fetch us food

You teach our classes

A patient saint

Sweet as molasses

You donate precious

Saturdays

To fixing problems

in every way

A million thanks

For being there

We promise to practice

To show we care!

Note to students: Pay very close attention to the last stanza and remember your promise!

See you on January 16th - the first Saturday of the all-new 2010 season!

Happy New Year PCYO!

2010-01-01T00:00:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year PCYO! For all you music lovers, there are bands bringing in the New Year in Times Square, jazz clubs, big galas and Hollywood parties. These classy folks bring cheer to partygoers all around the world. One day you could be dressed in a sharp suit or dress, spreading cheer with your heart-stopping sounds!

We look forward to a fresh new start in 2010, and we can't wait to see you on January 16th, the first Saturday of the new season. See you there!

Merry Christmas PCYO

2009-12-25T00:00:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas PCYO! Thanks for helping to make the 2009 Christmas Concert a memorable one, and don't forget to enjoy your holiday free time practicing your instrument!

Experts Agree - PCYO's Jazz Brothers are Adults Disguised as Kids

2009-12-19T22:01:00.000-08:00

Police attempt to get a statement from PCYO Director Camille Barnes

"There's no other way to explain it," says Gina Ramsey, shaking her head, "Kids just don't sound like that." In fact, after PCYO's 2009 Christmas Concert was over, guests began circulating rumors that the music was rigged, and that grown-ups were only pretending to be kids during the PCYO Jazz Brothers segment to make PCYO appear superior to all other youth orchestras.

"That is ridiculous," argues Camille Barnes, PCYO's director. "Of course PCYO's Jazz Brothers are children. This is what people actually sound like when they practice!"

People remain skeptical, including L.A. Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa. "I cannot confirm nor deny the rumors. I was not at the show, but we will launch a full-blown investigation to ensure that PCYO remains an honest and credible service to the citizens of California."

Is Camille Barnes lying to protect PCYO's integrity, or are the PCYO Jazz Brothers truly an extremely talented group that practices regularly?

PCYO Assistant Director Robert Regan could not be reached for comment.

Greensleeves - More Than Just "The Christmas Concert Song"

2009-12-01T21:33:00.000-08:00

...A little birdie told me that some PCYO students aren't practicing enough. I'm scared!

The holiday concert is one of my very favorite things about Christmas. I love it when students take the stage to show off their hard work. I love how proud the parents sit in the audience. I even love the mistakes, because holiday music is the happiest music in the world.

I'm especially excited this year because you're playing Greensleeves!
Did you know...

Greensleeves is one of the songs in A Charlie Brown Christmas!

Greensleeves is a funny song from Ireland about a girl with grass stains on her shirt.

It has the same Christmas hymn of What Child is This?

Variations of the song Greensleeves was used in the movie, How the West Was Won. Since they changed the song a bit, they titled it Home in the Meadow.

This song used to be a ringer on my old cell phone. Greensleeves played only when Mr. Robert called!

Greensleeves has played on The Simpsons, Lassie and The Office!

Greensleeves has been covered by Elvis Presley, rock band Jethro Tull, Olivia Newton-John, Leonard Cohen and James Taylor.

Vince Guaraldi made my favorite version from A Charlie Brown Christmas. Listen to it right HERE.

Love & music,
Fayeruz

No Bad Luck This Friday the 13th!

2009-11-13T00:22:00.000-08:00

"I won't play with sharp objects if you don't play sharp notes."
- Jason

Who says Friday the 13th is riddled with bad luck?

I will use this lovely Friday the 13th to announce that there will be some DELICIOUS prizes handed out at PCYO practice this Saturday!

Make sure to keep practicing and pay attention in class, because the instructors only have 10 delicious prizes. They will be awarded to those who sound like they've been improving and can answer questions in class.

Good luck, and if a black cat crosses your path, pet it until it purrs!

Love & music,

Fayeruz

10 Things You Didn't Know About...... Johann Sebastian Bach

2009-10-25T20:53:00.000-07:00

1. He had 20 kids! (...and you think your family fights over bathroom time?)

2. The huge HUGE HUGE Bach family produced over 50 notable musicians throughout the years.

3. He was once thrown in jail for a month! (Not too exciting - some naughty Duke wanted to stop him from accepting a better job, so he threw Bach behind bars.)

4. In the last year of his life, he went blind. Bach even tried getting an operation by the same doctor who operated on Handel's eyes, but the surgery was unsuccessful. It was an unsuccessful surgery for Handel too. What's up, Doc?

5. At Bach's older brother's wedding, he met Johann Pachelbel, composer of the infamous Pachelbel Canon in D.

6. Bach married his cousin! Her name was Maria Barbara Bach, and she was his second cousin.

7. Bach was married twice. When his first wife died, he married Anna Magdalena Wilcke (the daughter of the town trumpeter).

8. Bach's music is very popular for weddings around the world.

9. His favorite restaurant was Taco Bell.

10. Fact #9 is a lie. (...but if he were alive now, it's highly possible!)

Welcome Gustavo Dudamel!

2009-10-18T19:59:00.000-07:00

You have seen his wacky hair on television and splashed across the pages of newspapers and magazines. His name is on the tip of everyone's tongue.

Who is he? Gustavo Dudamel!

What's the buzz? He came to Los Angeles!

Does this have anything to do with PCYO? Uh huh!

This classical music legend is now the head conductor of the Los Angeles Philharmonic and you can see him live. But it's his YOUTH ORCHESTRA that's made him who he is.

Just like you, he was smart and started his music education early. He liked violin and composition. Then, In 1999, he was appointed music director of the Orquestra Sinfonica Simon Bolivar, the national youth orchestra of Venezuela.

That's right, Venezuela rules because they have a national youth orchestra. Don't you wish Obama would set that kind of system in place? Start writing letters!

Gustavo Dudamel worked closely with his youth orchestra and tuned them into such astounding performers, they toured all around the world! Don't you wish you could do that? Skipping your home-cooked brussels sprouts for pizza...in Italy! For sushi...in Japan! For...well, you get the idea.

Gustavo Dudamel and his youth orchestra are a shining example of what we can be one day, if we keep practicing and remember to love what we do. Check out their unbelievable performance right HERE.

Welcome to Los Angeles Gustavo Dudamel!

Fall Season Starts this Saturday, September 19th!

2009-09-16T04:44:00.000-07:00

Welcome back PCYO!

Saturday is almost here, and we're thrilled to have you back for a fresh new start this Autumn!

Some important reminders:

~ Rehearsal is now from 10 AM - 2 PM

~ We don't rehearse every Saturday, so check the "Calendar" page on the PCYO site by clicking HERE. We won't be making courtesy calls to remind you, but the schedule will always be posted online.

~ Economic relief! The cost of tuition will remain the same as last year! Now PCYO will charge on a per-season basis. This means $25 for the Fall season, (September - December) then again for the winter season, (January - May). It's only $10 for any additional family members.

~ If we loan you an instrument, we'll need a small deposit based on the percentage of the instrument's value. The deposit is 100% refundable.

~ Student and parent contracts will be handed out at the first rehearsal. Make sure to read before you sign!

~ Making music can sure build an appetite! PCYO will be supplying lunch at the first rehearsal, and there will be a sign-up sheet for parents at the front table. It's important to pitch in and feed our budding rock stars!

~ Mark your calendars! December 12th is the day of the final holiday concert. You'll be great. Break a leg. Heck, break both of them.

Love & music,
Fayeruz

Exclusive Interview with New Student Director...Sonja Einem!

2009-09-13T01:59:00.000-07:00

Happy Fall season PCYO!

Our newly-crowned student leader is Miss Sonja Einem and I had a chance to interview her. Check it out below!

Hi Sonja! What's the first thing that went through your mind when you were asked to be Student Director for PCYO?

I thought 'This will look good on college applications.' Then I wondered if we could play something Baroque.

Ambitious! Sonja, you're a pretty quiet person. Would you be able to speak up if any of those PCYO brats start picking their noses?

You know, it's their own decision whether or not they want to pick their noses. But I guess it's my duty to tell them it's gross.

Speaking of picking noses, what is your most embarrassing moment?

Oh that would be me recently being lifted and flipped upside down...in a skirt.

Hey, consider yourself lucky that someone can lift and flip you! Back to PCYO, what do you think is your biggest challenge as Student Director for PCYO ?

What's more important than a lot of other things, is getting the children to be interested in the music.

Aside from the 2009 PCYO Band Camp, name three other cool things you did this summer.

I visited my grandmother in the Redwoods, went to our annual church camp and...Disneyland!

Stupendous! What music are you listening to right now?

I'm listening to my sister practicing piano. I have no idea what she's playing.

No, I meant what bands and musicians are you currently enjoying? Never mind, just tell me this: WHERE IN THE WORLD DOES CAMILLE GET ALL THAT ENERGY?

(silence) No comment.

There you have it, folks: the talented Miss Sonja Einem. And don't let her catch you picking your nose!

Love & music,

Fayeruz

PCYO Star on TV!

2009-08-25T23:32:00.000-07:00

Hellooooooooo PCYO,

Hopefully you're enjoying the last few weeks of summer. I mentioned earlier in the season that one of our very own rock stars would be on TV. Justus Bradshaw sang back-up for pop star John Mayer on The Tonight Show with Conan O'Brien! To celebrate Conan O'Brien's move from New York to Los Angeles to take Jay Leno's place on the iconic program, John Mayer sang California Dreamin' - and so did Justus!

Not only did the LA Times write about the Los Angeles Children's Choir performance, but I have a video of the big night, so check him out. He's in the back row on the right, and looking sharp!

Just click HERE. Enjoy!

Love & music,
Fayeruz

What's All This Monkey Business?

2009-08-17T22:34:00.000-07:00

I thought I was going to the concert on Friday to take some nice pictures. Just look at this madness! If you want to see all of the lovely photos taken, just scroll to the bottom of this email and click on the link.

To see the rest of the photos from the PCYO 2009 Summer Camp concert, (and the wacky sleepover) click HERE. You band campers blew everyone away with your hard work and skill. And never forget, character counts!

Love & music,

Fayeruz

Congratulations PCYO Band Campers!

2009-08-15T17:20:00.000-07:00

Bravo! This was the best show to date. A round of applause for a job well done!

And let us not forget our dedicated director, Camille Barnes...

Expecting some pictures? Oh just you wait...

Love & music,
Fayeruz

Band Camp in Full Swing!

2009-08-11T17:26:00.001-07:00

Eat your heart out slackers! While you sit at home watching the 58th rerun of The Fresh Prince of Bel Air, your friends at PCYO Band Camp are working on a masterpiece, and it will be performed for friends and family this Friday the 14th at 4 pm. Don't miss it - unlike reruns, this is live entertainment!

PCYO band campers are not only blossoming as musicians, they are getting the star treatment. A real-life mariachi band will be performing for them, they get to play music trivia Jeopardy and they get to dine on scrumptious treats created by Glendale chef Safoa Abboa, from Safoa's Fare.

PCYO's rock stars also have a chance to score free Teriyaki Six Dollar Burgers from Carl's Jr., origami art paper airplanes, (ever heard of an instructor GIVING kids paper airplanes??) and much, much more!

Hope to see you at the concert this Friday!

Love & music,

Fayeruz

We're Baaaaach.....

2009-07-19T12:15:00.000-07:00

That's right - band camp is coming! Put down the remote control and video games and do something you can brag about! You want to have an edge on your classmates in the fall. You know, the ones that spent the summer eating Hot Cheetos and watching bad reruns of Hannah Montana. ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ......

We're here to keep you sharp - so prepare for a week of fun, food and music!

Band camp is August 10th - 14th 2009, and you can register on the PCYO official website.

See you there!

Love & music,

Fayeruz

To All the Unmentioned Rock Stars...

2009-06-05T11:40:00.000-07:00

To all the little Rock Stars who never made it into a Rock Star of the Week posting in 2009, you have not been forgotten! The season isn't over until you get a shout out...

Orchid Daoudian
Age: 12
Main Instrument: violin
Favorite Song: Disturbia
Favorite Musician: Kanye West
Song She Wishes PCYO Would Play Together: Disturbia

Berenice Melgoza
Age: 9
Main Instrument: Piano
Favorite Song: Jingle Bells
Favorite Musician: John W. Schaum
Song She Wishes PCYO Would Play Together: The Wood-Chuck

Oscar Samuel Romero
Age: 11
Main Instrument: Guitar
Favorite Song: Stairway to Heaven
Favorite Musician: Bon Jovi (Hey, I went to their concert in the 80's!)
Song He Wishes PCYO Would Play Together: Stairway to Heaven

Celina Einem
Age: 9
Main Instrument: Violin
Favorite Song: Viva La Vida
Favorite Musician: Coldplay & Beck
Song She Wishes PCYO Would Play Together: Clocks

Isaac (He didn't give me a last name!)
Age: 8
Main Instrument: Trumpet
Favorite Song: Star Wars

Victoria Romero
Age: 12
Main Instrument: Violin
Favorite Song: Ain't No Mountain High Enough (Cool choice!)

Erika Hernandez
Age: 12
Main Instrument: Recorder, then...flute!
Favorite Song: What I've Done
Song She Wishes PCYO Would Play Together: Let it Be (Me too, sister!)

Josiah Ramirez
Age: 8
Main Instrument: violin
Favorite Song: Rosas & Grease Lightning
Favorite Musician: Beethoven (Nice!)
Song He Wishes PCYO Would Play Together: Holiday

Pepe Bradshaw
Age: 10
Main Instrument: violin
Favorite Song: Welcome to the Jungle
Favorite Musician: ACDC
Song He Wishes PCYO Would Play Together: Ode to Joy

PCYO wouldn't be the same without you bright, hard-working musicians!

PCYO 2009 Spring Concert Pictures!

2009-05-31T12:44:00.000-07:00

Congratulations on yet another successful season, PCYO! The Spring 2009 concert was the cherry on top of another memorable season. I could tell who had been practicing hard, and I loved the show!

I am full of good news...

For all you rock stars that never made it into a Rock Star of the Week post, I have a special edition Rock Star of the Week posting coming out next week, and it will honor all those who were not yet mentioned. Keep your eyes peeled! But don't peel them like a banana. That's gross.

One of our very own little rock stars is GOING TO BE ON T.V.!! Jay Leno just did his last Tonight Show, and Conan O'Brian will be taking his place. Conan's first week will be a star-studded celebration of the all-new Tonight Show, and this Thursday night, our very own Justus Bradshaw will be singing. Make sure you tune in! It may be airing past your bedtime, so get someone to record or Tevo it!

Last but certainly not least, I have photos from the fantabulous (...is that a word?) concert yesterday. To see PCYO's shiny new Flickr account and photo album, click HERE!

Love & Music, Fayeruz

Rock Star of the Week

2009-05-10T23:16:00.000-07:00

Bongiorno PCYO!!

That greeting was your Italian lesson for the day!

A little birdie told me that the picnic this weekend was a blast - not to mention the free concert afterwards. What better way to spend a Saturday than good food, good music and the great outdoors? You're lucky I wasn't there. You would have all been clobbered with water balloons!

Before I announce the Rock Star of the Week, we were thinking about adding a new addition to PCYO. Here's his audition tape. What do you think? CHECK IT OUT!!

Drum roll, please...

The Rock Star of the Week is...Eva Child!

This 10 year-old violinist with the beautiful eyes loves music and bowling! Her favorite song is Once Upon a Time. I was going to post a link, but there are so many songs titled Once Upon a Time, I didn't want to chance it! Oh how I wish the lovely Miss Child told us which five people she'd invite to dinner, but she chose to remain a mystery.

One thing that won't remain a mystery is whether or not the concert coming up will go well. The answer is yes - of course! We've got two good weeks of practicing to go, not to mention PCYO rehearsal the next two Saturdays. Can't wait to see you on the big day!

Love and music,

Fayeruz

Rock Star of the Week

2009-04-24T09:55:00.000-07:00

Holla PCYO!

Drumroll please...

The Rock Star of the Week is...Anthony Thompson!

This cool saxophone player is only 13 years old, but he's got the pipes to make a strong presence with his instrument. He may sound like Coltrane, but his musical preference is very different. His favorite band is Metallica! Here is the band playing Anthony's favorite song, One. When asked why he likes Metallica, his answer is simple, "They are cool."

Anthony's family must be amazing, because if he could have dinner with any five people, alive or dead, it would be his very own family. On the list is his parents, grandparents and a cousin. Either his family can cook, or Anthony is destined to be a real family man. Let's hope it's both!

Love and Music,

Fayeruz

Three Reasons You Can't Miss this Saturday!

2009-04-24T09:33:00.000-07:00

Greetings, PCYO!

Allow me to rattle off the reasons why you just can't miss this Saturday:

Reason 1: BOWLING

That's right, you little musical geniuses! After practice, we are headed to a nearby bowling alley to score some strikes and have some fun. Come on, all the cool kids are doing it...

Reason 2: CARL'S JR. PRIZES

No burgers and fries, but your instructors will come equipped with all kinds of tee-shirts, courtesy of Carl's Jr. Zero calories! These collector's items come in all shapes and sizes, but you won't get one unless you can answer questions during the lesson. Pay attention!

Reason 3: THE MAY CONCERT IS CREEPING UP

Now, when I use the word "creeping" I'm not trying to scare you. Though it would be creepy if you skipped practice, didn't practice at home and then did the show. Nightmare on Washington Street! There's no better place to be on Saturday than with your PCYO friends making the upcoming show the best it can be. Make your folks proud!

Love and Music and Bowling and Prizes,

Fayeruz

Holy Youth Orchestra!

2009-04-05T11:36:00.000-07:00

PCYO, are you sitting down?

Check out Gustavo Dudamel's Youth Orchestra. You will be blown away by the creative genius! Hmmm...think PCYO could hit such great heights? Remember, practice makes perfect. And what better time to hone your skills than for the PCYO concert in May? That's right, next month, all you little rock stars will play your hearts out for an adoring audience.

Speaking of rock stars...

Drum roll, please...

Our Rock Star of the Week is...Raymond Luna!

This big-shot student instructor is a Godsend for PCYO, mentoring the up-and comers. His musical taste is refined. Raymond loves the old school class of The Glenn Miller Orchestra, and if PCYO could play just one song together, it would be their classic, In the Mood. Raymond, I hope to see this too! But Mr. Luna isn't all tuxedos and swing dancing, he's a little bit "jeans and t-shirt" as well. His favorite song is Everlong by the Foo Fighters, explaining, "I like their style and composition."

If this 14 year-old trumpet-player could invite any five people to dinner, he would invite President Barack Obama and the Glenn Miller Orchestra. Hmm...looks like a couple of orchestra players are going to have to hit El Pollo Loco instead, that's a big band!

Reminder: there will be a parent meeting next week following rehearsal on April 11th at 2:00 pm. The PCYO instructors would love the parents to attend so they can discuss development, student practice, and score some parental feedback. They hope to see everyone there!

Love & Music,
Fayeruz

Rock Star of the Week

2009-03-29T22:16:00.001-07:00

Spring is on its way, PCYO! Spring is a time of new beginnings. If you've been practicing your instrument diligently, make a fresh start by playing in front of others. It gets the jitters out! For those of you who haven't been practicing, put down the Hot Cheetos and remote control and make some beautiful music.

Drum roll, please...

The Rock Star of the Week is...Larysa Bulbenko!

Some know her as the talented violinist, others remember the knock-out photos her talented father took at the Christmas concert. Creativity runs in the family! Larysa is 11 years-old and loves a good dose of Vivaldi. She think it's fun to play his music.

Her all-time favorite song is the legendary rock ballad Stairway to Heaven, by Led Zeppelin. The beautiful and haunting melody can be heard here. Speaking of classic rock, if she could invite any five people to dinner, she'd invite The Beatles. She had better make sure to lock her doors, so the mobs of screaming girls don't break in.

Hmm...so that's Ringo, George, Paul and Jon. ...Wait! There's one space left at the dinner party. I think I'll invite myself. I'd like crab legs and a banana split, please. Not together!

Love and Music,

Fayeruz

Hey, Where'd Everyone Go?

2009-03-26T23:11:00.001-07:00

Yoohoo PCYO,

A little birdie told me only seven people showed up this Saturday. Seven?! Say it ain't so!

When we did our usual round of reminder phone calls a couple of weeks ago, we said that we would not be calling to remind you anymore. You guys were getting the hang of it, and it saved us time. So...what happened?

Bewildered,

Fayeruz

Happy Valentine's Day, PCYO!

2009-02-15T01:05:00.000-08:00

Hola, PCYO!

Hope you're feeling the love this Valentine's Day. PCYO is sure feeling the love from The Pacific Southwest Covenant Church, who just wrote an article about us. Check it out! This is only the beginning - so start practicing signing your autograph! Wait - I take that back. Just practice your instrument for now. Practice like Cupid shot you with the love of music!

Until we see ya next Saturday...

Love & Music,

Fayeruz

PCYO

Rock Star of the Week - Family Edition!

2009-02-09T11:53:00.000-08:00

Hey, hey, hey PCYO!

It may seem like the rain won't stop, but let's look at the bright side. Los Angeles is taking a much-needed shower, everything is green and growing and YOU have plenty of time to stay cozy indoors practicing your instrument!

I have plenty of time to catch up on our Rock Star of the Week feature. So much time, that I am doing a double-edition, family style.

Drum roll, please...

The Rock Stars of the Week are...Bailey & Mackenzie Equite!

The talented duo are close in age, (Bailey is 11 and Mackenzie is 10) but they're light years apart in taste. Let's take Bailey for instance. He's got classic taste, a real gentleman in the making. His favorite musician is Duke Ellington and claims this jazz / swing legend is what inspired him to play music. Much like Ellington's music, Bailey prefers to play the piano and trumpet. He has such a strong sense of past, that if PCYO perform one song together, he would want it to be The Star Spangled Banner.

Mackenzie on the other hand has a taste for the fun, pop-infused stylings of Miley Cyrus, her very favorite musician. Mackenzie rocks the flute, and if PCYO could perform one song together, it would be Where You Belong. Mackenzie's favorite song is the inspirational tune, Something Far Greater.

But it looks like these siblings won't be invited to one another's ultimate dinner party! We asked each of them to name the top five people they would invite to dinner, and here are the results:

Bailey's guest list: Mom, Dad, Grandpa, Justin Timberlake and Abe Lincoln

Looks like Bailey has a strong sense of family! He'd invite his parents even if he does eat with them every night. Question: Could Honest Abe convince JT to rock a vintage colonial beard?

Mackenzie's guest list: Harriet Tubman, George Washington, Duke Ellington, Justin Timberlake and Miley Cyrus

Wow, Mackenzie's a fan of Mr. Ellington too? Must be a family thing! I smell a musical collaboration. How would it sound if JT, Miley and Duke Ellington decided to make a song together? Perhaps our first president (Mr. Washington) and Ms. Tubman (historic abolitionist and forerunner of The Underground Railroad) could engage these rockers in a heated political debate. Wish I could be a fly on the wall for that one!

Until next time, remember all things good about the rain and keep practicing!

Love and Music,

Fayeruz

PCYO

Happy New Year, PCYO!

2009-01-10T01:20:00.000-08:00

Happy 2009, PCYO!

Maybe you got Guitar Hero for Christmas. Perhaps you're a fan of Rock Band. Either way, there's nothing better than playing real music, and we can't wait to hit the ground running! In a year of fresh new starts, let's all get hyped about mastering our instruments, and playing something to be proud of. We'll be dedicated to making you the best you can be in 2009 and beyond.

And without further ado, drum roll, please....

Joshua Ramirez is the Rock Star of the Week!

This 11 year-old trumpet blaster loves to listen to Dragonforce. His favorite song is Viva La Vida by the very talented Coldplay. Alas, Dragonforce and Coldplay didn't get an invite to his exclusive dinner party. If Mr. Ramirez could invite any five people, they would be Juan Esteban, Obama, Bach, Gabriel Iglesias (AKA Pikachu) and George Lopez. What a crazy mix! What would they talk about? Would George Lopez teach Bach how to make tacos? Will Pikachu teach Obama how to make hilarious speeches?

See Joshua's favorite song, Viva La Vida, here!

Last but not least, out next rehearsal is on Saturday, January 17th. We can't wait to see you.

Happy New Year,
Fayeruz

Merry Christmas, PCYO!

2008-12-24T09:12:00.000-08:00

What a wonderful time we had at the Christmas concert, showing off our hard work to friends and family while spreading good old-fashioned holiday cheer!

PCYO wants to thank all the students for their diligence in practicing for the big day, the parents for bringing in the delicious dishes (TAMALES! TAMALES!) and for the instructors and volunteers who helped make the event run smoothly. It was a resounding success!

In our midst was a professional photographer, Michael Bulbenko and in 2009 we should have a collection of memorable snapshots from the day.

In the meantime, PCYO wants to wish you the happiest of holidays!

Love & Music,

Fayeruz

Rock Star of the Week

2008-11-19T00:33:00.000-08:00

Man, were we bummed we couldn't meet last week! Thank goodness Saturday is just around the corner. Hope you've been practicing for the big concert.

Drumroll, please...

The Rock Star of the Week is...Patricia Orozco!

This PCYO flute player has vintage taste, because she loves The Beatles! She thinks they rock, and I'd have to agree. Her all-time favorite song is Hey Jude, and if she could choose any song for PCYO to perform at a concert, it would be, Let it Be. Patricia likes to stick to the classics!

If she were to have any five people over for dinner, she would choose The Beatles and her parents. But...uh oh! Wait, there are four Beatles and two parents, making a total of (who knows their math?) six! Someone will have to get kicked off the table. Will it be Mom, Dad, or Ringo?

Check out her ultimate PCYO concert song, Let it Be:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=67J_66hdN-I

Did You Know?
Beatle Paul McCartney (singer of Let it Be) has a daughter named Stella who's a cutting-edge fashion designer! Check her out right here: http://www.stellamccartney.com/

Don't forget to blog your answer for last week's trivia question in order to take home a brand new Hollywood tee shirt!

Now go and practice, practice, practice. See ya Saturday!

Love & Music,
Fayeruz

Hollywood Prize and Rock Star of the Week!

2008-11-09T17:45:00.000-08:00

Hey PCYO!

Hope you've been practicing. The holidays are just around the corner, and that means a mind-blowing Christmas concert that will bring tears to the eyes of your parents. Keep up the hard work.

In the meantime, the first person to respond online with the correct answer to this trivia question will score a Hollywood tee shirt, size XL. If it doesn't fit you, it will make the perfect holiday gift. Here's the trivia question:

Q) Genius Albert Einstein not only played the piano, he played the _________.

First person to answer scores the Hollywood tee. Good luck!

Drum roll, please...

Our Rock Star of the Week is...Favian Mendez!

This 12 year-old trumpet player has Slipknot on the brain! His favorite band is Slipknot, his favorite song, Before I Forget, is by Slipknot, and if PCYO could compose a song together, he wishes it were Before I Forget. Now, for the burning question...if he could invite anyone to dinner, who would it be? Slipknot?

No! Barack Obama! That's it. No one else. No Slipknot. Although I'm sure our future Mr. President would make excellent company.

Check out Favian's favorite music video right here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v_09wFxoaeQ

And if you think Favian's trumpet is cool, this guy plays nose trumpet!
Check it: http://www.gigglesugar.com/1132700

See you Saturday at noon!

Love & Music,
Fayeruz

Spotlight on...Robert Regan!

2008-11-05T17:30:00.000-08:00

What's up, PCYO?

The new Rock Star of the Week will be announced this weekend, but until then, we have a spotlight on...

Wait! Drum roll, please...Robert Regan!

Because sometimes the old people, er, I mean, the instructors, should share the limelight for all their work. Besides, wouldn't you be jealous if you couldn't be a rock star? I set up a little interview with the goofy tall guy. Check it out below!

Q: Is it true you love to eat Bugles and kimchee?

A: Oh yes, delicious. And once when I was 12, I ate chicken noodle soup with gummy bears.

Q: How was it?

A: It was the most disgusting thing I ever had.

Q: What's your most embarrassing moment?

A: When over half of PCYO came to rehearsal without their practice sheets!

Q: Kids, you heard it here first! What's your favorite color?

A: Blue!

Q: Why?

A: Because blue is the color of blood.

Q: That's true, oxygen makes your blood turn red.

A: That's why your veins are blue. Ahhh, veins are beautiful.

Q: Stop. You're scaring me. Who's your favorite composer?

A: First Camille Barnes-

Q: Aww...

A: Then Bach.

Speaking of Bach, there's no rehearsal this weekend, but on November 15th, Robert and rehearsal will BE BACH!

Love & Music,
Fayeruz

3-D Halloween Prizes

2008-10-27T14:56:00.000-07:00

Hey kids,
This Saturday will be full of treats - not tricks! We're giving away the MySpace tee shirt to the student who can answer the Fender trivia question (see the last blog), PLUS, in celebration of Halloween weekend, you could score a scary 3-D movie postcard, just by answering some questions!

Make sure to raise your hands with some answers on Saturday; so many different scary postcards will be given away, that you could all trade during the break.

Drum roll, please....Anthony Thompson is the Rock Star of the Week!

Who says 13 is an unlucky number? Anthony is 13 and living large. He rocks the saxophone at PCYO and loves blasting Metallica, his favorite band. His favorite song is Metallica's One, but when it comes to a song he wishes PCYO would play together, he opts instead for a song called Amilio.

Anthony must have an awesome family, because if he could choose any five people to come to dinner, he wouldn't even invite Metallica! Instead, the lucky people to score an invitation would be his parents, grandparents and cousin.

Check out Metallica's music video, One. It's Anthony's favorite! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-j39ABZyzek

Don't forget to come to PCYO on Saturday with an answer to last week's Fender trivia question, and have a happy Halloween!

Love and Music,
Fayeruz

PS) Hey Anthony, I went to a Metallica concert in 1994 - am I cool or what?

MySpace Prize and Sonja - Rock Star of the Week!

2008-10-19T13:41:00.000-07:00

Want to score a MySpace tee shirt? Then get ready to answer a trivia question! All people who post comments with the correct answer will be automatically entered into the contest. Next rehearsal, a PCYO instructor will pull the name out of a hat. Or a box. Or whatever. Ready? Here we go:

Q: Is the Fender company known for making brass, woodwind or stringed instruments?

Post your comments and good luck!

Drumroll, please....

Sonja - ROCK STAR OF THE WEEK!

The lovely Ms. Sonja Einem is 15 years old, and plays the viola for PCYO. If she were to invite any five people to dinner, she doesn't go for the historic, the famous or the glamorous. She thinks her friends are the best company possible, so why switch it up? Sonja would like for PCYO to perform Prokofiev's 5th Symphony together. Her favorite song is Night Driving, and her favorite band is Asian Kung Fu Generation. Why? She finds them calming. Perhaps she had better pop that CD in the car before she takes driving lessons next year!

Check out her favorite band, Asian Kung Fu Generation, on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hrh9B4vTiw4

Check out Prokofiev's 5th Symphony with funny video:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y8BSa0etgE8

Don't forget to answer the trivia for a chance to win!

Love and Music,

Fayeruz

Welcome to the PCYO Blog!

2008-10-12T21:59:00.000-07:00

To all you budding musicians, dedicated parents and gifted instructors, welcome to the PCYO blog!

Every few days, we'll hit you up with trivia, updates and interesting tidbits on our gifted ensemble of students. Right now, you can click on a link to hear a free sample of the big song to be played by PCYO at the upcoming Christmas Concert - Ennio Morricone's "The Ecstasy of Gold" from the iconic western, "The Good, The Bad and The Ugly."

Plus, you can click on the orange icon to see how you can receive updates every time a new blog is posted. In the meantime, feel free to post a comment and share some ideas for hot topics, trivia and all things music!