Minister for Western Sydney, The Hon. Stuart Ayres launched the Western Sydney Youth Orchestra (SYO) yesterday at Riverside Theatre in Parramatta. This is a major coup for the west which continues to see growth in the arts and culture sector. It I well known that growth in this sector contributes to the prosperity of the region through its role in influencing perceptions and liveability. The SYO also presents enormous opportunity for the young people in western Sydney by acting as a feeder to some of the words most renowned musical organisations. 

For close to 45 years, SYO has been a vital part of the cultural life of our nation by training thousands of talented young musicians and inspiring them to pursue their musical dreams and take their place in orchestras throughout Australia and the world. SYO has a strong track record of delivering a consistently outstanding educational and performance program and it has grown to encompass 12 orchestras with the launch of the new Western Sydney Youth Orchestra. SYO fills its unique training role within the sector by functioning as a ‘feeder’ of talented musicians to organisations such as the Australian Youth Orchestra (29% of participants), the Sydney Symphony Orchestra (27% of all participants), the Australian Chamber Orchestra (16% of all participants) and the Australian World Orchestra (32% of all participants).

SYO’s program not only equips members for a career as a professional musician. The orchestral training program teaches teamwork, discipline, dedication, leadership, and a commitment to excellence. Whatever career path these talented young people follow, they are likely to become leaders in and contributors to the community. In WSYO, young musicians aged 13-24 from across Greater Western Sydney will finally have the opportunity to access the full SYO orchestral training program as part of this unique cultural initiative. Our aim is to reduce the barriers to participation for young people across the West so that they have access to the very best arts and culture programs our State has to offer.

SYO is keen to work with local businesses in order to enhance their events and public profile, as well as develop avenues for funding so that scholarships can facilitate more young talented musicians being part of this ensemble. Please contact Sydney Youth Orchestras CEO Yarmila Alfonzetti about opportunities for your business with WSYO – yarmila.alfonzetti@syo.com.au