Composing A Bright Future

Maranatha junior, Mark D’Leon, will soon be composing for the LA Philharmonic.

Mark was recently accepted into the Nancy and Barry Sanders Composer Fellowship program, a “one-of-a-kind opportunity for young musicians and composers to become a part of the LA Phil’s thriving new music community,” which offers students “a high level of consistent and intensive focus on the process and production of music composition, giving them the tools and freedom necessary to shape the future of concert music.”

After a lengthy application and interview process, Mark received word last week that he was among the 15-20 elite musicians that had been selected to be part of the intense program, from the thousands that apply each year, allowing Mark to officially compose for the LA Phil!

Overwhelmed with gratitude, Mark shared, “This is one of the biggest opportunities life could probably throw at me and is the beginning of my future as a composer and songwriter. It is an honor to be in such a prestigious program while representing Maranatha, and shining light onto the potential that our student body carries.”

While part of this prestigious program, Mark will have the opportunity to compose works for readings and performances for ensembles such as the Los Angeles Philharmonic, the Lyris Quartet, Calder Quartet, American Youth Symphony, and Wild Up. The Los Angeles Philharmonic, considered to be one of the greatest orchestras in the world, often performs at the Walt Disney Concert Hall and the Hollywood Bowl.

Maranatha High School, 169 S. St. John Avenue, Pasadena, (626) 817-4000 or visit www.maranathahighschool.org.