Young musicians from Johannesburg and the greater Gauteng area are provided the opportunity to be a part of The Johannesburg Youth Orchestra. The musicians are granted the ability to come together as like minded individuals who enjoy creating and making music.
This orchestra was formed in 1998 and is the company’s flagship. It is a full symphonic orchestra, catering for high school students playing stringed, wind and percussion instruments. The group’s repertoire includes popular contemporary, light as well as serious classical music. The Johannesburg Youth Orchestra is well known throughout the city and even further afield. It maintains a consistently high standard. With every new year, an increasing number of young musicians from affiliated musical organizations achieve membership.
The Vision of the Johannesburg Youth Orchestra
With 11 official languages in South Africa, the orchestra acts as a way to unite young people through the language of music. According to their website, their mission is to develop youth through music, provide music training for all. Furthermore, they aspire to address past inequalities and build communities. The orchestra functions as a non-profit organization and are reliant on loyal donors and supporters to remain operational.
The non-profit organization also survives by giving music lessons and training individuals. The music lessons are said to teach patience and to instill discipline. The lessons also encourage scholars to be more confident to participate in an ensemble.
Their programmes also comprise of instrumental training as well as opportunities for children to be integrated into one of 12 graded orchestras and ensembles. The orchestra also mentors and trains student teachers, offering music skills development and thus employment for young musicians.
https://www.jyoc.co.za/performances
Auditions to be a member of the Johannesburg Youth Orchestra are held throughout the year. You need to be able to play an instrument to orchestral standard. Sign up here if you are interested in becoming a member.
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