The European Union Youth Orchestra (EUYO) is one of the world's pre-eminent symphony orchestras. Described by the UK Guardian as having “gripping, exhilaratingly good orchestral playing, surging with energy, laser-sharp focus and collective daring... [with] a technical prowess that is downright terrifying”, and by EU Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker as “the best possible ambassador for the European Union” it has provided an exceptional bridge between music colleges and the professional music world for generations of Europe's finest musicians since its foundation in 1976.

 

 

Founded by Joy and Lionel Bryer in 1976, the EUYO has been a Cultural Ambassador for the European Union for more than forty years. The EUYO’s Honorary Patrons include the Heads of Government of all of the EU’s Member States, and the President of the European Commission and the President of the European Parliament.

 

The Shanghai Orchestra Academy (SOA) is the result of a partnership among the Shanghai Symphony Orchestra, New York Philharmonic, and Shanghai Conservatory of Music. Maestro Long Yu, Music Director of the Shanghai Symphony Orchestra, serves as the President of the Academy.