From Current and Past Members
of the Santa Cruz County Youth Symphony
Maya Huet, violin
SCCYS member from 2022 to present
The Youth Symphony’s Chamber Music Academy has been a wonderful experience and has offered me the opportunity to grow as both a violinist and a musician. Playing with others in a smaller chamber group has allowed me to become more in tune with those around me, and learn how to play by ear. Along with fantastic repertoire suggestions, the music coaches provide poignant and thorough feedback that constantly helps me improve. CMA is super fun and I love getting to meet new people!
Rowan Williams, cello
SCCYS member from 2021 to present
Playing in SCCYS has been a wonderful opportunity for me to grow both as a musician and a person, and to develop leadership and collaborative skills within my own section as principal. SCCYS also provides the rare opportunity for young musicians to play with professionals through the Link-Up educational program in tandem with the Santa Cruz Symphony. These concerts have been some of the highlights of my musical career in high school.
Amy Ziyue Zeng, piano
SCCYS member from 2020 to 2024
My time with SCCYS was an indispensable part of my musical journey and an experience I will never forget. Collaborating at the piano with a full orchestra taught me how to listen beyond my own part, respond to conductors and other instrumentalists, and shape my playing within the larger musical texture. The high musical standard and the supportive community inspired me to grow in confidence, discipline, and expression. The musicianship and collaborative skills I gained through SCCYS continue to influence how I approach music and performance today. If you love music and enjoy making music with others, SCCYS is the place!
Anaïs Huet, violin
SCCYS member from 2019 to 2024
Being part of the Santa Cruz County Youth Symphony strengthened my musicianship in ways that went far beyond rehearsals. Working within the orchestra taught me essential self confidence, leadership, and teamwork skills that I’ve been able to apply in my academic and personal life. Performing in front of audiences helped me build confidence and stay calm under pressure, while collaborating with musicians of different ages and backgrounds taught me how to listen and lead effectively. Altogether, the symphony shaped not only the way I approach music, but the way I navigate challenges, take initiative, and connect with those around me.
Benjamin Goodwin, violin
SCCYS member from 2019 to 2024
I joined SCCYS in eighth grade, and played with them until I graduated high school. As a composer, I owe a lot to them for making my first orchestral premiere possible. From that experience alone, it’s easy to tell that everyone supports each others’ musical journeys. I formed many valuable connections with my peers during my time there, many of whom I am still friends with. My favorite aspect of SCCYS is the annual family concerts, which culminate in a week of shows presented to elementary schoolers in a side-by-side setting with the Santa Cruz Symphony, giving students a glimpse into the life of a professional musician.
Shelton Brown, cello
SCCYS member from 2013 to 2016
We regret most what we never attempt. I graduated high school in Santa Cruz ten years ago. To think of the memories and experiences that I still have and cherish from my time playing with the Youth Symphony being taken away, is one of the worst thoughts I can imagine. I was given and seized opportunities and challenges that pushed me as a musician, as a young man, and serve me as a professional to this day. I’d gladly tell you my stories, but you deserve your own. Be scared, but not of failing, or of mistakes, or of how much time it might take, or how much effort. Be afraid of being stupid enough not to join SCCYS. You’d miss out, terribly. Trust me.
Derek Hamersly, violin
SCCYS member from 2008 to 2015
Joining SCCYS in 6th grade with my older brother, I was initially intimidated by the older kids, but everyone was always so supportive and encouraging that I quickly felt at home. In orchestra rehearsals, the diverse orchestral textures sparked my imagination in ways that I couldn’t find elsewhere. And in retrospect, the basic professional skills involved in participating and performing in SCCYS were very beneficial to my academic career. Join SCCYS!
James Williamson, cello
SCCYS member from 1999 to 2006
SCCYS gave me a variety of important experiences that served me well in my later musical life, including leading a section, preparing for the concerto competition (and winning it too), and generally helping me to confirm that I wanted to stick with being a musician.