Our Vision
Learning to play a string instrument takes years of practice. It requires care, attention, and determination. In a world filled with distraction and isolation, there is something particularly beautiful about a group of enthusiastic students coming together, week after week, to play beautiful music.
For 25 years and counting the LDYE has worked to foster teamwork, dedication, and joy. By providing them with the opportunity to rehearse and perform under the guidance of experienced professional performers and music educators it gives talented elementary and secondary school musicians from rural Central New York and the Southern Tier a place to develop their full potential as orchestral performers.
History of the LDYE
The Little Delaware Youth Ensemble was established in 2000 by former music director Julie Signitzer, Deanna Palumbo and a dedicated group of parents who shared the goal of creating an institution where promising young string players could come together to learn and grow as musicians and to gain ensemble experience unavailable elsewhere in their home area in rural central New York. From its modest beginning with fewer than 15 families, LDYE has more than doubled in size over the past 15 years. In 2013 a Preparatory Orchestra was initiated that nurtures the talents of student musicians from four counties in central New York. Because most local schools in the area do not offer string programs, LDYE is the only ensemble experience available for these talented young musicians. The groups rehearse in Oneonta one evening each week and perform four public concerts annually.
Founding music Director, Julie Signitzer retired from LDYE after the 2014/2015 season. She recently expressed her desires for the future of LDYE upon the appointment of a new music director when she said:
"Sustaining a regional youth ensemble is a collaborative effort between the teachers, the families and the community. It is our responsibility to support the financial stability of this little orchestra which, in my opinon, greatly enhances life in this corner of Upstate New York"
