On 11 October 2020, Zurich Youth Symphony Orchestra performed to the socially distanced audience of the Innsbruck Haus der Musik

It’s been a year like no other filled with travel disruption and uncertainty, every country with different restrictions and requirements; the COVID-19 pandemic has affected how we travel, how we experience music and how we live our lives. Despite these challenges (including torrential rain on the journey to Austria), the Zurich Youth Symphony Orchestra, each with their own individual music stand, face mask and hand sanitiser, performed a wonderful concert programme under the baton of David Bruchez-Lalli to a sold out and socially distanced audience at the Haus der Musik Innsbruck.

Beginning with an impressive performance of the Sibelius Violin Concerto by 14-year-old soloist Raphael Nussbaumer there followed a rousing rendition of Dvorak Symphony No.7; the audience support was palpable and the applause lasted for several minutes. This was a benefit concert raising money for Hospizhaus Tirol, a local organisation providing end of life care and support to people and their families and a substantial amount was donated to the charity. All in all, the concert was a triumph and everyone returned home happy and encouraged by the success. It was great to have a group on the road, sharing in their positive experience during these demanding times.  

For more information about how to plan your next concert tour, including questions about risk assessments and what steps you need to take to ensure your tour is as safe as possible, do contact us today.

Say Olá to Saraswati! Saraswati is part of our world wide network of concert representatives and looks after all of our arrangements in Portugal including Madeira and the Azores. 

What have you been up to this summer? 

Taking and enforced holiday! That said, I have just finished harvesting our figs and I'm about to deal with our olive crop!

What do you do when you’re not organising concerts for your next group to Portugal? 

Whilst I'm not working for ACFEA, I direct and manage the running of the Coral Sinfónico de Portugal 

What is your favourite region of Portugal? 

The more striking north, the historic central region, the ever sunny south :  all picturesque in their own distinctive way, and populated by pathologicaly friendly people! Take your pick!

What’s your top travel advice? 

Take a Sudoku and a Kindle!

Name the one thing you never travel without? 

Pencil and rubber!

What is your most memorable performance you’ve organised? 

Oh gosh!  So many.  Last year, I really enjoyed the Tiffin Boys' Choir performance in the beautiful Igreja de Lapa in Porto where they could adjourn to the fabulous Portrait Room to do their secular repertoire, plus their informal concert in the Livraria Lello, also in Porto.