(Roger Mastroianni)

The Cleveland Orchestra Youth Orchestra (COYO) has received a $5 million gift from the Geoffrey and Sarah Gund Endowment.

The funding will ensure COYO’s musical training continues for generations of young people and provide a portion of annual operating expenses. The rest of COYO’s costs are covered by membership fees, ticket sales, and those giving to the Orchestra’s Annual Fund.

Geoffrey Gund said in an official press release, “Sarah and I are both teachers and have watched the development of young minds throughout our professional lives. There is nothing more important than supporting students who are working hard and show potential for special achievement. The Cleveland Orchestra Youth Orchestra combines our love of music and our admiration of professional musicians who teach the discipline required to achieve excellence. We are delighted to support the Youth Orchestra that gives so much to Cleveland and beyond.

André Gremillet Cleveland Orchestra’s President and CEO added, “This extraordinary gift to the Cleveland Orchestra Youth Orchestra speaks to the incredible talent and dedication of these remarkable young musicians. Thanks to the generosity of Geoffrey and Sarah Gund, The Cleveland Orchestra’s vision of offering world-class instruction to middle and high school-aged musicians across Northeast Ohio will be preserved for years to come.”

Daniel Reith COYO’s musical director and the assistant conductor of The Cleveland Orchestra will lead the 37th season which beings on Nov. 20.