The Youth Orchestra of the Lowcountry (YOLOW) had its beginnings in the early 1970's as an expansion of early string programs in the Charleston County schools. Two string orchestras, the West Ashley Strings and the East Cooper Strings were formed to combine students in the various school programs into larger, more advanced ensembles. In 1974 (75?) the two string orchestras were combined with winds and brass to become the Charleston County Youth Orchestra. Led by Ruth Goldsmith, John Steffa, and David Ezell. During Ralph Rizzolo’s tenure as manager of the Charleston Symphony, the Youth Orchestra became the Charleston Symphony Youth Orchestra and is now known as the Youth Orchestra of the Lowcountry.
Past conductors of YOLOW include Won Mo Kim, Stuart Malina, and Ed Ritchen. Richard Marcus is the current conductor.
Today the YOLOW draws the best of the young, orchestral musicians from the Charleston tri-county area. Ten schools as well as the home school community are represented. Although most members are in high school, membership is determined by audition with no lower limit. The music played is selected from the standard symphonic repertoire made available by the Charleston Symphony library.
For more information, visit www.yolow.org.
