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/
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