Performance by young Israeli musicians
The Young Israel Philharmonic Orchestra plays Mahler’s 5th
On Thursday evening, July 25, at the Smolarsh Auditorium in Ramat Aviv, I had the honor and great pleasure to witness what happens when talented teenagers who love classical music meet a conductor who eagerly takes on the role of mentor. The event was the annual concert given by members of The Young Israel Philharmonic Orchestra (YIPO), this year under the baton of the Austrian conductor Johannes Wildner. The piece they played, Mahler's 5th Symphony in C-Sharp Minor, was chosen in celebration of the 40th anniversary of the Jerusalem Music Center, which took charge of the YIPO eight years ago. The fact that the kids in the orchestra met the symphony's challenge with love and great proficiency was applauded with cheers from the audience.
As the 100 youngsters walked to their places on stage, dressed in adult black, they couldn't hide their youthful enthusiasm and pride in being chosen to appear with their colleagues and their guest conductor. Their success reflected the rapport established with Maestro Wildner, who is undoubtedly an excellent teacher. At the conclusion, players and conductor exchanged spontaneous hugs and kisses before everyone left the stage. They really seemed to like and respect each other.
A word about the YIPO. The orchestra operates under the auspices of the Jerusalem Music Center, considered Israel's leading institution for educating and encouraging new musical talent, which works in cooperation with the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra.
his year’s Outstanding Player award went to percussionist Effie Striem
The YIPO's members range in age from 14 to 18, and live throughout Israel. Most have received scholarships from the American-Israel Cultural Foundation. They come together for intensive training twice a year, for a week in the winter and a few weeks in the summer. During these sessions, they are coached by leading professional musicians and practice under the batons of premier conductors.
The YIPO also awards an Outstanding Player Scholarship commemorating Moshe Chelouche, the first Chairman of the IPO. This year the award went to the percussionist Effie Striem, an enthusiastic, slender blonde girl with a winning smile.
I truly believe that this project is a gem. Bravo!
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