ABOUT THE ORCHESTRA

Background:

The Launceston Youth and Community Orchestra, formerly the Launceston Youth Orchestra, has a successful history dating back to 1970. The decision to change the name of the orchestra was made early in 2004 in recognition of the need in the city for a Community Orchestra.

The Launceston Youth and Community Orchestra (LYCO) provides the only opportunity for symphony orchestra participation in Northern Tasmania. Aims: The aims of the LYCO board are to continue to provide an opportunity for all music students in Northern Tasmania to: " experience being part of a symphony orchestra, " develop the skills necessary to be active and valuable members of such a group, " extend their knowledge of music, " develop their playing skills, and " enjoy both the orchestral experience and music generally.

The LYCO board believes that successful music performance, individually, in small ensemble and in orchestra is a highly creative exercise, involving aspects of interpretation of composer's intent, understanding of musical style, and working dynamically with a group to implement decisions and present works according to the desired interpretation of the group. The board recognises that its aims can only be achieved by providing experienced and capable conductors of high calibre.

In 2007, under the direction of conductor and musical director, Margaret Hoban, the LYCO continues to provide this opportunity for intermediate and advanced music students of all ages. LYCO Membership and Structure: In 2007 the orchestra has fifty members, with the instrument split being: sixteen violins, five violas, seven cellos, two double basses, six flutes, one clarinet, one oboe, two horns, four trumpets, two trombones, two bassoons and two percussionists. The Piccolo Strings, has, for the last fifteen years, provided the opportunity for beginning string players to attain the skills necessary to join the LYCO.

The Piccolo Strings currently has fifteen members, six violins, two violas, five cellos, one bass and one flute.

Of these members, 26 are school students including 6 college students and 39 are adults including eight under 25.

LYCO Youth Focus: Adults generally do not take leading roles in the orchestra. This policy is in place to maintain both the youth emphasis and a dynamic group. The innovation of allowing adult music students to participate in the orchestra while not taking leading roles has highlighted some interesting social developments. Primary school students playing alongside university students and older adults with all facing the same challenges and problems, sharing the same learning experiences and enjoying the same sense of achievement appears to directly benefit the social development and confidence of these young people.

The reverse occurs frequently with younger and more advanced members enthusiastically tutoring beginner adult music students both formally in sectional rehearsals and informally - a working example of life-time learning. It has been amazing to see this development slowly take place and to witness the dynamics of the interaction between the different age groups.

Rehearsals and Performances:

The orchestra meets weekly for two-hour rehearsals at Launceston College during school terms and performs at regular end-of-term concerts, at the conclusion of the mid-year weekend-workshop and on as many other occasions as possible through the year.

In 2007, further opportunities to perform in the community are being sought by the committee. These include participation again at the Deloraine Craft Fair, sharing a concert with the University Symphonic Band, and participation in the Ten Days on the Island event "Strung Out". The final concert for each year is often performed in the Launceston General Hospital Chapel and is attended by many patients and visitors as well as the usual relatives and friends.

Chamber groups, formed from within the orchestra, continue to provide an opportunity for individual extension and perform at concerts and many community functions. Groups from the Orchestra regularly perform as part of the Concert series at Clarendon near Evandale.

Here is a link to their website. Rotary Art 2008 Recipient - Launceston Youth and Community Orchestra