Crossroads News
Three Crossroads Students Chosen for LA Phil Composer Fellowship
Upper School musicians will receive technical training from esteemed professionals.
Three Crossroads students have been selected to participate in the Los Angeles Philharmonic’s prestigious Nancy and Barry Sanders Composer Fellowship Program, it was announced this month.
Crossroads senior Isaac Pross, junior Sacha Feldman and sophomore Leo Major are among the 18 area high school students who will develop their talents under the direction of award-winning composer Andrew Norman and other professionals.
Isaac, a violinist in the Elizabeth Mandell Music Institute (EMMI), will have one of his original compositions premiered by the LA Phil in March. The piece, “Under the Table,” is inspired by Robert Therrien’s sculpture at The Broad museum.
“I’m very fortunate to have the chance to write for the full orchestra this year,” he says. “The opportunity to work with award-winning mentors, world-renowned musicians and other high schoolers like me is unlike anything else.”
This year’s participants build on Crossroads’ legacy in the fellowship, whose alumni roster includes Phillip Golub ’11, Luca Mendoza ’17 and Ethan Treiman ’17.
“We are so proud of Isaac, Sacha and Leo for their accomplishments and for continuing Crossroads’ tradition of excellence in music and the arts,” says Grace Park, director of K-12 strings and director of EMMI.
Launched in 2006, the fellowship aims to help students hone their artistic voices through reading sessions, rehearsals and guided work on their own music pieces.
Fellows will work with chamber groups and smaller ensembles to refine their abilities before applying their skills in orchestral settings. They will also have opportunities to perform their own work and attend music concerts.
“The innovative program offers its Fellows a high level of consistent and intensive focus on the process and production of music composition,” the LA Phil press release reads, “preparing them for careers in composition and giving them the tools and freedom necessary to shape the future of concert music.”
