The Horizon school hosted the Yangon Orchestra on campus on August 23rd, 2008. This music party was organized by the high school students (grades 10-11-12). The concert ranged from classical to modern music including a piece by a Burmese composer.

After the performance, we interviewed some of the orchestra crew and found out more about it.

The Yangon Orchestra, which is seeking to become a full symphony orchestra and a breeding ground for generations of talented musicians, was set up on February 11 in 2008 when a small private concert was held at the International Business Centre. (The Myanmar Times)

They played five extracts:

1. The Serenade No.13 for strings in G Major, K .525, “Eine Kleine Nachtmusik” by W.A. Mozart (1756-1791)
2. Largo, 2 Movement from Concerto No.4 in E Minor RV, ‘Winter’ by Antonio Vivaldi (1678-1741)
3. ‘The War’ by Saw James Hsar Doe Soe, the Yangon orchestra (born:1986)
4. ‘Londonderry’ by Owen Goldsmith(born:1932)
5. Can-Can by Richard Meyer

 

The conductor

The orchestra conductor was a young gentleman in his early twenties. Later, he introduced himself as John. He is a violinist and does not usually conduct the concerts. However, since the musicians are mostly part-timers, John is one of the few to volunteer to do the job whenever the main conductor is on leave.

John has graduated from a university with a degree in economics. He likes playing in the Yangon orchestra. He learned to appreciate music in the church. “I am a Christian; my religion influences me to become a musician. I always see people play music in the church, so I learned from them,” he explains.

It took him a lot of time and effort to learn how to play the violin. After his hard work, he joined the Yangon Orchestra. His only future plan is to keep playing in the group. “I will keep playing and improving my skills in the Yangon Orchestra. I am playing for God,” he says. He likes playing the violin because it gives him a deep feeling which cannot be explained by anyone.

His favorite piece of music is “The War”. It was created by Saw James Sar Do So, his brother.