The Australian Youth Orchestra has launched a bequest campaign to secure its future and to ensure that its vision continues. In order to achieve this long-term security, the AYO has established The John Bishop Circle, named after the organisation’s visionary founder.
The John Bishop Circle encourages and honours those who leave a gift to The Australian Youth Orchestra in their Will and choose to let us know. In recognising these far-sighted supporters, The John Bishop Circle emphasises the importance of bequests for the future of the AYO, and promotes the leadership of Circle patrons in encouraging others to make similar commitments.
Launch events took place recently in Sydney and Melbourne. The Sydney launch was hosted by long time donor and bequestor, Dr Barry Landa, and attended by supporters and alumni. Said Dr Landa, “It is a real honour to leave a legacy to The Australian Youth Orchestra that will provide a permanent resource for the future”. While addressing guests, Dr Landa stressed that any gift, however large or small, can make an enormous difference to the future careers of young musicians and urged supporters of the AYO to consider including the organisation in their Wills.
The Melbourne launch was held at the Melbourne Recital Centre during the AYO’s February Season. Among the guests was Professor John Bishop’s daughter, Mrs Jenny Porter. “It makes me so proud to see my father’s legacy remembered in this way. I am sure that it will inspire others to help secure the orchestra’s long-term future” she said.
Professor John Bishop OBE
Remembered fondly by his students for his friendly and unpretentious manner, Professor John Bishop was the visionary founder of today’s Australian Youth Orchestra. After experiencing music camps in New Zealand and in the UK, and collaborating with Ruth Alexander who had experienced music camps in the US, John Bishop established the first AYO National Music Camp at Point Lonsdale, Victoria in 1948. He was an inspirational conductor with a gift for getting the best out of each of his students. Many of Australia’s professional musicians have benefitted from their experiences at AYO National Music Camps. The John Bishop Circle perpetuates his legacy and keeps his vision alive.
