Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony gets a clever karaoke and digital-performance treatment
Courtesy of Sydney Youth Orchestras.
On Make Music Day this year Classical Karaoke will connect musicians of all levels and ages from across the globe, tuning in to play an arrangement of Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony, conducted live by world renowned conductor Brian Buggy OAM, all in the comfort of their own homes. We spoke with Sydney Youth Orchestras to learn more.
What excites Sydney Youth Orchestras about being involved in Make Music Day?
Sydney Youth Orchestras loves a good collaboration and what could be more exciting and fun than to be involved in the world-renowned Make Music Day. With similar goals and outcomes of celebrating the joy of music making – it seemed like a natural synergy for Sydney Youth Orchestras to be involved with.
Were there any challenges you had to consider when going virtual with Classic Karaoke? What can participants expect?
The idea of Classical Karaoke is for everyone to be involved – and yes – we mean everyone. Not just existing Sydney Youth Orchestras members, but any musician of any age, and any instrument and any skill level. So, the challenge has been to embrace all scenarios, including the music scores, to cover all these instruments and skills levels. It was challenging to get the message out this event is virtual – so anyone in the world can join in.
Participants can expect to go to Sydney Youth Orchestra’s Facebook page and join a live virtual stage, where they can perform an arrangement of Beethoven’s iconic 5th Symphony. They will not be left alone – they will be under the esteemed guidance of Brian Buggy OAM, conducting, and leading the way.
Why did you select the arrangement of Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony?
The famous first four notes – three short, one long, are so well-known! Who wouldn’t want to join the virtual stage and perform one of the grandest masterpieces of our time? This is truly a great opportunity for all musicians.
Why is it important to bring music to everyone?
Music has always been a crucial part of the world from the very beginning. Whether it be to provide entertainment, or to reflect, or to raise a to the world we live in. There has never been a more important time than now. As soon as COVID-19 hit – we all turned to arts and cultural offerings to sustain us, and to lift our moods. Without music or musicians in our world, we would sadly be in a very different place to where we are now.
Tell us about Sydney Youth Orchestras?
Sydney Youth Orchestras is the pre-eminent training ground for young musicians in NSW. We provide a pathway for young musicians to champion orchestral music through a structured music education program, for those aged 6 to 25, from beginner to pre-professional level. Our alumni are scattered around the globe, in the world’s leading orchestras, including the London Symphony Orchestra, the London Philharmonic Orchestra and Sydney Symphony Orchestra, and the Australian Chamber Orchestra.
Learn more about Sydney Youth Orchestras below
Image: Courtesy of Sydney Youth Orchestras.
Published: 19 June 2020