Australian Youth Orchestra
The Difference You Make
As many of the AYO community witnessed at concerts and events around the country, 2015 has been another hugely successful year for AYO musicians. They:
• Performed concerts in prestigious venues under the baton of leading conductors.
• Stunned audiences with triumphant performances of epic works such as Wagner’s The Flying Dutchman and Mahler’s Symphony No.6
• Trained under the baton of Sir Simon Rattle and were mentored by Australian World Orchestra musicians, over 80% of who are AYO Alumni, as part of the AYO/AWO collaboration at the Sydney Opera House
• Showcased AYO’s newest initiative, Momentum Ensemble, with concerts and events across four states.
Thanks to AYO’s loyal donors, sponsors and foundations we raised the necessary funds to create these experiences, underpin the quality of our programs, extend our reach and enable talented musicians to participate regardless of their circumstances.
Without this support, and the time provided by volunteers who contribute their expertise and advocacy, AYO would not be able to deliver the current breadth and depth of training opportunities, nor attract the best and brightest from around the country.
Thank you for helping to transform the lives of outstanding young musicians.
The Conductor’s Circle
Sharing in our belief that world class training requires world class teachers, Conductor’s Circle donors enable AYO to engage internationally acclaimed conductors and guest artists to mentor, tutor and inspire AYO’s talented young musicians.
Thanks to their support, 2015 AYO musicians worked with a range of leading conductors and music directors including James Judd, Douglas Boyd, Wilma Smith, Richard Mills, Sir Mark Elder, Sir Simon Rattle, Nicholas Altsaedt and Ariel Zuckermann. Momentum Ensemble also saw our musicians perform diverse repertoire alongside guest artists Martha Marlow and William Barton.
“Refreshing, thought provoking and wonderful.” James Judd, 2015 National Music Camp Music Director.
Scholarships
Over a third of participants were able to take part in AYO programs this year thanks to the generosity of AYO’s Scholarship Donors, who contributed $150,000 in financial assistance. This support subsidised travel, program and accommodation costs for musicians who would otherwise be unable to participate.
As 17-year-old cellist from rural NSW, Caleb Wong, points out, “I was only able to go if I had financial help.”
Thanks to our supporters, Caleb was able to participate in AYO for the first time, in four different programs. And what a life changing experience it was: “Since I haven’t ever lived close enough to participate in any state youth orchestras, AYO has been a huge boost in my musicianship and musical maturity. It was what made up my mind to pursue music as a career. I have made so many friendships that will last a lifetime!”
Thank you for ensuring that talent is the only requirement for participation.
International Tour Fund
This year, our supporters contributed upwards of $250,000 towards AYO’s 22nd International Tour in 2016. These vital funds help pay for tour essentials including accommodation, flights, meals and the engagement of acclaimed tutors. With a further $200,000 left to raise over the next 12 months, the possibilities for these young musicians come into focus. 97 of Australia’s most talented young musicians will have the opportunity to perform in historic venues in Europe, state of the art concert halls in China and our own iconic theatres. Under the tutelage of conductor Manfred Honeck, and alongside pianist Hélène Grimaud, we have no doubt that AYO musicians will once again conquer the world stage “with an energy that could power a small city” – Sydney Morning Herald, 2013
Thank you for helping outstanding musicians become global artists.
Annual Appeal
Following the success of AYO’s 2014 Appeal, our supporters wowed us again donating an incredible $66,000 of which $40,000 was matched by Creative Partnerships Australia. These essential funds supported annual programs such as AYO National Music Camp and our orchestral seasons and helped new initiatives like Momentum Ensemble take shape.
By supporting our core activities, Appeal donors create a strong foundation for AYO to grow – so we can train more musicians, connect to new audiences and improve services.
“My wife and I have been going to AYO concerts since the days of John Bishop, and we’re always impressed by the students’ standard, enthusiasm and dedication. AYO musicians are as good as any musicians we’ve heard in Europe. We believe strongly in the importance of music education, so we are proud to support the AYO.” The Honourable Christopher Legoe QC AO
The John Bishop Circle – AYO Bequest Program
AYO is fortunate to be supported by so many past participants, some of whom create a lasting connection by leaving a bequest. One such alumni is Glenys Abrahams, an AYO double bassist in the 1980s, who has generously included AYO as part of her legacy. We welcome Glenys as a member of The John Bishop Circle, along with other visionary supporters who confirmed their intentions this year. Thank you for helping to secure the future of AYO.
“I want to help foster the love of playing and where that leads. These committed musicians will go on to play in our orchestras and ensembles. They are the musicians of our future, bringing so much pleasure to others.”
Trusts and Foundations
2015 saw an increase in support from foundations who share in our pursuit of excellence and a level playing field. Their investments funded ongoing programs and scholarships, and helped launch two new initiatives:
• The Graeme Wood Foundation’s contribution brought Momentum Ensemble to life
• The Flora and Frank Leith Charitable Trust’s support linked indigenous youth with AYO musicians, introducing them to the myriad benefits of learning orchestral music which can help develop new skills and expression that build confidence and self-esteem
Along with continued support from the Colonial Foundation, Klein Family Foundation, Collier Charitable Fund, The Lord Mayor’s Charitable Foundation, JamesN. Kirby Foundation, The Lydia Morberger Piano Trust, McCusker Charitable Foundation and the Matana Foundation for Young People, AYO’s unique training programs maintained their renowned standard of excellence and ensured these opportunities were accessible to all eligible musicians.
Sponsorship
AYO is delighted to be continuing its longstanding partnership with Accenture, following their renewal as Principal Sponsor and Digital Partner for a further three years. A sincere thank you to Accenture and our 2015 sponsors JLL, King & Wood Mallesons, AVIS, Sofitel Luxury Hotels, Sothertons Chartered Accountants and Arnold Bloch Leibler for supporting program delivery, providing essential services, encouraging excellence, and increasing aspiring musicians’ access to life changing opportunities.
Together, we can empower young Australians to deliver their finest performances.