New York Pops

''The New York Pops''' is the largest independent pops orchestra in the United States and a beacon of popular music performance in New York City. Founded in 1983 by Ruth and Skitch Henderson, the orchestra has been dedicated to the presentation of concerts and education programs of the highest quality, with the aim of increasing public awareness and appreciation of America's rich musical heritage. ===History=== The orchestra was established with the vision of creating a unique symphonic ensemble that specialized in popular music. Under the baton of its founders, The New York Pops sought to bridge the gap between traditional orchestral music and the popular tunes that resonate with a wider audience. Now celebrating its 40th season, The New York Pops continues to thrive under the musical direction of Steven Reineke, who has been at the helm since 2009. ===Performances=== The New York Pops boasts a roster of 78 musicians and performs an annual subscription series at the renowned Carnegie Hall, where it stands as one of the most frequently presented ensembles. In addition to its performances at Carnegie Hall, the orchestra is known for its annual birthday gala, which raises funds for the orchestra and its educational initiatives. The Pops also performs at the historic Forest Hills Stadium in Queens, NY, which has a seating capacity of 14,000. The orchestra's repertoire is diverse, encompassing Broadway melodies, film scores, jazz, rock, pop, and more, ensuring that each concert is a unique experience. The Pops has collaborated with a plethora of stars from the stage and screen, such as Sara Bareilles, Kristen Bell, Angela Lansbury, Queen Latifah, and many others. ===Education and Community Engagement=== The New York Pops is deeply committed to education through its PopsEd programs, which reach out to public schools, community organizations, and senior centers across the five boroughs of New York City. These programs are designed to be fully customizable and integrate traditional education with fun, fostering learning and creativity. The orchestra's dedication to community service is also evident in its Kids in the Balcony and Kids in the Stadium programs, providing free access to performances for thousands of children and their families. In response to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, The New York Pops adapted its educational offerings to include remote learning opportunities, ensuring that students could continue to benefit from its programs virtually. ===Recordings and Media=== The New York Pops has an extensive discography that includes recordings of popular standards, theater and film scores, and holiday music. The orchestra has also been featured on television, including the Macy's 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular, and has a history of radio and PBS performances. ===Leadership=== The orchestra's leadership includes not only the talented musicians and the music director but also an active Board of Directors and an administrative team that oversees the organization's operations and development. The Board of Directors is comprised of individuals who are passionate about music and education, while the administration works tirelessly to ensure the smooth running of the organization and the success of its programs. The New York Pops continues to be a non-profit organization that relies on the generosity of donors, grants, corporate sponsorships, and concert income to sustain its mission and expand its reach. ==External Links== * [https://www.newyorkpops.org Official website of The New York Pops] * [https://www.carnegiehall.org Carnegie Hall] * [https://www.foresthillsstadium.com Forest Hills Stadium]