FOOSA Philharmonic, a collaboration between the Youth Orchestras of Fresno (YOOF) and California State University, Fresno, announced their recording of Mahler’s Symphony No. 5, released by Tonsehen, has been made Grammy-eligible and is currently awaiting First Round Voting for a potential nomination in the “Best Orchestral Performance” category.
Mahler 5 was performed and recorded on June 24, 2022, at Fresno’s William Saroyan Theatre and represents the culmination of the FOOSA Philharmonic’s summer program. The program offers advanced high school and college-age musicians a fully immersive orchestral experience, allowing them to perform alongside world-class faculty in iconic venues like the Music Center’s Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles and the William Saroyan Theatre in Fresno.
“I am deeply honored that our release of Mahler 5 is Grammy-eligible and is being considered by the voters. At FOOSA, our mission is to deliver top-tier and professional music annually, and this acknowledgment is beyond complimentary,” said Dr. Thomas Loewenheim, conductor and artistic director of FOOSA Philharmonic and professor in the Fresno State School of Music. “This recognition not only celebrates our hard work but also underscores the incredible potential of young musicians to achieve greatness, regardless of the challenges they face.”
The Grammy consideration comes as FOOSA continues to grow in both impact and reputation, offering young musicians from around the world the chance to hone their skills through rigorous rehearsals, masterclasses and performances with distinguished faculty. The 2025 Grammy nominations will be announced on Friday, November 8, 2024, ahead of Music’s Biggest Night on Sunday, February 2, 2025.
About FOOSA
FOOSA, Fresno Summer Orchestra Academy, is a pre-professional orchestra that allows advanced musicians of college and high school age to enjoy a side-by-side performance experience with professional faculty members. The program allows advanced young musicians worldwide a fully immersive Summer program that culminates with a performance at the prestigious Walt Disney Hall. FOOSA is facilitated by the Youth Orchestras of Fresno (YOOF) in collaboration with California State University, Fresno.
The College of Arts and Humanities at Fresno State 