Thresholds
Cross the threshold between dreams and reality, and discover worlds filled with mystery, resilience, beauty, and wonder.
Step into the space between dreams and reality. From the haunting, surreal world of Dream Machine to the legendary tale of Ichabod Crane and the Headless Horseman in Legend of Sleepy Hollow, CYO's season-opening concert explores moments of transformation, imagination, and discovery. Along the way, audiences will experience the vibrant colors and resilience of Detroit in Katahj Copley's Gasoline Rainbows and the luminous beauty of Eric Whitacre's Lux Aurumque.
Filled with mystery, wonder, light, and shadow, Thresholds invites listeners to cross into extraordinary worlds and discover what lies just beyond the familiar.
Worlds Beyond
Leave the ordinary behind and discover worlds filled with adventure, imagination, memory, and wonder.
Journey beyond the boundaries of the ordinary and into worlds shaped by imagination, adventure, memory, and wonder. From the epic landscapes of World of Warcraft, Minecraft, and Super Mario Bros. to the emotional depth of Eunike Tanzil's Genesis and Remembering, this concert celebrates the power of music to transport us to places both real and imagined. Along the way, audiences will encounter heroic quests, unforgettable stories, and deeply personal reflections that remind us why we create, explore, and dream. Whether inspired by fantasy realms, beloved games, or the memories we carry with us, Worlds Beyond invites audiences of all ages to discover where music can take them.
C Y We Write
Students who completed CYO's composition intensive program, C-Y We Write, debut their new works at this performance. Come hear CYO chamber ensembles premiere student compositions at the quirky and always-popular Happy Dog Cafe!
Lend Me Your Ear
featuring Hooked Like Helen
An evening of music, resilience, and hope—where powerful stories and unforgettable performances remind us that we are stronger together.
Music has the power to connect us, comfort us, and remind us that we are never alone.
Join the Contemporary Youth Orchestra and Cleveland's award-winning rock band Hooked Like Helen for an unforgettable evening of powerful music and inspiring stories. Known for their national touring career and advocacy surrounding mental health, resilience, and recovery, Hooked Like Helen has built a devoted following through music that speaks honestly to the human experience. Featuring original orchestrations by CYO Music Director Kris Morron, this unique collaboration blends the energy of rock and orchestra in a program that celebrates hope, perseverance, and the strength we find in community. As the culminating event of CYO's season-long exploration of Resonance & Resilience, Lend Me Your Ear invites audiences to listen deeply, connect authentically, and leave inspired.