The wonderful, inclusive programme included favourites such as Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, Gershwin’s Summertime, Handel’s Water Music and Queen’s Bohemian Rhapsody.
On March 2nd the Global Notes series of concerts from Dubai Opera, Royal Grammar School Guildford Dubai and Encore Performing Arts continued with Chapter Six. In the Studio at Dubai Opera the National Youth Orchestra (NYO) featured its talented musicians and latest prize-winning soloists from the National Youth Orchestra Solo Concerto Competition 2024:
- First Prize Winner – Violinist, Alexandra Derkaloustian, performing Zigeunerweisen ‘Gypsy Airs’, Op. 20 by Sarasate
- Second Prize Winner – Violinist, Renée Youssef, performing Méditation from Thäis by Massenet
- Third Prize Winner – Violinist Oscar Lucero Beschi performing Praeludium and Allegro by Kreisler
- Most Promising Talent Winner – Violinist, Sian Willgoss performing the Allegro from Spring from the Four Seasons by Vivaldi
The National Youth Orchestra is led by UAE-based Conductor and Composer Mr. Jonathan Barrett and presented by acclaimed Finnish violinist and Co-Founder Ms Eva Gräsbeck, Head of Strings, British bassoonist Ms Jackie Hayter, Head of Winds and Mr Ronald Vint, Head of Percussion. The NYO is led by Artistic Director, Amira Fouad.
The young musicians and guest artists performed an uplifting programme of music from Vivaldi’s Four Seasons to modern film scores, highlighting their extraordinary talent and dedication. This year marks the sixth anniversary of the UAE’s National Youth Orchestra, which was founded in 2018. From just four original members the NYO has reached over 140 members from over 25 countries, from ages 5-18, all from the local community in the UAE – and has quickly established itself as the largest and most prestigious youth orchestra in the region. The National Youth Orchestra represents the very best of the values that the United Arab Emirates stands for and actively promotes – generosity, endeavour, inclusivity, tolerance and above all compassion.
Embark on an exciting musical journey with Global Notes, a curated concert series by Artistic Director Amira Fouad of Encore, continuing a legacy of over 100 concerts and masterclasses at Dubai Opera’s Studio. This exclusive series celebrates cultural diversity, featuring young stars from around the world and presenting a program that includes familiar favourites, classical masterpieces, and lesser-known gems. Immerse yourself in the art of music and experience the lives of talented performers, as their captivating performances echo through the vibrant cultural landscape of the UAE.
Education Partner: Royal Grammar School Guildford Dubai, Curated by the Artistic Director of Encore, Amira Fouad
Book your tickets early to avoid disappointment.