Gold Coast Youth Orchestra reveals its colourful history for 50 year anniversary

‘Any kid who showed up with an instrument got into the orchestra’: As it celebrates 50 years of making music, a Gold Coast youth orchestra has shared its humble beginnings.

AFTER 50 years, the Gold Coast Youth Orchestra is still striking a chord with the music community.

As the orchestra prepares for its jubilee concert tomorrow (SUBS DECEMBER 21) night, GCYO volunteer Kaye Cabale says the evening will highlight the rich history of the company which started in 1969.

“The first few rehearsals were held at the house of Dr Rudi Levy on Scarborough St. In those days to get copies of music, the parents would take a copy home and write it out by hand,” Mrs Cabale said.

“Initially, any kid who showed up with an instrument got into the orchestra.”

Since then the orchestra has grown to accommodate six factions including two symphony groups, two big band groups and an alumni orchestra.

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The Gold Coast Youth Orchestra celebrates 50 years of performing music this year and will mark the occasion with a show at HOTA tomorrow night. Photo: GCYO Facebook.

Mrs Cabale said some students had gone on to colourful careers in the arts.

“Kristian Bezuidenhout, he’s a renowned piano player. Dean Newcomb is a clarinetist and now plays with the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra,” she said.

“Sally Gregory, who played at the very first rehearsal in 1969, will be playing flute on Saturday night (at the 50-year concert).”

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GCYO spokeswoman Serana Neve said one of the most heartwarming aspects of the orchestra was seeing children from all walks of life coming together to play music.

“The diversity is amazing. It’s not just an organisation for rich kids,” Ms Neve said.

“That’s what I love – the kids are from completely different backgrounds and they all come together and make this friendship. It’s not bound by nationality or socio-economic status.”

The Gold Coast Youth Orchestra 50 Year Alumni Concert will be performed at HOTA tomorrow night from 6.30pm. Tickets from $10. Visit gcyo.com.au