Downriver Today

More than a half-century ago, the Detroit Symphony Youth Orchestra took the stage for the first time.

That concert on January 31, 1971, was "a spark that ignited a refreshed legacy of music education at the Detroit Symphony Orchestra (DSO), that now lives within 14 classical and jazz ensembles that make up Civic Youth Ensembles," symphony leadership said on their website.

The ensembles include the youth orchestra, jazz band, chamber music, and wind ensembles, according to the website.

"Hundreds of youth make the DSO their musical home each year," the symphony's website said. "Much of this growth was made possible through the years of visionary leadership from Clyde and Helen Wu. We are proud to honor their legacy through the Wu Family Academy of Learning and Engagement, which  encompasses all the educational activities of the DSO."

Clyde Wu was a physician by trade and a passionate classical music fan, the website said. His wife, Helen, was a pianist.

When Clyde joined the symphony's board of directors, "his interest in the transformative qualities of music made him the perfect choice for leading the board’s education committee," the website said. "Together with Helen, Clyde steered the committee in the development of a music education program that has touched countless young lives."

Although the COVID-19 pandemic presented challenges for the symphony, "our students, teachers, staff, and musicians continue to be a beacon of hope," according to the website. "By developing creative new approaches to online learning, remote teaching, and streamed programming, we continue to offer a unique opportunity for music students at all skill levels. Through the  generosity of DSO donors, we can offer this training regardless of a family’s financial resources."