The 65th Grammy Awards, held Feb. 5 in Los Angeles, had a special connection to the Eastern Shore and the Mid-Atlantic Symphony Orchestra, as its musical director, Michael Repper, made history during the star-studded event.

Repper, 32, won the Grammy for Best Orchestral Performance with the New York Youth Symphony for its effort on the album Works by Florence Price, Valerie Coleman and Jessie Montgomery.

“I am so thankful for this tremendous honor. We all are,” Repper said. “The success of this project is a testament to the amazing things young people can accomplish when they have the opportunity and resources to give it their all. As for where it ranks in terms of accomplishment in my career, this is an absolute highlight! This is the first time a youth orchestra has ever won this Grammy Award, and though I have to pinch myself to believe it, I am now the youngest American conductor to win, too. We had an amazing time making this album, despite the challenges of the pandemic and are so honored for this recognition.”

The Mid-Atlantic Symphony Orchestra is set to perform at various locations across the Shore March 9-11 and April 27, 29-30. “Please introduce yourself” at the concerts, asks Repper, adding he especially enjoys meeting people coming to a concert for the first time. CS