The DSS holds annual awards auditions to provide adjudication experience and a constructive musical evaluation for all applicants, with a minimal amount of competitiveness. Recognition is given to players in each division that have attained a high level of musicianship and have shown, by their attitude and participation, a dedication to music and the Delta Youth Orchestra. The awards auditions are open to all DYO members through voluntary application, with some restrictions: paid-up membership; must be taking private lessons on the audition instrument; no more than three unexcused absences. The decision making process has been designed to eliminate interpretation of results by the DSS. The Awards Committee’s role is entirely one of administration only. The player’s conductor provides a written evaluation and mark to the DSS Awards Committee based upon the member’s contribution, attitude, musicianship, and attendance. Each applicant performs for an independent adjudicator. The adjudicator also provides a mark and a written evaluation to the DSS Awards Committee based upon presence, technical ability, intonation, musicianship and an orchestral selection picked by the conductor. Only the written evaluations are given to the applicants.
The DSS actively seeks donations and sponsors to fund the cost of adjudicators and the DSS awards. Award amounts vary from year to year and are determined by the funds available. Traditionally, at least three members from each orchestra receive an award. Auditions take place in May. Awards are handed out at the year end all-divisional concert in June. The DSS Awards and Concerto Competition are complimentary activities. Members are encouraged to participate in both.
Delta Symphony Society Award Winners – pdf document
Harry Gomez – Fred Preuss Memorial Award
The Harry Gomez Memorial Award was created in the spring of 1984, under the initiation of Fred Preuss. This fund was created from donations in memory of Harry Gomez. Through the efforts of Harry Gomez and Fred Preuss the Delta Symphony Soceity and the Delta Youth Orchestra were founded in 1971. The Gomez – Preuss trust is administered by a group of trustees through the DSS and is used to support various musical endeavors, and as a scholarship fund.
Our list of award winners is unfortunately incomplete. If you can help us fill in the blanks, please contact us.
Wallace Leung Memorial Award
Additionally, one member from each orchestra receives the Wallace Leung Memorial Award. This award is granted in honour and recognition of Wallace Leung (1968-2002). Wallace was a member of the DYO during his student days and later became both a conductor and Music Director of the orchestra. This memorial award is presented to a string players who have made an exceptional contribution to the orchestra. for Junior, Intermezzi and Symphony divisions.