New England Youth Ensemble

The New England Youth Ensemble of Washington Adventist University formed in 1969 by the late Dr. Virginia-Gene Rittenhouse, the NEYE is the resident orchestra of Washington Adventist University and has toured extensively throughout its history, performing to acclaim in major global venues. The NEYE continues in this tradition under the co-direction of Dr. Preston Hawes, and Dr. Brian Liu.

Through the Carnegie Scholars Program of the NEYE, select members of the ensemble augment their orchestral learning alongside world class performing members of the New England Symphonic Ensemble who mentor the Scholars through rehearsals and performances on stage at Carnegie Hall in NYC. Together the NESE and Scholars have performed at Carnegie Hall over 250 times, presenting world premiers of numerous contemporary compositions under the batons of world renowned directors such as John Rutter, Sherrill Milnes, Helmuth Rilling, and Jonathan Willcocks and a stunning array of globally recognized soloist. The Scholars Program remains the only of its kind within Adventist institutions.