TYO INSTRUMENTAL ENSEMBLES
TYO delivers instrumental education, development and performance programs to young Tasmanian musicians who share our love of music. All ensembles are auditioned. We offer pathways for a wide range of participants – from those new to ensemble music, through to accomplished youth musicians who are already experienced performers.
Exceptional performance opportunities are an important part of the TYO experience. All TYO musicians will perform in at least three TYO concerts each year, plus community performances. Senior players will experience full collaborations with professional ensembles such as the TSO and Van Diemen’s Band. TYO musicians also have opportunity to participate, at no additional cost, in a second TYO ensemble or a TYO Tasmanian Chorale.
TYO programs are led and supported by an outstanding artistic team of conductors and specialist tutors, under the artistic leaderships of Christopher Bearman, OAM. Meet our ensembles below! Auditions for TYO 2024 ensembles will open in September 2023, with auditions to be held on 21-22 October.
TYO CAMERATA STRINGS
Level: AMEB (or equivalent) Pre-GR2
Age range: 7-12 years
A fun and comprehensive introduction to the string orchestra. For many young players, TYO Camerata String is their very first ensemble experience. This group aims to foster a love of music and promote a solid foundation for string playing, in an inclusive environment which emphasises quality of sound, team work and community.
TYO SINFONIETTA
Level: AMEB (or equivalent) GR3-5
Age range: 9-16 years
The TYO Sinfonietta runs to a ‘three ensembles in one’ model, allowing for additional mentoring and a stronger focus on musical development and technique. The ensemble caters for a broad age range, providing early orchestral experience for younger students, while also allowing older students who may have just started an orchestral instrument to gain ensemble experience.
TYO PERCUSSION ENSEMBLE
Level: AMEB (or equivalent) GR3+
Age range: 9-25 years
The TYO Percussion Ensemble showcases the full range of percussion instruments and offers advanced technique development and repertoire extension for percussionists. It acts as an extension ensemble for percussionists already involved within a TYO Ensemble. Repertoire is selected depending on musician abilities.
THE TASMANIAN YOUTH ORCHESTRA
Level: AMEB (or equivalent) GR7+
Age range: 14-25 years
TYO’s flagship ensemble, providing exceptional development opportunities and outstanding performance experiences. The accomplished young musicians in this orchestra range in age from 14 to 25 and represent some of Tasmania's finest young musical talent.
EXTENSION PROGRAMS
Level: dependent on opportunity
Age range: all
TYO offers a range of extension opportunities to keen and capable players at all levels of the organisation - from section leadership roles, to single-program placements with a more advanced ensemble, to professionally mentored chamber groups. Generally these opportunities are by invitation: some might be required an additional audition.