karen pinoci young artist competition

The New Sussex Symphony is excited to announce the launch of the Karen Pinoci Young Artist Competition to celebrate the memory of an energetic conductor and spirited educator.

The winner of the competition will receive $500 and be the featured soloist with the orchestra, under the baton of Music Director and Conductor Jordan Brown, at its March 2020 concert.

The competition is open to high school students playing STRINGS, WOODWINDS, BRASS, GUITAR, HARP and PIANO and reside in Sussex, Warren, Passaic, Morris, Bergen or Essex counties. Participants must audition with a solo piece that has orchestral accompaniment. (If that piece is a concerto, one movement will suffice.)

Karen Pinoci was the Music Director and Conductor of the New Sussex Symphony for over 27 years - almost half the existence of the orchestra - until her sudden death in 2018. This Young Artist Competition is the orchestra's way of honoring her passion for inspiring young people to express themselves through music and make it an important part of their lives.

For any questions please contact Claudia Lemmerz, Chairperson KPYAC  • lemmerzc@optonline.net  •  973.220.9785

In the fall of 2000, a memorial scholarship was established in honor of the late Peter Massardo, Sr., a founding member of the New Sussex Symphony. As an accomplished violinist and dedicated teacher, Peter inspired many members of the musical community. This scholarship acknowledges his love of music and performing by financially assisting a young instrumentalist's further study.

When another of our members, Pierre Fallot, a good friend and student of Peter passed away, the New Sussex Symphony continued the scholarship on an annual basis. The fund, which finances the scholarships ,was named the Legacy Fund, honoring the symphony's founding and long-time members. It also honors our founding and long-time members: Charles E. Irmiter*, Peter Massardo*, Pierre Fallot*, Gus Costa, Harriet Harrison and Marian Mayberry. (*deceased).