Jacob Joyce, one of six finalists for the position of music director at the Syracuse Orchestra, will conduct a Casual concert on January 31 and February 1. This concert, titled “The Orchestra Spotlight,” will provide Joyce an opportunity to showcase members of the orchestra while introducing his vision to the community.
Joyce’s journey into the world of orchestral music began at a young age. As a child, he was captivated by Johannes Brahms‘s Second Symphony, which ignited his passion for classical music. “I can trace my passion for classical music to that moment in time,” Joyce shared from Washington, D.C., where he is currently involved in a project with the National Symphony Orchestra. His academic background includes a major in violin performance and economics from Yale College, and he later pursued a master’s degree in the same field at the university.
As his interest in conducting grew, Joyce studied under Hugh Wolff at the New England Conservatory. His skills were further developed through prestigious programs at the Tanglewood Music Center and the American Academy of Conducting at Aspen, where he received the Robert Spano Conducting Prize. Currently, he serves as the associate conductor of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra and is the music director of the Pittsburgh Youth Symphony Orchestra.
Joyce is known for his commitment to nurturing young musicians. “I value my role as a mentor who can cultivate a love of classical music in young musicians,” he stated. He understands that not all participants will pursue a career in music, but believes it is essential to foster an appreciation for the art form. In Pittsburgh, he hosts Saturday Sessions, which aim to welcome newcomers to orchestral performances by providing insights about the music and composers.
Looking ahead to the upcoming concert in Syracuse, Joyce expressed excitement about the program. He aims to mirror the interactive approach of the Saturday Sessions, providing audiences with engaging background information throughout the performance. The concert will feature a mix of Baroque and contemporary music, reflecting his interests as a former violinist.
The 75-minute concert will be held at St. Paul’s Syracuse, opening with Archangelo Corelli’s Concerto Grosso in D major. The program also includes Alfred Schnittke’s playful “Moz-Art à la Haydn,” followed by Johann Sebastian Bach’s Brandenburg Concerto No. 3 in G major. The evening will conclude with Igor Stravinsky’s Concerto in E-flat, also known as “Dumbarton Oaks,” which draws inspiration from Bach’s works.
Joyce’s philosophy centers around creating a welcoming atmosphere for audiences. “My philosophy of performing is to foster a sense of welcome and curiosity and to provide a pleasant intellectual experience,” he noted.
In his personal life, Joyce balances a rigorous schedule with time for family and friends, often centered around music. An avid runner, he enjoys sharing his passion for the outdoors with his miniature Australian shepherd, Wally. He also indulges in his love for coffee, starting each day with freshly ground beans.
Joyce will return to Central New York on March 7 to conduct a Masterworks series concert featuring the works of Mozart.
Concert Details:
– What: Casual, “The Orchestra Spotlight”
– Where: St. Paul’s Syracuse, 220 E. Fayette St.
– When: January 31 at 19:00 and February 1 at 15:00
– Run Time: 75 minutes, no intermission
– Tickets: $50 prime seating; $40 section B; discounts available for seniors and students. Children under 18 enter free.
– Purchase: 315-299-5598 or syracuseorchestra.org
– Parking: Free on street.
This concert not only highlights the talents of the Syracuse Orchestra but also marks a significant step in Joyce’s journey towards potentially becoming the orchestra’s next music director.
