In 1985 Jack Ashton founded the Young Artist Chamber Players. With the support of his wife, Marie, it all started in the basement of their Salt Lake City home. Jack's vision was to create a chamber orchestra for young people that would give them the experience of playing some of the classical world's most beautiful music. He also wanted to give the kids the experience of traveling to Europe so that they could perform and learn about the history and culture of the music.

Throughout the years, YACP grew and now consists of four youth orchestras: Young Artist Chamber Players, Wasatch Mountain Camerata, Youth String Ensemble, and Youth Chamber Orchestra.

Jack was eager and invested in helping young people gain a true understanding about the power and gift of giving music to the community, he spent his life devoted to this cause. As a result, the Young Artist Chamber Players group not only performs in Salt Lake City, but once a year travels to Southern Utah to share their music with the smaller communities, hoping to instill a love of good music to those who come to listen. This fulfills Jack’s desire for the performers to see and gain a personal appreciation for the beneficial impact they can have in sharing their talents.

Jack passed away in March of 2025. His legacy lives on and we are forever thankful for his tireless efforts in creating such an amazing group for young people.

Board Members

Marie Ashton - President

Alice Ashton Coulam - Director

Emily Adair - Executive Manager

Melanie Mortensen - Assistant Manager

Pete Gehrett - Treasurer

Keri Romney - Grants Development

Lindsay Monson - Tour Manager