On Sunday, 21 September, the Ku-ring-gai Youth Orchestra (KYO) will present Whimsy & Wonder at Abbotsleigh’s Peter Duly Hall.
The Ku-ring-gai Youth Orchestra is a vibrant community ensemble based on Sydney’s Upper North Shore. Welcoming high school students and beyond from schools and universities across the city, it provides a dynamic musical environment where talented young musicians can thrive.
Each year, KYO stages four performances, with programs ranging from Tchaikovsky and Dvořák to John Williams. The orchestra also supports emerging composers, commissioning and premiering new works by students from the Sydney Conservatorium of Music.
This 90-minute concert will feature Dvořák’s Carnival Overture alongside the world premiere of Mopoke by young Turramurra composer Elliot Leahy, commissioned by KYO.
Two further Australian works will also be showcased: the premiere of Equilibrium by Chris Moran and Elena Kats-Chernin’s much-loved Dance of the Paper Umbrellas.
Also on the program are Martinů’s Oboe Concerto, featuring KYO virtuoso and Hornsby local Harry Wagstaff, and Borodin’s Polovtsian Dances.
Conductor and Artistic Director Brad Lucas says he has been anticipating this concert for over a year.
“I am excited that the orchestra can present three Australian works, two of which are premieres,” he said.
“The Dvořák and the Borodin are incredibly exciting pieces that challenge the orchestra, but I know they will bring an energy and brilliance to the performance that should not be missed.”
After the performance, patrons are invited to enjoy afternoon tea. A raffle with prizes will also be drawn during the intermission.
Don’t miss this delightful afternoon of new and timeless music, performed by some of Sydney’s most outstanding young artists.