The Greater Princeton Youth Orchestra (GPYO) welcomes back conductor Constantine Kitsopoulos for a three-part Master Class Series with the organization’s Symphony Orchestra. The former artistic director of GPYO (1989–1992), Kitsopoulos began the series on October 13, guiding students through works by Schubert and Leonard Bernstein in a behind and on-the-podium session that set the tone for the season ahead.

The series continues this fall and winter with two additional opportunities for students and the community to experience Kitsopoulos’ artistry and mentorship firsthand. An open master class will be held on Monday, November 17 at 6:45 p.m. at the Cullen Center on the former campus of Westminster Choir College, Walnut Lane. Admission is free and the public is welcome. RSVP at gpyo.tfaforms.net/39.

A third event is a dress rehearsal and fundraiser on Thursday, January 8 at 6:30 p.m., at a location to be announced. Reserve a spot at bit.ly/GPYOMCMaestro.

“Having Maestro Kitsopoulos return to work with our young musicians is both a privilege and an inspiration,” said Lorraine Goodman, GPYO’s interim executive director. “His career embodies the excellence and versatility that GPYO strives to cultivate in every student — discipline, imagination, and a lifelong love of music.”

Kitsopoulos added, “Working with young musicians always warms my heart and gives me hope for the future.  My time with the GPYO reminds me of the important connection between young people and the wonders of great music.  The GPYO has been making that link effectively for many years.  Watching these students express themselves through music is a marvel. I’m grateful to be a small part of it.”

Kitsopoulos has conducted leading orchestras across the world, including the New York Philharmonic, Philadelphia Orchestra, San Francisco Symphony, and Hong Kong Philharmonic. Equally at home in the concert hall and on Broadway, he has conducted productions at Lincoln Center, the Kennedy Center, and beyond.

Founded in 1960, the GPYO provides orchestral training to young musicians from across the region through its tiered ensemble programs, summer sessions, and masterclasses. GPYO ensembles have performed at venues including Richardson Auditorium, the Kimmel Center, and Carnegie Hall. Tuition assistance ensures that cost is never a barrier to participation. Learn more at www.gpyo.org.