Purely classic

This classical release from Chapel contains music from Bach, Grieg, Handel, Vivaldi--all well-known classic composers, performed with the full orchestra sound of the New England Youth Chamber Ensemble. The founding director, Dr. Virginia Gene Rittenhouse, an accomplished violinist, pianist, composer, and conductor, is well known the world over. Today, Dr. Rittenhouse dedicates herself full-time to the development and mission of both the New England Youth Chamber Ensemble and the New England Youth Ensemble.

Eighteen classics are flawlessly presented on this album. You’ll be amazed at the musicianship of the young performers ages 6 to 15.

The New England Youth Chamber Ensemble is an outgrowth of the New England Youth Ensemble founded by its director, Dr. Virginia-Gene Rittenhouse thirty years ago in New England. Since its founding that Ensemble has traveled to nearly 40 countries performing in cathedrals and concert halls throughout the world. Their mission continues to be the sharing of great music, spreading God's message of love and peace everywhere and thus helping to bring peoples of all races and creeds together.

Two years ago, many of the former members of this Ensemble requested Dr. Rittenhouse to form a younger group of talented musicians who would have the opportunities that had so long been enjoyed by so many, and so was born this new New England Youth Chamber Ensemble. This new Ensemble has grown rapidly to include young talent from all over New England, with an average age of 12. Everywhere they are appearing they are receiving a tremendous reception. This has led to the organizing of their first continental tour to Southern California in January 2002. Like their parent organization, these young Ensemble members are fully dedicated to their mission and during a short time have already raised thousands of dollars for various children's charities. These charities include an orphanage in Zimbabwe for children of parents who have died of AIDS, the President's Fund for Afghan Children, and scholarships for the surviving children of the September 11 attacks. A large number of the members are next generation offspring of the original New England Youth Ensemble, which now is located in Washington, DC.

Among featured soloists in the New England Youth Chamber Ensemble concerts are a number of highly promising young performers including:

Noah Gray-Cabey, six year old pianist who was featured on CBS' "48 Hours" December 21, 2001, and also on the "Hour of Power" at Crystal Cathedral January 13, 2002 with the NEYCE

Andrew Charlestream, seven year old cellist who made his debut on the 2002 West Coast tour as soloist

Cheryl Losey, a remarkable young harpist who has traveled extensively with the New England Youth Ensemble and has appeared at Carnegie Hall under John Rutter

Doug Baasch, fifteen year old organist and cellist

Jenny Penner, concertmistress and violin soloist

Nich Gray-Thompson, fifteen year old violist

Caroline Williams, thirteen year old principal cellist and soloist

Mallory Ottariano, eleven year old violinist

Beth Kalmansson, twelve year old violinist

Barry Howe, fifteen year old principal second and soloist

More soloists will be added as the tours become more extensive.