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A journey of a lifetime – International Tour marks milestones for young musicians
It’s been a busy time for our young musicians who recently headed off on AYO’s first International Tour for six years, with a packed schedule of tutorials, rehearsals – and of course some sightseeing (and sampling the local fare!).
For many participants this was the first time they had set foot in Europe, with the first stop the wonderful Akoesticum in the Dutch town of Ede for 10 days of intensive rehearsals with Maestro David Robertson, Associate Conductor Carlo Antonioli and soloist William Barton.
Now the musicians have set off for a whirlwind six performances across Germany, the Netherlands and Austria. We caught up with members of the orchestra, and the AYO team, on the eve of their first concert to get their insights on the tour so far.
Robert Smith, Concertmaster
For AYO Concertmaster Robert Smith, not only is this his first time visiting Europe he also will be celebrating his birthday overseas making the tour a particularly exciting and meaningful experience for him. “For so many of us, this is our first time in Europe. It’s just an incredible experience to have. We’re exploring and it’s a lot of fun,” said Robert.
He is especially looking forward to performing in Austria with AYO, playing as concertmaster under Maestro David Robertson and reconnecting with fellow musicians he met during earlier AYO programs. “I have made these connections with people from all over the country and some of these people are on this tour right now as well, so it’s very special.”
Nathan Herbert, percussion
Percussionist Nathan Herbert is also enjoying his first visit to Europe and said he’s already had memorable experiences exploring.
“I got to explore Amsterdam with some friends. I’ve never been to Europe before, so it’s very, very different to Australia… it’s honestly just a big town kind of feel and it was really special to see that and experience some of the history and the culture.”
Nathan is excited about performing major works on the international stage, especially Rimsky-Korsakov’s Scheherazade. “There’s a lot that we have to do… some big, exposed moments… it’s really exciting to be able to perform a work such as that on the world stage.”
Nathan (third from left) in percussion tutorial on the International Tour
Even though this is his first year with AYO, Nathan says the experience has already elevated his playing and connected him with like-minded musicians: “It’s already taken my playing to a whole new level… getting to share that at a social level but also a musical level is really awesome and I’m loving it so far.”
Nathan expresses heartfelt thanks to the donors, especially the McCusker Foundation, for supporting WA musicians and making the tour possible: “Especially for us from WA — we’re a bit isolated — so it’s great to be able to have your support and to connect with so many people from around the country through the Australian Youth Orchestra. Without this support we wouldn’t have been able to take this orchestra on the world stage.”
Kimbali Harding, AYO CEO
Kimbali said a highlight so far has been watching the rehearsal of Scheherazade. “David had the orchestra enthralled with an incredibly vivid (musical) interpretation of the furious storm that thrashes Sinbad’s ship. The attention to detail, intense focus and energy of the orchestra led by a brilliant conductor and pedagogue is such a joy!” She is most looking forward to hearing Earthcry performed in Vienna.
“I can’t wait to hear Earthcry with the awesome sound and artistry of William Barton at the Musikverein. There is something that ignites the imagination to have this work and this particular sound fill the ‘golden hall’ and arguably one of the ‘cradles’ of western symphonic music. Now we get to add our sound to that legacy. It is very special.”
Warren Lenthall, AYO Director of Operations
For Warren, the highlight so far was the first rehearsal with David Robertson. “He exudes a calm energy,” he said. Warren also gave a special shout-out to the “amazing staff at the Akoesticum and hardworking AYO team.” He said he is excited about the Homecoming Concert at Sydney Opera House on 31 July. “I’m most looking forward to presenting the Homecoming concert to everyone’s friends and families and colleagues in Australia and seeing the growth the orchestra will undertake from the first concert until then.”
Phoebe Xu, oboe and cor Anglais
Oboe and cor Anglais player Phoebe Xu (pictured far left at breakfast in the Akoesticum with Hayden Burge, Harry Wagstaff and Ami Humphries) has enjoyed taking in the stunning surroundings. “The European breakfasts and the scenery are amazing and the houses are great to look at. The Akoesticum is also an amazing place to stay.” She praised the AYO team in getting the 100-strong orchestra overseas. “It’s a huge undertaking and an amazing experience that hasn’t happened since COVID.”
Tim Matthies, AYO Artistic Producer
When asked what he is most looking forward to on the tour, Tim said “everything coming together on stage and seeing the smiles of both the participants and the staff when they hear the applause acknowledging their incredibly hard work and focus.”
“While I’m not surprised by the camaraderie and good spirits between the participants, what has impressed me is how they have maintained this over the last ten days of rehearsals and how wonderfully connected everyone is and supportive of each other both musically and socially,” said Tim. “It’s the most joyous atmosphere and utterly infectious!”
