A Triumphant Final Concert

July 7, 2006

Some say it was the best ever - no doubt the 2006 YCA concert was a rich and rewarding night with exquisite music.

Anton Armstrong conducts Amazing Grace.

From the richly textured Bach motet "Komm, Jesu, Komm" conducted by Helmuth Rilling, to the spine-tingling high notes of "Ride on King Jesus," the 2006 YCA concert was a night to remember.

On July 6, before the final number, Anton Armstrong gave his heartfelt thanks to all the performers, who had come from 15 states to spend 10 intensive, exhaustive days under his guidance. He told the audience that every year, the choir gets better. This was not an empty platitude. Anyone who heard the choir's blending with Joe Berger's horn during "In Remembrance" or the sensitive rendering of "Amazing Grace" could testify that this choir had something special.

Dr. Armstrong also gave his thanks to Dr. Richard Clark, who, as he has for nine years, guided the participants from auditions to departure as the Academy's managing director.

Another announcement promised an even brighter future. in the exciting moments before the concert, Alan Price, VP of advancement for th University of Oregon, announced a $700,000 gift to the YCA by Lilah Stangeland and the Stangleand Family. This generous contribution will endow the Academy for many years to come and enable the program to accept anyone with the talent and determination to participate, with cost not being a barrier.

The musical highlights of this concert were many, but the profound impact of the YCA and the memories of its experience will live on.