On August 25, 2023, the Ljubljana International Orchestra (LIO) extended a warm embrace to a group of carefully selected young musicians for the 2023 Orchestra Academy through the Sounds of Change open call. Ljubljana radiated with enthusiasm, setting the stage for a highly promising week ahead.
Nurturing Tomorrow’s Musicians
The Orchestral Academy 2023 offered an intensive program carefully crafted to help these talented individuals develop their personal potential and gather invaluable experiences for their future careers. Notably, participating musicians received comprehensive support, including accommodation, meals, and travel expenses, all thanks to Creative Europe´s funding.
Curating an Enriching Experience
This educational program resulted from the hard-work collaboration of Slovenia’s Artistic Director, Živa Ploj Peršuh, and international musicians who were invited as music professors. Together, they offered a great experience and a unique opportunity for all involved, fostering an enduring passion for musical performance.
Concert: August 30th, 2023
– Location: UNESCO Global Geopark in Idrija
– Featured World Premiere Composition: Igor Andrić’s “Triple Goddess,” R. Wagner’s “Wesendonck Lieder,” and J. Brahms’ “Symphony No.4 E-minor, Op. 98”, commissioned by Sounds of Change´s project.
– Soloist: Nuška Drašček
– Conductor: Živa Ploj Peršuh
Concert: August 31st, 2023
The 10th-anniversary concert was filled with vibrant energy! It featured the same outstanding program, and the President of Slovenia, Dr. Nataša Pirc Musar, graciously attended.
Sounds of Change: Shaping Artistry and Beyond
At its core, Sounds of Change holds a mission to provide young musicians with the platform to nurture and refine their skills, paving the way for successful careers in the arts. Through enrollment in the International Orchestra Academy or any other Sounds of Change Project, participants embark on a multifaceted journey. This includes intensive chamber music exchange workshops, master classes, and the opportunity to rehearse and perform on international stages. This initiative not only promotes the exchange of experiences that enable these artists to engage in meaningful interactions but also brings positive changes into the realms of art, society, and the environment.