The annual Sunshine Coast Youth Orchestra camp was held at the QCCC facility in Mapleton on May 6, 7 and 8 with more than 220 kids aged 8-17 years performing a concert for friends and family.

Established in 1989, the Sunshine Coast Youth Orchestra (SCYO) is a non-profit organisation that provides orchestral music opportunities for young musicians up to 18 years of age.

Music Director Maria Salmon leads a team of six professional conductors. The Orchestra draws talented young musicians from across the Sunshine Coast & Hinterland areas into one or more of seven ensembles. 

Nambour BOQ Owner-Manager Matt Wall was a keen observer of the concert. Matt’s Bank of Queensland Nambour & Hinterland branch provides an annual Bursary and sponsorship to help musicians and their families participate in the program. 

Matt said he was proud to support the orchestra and encourage and harness children’s musical interests.  

“BOQ backs Owner-Managers like myself to support their communities with organisations that might be close to their hearts,” he said. “The reason I do this is when I was growing up I had to give up my music as the family didn’t have the funds to support me, so this is one small way I can give back.”

Matt said the SCYO offers musicians from novice to advanced placement into string ensembles for all levels, bands including symphonic winds, stage band and a full symphonic orchestra which provide opportunities for musically-minded youth.

“The quality of the performances from the SCYO is truly phenomenal – it is hard to believe the kids are so young,” Matt said. 

“The Orchestra collaborates across Queensland with community and professional orchestras alike to help kids thrive. It’s a wonderful organisation. I’m so proud to support it.”

• To find out more about SCYO please see visit www.scyo.org.au or the Facebook page. The next public performance is a themed concert Movie Music on June 11 starting at 3pm in the Calvary Church in Buderim.