Daily Bow: Rookies and Veterans Poised to Strengthen DSO

Detroit Symphony Tries to Make its Mark with its Five Newest Members

In Tuesday’s Bow, we covered the open concertmaster seat in the Detroit Symphony Orchestra. Tensions are on high not only because of the open seat at the front of the orchestra, but because of the atmosphere of uncertainty within the ensemble. The musicians, after enduring last season’s dispute between the musician’s union and management, and during which they engaged in a prolonged strike, suffered financial and personal blows. With some players leaving due to frustration, and others just to retire, the orchestra’s roster has taken some heavy hits. Furthermore, players have expressed concern that the strike may have tainted the ensemble’s image, impeding its ability to attract and retain high quality musicians.

It seems, however, that those concerns might soon be laid to rest. In addition to Yoonshin Song’s trial period with the DSO, five new members were recently admitted to the orchestra’s ranks. Here’s a quick run down of the lucky winners:

• Sheryl Hwangbo (Violin): This 24 year-old Michigan native is an orchestra rookie. Recently completing studies at CIM, Juilliard, and MSM, her career with the DSO started on Tuesday.
• Peter McCaffery (Cello): A member of the Louisville Orchestra for the last six years, this Chicagoan also has extensive experience in and passion for educational outreach.
• Johanna Yarbrough (French Horn): A student at Colburn, Yarbrough wanted to study horn because she was told as a child that it was difficult. She’s scheduled to play with the DSO and loves teaching beginners.
• Monica Fosnaugh (English Horn): A recent member of the New Haven Symphony, Fosnaugh’s particular attraction to the english horn has been a source of success for her since studies at CIM and Rice.
• David LeDoux (Cello): The former principal cellist of the Syracuse Symphony, LeDoux says he’s excited to contribute to the DSO’s “high caliber legacy.”

For more information of the DSO’s newest members, check out the full article in the Detriot News. Congratulations to all the winners!