The Case for an Independent Charlotte Symphony Youth Orchestra

Being independent and able to solely focus on the CSYO is a smart move, and I sincerely hope the CSO sees that and agrees. The CSYO should have the freedom to make decisions that will excel this amazing program. And I can’t think of a better person to conduct these orchestras than Dr. P.

The CSYO and JYO have a legacy of excellence that is credited to the leadership of Dr. Ernest Pereira. He not only strives for excellence, he also has a heart for the young musicians of the Charlotte area. Dr. Pereira has clearly shown his ability to educate and train the youth orchestra musicians to a level that far exceeds expectations. Along with him, the young people have been trained and influenced by CSO coaches and private teachers. The Charlotte community has had the wonderful pleasure of having these orchestras perform in venues that highlight their talent. All six of our children have been in the JYO and CSYO orchestras (we still have two in the program). We have loved Dr. Pereira and his leadership. He has been an inspiration and role model to all of our children. So much so that our older four decided to pursue music and begin a music business. They run a music business together for weddings and events which never would have happened without their high level of training and direction from the youth orchestras. We cannot stress enough how consistency is key to the success of this program. Dr. Pereira has taken the youth orchestras (along with the help of talented coaches and Chris Rydel) to a level that is a cut above other youth programs. Dr. Pereira is committed to the Charlotte community. He has invested his time and talents into the young musicians of our area. Ernest's influence and leadership as conductor over the years has had and continues to have a profound effect on the musical standards of our six children. The youth orchestras have had talented coaches, teachers, and leaders….all of whom the Wescott family has appreciated and looked up to as role models. It is our desire for the CSYOs to continue their journey of excellence with Dr. Pereira as their lead Music Director (Conductor). We all have a cooperative spirit concerning the Youth Orchestras' situation; the parents and young musicians continue to pursue what is ultimately

I was a percussionist with the JYO and CSYO from 1998-2004. One of the highlights of my high school experience was performing at Carnegie Hall with the CSYO in 2002 under the leadership of Dr. Ernest Pereira.

As a former CSO cellist and retired Senior Vice President with Bank of America, I would like to add my support to the CSYOPA's petition to separate their organization from the CSO. This separation has been debated for decades. Given the action against the CSYO and Dr. Pereira the time is right for organizational change. The CSO action is not only a disservice to an outstanding musician and educator with a long list of achievements but it is also a disservice to the entire Charlotte community, the future of symphonic music and countless students who may never have the benefit of studying with an artist of Dr. Pereira's stature. I clearly recall the embarrassing musical and organizational state of the Charlotte Youth Orchestra prior to Dr. Pereira's tenure. The students were led by whoever happened to be the CSO's assistant conductor without regard to the necessary skills as an educator or leader. The results were disastrous - as will be the results of this action which appears to be a strategic blunder made in service to a short term gain. With regard to the insulting justification given of "improving musical quality", I can only understand this statement to mean that the decision was made to lower CSYO artistic standards to a level consistent with the management standards demonstrated by the CSO's actions. The CSYOPA must separate from the CSO - the students deserve the best.

We are all on the same side believing and promoting the importance of classical music. We need solidarity on this journey.

We are all on the same side believing and promoting the importance of classical music. We need solidarity on this journey.

Making csyo independent would relieve the symphony of some costs, which is an important goal for them as of late.

Dr. Pereira is a shining example of the ultimate role model for the members of our youth orchestras, both as a musician and as a person. It is unfortunate that poor management on the part of the CSO has necessitated the separation of these great organizations.

The Charlotte Symphony Youth Orchestras has a legacy of excellence and positive influence in the lives of young musicians. This legacy is largely due to the leadership of Dr. Pereira. There are hundreds of people across the US who credit their career and love of music to his unwavering commitment to teaching and helping young people achieve success. The youth orchestras are an integral part of classical music’s future and a powerful tool for speaking positively into the next generation’s lives. If the CSO management and board were even slightly aware of the purpose and excellence with which Dr. Pereira has led the youth orchestras, they would understand that there is absolutely no call for his recent firing. The youth orchestras are too vital a part of our community and future to have a board that does not fully support the long-term vision of providing young musicians with the highest opportunity and leadership in their musical education.

Go for it! More detailed comments to follow. . .

Dr. Pereira is the lifeline to the future of classical music in charlotte. I sincerely hope that he can continue to conduct the JYO/CSYO and I support this split in order to keep music alive and growing.

I am all for a properly run Youth Orchestra.

Pray for you all!

It's a shame that this petition has become necessary

I’m confused why Ernest would be removed. During my time under his supervision he was extremely good at what he did. I don’t imagine it has changed in the few years since I participated.

I was a concertmistress of CSYO in the early 90s and also was a student of Ernest Pereira. Now I'm a professional musician in a renowned string quartet that has been active for 17 years. All this talk of quality from the CSO board and administration is a smoke screen of an organization that has clearly lost touch with the needs of its community.

The CSYO can't lose Dr. P

Dr . Pereira is an excellent musician and teacher and a gift to our community. CSYO would suffer greatly without him!