Music

Are you in school and play a wind, brass or percussion instrument? Applications for Penrith’s first ever Youth Orchestra are now open - closing Monday 21 August.

In 2015, The Australian Chamber Orchestra (ACO), The Joan and Penrith Symphony Orchestra (PSO) partnered to create the highly-successful Penrith Strings Program for school-aged musicians. This talented ensemble has presented their music successfully in the popular concert series at The Joan, performing twice with Richard Tognetti and the ACO.

Now entering its third successful year, the ACO and PSO are looking to expand their youth program even further. In 2018, the strings program will expand into the new Penrith Youth Orchestra.

The long-term vision for Penrith Youth Orchestra is to build orchestral skills in young musicians in Western Sydney. The orchestra is a great pathway towards other opportunities such as membership of PSO or, for some, a career in music.

The Penrith Youth Orchestra is an extension activity for secondary and advanced primary music students.The focus will be on ensemble-playing and rehearsal skills, building towards joint performances playing alongside professional musicians. Students will also perform in a public concert with the PSO. As a member of the orchestra you will be expected to participate in all rehearsals and workshops each term coached by expert musicians from PSO, Penrith Conservatorium and the ACO.

“Orchestras are like people. They’re the sonic embodiment of their community” – English Conductor Sir Simon Denis Rattle OM CBE.

The program is designed to complement and extend students’ individual lessons and practice, whether they learn privately, at school or at the Penrith Conservatorium of Music.

So, if you have the talent, commitment and drive to perform with the best, make sure you down load the application forms and apply before the closing date. There are also limited places available for string students.

APPLICATIONS DUE MONDAY 21 AUGUST 2017.

For more information and all details click here for The Joan website and complete a separate application form for each student and return to the PYO Administrator.

Candidates will be advised of their result after 11 September 2017.