Indy mourns formative conductor

Message received:

The Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra mourns the loss of Betty Perry, whose phenomenal commitment to music education led to the creation of the Metropolitan Youth Orchestra.

Perry founded the Metropolitan Youth Orchestra in 1995. In 2008, the MYO became affiliated with the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra. Through her leadership of MYO, Perry’s work as an ISO community ambassador was invaluable, both in terms of the impact she made on young lives and in helping the ISO connect with the community in deep and meaningful ways. From her own experience in discovering the transformative nature of music as a child, Perry understood the importance of creating a supportive environment for students to develop life skills through the rehearsal and performance of music.

In a living testament to Perry’s impact, MYO alumna Krystle Ford now directs MYO, carrying on Perry’s legacy and living out her vision for MYO. “I’m forever grateful to Ms. Perry that she trusted me enough to carry out her legacy,” said Ford. “MYO shaped me into the adult I am today and I can’t thank her enough for her love, encouragement and endless support. She will be missed terribly. I feel comfort knowing that she is proud of us and the work that continues to impact the lives of so many families.”