Australian Youth Orchestra
Past Events
Tell us a little bit about your previous involvement with AYO?
I attended my first AYO National Music Camp in 2007. From then on I was heavily involved in AYO programs including AYO Seasons, style workshops, chamber players, orchestral fellowships and side-by-side programs, as well as the 2010 China-Europe tour. My last two years of AYO in 2011 and 2012 were particularly special because I was luckily enough to be Principal Second Violin.
What have been some of the key moments in your musical journey so far?
It has been a great privilege to be a Sydney Symphony Orchestra Fellow in 2013 – since then I have been able to play with the SSO for many programs. Having this inspiring and challenging opportunity as the centre of my freelance work and also being able to play in chamber programs, work with choirs, lead community orchestras and to teach and mentor has formed a lifestyle that I just love. It’s sometimes tricky to know if, after all the work you put into improving your playing and working towards your goals, you will actually enjoy your career or not. I can emphatically say that I love it. It’s tricky to balance at times, but it’s never dull!
What made you decide to get involved with Momentum Ensemble?
It was exciting to have an opportunity to come back to AYO after a few years away. There has always been a wonderfully positive energy about AYO programs and musicians that makes the playing a real joy. It was fortuitous that the Momentum Ensemble program that didn’t clash with the dates of my other work commitments (a never-ending battle of freelance life!). I enjoyed the great selection of repertoire, and the travel made Momentum’s launch tour exciting too!
What do you think Momentum Ensemble can do for young musicians like yourself?
It’s always wonderful to get the opportunity to play in small groups of like-minded and talented musicians. Repertoire for smaller ensembles can sometimes be hard to come by when you’re establishing your career or working as a freelancer.
What are the next musical goals that you’ll be working towards?
This year I will be embarking on a solo recital tour of NSW supported by Fine Music and the Stefan Kruger Scholarship. I’m also looking forward to keeping all my current playing commitments ticking along. Lots and lots of notes I hope!