Our Philospohy
Young People's Chamber Orchestra (YPCO) is a warm and welcoming, non-competitive string orchestra that meets weekly in Berkeley. All levels of musicianship coexist within YPCO, from beginner to virtuoso. Our young musicians are provided the support and creative space they need to shine. Our Music Director, Rem Djemilev, expertly crafts arrangements tailored to the skill levels of the individual students, exploring a diversity of composers and musical styles. Mentorship and solo opportunities are also available, providing appropriate challenges and room to grow such that every student's love of music is allowed to flourish. The warm environment, personalized musical scores, challenging repertoire, and opportunities for solos and personalized feedback all contribute to individual growth and achievement. These elements allow the orchestra to perform at a level that exceeds the sum of its parts, fostering a love of playing both individually and together.
Our Story
Young People's Chamber Orchestra (YPCO) was founded in 1982 by beloved music teacher Ellen Mindell. The YPCO philosophy is to provide a musical learning experience for young string musicians in the community - which has grown to include participants from all over the bay - Berkeley, Albany, Kensington, Oakland, Alameda, Lafayette, Richmond, El Cerrito, San Pablo, Marin, Santa Clara and San Francisco. Rem Djemilev has been the Music Director and Conductor for YPCO since 1998, and under Rem’s gifted leadership, the orchestra has further solidified its reputation as a nurturing environment where young musicians can build their ensemble playing skills. Additionally, Rem expertly crafts arrangements to the skill levels of individual students, exploring a diversity of composers and musical styles.
YPCO Today
Young People's Chamber Orchestra (YPCO) meets every Saturday. Our members range in age from 5-18 and we are able to accommodate a wide variety of skill. During our rehearsals, we focus on mostly classical works, but are always open to suggestions from our musicians. Typical programs consist of works by W.A. Mozart, Beethoven, Peter Martin, John Williams (and sometimes a composition by on of our musicians).
Every musician is given the chance to perform a solo with the orchestra, if that is something they are interested in. These solos range from Bach to Wieniawski and Mendelssohn.
Rehearsal Location: 2727 College Ave Berkeley, CA 94705