Idaho Falls Symphony Youth Orchestra announces new leadership for upcoming season
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IDAHO FALLS — The Idaho Falls Symphony Youth Orchestra has announced its new leadership for the 2026-2027 season.
Ariel Loveland was recently named the new youth symphony conductor and will begin her role later this spring, according to a news release issued Tuesday by the youth symphony.
“Loveland brings a strong background in music education and performance, currently serving as an orchestra director in the Madison School District, where she has earned multiple Teacher of the Year awards,” states the release. “In addition to her work in education, she is an active professional violinist with extensive performance experience and a longstanding commitment to mentoring student musicians.”
Loveland said she played in the youth orchestra 23 years ago and is impressed with how it’s grown since then.
“I am sincerely grateful for each guiding hand that has led the group to where it is today,” she said in the release. “I am confident we can build on the amazing foundation that has been laid and take the orchestra to new heights. It is a humbling and beautiful responsibility. I can’t wait to make music with this choice group of young people!”
Loveland will work alongside returning assistant conductor Eric Smith.
The youth orchestra recently concluded a highly successful season, with performances from the Preparatory Strings Orchestra, Philharmonia and Youth Symphony at their recent Spring Concert, according to the release.
“The Idaho Falls Symphony Youth Orchestras (IFSYO) provide young musicians with a dynamic, educational and inspiring orchestral experience,” the release states. “Through full orchestra performance, an annual concerto competition, collaborations with guest artists, and the premiere of new works, IFSYO enhances school music programs while challenging and inspiring students to achieve musical excellence and a lifelong appreciation for music.”
Melissa Dayley has also been named as the new Philharmonia conductor. Dayley holds a master’s degree in instrumental conducting and has vast experience in teaching, guest conducting and leadership within youth music
programs, according to the release.
“An active performer, she is deeply dedicated to developing young musicians across a range of ages and abilities,” the release states.
Dayley will collaborate with Annalee Kelly to lead Philharmonia. Kelly will continue her leadership of the Preparatory Strings Orchestra, working alongside Lauren Anderson to support the organization’s youngest musicians.
“Their work remains central to building strong foundational skills and fostering early enthusiasm for orchestral music, creating a pathway into the Philharmonia and Youth Symphony programs,” the release says.
Kelly will also work to expand the youth orchestra’s small-ensemble initiative, increasing opportunities for individualized instruction and collaborative music-making.
“These appointments represent an exciting step forward for IFSYO,” said Carrie Athay, executive director of the Idaho Falls Symphony, in the release. “Ariel, Melissa, and our returning faculty bring exceptional experience and a shared commitment to nurturing young musicians. We are thrilled to welcome this talented team as we look ahead to the next season.”
Auditions for the Youth Symphony and Philharmonia will take place May 26, 27 and 28. Students and families can find more information and register online here at the Idaho Falls Symphony website.
For more information about youth symphony programs and the upcoming season, contact Melanie Mallard, Idaho Falls Symphony education and outreach manager, at eduprograms@ifsymphony.org.