Vanessa Li (Yr 12) plays double bass with the Australian Youth Orchestra and has just completed the February season with the orchestra, as well as participation in the National Music Camp. These are both major achievements and represent the pinnacle of youth music making in Australia. Vanessa has reflected on her participation in this program and her comments follow - please enjoy how enthusiastically she writes of this amazing opportunity:
“I spent two weeks in Adelaide during the summer holidays attending National Music Camp. This event brings together 200 musicians from all over Australia for a fortnight of music making. The daily schedule was packed, filled with orchestra rehearsals, chamber music and seminars. I was lucky enough to be awarded a Principal Double Bass position leading the Porter Chamber Orchestra. The repertoire was fantastic and varied, including works such as Piazzolla's Four Seasons and Vaughan Williams' Fantasia on a Theme by Thomas Tallis. The environment that develops when you bring together so many like-minded musicians is indescribable. Although this was my third NMC, it’s always fun to meet new people, see old friends and perform orchestral music. “I am writing this while currently attending the Australian Youth Orchestra's February season. Sitting Associate Principal in a section of eight basses, we are a very tight-knit group and this shows itself in our playing. Our days include instrument-specific tutorials, intensive rehearsals and plenty of time in between for fun and relaxation. The repertoire for this season is phenomenal: Elgar’s Cello Concerto and Rachmaninoff Symphony No. 2. In our first rehearsal, I was astounded by the standard of the orchestra and wondered how we would sound by the end of the program. You’d think that rehearsing one piece for around 30 hours would eventually become boring, but the excitement and energy of the Rachmaninoff is as fresh as it was during our first run-through. This program culminates in AYO’s 60th Anniversary Concert at the Sydney Town Hall on Thursday 16th February. “For all Queenwood musicians, I'd strongly recommend joining instrumental ensembles where you have the experience of playing with others, whether in a Queenwood ensemble or the Australian Youth Orchestra. The Sydney Youth Orchestras also have a great range of programs for all instruments and abilities. Being able to perform with all your friends onstage is one of the most fun and meaningful experiences you will ever have, so grasp every musical opportunity that comes your way.” If any girls would like further information about the Sydney Youth Orchestras, National Music Camp or the Australian Youth Orchestra, please contact Mr Winton.