Orchestra Manhattan
Orchestra Manhattan, conducted by internationally acclaimed maestro Gerard Schwarz, is a newly formed ensemble of top musicians from across the New York–New Jersey area, created to tour audiences around the world. Schwarz is known for his emotionally compelling performances, innovative programming, and dedication to music education. He currently serves as Music Director of the All-Star Orchestra, Palm Beach Symphony, and Frost Symphony Orchestra, and is the visionary behind the Emmy Award–winning All-Star Orchestra television series, used as an educational resource on Khan Academy. Amelia Ly, age eleven, is a rapidly rising American pianist from Nashville, Tennessee, whose early achievements and artistic maturity have positioned her as one of the most promising young performers of her generation worldwide. She began piano study at four and currently trains with Dr. Craig Nies, Distinguished Professor of Piano at Vanderbilt University’s Blair School of Music. Amelia has been featured by ABC News and NPR and is a top‑prize winner in numerous international competitions. In January 2026, Amelia performed Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 2 with conductor Theodore Kuchar at the Lviv National Philharmonic in Ukraine — a significant international milestone for an artist of her age.
This performance is made possible, in part, by a generous gift from Bill & Mary Dilla, Warren & Bev Madden, Rae Reilly, as well as support, in part, through local option tax funds provided by the City of Ames through the Ames Commission on the Arts.
