The Desert Community Orchestra Association Penny Belt– The Desert Community Orchestra Association is happy to announce the winner of the Young Artist Auditions held on February 18th. Riley Mason, the marimba player, was selected to be featured with the Desert Community Orchestra in their final season concert on Saturday, May 13, 2023, at 4:00 p.m. at Burroughs Performing Arts Center. The orchestra, under the direction of Robert Martinez, will accompany the young musician in his performance.
Riley Mason,12 years old, is the son of Julia and Aaron Mason. Riley began working on his older siblings’ piano books when he was little but started formal lessons with Chloe Crouse in the summer of 2020. She soon got him interested in the marimba, and he participated in several of her percussion ensembles before she moved to Virginia. He has continued lessons with Mrs. Crouse from afar, and she has encouraged him to take advantage of every musical opportunity. Riley also plays the trumpet with the Murray Middle School band and the Big Band X-Press. In the May DCO Concert, Riley will be the marimba soloist playing Csárdás by V. Monti, arranged for marimba by Moore.
The DCOA invites the community to all its concerts, especially the Young Artist Concert on May 13th, highlighting this musically outstanding young man.
