Spring concert delights audience in Kathmandu

The Kathmandu Youth Orchestra, dedicated to nurturing young musicians and promoting cultural music, mesmerized audiences with their spring concert on Saturday, April 20. The student concert, titled ‘Spring Concert, Tunes of Nepal’ was held at the Russian Culture Center, Kamalpokhari, Kathmandu.

Established in 2011, Kathmandu Youth Orchestra showcased a diverse array of instruments, including Violins, Piano, Cello, Guitar, and more, under the presence of Deputy Mayor of Kathmandu Metropolitan City Sunita Dangol.

The evening commenced with the stirring rendition of the national anthems of Nepal and Russia, setting the stage for an unforgettable musical journey. Highlighting Newa songs, the program featured captivating performances such as ‘Mangal Dhun’ and concluded with the ‘Lakhey Dance’.

Deputy Mayor Dangol expressed her appreciation, stating, “Kathmandu Metropolitan City has been supporting music in various ways. It’s crucial to recognize and encourage musicians, fostering a new generation filled with musical spirit. I’m delighted to witness three generations come together on one stage with such joy.”

John Sharply, a distinguished music educator, composer, and pianist from Singapore, emphasized the profound significance of music, saying, “Music lies in all of our hearts, we all are musical, we are born musical, even science tells us we are born to experience music. Music is a profound part of our identity and our life. It’s a privilege to meet amazing people with a different diversity of backgrounds, ages and yet all of them come together for one common goal, and that goal is music.”

Sharply was born in Houston, Texas, and obtained a doctorate in composition from Boston University. He also earned both a bachelor of music and a master of music from the University of Houston, in addition to diplomas in piano, violin, and composition from the National Conservatory of Music in Strasbourg, France. 

After the musical performance, there was a book launch for ‘Nepali Orchestra (Tunes of Nepal) Vol 1’, which features transcriptions of Nepali and Nepal Bhasa folk and traditional songs written in staff notation.

The concert not only showcased the talent of young musicians but also celebrated the rich musical heritage of Nepal, leaving the audience enchanted and inspired, say the organizers.