GBA Youth Orchestra ready to strike a chord

Fine-tuning the future

Attending their first training camp in Hong Kong from July 31 to Aug 10, the GBAYO musicians are exposed to full orchestra rehearsals, master classes, and cross-disciplinary workshops. Program highlights include the chance to meet and work together with fellow emerging music talents from across the GBA.

"This immersive cultural exchange experience allows them to make new friends, build a professional network of colleagues, go on a concert tour, and participate in media interviews, recordings, and related cultural activities," Sandoval says.

He sounds more than happy with the results of the 11-day residency.

"The high artistic level of the selected young musicians and the participation of internationally renowned coaches and guest conductors will define the orchestra's future," Sandoval says. "The HKAPA, together with the other partner institutions, will engage the arts communities of their respective cities to create a beautiful sharing and learning experience through the most universal of languages, namely music."

Sharon Choa, head of conducting and cultural leadership (music) at the HKAPA, shares Sandoval's sentiments. "It has been very exciting for all of us to finally meet all the young musicians from different corners of the GBA," she says.

"The young musicians have been working very hard, learning to play their own instrumental sections as well as perform their respective roles in the orchestra," says Choa, sharing her insider's perspective. "The sound came across as increasingly harmonious over just the first two days of rehearsals. We can see, and hear, great potential here."