Talented Music Director
The Lakeland Youth Symphony is distinguished by its talented music director, Debra Short Seftel, who joined Lakeland in 1982 and helped build the organization to what it is today. A talented musician and gifted teacher, Debra's goal is to take music beyond the classroom or the stage and explore how it effects our everyday lives, our history, and our future.
Great Programs for Beginners
In 1983, the Lakeland Youth Symphony began offering a Modified Suzuki Program for beginning violin students between the ages of five and eight. This program, customized from the famous Suzuki program by Lakeland's own Music Director, is only provided here. The Lakeland Youth Symphony also offers a performing orchestra for students as young as first and second grade. This is a musical experience rarely offered at that grade level.
Beautiful Conveniently Located Rehearsal Hall
In 2006, Lakeland Youth Symphony moved into its beautiful new rehearsal hall, conveniently located just off route 287 at the Music Shop on Fanny Road in Parsippany. This new location, close for all Morris County Area residents, is right on the border of Parsippany, Mountain Lakes and Boonton. Sharing space with the Music Shop provides an in-house instrument rental and repair shop, as well as a full private lesson studio.
An Opportunity for Involvement
The Lakeland Youth Symphony is managed by our great business manager, Lynette Steiner, whose administration and guidance have kept this organization running. Lynette believes in allowing parents to share in the Lakeland experience by helping to plan and organize our many events, workshops and concerts. What a great way to support the arts for our children!
A Growing Board of Directors
The Lakeland Board of Directors has a new president in 2008. Peggy Chapman, a member of the Lakeland Youth Symphony board for several years, has been elected president. Peggy welcomes new members to join in shaping the future of the organization. This is one of the many wonderful aspects of Lakeland. Parents can become involved and really make a difference.