There’s no mistaking the opening bars of Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No.1 – it has been a favourite in concert halls around the globe for over a century. The Australian Youth Orchestra will join forces with the winner of the 2016 Sydney International Piano Competition, Andrey Gugnin, to bring a dazzlingly fresh performance of this beloved work, brimming with charming Russian folk tunes.

The remainder of the program is equally as magnetic. In an unusual twist, the orchestra will feature a talented young saxophonist within its woodwind section. One of Benjamin Britten’s most powerful works, Sinfonia da requiem, provides a thrilling opening to our concert, and is balanced impeccably by Rachmaninov’s driving Symphonic Dances – a staple piece amongst traditional orchestral repertoire, and quite deservedly so.

Don’t miss the country’s best young talent as they explore a melting pot of orchestral works under the masterful baton of conductor Courtney Lewis. Becoming a member of AYO’s flagship ensemble, the Australian Youth Orchestra, is an acknowledgement of excellence at a national level, and provides aspiring young musicians with a unique insight into the world of orchestral music-making.

Australian Youth Orchestra with Andrey Gugnin, is one performance only, Saturday 14 July 2018, 7.30pm at the Sydney Town Hall, 483 George Street.  Tickets available at Eventbrite and more information at the AYO website or Facebook.