1. How does the Singapore Philharmonic Orchestra showcase Singapore’s cultural diversity?
The Singapore Philharmonic Orchestra showcases Singapore’s cultural diversity by incorporating music from different cultures and traditions into their performances. They often feature works by Singaporean composers or music inspired by local themes, such as traditional folk songs or the diverse religious and ethnic practices in Singapore.
In addition, the orchestra collaborates with musicians from different cultural backgrounds, both local and international, to showcase a diverse range of musical styles. This includes performances with Chinese instrumentalists, Indian classical musicians, jazz artists, and more.
The SPO also actively engages with the local community through outreach programs and educational initiatives, promoting awareness and appreciation for Singapore’s diverse cultural heritage among audiences of all ages.
Overall, the SPO’s commitment to featuring multicultural elements in their performances helps to represent and celebrate the unique cultural identity of Singapore.
2. What impact has the Singapore Philharmonic Orchestra had on promoting classical music in Singapore’s cultural scene?
The Singapore Philharmonic Orchestra (SPO) has had a significant impact on promoting classical music in Singapore’s cultural scene in the following ways:
1. Elevating the standard of classical music: The SPO has brought world-renowned conductors, soloists, and composers to Singapore, exposing audiences to high-quality performances and raising the standard of classical music in the country.
2. Attracting top talent: The orchestra attracts some of the best musicians from all over the world, who bring their expertise and experience to the local music scene. This not only adds diversity to the local classical music scene but also encourages local musicians to strive for excellence.
3. Educating and engaging audiences: One of SPO’s main goals is to educate and engage audiences with classical music. They have various outreach programs that provide opportunities for students and young musicians to learn from professionals through workshops, masterclasses, and open rehearsals.
4. Collaborations with other arts organizations: The SPO frequently collaborates with other arts organizations in Singapore, such as dance companies and visual artists, creating interdisciplinary performances that appeal to a wider audience.
5. Community outreach: The orchestra actively engages with communities by taking part in charity concerts, free outdoor events, and performances in schools and public spaces. This allows more people from diverse backgrounds to experience classical music.
6. Cultural ambassador: As one of the leading orchestras in Asia, SPO serves as a cultural ambassador for Singapore when performing abroad, showcasing Singapore’s vibrant arts scene on an international stage.
In conclusion, the Singapore Philharmonic Orchestra has played a crucial role in promoting classical music in Singapore by elevating its standards, attracting top talent, educating and engaging audiences through outreach programs and collaborations, community outreach initiatives, and representing Singapore’s cultural identity abroad.
3. Are there any specific traditional music or instruments incorporated into the performances of the orchestra?
Yes, the Chinese traditional instruments often used in orchestra performances include the erhu (a two-stringed bowed instrument), guzheng (a plucked zither), pipa (a four-stringed lute) and dizi (a bamboo flute). Other regional instruments may also be incorporated depending on the piece being performed. The use of these traditional instruments adds a unique cultural element to the orchestra’s repertoire.
4. How has the orchestra evolved since its establishment and what is its current role in preserving Singaporean heritage?
The Singapore Symphony Orchestra (SSO) was established in 1979, and has undergone significant changes since then. Here are some key developments in its evolution:
1. Expansion of repertoire: When the SSO first started, it mainly focused on western classical music. However, over the years, it has expanded its repertoire to include a wide range of genres, including contemporary and Asian music.
2. Increase in size and professionalism: The SSO began with a small group of musicians and part-time players. Today, it has grown into a full-size professional orchestra with over 80 full-time musicians.
3. Collaborations with renowned conductors and soloists: The orchestra has worked with internationally acclaimed conductors such as Seiji Ozawa, Sir Simon Rattle, and Vladimir Ashkenazy, as well as world-renowned soloists like Yo-Yo Ma and Lang Lang.
4. Introduction of youth programs: The SSO has also introduced various youth programs to nurture young talents in Singapore. This includes the SSO Fellowship Program for budding orchestral musicians, as well as the Young Musicians’ Academy for young instrumentalists.
5. Outreach and community engagement: The SSO regularly holds concerts outside of concert halls to reach out to different communities such as schools and nursing homes. It also partners with local organizations to bring music to underprivileged groups through outreach projects.
Today, the SSO plays an important role in preserving Singaporean heritage by showcasing diverse cultural influences through its repertoire selection and collaborations with local artists. It also serves as a platform for emerging Singaporean composers to have their works performed by a professional ensemble.
Furthermore, the SSO’s education initiatives aim to cultivate greater appreciation for the arts among future generations, ensuring that Singapore’s musical heritage is passed down and preserved for years to come.
5. Can you elaborate on any unique collaborations between the orchestra and local community groups or artists?
The Greater Bridgeport Symphony has a strong commitment to engaging with and collaborating with the local community. Some unique collaborations in recent years include:
1) A performance featuring the combined talents of the orchestra, local high school choirs, and a renowned soprano from Connecticut.
2) Partnering with local artists to create visually stunning animations that complemented the music being performed by the orchestra.
3) Collaborations with local dance companies to create unique multimedia performances that combine classical music and dance.
4) Working with a community arts organization to commission a new piece of music that tells the story of the city’s history and heritage.
5) Holding “side by side” concerts where advanced students from local music schools are given the opportunity to perform alongside professional musicians in the orchestra on stage.
6) Collaborating with a local theater company to integrate live acting into a concert performance, creating an immersive experience for audiences.
7) Working with a community choir made up of residents from various retirement communities to perform at holiday concerts, bringing together people of different generations through music.
6. How does the orchestra engage with younger generations to promote classical music and cultural exploration among them?
The orchestra engages with younger generations in several ways to promote classical music and cultural exploration among them:
1. Educational outreach programs: The orchestra often organizes educational outreach programs and workshops for children in schools and community centers. These programs aim to introduce young people to different types of classical music, instruments, composers, and the history behind them.
2. Family-friendly concerts: To make classical music more accessible to families, the orchestra also organizes family-friendly concerts that are shorter in duration and have interactive elements such as sing-alongs or instrument demonstrations.
3. Collaborations with youth orchestras: The orchestra may also collaborate with local youth orchestras to give young musicians the opportunity to perform alongside professional musicians. This not only exposes young musicians to high-quality performances but also inspires them to pursue a career in classical music.
4. Discounted tickets: Many orchestras offer discounted tickets for students and young adults, making it more affordable for them to attend performances and experience live classical music.
5. Social media presence: The orchestra utilizes social media platforms such as Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok to connect with younger generations and share behind-the-scenes content, snippets of performances, and educational videos about classical music.
6. Virtual concerts and events: During the COVID-19 pandemic when live performances were not possible, orchestras used virtual platforms to stream concerts and host online events that could be enjoyed by people of all ages from the comfort of their homes.
7. In-school performances: Some orchestras also organize in-school performances where members of the orchestra visit schools to perform for students, giving them a chance to experience a live performance in their own classrooms.
8. Music education programs: Lastly, many orchestras have their own music education programs that provide training, mentorship, and performance opportunities for young musicians interested in pursuing a career in classical music.
7. Are there any upcoming events or concerts that highlight a particular aspect of Singaporean culture through music?
Yes, there are several upcoming events and concerts that showcase different aspects of Singaporean culture through music. Here are a few examples:
1. The National Day Parade (NDP): Held annually on 9 August to celebrate Singapore’s independence, the NDP features performances by local musicians and artists. Each year, the theme of the parade showcases different aspects of Singaporean culture and history through music and dance.
2. Baybeats: This is an annual alternative music festival held at the Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay in July/August. It features a lineup of local and regional bands playing various genres such as indie, folk, punk, metal, and more. The festival highlights the diversity of Singapore’s music scene and promotes up-and-coming local talents.
3. Malay CultureFest: This annual event celebrates traditional Malay arts and culture through various performances including traditional Malay music, dance, and theatre. It is usually held in September at the Malay Heritage Centre.
4. Chinese New Year Concert: Every Chinese New Year, there is a concert featuring traditional Chinese music performed by local musicians using traditional instruments such as erhu (Chinese violin) and guzheng (Chinese zither). This concert highlights the importance of Chinese culture in Singapore’s multi-cultural society.
5. Indian Festival of Music: This annual event showcases classical Indian music from various regions such as Hindustani, Carnatic, and Ghazal performed by both local and international artists. The festival also includes workshops and talks about Indian classical music.
6.Music Carnivals at Gardens by the Bay: Throughout the year, Gardens by the Bay hosts outdoor concerts featuring different genres of music such as jazz, pop, R&B, and world music. These carnivals often include elements of Singaporean culture such as local food vendors selling traditional dishes.
7.Hari Raya Aidilfitri Concert: As one of the major festivals celebrated by the Malay community in Singapore, Hari Raya Aidilfitri is typically accompanied by a concert featuring traditional Malay music and performances. This event showcases the cultural traditions and customs of the Malay community in Singapore.
8. Can you share any behind-the-scenes insights into how the orchestra prepares for performances that blend different cultural elements together?
A: Preparing for performances that blend different cultural elements together involves many levels of collaboration and preparation within the orchestra. First, the conductor will decide on the specific pieces to be included in the performance, choosing a combination that showcases the cultural elements they wish to highlight. The orchestra’s music librarians will then source and prepare all necessary scores and parts for each piece.Next, rehearsals will focus on learning and understanding the musical styles and techniques needed for each cultural element, which often requires bringing in guest artists or experts to provide guidance. These rehearsals may also include discussions about the history and context of each piece.
Additionally, incorporating different cultures into a performance may involve incorporating non-Western instruments or vocal styles. This requires specialized training for the musicians who will play these parts, as well as adjustments to equipment and technical elements like microphone placement.
Finally, dress rehearsals are crucial for fine-tuning the balance between sections of the orchestra and ensuring a cohesive flow between different pieces. This process may involve making last-minute changes or incorporating suggestions from guest artists and conductors in order to create a successful fusion of cultural elements in concert.
9. In your opinion, what makes the orchestra stand out from other orchestras in terms of their approach to incorporating culture and tradition into their performances?
I believe what makes the orchestra stand out is their genuine and authentic approach to incorporating culture and tradition into their performances. This includes a deep understanding and respect for the cultural elements being incorporated, as well as a strong desire to share these traditions with their audience.
The orchestra also excels in seamlessly blending various cultural influences together in their performances, creating a unique and dynamic experience for the audience. They are able to infuse traditional elements in a way that feels natural and organic, rather than forced or novelty.
Another aspect that sets the orchestra apart is their dedication to supporting and showcasing local talent and traditions. By collaborating with local artists, musicians, and performers, they not only bring authenticity to their performances but also support and elevate the cultural traditions of the community they are performing in.
In addition, the orchestra’s performances often go beyond just playing music. They incorporate other elements such as storytelling or visual arts to further bring cultural traditions to life on stage. This multidimensional approach adds depth and richness to their performances, making them truly stand out from other orchestras.
Overall, it is clear that the orchestra has a deep appreciation for culture and tradition, and this shines through in every aspect of their performances. Their commitment to honoring and celebrating different cultures sets them apart from other orchestras, making them truly special.
10. How do international musicians in the orchestra contribute to showcasing Singapore’s cultural richness on a global stage?
International musicians in the orchestra contribute to showcasing Singapore’s cultural richness on a global stage in several ways:
1. Representation of diversity: The presence of international musicians from different countries and cultures highlights the diversity of Singapore’s population and its vibrant multicultural society.
2. Exposure to different music styles: These musicians bring with them a wealth of musical knowledge, experience, and styles from their respective countries. This allows for a diverse range of music to be performed, showcasing the fusion of different cultural influences in Singapore.
3. Collaborations with local musicians: International musicians can collaborate with local musicians to create unique pieces that combine elements from both their cultures. This not only showcases Singapore’s cultural richness but also promotes cultural exchange and understanding.
4. Showcasing traditional instruments and techniques: With their own expertise and training in traditional music, international musicians can showcase and educate audiences about lesser-known traditional instruments and techniques from their home countries.
5. Connecting with global audiences: International musicians have networks and connections with other orchestras or music communities around the world. Their performances in Singapore can open up opportunities for collaboration, exchange programs, or even touring opportunities for local musicians abroad.
6. Exposure to new audiences: By performing alongside local musicians, international musicians can bring a new audience from their home country to experience Singapore’s music scene and vice versa, creating more visibility for Singapore’s cultural richness on a global scale.
7. Promoting cross-cultural understanding: Music is a universal language that transcends borders, and by showcasing the diversity of musical expressions within an orchestra setting, it promotes understanding, appreciation, and respect for different cultures.
8. Cultural ambassadors: International musicians act as cultural ambassadors when they perform on foreign stages, representing not just themselves but also Singapore’s musical culture and identity.
9. Building bridges between nations: The collaborations and connections formed through performances by international musicians can help build bridges between nations through shared appreciation for music.
10. Positive impact on tourism and reputation: Ultimately, an orchestra with international musicians performing represents the cultural vibrancy of Singapore to a global audience, thus enhancing its reputation and promoting tourism.
11. Are there any outreach programs or initiatives by the orchestra to introduce classical music and cross-cultural understanding to underprivileged communities in Singapore?
Yes, the Singapore Symphony Orchestra has several outreach programs and initiatives aimed at introducing classical music to underprivileged communities in Singapore:
1. Community Concerts: The orchestra regularly organizes free community concerts in various locations such as community centers, schools, and hospitals to reach out to different segments of society.
2. SSO Exposed!: This program is a series of interactive concerts aimed at educating and engaging students from diverse backgrounds, including underprivileged communities. The concerts feature performances by the orchestra as well as student participation and interactive Q&A sessions.
3. Children’s Choir: The orchestra has a children’s choir made up of young singers from less privileged backgrounds. They are given opportunities to perform with the orchestra and participate in workshops and masterclasses.
4. Instrument Playground: This is an interactive exhibit that travels to various locations around Singapore, allowing children from all backgrounds to try out different musical instruments and learn about them.
5. Music for Our Young: This program provides free access to selected main season concerts for students from underprivileged backgrounds.
6. Young Musicians Project (YMP): A flagship program that nurtures young musicians from low-income households through music education scholarships, instrument loans, mentoring programs, and performance opportunities.
7. Outreach collaborations with charities: The orchestra collaborates with various charities such as Beyond Social Services, Autism Resource Centre (Singapore), TOUCH Community Services to bring music education workshops and performances to disadvantaged communities.
12. Has the repertoire of songs performed by the orchestra expanded beyond classical European pieces to include works from other cultures as well?
Yes, many orchestras today include works from other cultures in their repertoire. This not only reflects the increasing diversity of audiences and musicians, but also showcases the beauty and richness of music from different parts of the world. Orchestras may incorporate pieces from regions such as Latin America, Asia, and Africa, as well as traditional folk music and popular songs. This trend has been growing in recent years as orchestras seek to broaden their appeal and connect with a wider audience. Some orchestras even incorporate world music instruments into their performances or collaborate with musicians from diverse backgrounds to create unique fusion pieces that blend elements from different cultural traditions.
13. How have audience demographics for performances by the Singapore Philharmonic Orchestra changed over time, especially with regards to diversity representation within attendees?
There is limited data on the demographics of audience members for performances by the Singapore Philharmonic Orchestra over time. However, based on anecdotal evidence and reports, there have been efforts made to increase diversity representation within attendees.
1. Increase in Younger Audience Members
In recent years, there has been a noticeable increase in younger audience members at Singapore Philharmonic Orchestra performances. This may be due to efforts by the orchestra to introduce classical music to children and students through activities such as school concerts and tickets discounts for students.
2. More Diverse Programming
The Singapore Philharmonic Orchestra has also made conscious efforts to diversify its programming, showcasing a range of genres, cultures and styles of music. This has attracted a more diverse audience with different cultural backgrounds.
3. Promoting Inclusivity
The orchestra has also been actively promoting inclusivity and diversity within its concerts. For example, they have collaborated with local artists from different communities and featured diverse works that represent various cultures.
4. Efforts to Attract Minority Groups
Efforts have also been made to specifically attract minority groups such as low-income families and elderly individuals who may not typically attend classical music performances due to financial or accessibility barriers.
5. Demographics Data Limited But Shows Some Diversity
Although there is limited data on the demographics of audience members, surveys conducted by the orchestra in 2017 showed that its audience was predominantly Chinese (around 60%) followed by Caucasians (around 20%). The remaining percentage consisted of Malays, Indians and other races. While this may not fully represent the diversity of Singapore’s population, it does show some progress in attracting a more diverse audience compared to previous years.
In conclusion, while there is no specific data on how audience demographics for performances by the Singapore Philharmonic Orchestra have changed over time with regards to diversity representation within attendees, there have been visible efforts made by the orchestra to promote diversity and inclusivity, resulting in a more diverse and inclusive audience.
14. Have there been instances where non-Singaporean musicians were inspired by local traditional music or culture, and incorporated it into their own performances with the orchestra?
Yes, there have been instances where non-Singaporean musicians have been inspired by local traditional music or culture and incorporated it into their performances with the orchestra. For example, in 2017, the Singapore Chinese Orchestra collaborated with French harpist Sylvain Blassel on a program that combined traditional Chinese music with classical western music. The program included a piece called “The Kitten on the Roof” which was inspired by the Malay folk song “Rasa Sayang Eh”. In addition, in 2019, renowned German conductor Christian Schumann led the Singapore Symphony Orchestra in a performance of “Saibai Island” by Australian composer Graeme Koehne. The piece was inspired by the music of the Torres Strait Islands and incorporates elements of traditional island dances and songs. By collaborating with international musicians and incorporating local traditions into their performances, these orchestras are not only promoting the rich cultural heritage of Singapore but also fostering cross-cultural understanding and appreciation through music.
15. In your opinion, how does having a diverse group of musicians from different backgrounds contribute to making performances by the orchestra more culturally enriching for audiences in Singapore and abroad?
Having a diverse group of musicians from different backgrounds greatly enhances the cultural richness and depth of performances by the orchestra. Each musician brings their own unique perspective, musical style, and personal experiences to the performance, creating a dynamic and diverse ensemble.
1. Exposure to Different Musical Styles: With a diverse group of musicians, the orchestra has access to a wide range of musical styles, techniques, and traditions from different cultures. This creates an opportunity for audiences to experience and appreciate new sounds and music that they may not have been exposed to before.
2. Increased Understanding and Appreciation for Different Cultures: By working closely with musicians from different backgrounds, audiences are able to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for different cultures. This not only enriches their musical experience but also broadens their perspective on cultural diversity.
3. Authentic Representation: Having musicians from diverse backgrounds allows the orchestra to accurately represent the music of various cultures. It adds authenticity to their performances and ensures that the music is presented in its most genuine form.
4. Breaking Cultural Barriers: Music has the power to bring people together regardless of their differences. By having a diverse group of musicians, the orchestra can bridge cultural gaps and break barriers between communities through their performances.
5. Global Appeal: With Singapore being a melting pot of cultures, having a diverse orchestra makes them more relatable and appealing not just locally but also internationally. Audiences in other countries can see themselves represented on stage through the diversity of the musicians in the orchestra.
6. Creative Collaboration: A diverse group of musicians brings together different ideas, perspectives, and skills which can lead to innovative collaborations and interpretations of music. This adds another layer of excitement for both performers and audiences alike.
In conclusion, having diversity within an orchestra allows for a more culturally enriching experience for audiences as it creates a platform for cross-cultural exchange, understanding, and appreciation through music.
16. Can you walk us through some upcoming collaborations that could potentially bring forth fresh interpretations of traditional culture through performance by the orchestra?
A few upcoming collaborations that could potentially bring forth fresh interpretations of traditional culture through performance by the orchestra include:
1. Commissioning a new work from a contemporary composer who incorporates elements of traditional music from a specific culture into their composition. This could be an opportunity to showcase the unique sounds and rhythms of different ethnic or folk traditions, and explore how they can interact with and be adapted for an orchestral setting.
2. Collaborating with local cultural organizations or ensembles from a specific cultural background to create a multi-cultural concert experience. This could involve featuring guest artists, musicians, or dancers who specialize in a particular style or repertoire, and showcasing their artistry alongside the orchestra’s performance.
3. Partnering with visual artists to incorporate multimedia elements into orchestral performances. This could include projected images, videos, or live visuals that are inspired by or depict traditional cultural practices, stories, or symbols.
4. Performing arrangements of traditional songs or folk melodies with an orchestral twist. This could involve working with arrangers who have expertise in blending different musical styles and creating unique arrangements that showcase the diversity of traditional music.
5. Hosting workshops or masterclasses with traditional musicians from various cultures to learn and collaborate together. This would allow for the exchange of ideas and techniques between different musical traditions, leading to new interpretations and fusions of traditional culture through performance.
6. Utilizing technology to explore virtual collaborations with musicians from around the world who specialize in traditional forms of music-making. Through online platforms and tools, orchestras can connect with artists from diverse backgrounds and create performances that bridge geographical boundaries and showcase the richness of different cultural expressions.
Overall, by actively seeking out collaborative opportunities and incorporating elements of diverse cultural traditions into their programming, orchestras can present fresh interpretations of traditional culture through their performances while also promoting cross-cultural understanding and appreciation among their audiences.
17. Besides classical music, are there any other forms of art or culture that the orchestra explores through their performances?
Yes, many orchestras also incorporate visual arts, such as dance or multimedia projections, into their performances. They may also collaborate with other forms of music, such as jazz or electronic music, to create unique and innovative performances. Additionally, some orchestras have educational programs that involve exploring different cultures and traditions through music.
18. How does the orchestra strike a balance between maintaining cultural authenticity while also experimenting with contemporary elements in their performances?
The orchestra strikes a balance by incorporating both traditional and contemporary elements in their performances. They may use traditional instruments and musical styles, but also incorporate contemporary arrangements, compositional techniques, and collaborations with modern musicians or artists. They also often reinterpret traditional pieces in a new and fresh way. The orchestra’s goal is to stay true to the cultural roots of their music while remaining relevant and appealing to diverse audiences.
19. Can you name a few specific songs or pieces that have been prominent in showcasing Singaporean cultural heritage through the orchestra’s performances?
1. “Di Tanjong Katong” – a nostalgic folk song that is often performed by the Singapore Symphony Orchestra during national events.
2. “The Nutmeg Tree” – a musical adaptation of a popular Singaporean novel, composed by Cultural Medallion recipient Dick Lee and performed by the Singapore Symphony Orchestra in 2006.
3. “Chan Mali Chan” – another well-known folk song that has been arranged for orchestral performances and is often included in cultural showcases.
4. “Singapura Suite” – a collection of orchestral pieces that depict different facets of Singapore’s multicultural society, composed by Cultural Medallion recipient Kelly Tang and premiered by the Singapore Symphony Orchestra in 1996.
5. Theme from “Under One Roof” – a popular TV sitcom in the 1990s that featured an iconic theme song, later arranged for orchestra and performed at the National Day Parade in 2019.
6. “Home” – a widely recognized patriotic song written by local music veteran Dick Lee, which has been performed regularly by the Singapore Symphony Orchestra as part of their repertoire.
7. Chinese New Year Medley – an annual tradition for the Singapore Symphony Orchestra to perform a medley of Chinese New Year songs during the festive season, showcasing the country’s Chinese cultural heritage through traditional instruments and arrangements.
8. National Anthem of Singapore – also known as “Majulah Singapura”, this stirring anthem is often included in SSO performances during national events, eliciting pride and patriotism among audiences.
9. Malay Folk Songs Suite – a collection of traditional Malay melodies arranged for orchestra, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Singapore’s Malay community.
10. Music from Peranakan Culture – Peranakan culture (a unique blend of Chinese and Southeast Asian influences) is often reflected in traditional music arrangements featuring instruments such as the ruan (Chinese lute) and kompang (Malay hand drum), which have been included in performances by the SSO.
20. Finally, what do you see as potential future directions for the orchestra in terms of promoting cultural exploration and diversity through music in Singapore?
I think there are many potential future directions for the orchestra in terms of promoting cultural exploration and diversity through music in Singapore. Here are a few ideas:
1. Collaborating with local musicians from different ethnicities and backgrounds to create unique and diverse performances.
2. Incorporating traditional instruments and styles from different cultures into orchestral compositions.
3. Introducing educational programs that teach about the history, traditions, and musical styles of different cultures.
4. Organizing workshops or events that allow audience members to participate in creating music from different cultures.
5. Partnering with cultural organizations or embassies to showcase their music and traditions through performances.
6. Hosting themed concerts that focus on a specific culture or region, featuring guest musicians, dancers, and storytellers.
7. Including music from various cultures in regular concerts as part of the repertoire, showcasing the beauty and diversity of global music.
8. Creating outreach programs that bring live orchestral performances to underserved communities in Singapore to expose them to musical experiences they may not have access to otherwise.
9. Working with schools and educational institutions to incorporate multicultural music education into their curriculum.
10.One potential future direction could be the formation of a multicultural youth orchestra where young musicians from diverse backgrounds can come together to learn, perform, and share their cultural heritage through music.