As we wrap up another international concert tour, with amazing performances in Hong Kong, Zhuhai, Zhongshan, Xian, Beijing, Manila, Chiayi City, Taipei, Ayase & Tokyo, it is time to reflect on the meaningful history, the humble beginnings of the Asian Youth Orchestra.
The idea for creating the Asian Youth Orchestra first came to Richard Pontzious (AYO Founder, Artistic Director and Conductor) during his time spent in Taiwan, Japan and China beginning in 1967 through the 1980’s. During this time Richard Pontzious conducted and toured extensively, introducing Beethoven, Brahms, Prokofiev, and Copland to Chinese audiences. He frequently connected with students who all seemed to have the same question; “How might they study music abroad?”. Whilst innocent enough, the end result of this is that many of the students that leave Asia for studies abroad, never return home. Thus began the inspiration for the first draft of Richard Pontzious’s plan for founding the Asian Youth Orchestra.
He wanted to create a local orchestra, that would unite the region and celebrate the excellence of young Asian musician. An orchestra that would encourage the new generation of talented individuals to build on what they have at home, rather than looking to leave for whereabouts unknown. The proposal ready, Richard Pontzious then first shared his idea with Yehudi Menuhin, a renowned violinist and conductor. The idea lit a fire of inspiration within Yehudi Menuhin as well, and they met to discuss the possibilities, first in Reno, Nevada, San Francisco, and then at Yehudi Menuhin’s home in Chester Square, London. Filled with excitement and hope at the idea of bringing together young Asian musicians, Yehudi Menuhin signed on as music director without hesitation.
Yehudi Menuhin provided the musical inspiration that drew public and media attention to AYO’s humble beginnings. In addition his introduction to former British Prime Minister Edward Heath, who had been instrumental in founding the European Community Youth Orchestra, paved the road to the Asian Youth Orchestra’s eventual success.
Assisting behind the scenes were two San Francisco physicians, brothers Ben and A. Jess Shenson. Having traveled extensively in Asia since the 1930s, their introduction to the irrepressible Sing Tao chairman, Sally Aw Sian was invaluable. With their help and confidence, Sally generously supported us with a gift in excess of HK$5 million.
These four amazing individuals, Ben and A. Jess Shenson, Sally Aw and Yehudi Menuhin are the true godparents of the Asian Youth Orchestra. The 1990 inaugural performance took place in Kumamoto, Japan, with the orchestra playing a concert under the direction of Yehudi Menuhin.
After three decades of dedication, The Asian Youth Orchestra is now comprised of approximately 100 young musicians aged between 17-27, selected during spring auditions from twelve Asian countries and territories. The selected musicians then train hard for performances each summer in Asia, Australia, Europe and the USA. Some of our most notable performances include performances at the White House, The Hollywood Bowl, Berlin’s Schauspielhaus, The Sydney Opera House and many others. Please follow The Asian Youth Orchestra on Facebook and Instagram for 2019’s audition and tour dates and details.
Connect with the Asian Youth Orchestra
Website: http://www.asianyouthorchestra.com/
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/asianyouthorchestra
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/asian_youth_orchestra/
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/asian_youth_orchestra/
Credit: Prosperity Research Digital Agency(PRDA): PRDA's Founder Douglas White developer of proven 5 step, 4 KPIs process of Social Media Marketing.
Bookmark & Share
Posts
No comments:
Post a Comment