The Asian Youth Orchestra (AYO), a beacon of young talent and international harmony, is set to perform in Malaysia on August 19, 2024. Returning after 13 years, this is a unique chance to experience the brilliance of musicians from over 10 countries and territories, including mainland China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines, as they come together at Dewan Filharmonik PETRONAS in Kuala Lumpur.
The AYO is known as Asia’s top pre-professional orchestra. Critics call it “the finest among youth orchestras in the world.”
In 2010, they won Japan’s Praemium Imperiale Grant for Young Artists. In 2015, they received the Nikkei Asia Prize for Culture and Community. These awards honor their achievements and their impact on the arts worldwide.
Every year, the AYO selects its musicians through tough auditions. The orchestra’s 100 members come from across Asia, including China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, and more. They spend six weeks together: three weeks at a Rehearsal Camp, followed by a three-week international tour with top conductors and soloists.
Kenny Ooi, Founder and CEO of Rondo Production, said, “As a former AYO member, I have witnessed first-hand the profound impact this orchestra has on young musicians.” “Touring and performing throughout Asia with the AYO fostered a shared passion for music and the immense joy of bringing artistic expression to diverse audiences. We are confident that the AYO’s concert in Malaysia in 2024 will be an unforgettable experience for both the musicians and the community,” he added.
Since 1990, AYO has played over 400 concerts in Asia, Europe, the U.S., and Australia, reaching over a million people. Millions more have heard them on CNN, CNBC, NHK, and Radio and Television Hong Kong.
Keith Lau, the CEO of AYO, said, “Earlier this year saw the orchestra resuming live auditions for the first time since the pandemic ended, and we were overwhelmed by the response and support shown. The dedication displayed was commendable, where many candidates traveled far from their hometowns to attend the auditions. We were pleased to witness the skills and talent of these young musicians, and we cannot wait to begin the exciting journey this summer.”
The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Jakarta also welcomes the AYO back to Malaysia after 13 years and congratulates the musicians from over 10 countries.
Don’t miss AYO performing Gershwin’s Porgy and Bess Suite, Bernstein’s West Side Story Symphonic Dances, Respighi’s Pines of Rome, and Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition.
Tickets range from RM88 to RM408, with a 15% discount on group packages (minimum 4 tickets).