The Red Deer Youth and Community Orchestra has been part of Red Deer’s musical scene for more than 40 years. String teacher Antoinette Stuppard formed the orchestra in the 1960’s. It was her vision to provide an opportunity for unique musical and educational experiences for young musicians in Central Alberta.

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Mrs. Stuppard's daughter, violinist Louise Stuppard, inherited the orchestra from her mother and aided a new generation of music students to achieve excellence in ensemble playing.

 

Today the RDCYO, conducted by violinist Heather Ensley, is a dynamic and social group, where music making and having fun are equally important. The orchestra is committed to the development of youth and dedicated to crafting performances of the highest standard at the intermediate level.

 

One of the highlights of the the RDYCO's concert season is sharing Mainstage with the Red Deer College Symphonic winds in our annual joint concert. Through this collaboration, the orchestra members have the opportunity to experience the thrill of symphonic music with the brass and winds behind them.

 

The RDYCO is also pleased to partner with the Rosedale Valley String Orchestra and director Naomi Delafield in the annual ‘Music for a Mission’ concerts. For the past four years, we have joined forces in a spring fundraising event combining both orchestras. Each year we select a new international humanitarian project to support. Past concerts have benefited Ednonyo-Erinka Medical Clinic in Kenya, a school in Dandora, Kenya, and a dormitory at Irbaan School also in Kenya. It is exciting for the performers and audience alike to witness sixty young musicians together on the stage.

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We look forward to seeing you at our next concert!

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