SPOTLIGHT: EDUCATIONAL PARTNERSHIPS

A Far Cry is dedicated to inspiring the next generation of classical musicians by fostering meaningful relationships with community groups and educational institutions. In Boston, we are proud to partner with key programs that help cultivate young talent and broaden access to classical music.

Project STEP

This season, A Far Cry celebrates 10 years of residency activities at Project STEP, a comprehensive string training program for children from communities typically underrepresented within classical music. The residency includes weekly chamber music coaching, one-on-one mentoring, and complimentary tickets to A Far Cry concerts throughout the season. Criers also coach the Project STEP Honors Quartet, whose  performances have become a beloved tradition for AFC audiences in Jordan Hall!

NEC/A Far Cry Collaborative Competition

A Far Cry’s competition through New England Conservatory offers students the opportunity to rehearse and perform with the Criers on select concert programs each season. The competition recognizes outstanding young chamber musicians and invites them into A Far Cry’s conductor-less, musician-led rehearsal process. 

Competition winners rehearse and perform as full members of the ensemble, experiencing firsthand the sensitivity, trust, and shared leadership required to perform as a self-conducted chamber orchestra. 

We’re thrilled to feature this partnership at tonight’s concert, and to welcome 2025/26 winner Dennis McIntyre (double bass), who joins the Criers for Anna Clyne’s Within Her Arms.

Dennis McIntyre, 21, is a Double Bassist from Bellevue, Washington. He is a 3rd year undergraduate studying with Donald Palma at the New England Conservatory. As an orchestral player, he has performed with numerous ensembles including the NEC Chamber Orchestra, Harvard Radcliffe Orchestra, and the Seattle Youth Symphony Orchestra. He attended the 2025 Aspen Music Festival and School as a fellow, and is a part of the 2025 New York String Orchestra Seminar in December. As a soloist, Dennis has had the privilege of working in masterclasses with many professional bassists including Orin O’Brien, Edgar Meyer, Matthew McDonald, Kristen Bruya, and Leigh Mesh. Outside of music, Dennis enjoys reading, board games, and drinking tea.