Ealing Youth Orchestra (EYO) is testament that classical music is still relevant for the younger generation of today.
Founded in 1959, EYO, a self-funded charity, has been at the heart of classical music in West London for 65 years.
The orchestra welcomes young musicians aged between 13 – 18, providing a place for music to thrive.
The chair of the Ealing Youth Orchestra, Dr Tania Stathaki believes that the orchestra is “built on a strong foundation of dedication, adaptability, and a deep commitment to nurturing young talent and fostering a lifelong love of music.”
"At the heart of its enduring success is the orchestra’s ability to bring together passionate conductors, gifted musicians, and devoted volunteers, creating an environment that balances high standards of musical excellence with inclusivity and inspiration.”
Young members develop their playing, practising and performing challenging pieces with guidance from Leon Gee, EYO’s renowned conductor who was appointed British Arts Council Young Conductor while with the London Philharmonic Orchestra.
EYO frequently have concerts and tours, boosting player confidence by giving them a chance to perform.
Recent pieces performed by EYO include Rimsky Korsakov – Scheherazade, Malcolm Arnold – 4 Cornish Dances and Johannes Brahms – Hungarian Dances.
The orchestra’s concerts include “Concertothon,” a competition where several soloists each perform a concerto to an external adjudicator; the winner is awarded a trophy and is invited to play as a soloist in a concert at a later date.
2024’s winner was Shreya Grover, a former student at the Royal College of Music Junior Department (RCM JD), who impressed the judge with her performance of the Korngold violin concerto.
The Ealing Youth Orchestra is much more than a musical opportunity, connecting and encouraging young people, and establishing strong links in the community.
Shreya feels “grateful to be part of the EYO community where everyone shares this love of music.”
“When I joined, I was very shy, not even speaking that much to my desk partner at first, but it is a very welcoming environment which is something that I felt again upon returning to the orchestra”
Many of these young musicians will remain connected long after their time in the orchestra, forging friendships, opportunities and memories.
Dr Tania Stathaki says that “EYO has become a cherished institution for young musicians in West London because it continues to inspire new generations of talent, enriching lives and leaving a lasting impact on the cultural landscape.”
Ealing Youth Orchestra has afforded countless opportunities to many hundreds of musicians, providing them with a nurturing environment, not just developing their musical skills, but furthering their development as individuals.
