Eline van Bruggen, a flutist from Seventeen Mile Rocks, was one of a group of young, emerging musicians from Queensland, ACT, and South Australia who gathered at the Camberwell Grammar School in Melbourne and the Conservatorium High School in Sydney for the much-anticipated Young Mannheim Symphonists 2023 Intensives.
The five-day music festival was organised by the Australian Romantic & Classical Orchestra, offering a unique opportunity for these emerging artists to immerse themselves in the world of historical performance style. The event culminated in two spectacular public concerts, showcasing the talent and dedication of the participants.
A Gathering of Emerging Talent
The Young Mannheim Symphonists 2023 Intensives brought together 32 music students between the ages of 12 and 23, hailing from various corners of the country, including Brisbane, Adelaide, Canberra, and many more. The participants were joined by 11 professional specialist tutors, all eager to share their expertise and passion for classical and romantic music.
These young musicians are not only dedicated to their craft but are also pursuing their education at institutions such as the ANU, TAFE Queensland, University of Queensland, Elder Conservatorium, and Prince Alfred College Adelaide.
The youth orchestra, conducted by Rachael Beesley, explored masterpieces by renowned composers such as Beethoven, Mozart, Elgar, CPE Bach, and lesser-known masters like Stamitz and Reicha. Co-directed by Beesley and Nicole van Bruggen, the program aimed to provide a hands-on experience of discovering music through the lens of historical performance style. It’s an opportunity to nurture musicians for the future, equipping them with the knowledge and insight to make informed musical decisions.
An Orchestra with a Mission
The Australian Romantic & Classical Orchestra is renowned for its specialisation in period instrument performances of late 18th- to early 20th-century orchestral and chamber music. Under the artistic direction of Ms Beesley and Ms van Bruggen, the orchestra has been celebrated for its “intelligent and warm performances” that demonstrate the importance of historically informed musicianship.
Established in 2012, the Australian Romantic & Classical Orchestra is celebrating its 10th year, significantly impacting the Australian music scene. It successfully combines the twin goals of performance and education through live concerts, collaborations, broadcasts, recordings, and innovative music education programmes. By gathering leading Australian and international musicians, the orchestra brings historical insights to masterpieces from the Classical and Romantic periods.
The Young Mannheim Symphonists is an initiative designed to nurture musicians for the future. Each year, they delve into the world of Classical and Romantic music, providing the next generation of HIP musicians with the knowledge and insight needed to make informed musical decisions. The program tutors are the principal musicians of the Australian Romantic & Classical Orchestra, and their passion for understanding historical musical heritage is matched only by their dedication to inspiring and enlightening young musicians.
As these young musicians head back to their homes, they leave with a wealth of knowledge and a renewed passion for historically informed performance, ready to embark on their own musical journeys. For those interested in the 2024 Young Mannheim Symphonists programs, further information can be found at arco.org.au/yms.
Published 26-Oct-2023
