Ida-Viru forms Estonia’s largest youth symphony orchestra

Estonia’s largest youth symphony orchestra has been formed in Ida-Viru County, ERR reported. The 100-member orchestra held its first rehearsal in Narva on Saturday and will give its first performance in November.

The orchestra brings together young musicians aged nine to 19 from seven music schools in Ida-Viru County. Its creation was supported by the Estonian Association of Symphony Orchestras.

“The potential has been there for a long time, but until now there was not enough energy or momentum to finally establish the orchestra. Now it seems we have succeeded,” said Jüri-Ruut Kangur, chairman of the association.

Conductor Viktor Kostjuk said playing in an orchestra required students to follow the conductor closely and count rests, offering a different experience from performing solo repertoire with piano at music school.

The young musicians said the first rehearsal showed that they still had much to practise. For some, the experience was also an important opportunity to learn how an orchestra works.

The orchestra’s first performance will take place in November at the Ukuaru Music House in Rakvere, where other Estonian youth orchestras will also perform. Its main long-term goal is to perform at the Song Festival held the year after next.