29 July 2026
AYO inspires next generation of NT musicians
Connection can ripple throughout an orchestra, with its impact reaching far beyond a single rehearsal. As part of the recent AYO Winter Season program in Darwin, participants in the Darwin Symphony Orchestra (DSO) Young Artists program had the opportunity to sit in on a rehearsal with renowned conductor Antony Hermus.
DSO Education and Outreach Coordinator, Stephanie Arnold said the DSO Young Artists students “had a wonderful time at the open rehearsal and Q&A last week.” She thanked the AYO for inviting the students along. Former AYO alum, Stephanie is currently Principal Cello of the Darwin Symphony Orchestra, as well as their Education and Outreach Coordinator. Her impact in allowing this exchange to happen is another testament to the warm welcome offered by the Darwin community.
The DSO Young Artists program provides artistic development opportunities for aspiring young musicians in Darwin. During an open rehearsal, the Young Artists observed AYO rehearsals before connecting with some of the participants over dinner afterwards.
The importance of connection was on full display, as musicians stepped away from their instruments to reflect on the rehearsal process and discuss the many facets of playing in an orchestra.
Open Rehearsal
The afternoon rehearsal at the AANT Centre offered a rare behind-the-scenes glimpse into life with a national orchestra for 10 young musicians from the DSO Young Artists program. Representing a range of instruments—including bassoon, trumpet, percussion, harp, violin and cello—the participants joined AYO on stage for a rehearsal of Beethoven’s Eroica, witnessing first-hand as Maestro Antony Hermus shaped one of the orchestral repertoire’s most celebrated works.
“It was a great experience to meet all the AYO members. Getting to sit amongst the orchestra was really interesting, especially seeing Antony Hermus’ approach to rehearsing.”
DSO Young Artists’ bassoonist
A view from within
Beyond experiencing the sheer volume and power of the orchestra from within, the students were able to follow the score, observe interpretive decisions, and gain a deeper understanding of how their own instruments contribute to a complex and extraordinary work.
In an environment of intense focus, the students witnessed the attention to detail required to refine a performance, from subtle musical adjustments to the annotations musicians make in their scores.
“Being able to sit within my section and follow a copy of the piece being played made it feel like I can get to this level. I was able to see how my current skills compare and better understand where I can improve.”
DSO Young Artists’ percussionist
Insights from the podium
The experience continued with an intimate Q&A session with Antony Hermus and AYO CEO Kimbali Harding. Together, AYO participants and DSO Young Artists had the opportunity to ask questions about pursuing a career in music and life within an orchestra.
“She left with a stronger belief in her current music skills, along with more ideas about how and where she can focus, improve, and explore the paths ahead of her.”
Parent of DSO Young Artist student
Hearing the personal stories and experiences of an internationally acclaimed conductor such as Hermus resonated deeply with both AYO participants and the DSO Young Artists. In particular, they were encouraged by his emphasis on finding joy in music-making, whether or not it ultimately becomes a career path.
One parent observed that her daughter “came away with such a great experience and a stronger belief in her current music skills, along with more ideas about how and where she can focus, improve, and explore the paths ahead of her.” The opportunity to observe the rehearsal process and hear directly from the conductor provided a deeper understanding of the music, even within the span of a single afternoon.
Another attendee commented, “I sat in on the start of the rehearsal and the way the conductor and the AYO involved the students was fantastic.”
Music as a meeting place
The fun didn’t stop there! Over a delicious dinner, stories of musical highlights, aspirations and future goals were shared. Friendships were formed, ideas were exchanged, and connections were strengthened.
Bringing together young musicians provided a valuable opportunity to connect through a shared passion for music, learn from one another’s experiences, and build relationships that may last well beyond the Winter Season.
