Barry Richman
Luminary Award Recipient 2026
Barry Richman founded Empire State Youth Orchestra in 1979, helping to create an organization built on the belief that young musicians in the Capital Region deserved the opportunity to learn, perform, and grow together at the highest level. Nearly five decades later, Barry’s commitment to ESYO has never wavered.
Over the years, Barry has served ESYO in just about every way imaginable: as a longtime Board member, advocate, volunteer, donor, advisor, and, when needed, a stand-in percussionist. A professional percussionist himself, Barry has always brought both a musician’s perspective and a deep belief in young people to his work with ESYO. He also established the Barry Richman Careers in Music Scholarship, supporting graduating ESYO musicians who plan to pursue careers in music.
From ESYO’s earliest days to the opening of its first permanent home, Barry has remained a steady presence, helping the organization grow while never losing sight of the young musicians at its center. ESYO is proud to honor its founder, longtime champion, and friend with the 2026 Luminary Award.