Each year, the BSYO invites master teachers from around the region to work with young musicians in a formal masterclass setting. Musicians audition for the opportunity to perform for the master teacher with a formal audience. After each performance, the master teacher works with each student on their technique and artistry. This is a unique opportunity for student musicians and instructors to learn from world-renowned master teachers as they work with the students on stage.
The BSYO Masterclass Night is open to all student musicians, even if they are not a member of the BSYO. Students will audition with one solo piece, with the intention of performing that piece if selected. Students are also welcome to attend as an audience member to benefit from the instruction of others.
Community Masterclass Night 2026 will feature clinician, Dr. Marguerite Richardson. Dr. Richardson will open with a formal masterclass followed by a deep discussion over the process of creating a successful and well-prepared audition.
March 9th, 6:00 p.m.
Eau Gallie High School Band Room
Application fee for performance: $15 (Free for BSYO students)
Admission to listen to performances: FREE!
No applications will be accepted after February 23.
If you have questions about Masterclass Night, contact Mrs. Simons at bsyoinfo@gmail.com.
Dr. Marguerite Richardson
Marguerite Richardson holds a Bachelor of Music degree from the Cleveland Institute of Music, a Master of Music degree from the University of South Carolina, and a Doctor of Music in Music Performance degree from The Florida State University. Formerly Professor of Music and Director of Orchestral Studies at Jacksonville University (JU), Dr. Richardson currently is Visiting Instructor of Music in Conducting at the University of North Florida (UNF) and serves as conductor of the UNF Orchestra. Dr. Richardson performs as violinist in the Kinne Trio with Dr. Shannon Lockwood, ‘cello and Dr. Scott Watkins, piano. The group’s debut recording features works by composers Clara Schumann and Amy Beach. In February of 2017, Dr. Richardson made her international conducting début with the Piccadilly Symphony Orchestra in a series of performances in Manchester, England. She has presented multiple times at the National Conference of the College Orchestra Directors Association (CODA), and served as President of CODA in 2022-2023, hosting the 2023 CODA National Conference in Jacksonville, Florida.
Known around the state of Florida as an enthusiastic educator, Dr. Richardson presented at the Florida Music Education Association (FMEA) State Conference in 2018, and conducted a performance of the Jacksonville University Orchestra at the Florida Orchestra Association (FOA)/Florida American String Teachers Association (FLASTA) Fall Professional Development Conference as the invited ensemble for 2018. Her presentation at the 2023 FOA/FLASTA Fall Conference titled The Geometry of Intonation: Shaping the Approach to the Fingerboard reflects her interest in the integration of mathematical concepts to string teaching. Dr. Richardson has conducted the 9th/10th Grade Honors Orchestra for Hillsborough County, the FSU Philharmonia, the Jacksonville Symphony Youth Orchestra, and, in 2025, conducted the All State 9th-12th Grade Honors Orchestra at the state FMEA Conference. Dr. Richardson has been conductor of the Civic Orchestra of Jacksonville since the fall of 2016, a community ensemble which serves northeast Florida by providing free access to symphonic music at diverse venues throughout the Jacksonville area. From 2017 to 2025 she served as co-director of the Summer Chamber Music Intensive, an educational initiative of the Kinne Trio. In 2012 and 2014, Dr. Richardson was a Visiting Foreign Scholar at Beifang University (Yin Chuan, China) where she presented solo recitals, taught master classes and private lessons, and worked with the Beifang University Orchestra. Dr. Richardson previously taught at the University of North Florida from 1995 to 2003, at which time she began the string program as well as the University of North Florida Orchestra, while at the same time performing as a full-time member of the Jacksonville Symphony as a violinist.
MASTERCLASS FAQS
What is a Masterclass? Masterclasses can be formal or informal. In each instance young musicians will perform for a master teacher who will then give an open lesson to the musician in front of a small audience. In an informal setting, pieces may be partially ready to perform, or excerpts can be presented. In a more formal setting, as we are hosting, musicians will prepare a piece for performance as you would for a recital.
Who can audition? BSYO musicians are encouraged to audition. Students in Brevard and surrounding counties are welcome to audition to participate as well.
What do I need to audition? Just one piece that you have performance ready. We recommend a piece you have performed at least once (even if it was for family and friends). You can always grow and learn more and it is easier to get more in-depth with the master teacher when you know your piece well.
How many performers will be accepted? About 3 students will be invited to perform.
When will I be notified? An announcement will be made within a week of closing applications.
Are there requirements for my piece? No, but we encourage you to perform a concert solo rather than an excerpt.
How are performers selected? Performers are selected based on preparation, composer, piece, and length of piece. We like to present a varied masterclass that covers different time periods when possible.
If I am accepted, do I need an accompanist? While we do not require an accompanist for concertos or sonatas, we do encourage it if you have someone. BSYO does not cover the cost of the accompanist.
If I don't get accepted, may I still attend? YES!! Masterclasses are for everyone, even people who aren't players of the specific instrument being presented. You can always learn by watching others. The masterclass teacher will speak to the audience and may even do some demonstrations.
Who else may attend? Masterclasses are open to the public. Anyone can attend.
Is there a fee? There is an audition fee for musicians who are not BSYO members, but the audition is free for BSYO students. There is no fee for attending the masterclass as a listener.