Australian Youth Orchestra
AYO National Music Camp: A Reflection
At what other time would you gather 232 incredibly talented young musicians, require 14,328 meals, occupy 273 rooms and freight 2 tonnes of musical instruments?
When you are at The Australian Youth Orchestra’s legendary AYO National Music Camp!
This year we descended on the nation’s capital for the 64th Camp and the energy and excitement was palpable! The participants took to their rehearsals with such enthusiasm and commitment it was bound to result in a series of performances that were nothing short of worldclass.
The first few days saw old friends reunited, the beginning of great new friendships and eager anticipation for our youngest musicians. With little time to waste however, it was straight into rehearsals.
The ANU’s School of Music once again provided a fabulous venue for rehearsals, talks and somewhere to feed and shelter everyone. The majestic Llewellyn Hall was filled with waves of sound that rise and fell all day. It was here that our series of public concerts were held.
The series of seven concerts including percussion, brass and chamber ensembles, along with a composition concert and four orchestral performances were an enormous success and attracted record audiences. Audience members left feeling elated and praised the calibre of the events with one saying, “I have been most impressed with the very high standard of playing…it has been inspiring to witness.”
The dedication, commitment and amazing talent of these young musicians ignite an infectious mood that is indescribable. This feeling is mirrored by the special tutors and all involved in AYO National Music Camp who freely impart their knowledge and experience. The results are world class performances – internationally acclaimed conductors, superior tutors and an orchestra that delivers a stellar performance.
The AYO National Music Camp provides our next generation of musicians with a unique opportunity to be inspired and to learn from some of the industry’s greats. It is a tradition that ensures Australia’s reputation as one of the world’s leading producers of musical talent.