New Leadership for 2024-2025 Season
For nearly three decades, the Northeast Massachusetts Youth Orchestras (NMYO) has been a cornerstone of musical education and performance for young musicians in our region. NMYO is more than just an after-school program; it’s a vibrant community where over 155 talented youth from more than 40 communities unite to create beautiful music and forge lifelong friendships.
Our organization offers six distinct ensembles catering to various skill levels, from beginners to advanced players. Through weekly rehearsals, public concerts, master classes, and community outreach events, NMYO provides a comprehensive musical experience that goes beyond just playing an instrument. We foster cognitive, social, and personal growth, preparing our young musicians not just for musical success but for life.
As we approach our 2024-2025 concert season, NMYO is thrilled to announce significant changes in our leadership team. These changes promise to usher in a new era of musical excellence and inspiration for our young musicians while building on the solid foundation laid by our outgoing leaders.
Meet Our New Leadership
Michael Coelho – Music Director and Symphony Orchestra Conductor
We’re delighted to welcome Michael Coelho as our new Music Director and Conductor of NMYO’s premier ensemble, the Symphony Orchestra. Mr. Coelho brings a wealth of experience to this role:
- Previously conducted three of NMYO’s beginning and intermediate orchestras (2013-2023)
- Faculty member at Longy School of Music of Bard College
- Director of Fine Arts for Ipswich Public Schools
- Two-time national finalist for the Music Educator of the Year Award (2022 and 2024)
- Recognized by the Boston Globe’s Fenway Bowl 2020 Honor Roll for outstanding teaching during COVID-19
Dr. Gabe Southard – Wind Ensemble Conductor
Joining us as Wind Ensemble conductor is Dr. Gabe Southard, who brings extensive experience in youth ensembles:
- Associate Professor at Gordon College
- Director of Gordon Symphony Orchestra and Symphonic Band
- Former assistant conductor for Wisconsin Youth Symphony Orchestras
- Reinstated and led the Cincinnati Youth Wind Ensemble to international success
Dr. Sarah Southard – Executive Director
Taking the helm as NMYO’s Executive Director is Dr. Sarah Southard:
- Professional oboist with a passion for youth music programs
- Extensive teaching experience in Massachusetts and Michigan
- Administrative roles in various youth music organizations
A Fond Farewell
As we welcome our new team, we also bid a fond farewell to our outgoing leaders:
- Gerald J. Dolan, Jr. – Music Director and Wind Ensemble Conductor (29 years of service)
- Dr. Walter Pavasaris – Symphony Orchestra Conductor (18 years of service)
- Terri L. Murphy – Executive Director (12 years of service, 10 as Executive Director)
Their dedication and passion have been instrumental in shaping NMYO into the thriving organization it is today.
Looking Ahead
“While I am saddened by Gerry, Walter, and Terri’s departures, I am grateful for the stellar organization they have in place and I am honored to lead NMYO into the future,” said Michael Coelho. “Along with Gabe and Sarah Southard, and our returning conducting staff of Zach Sawyer, Susan Turcotte Gavriel, Robin Mallory, and Trisha Craig, we are all excited for the new musical adventures that lie ahead.”
Join NMYO for the 2024-2025 Season
There’s still time for young musicians to be part of the NMYO experience:
- 155+ musicians from 40+ communities
- Six ensembles
- At least two public concerts each season
- Master classes, enrichment days, chamber music coaching, and community outreach concerts
- Weekly rehearsals from September through May in Topsfield/Boxford
Ready to join? Register for an audition today and view our audition requirements.
For more information:
- Email: info@nmyo.org
- Phone: 978-309-9833
NMYO is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to providing youth musicians with exceptional ensemble training and opportunities for growth through musical performance and community service.
