Experience in the Metropole Youth Orchestra

Kristians Kalva on projects of the Netherlands Youth Jazz Orchestra

Every year in April, the Metropole Orchestra holds auditions for a youth orchestra where there is an opportunity to play with world-renowned jazz artists and current jazz orchestra conductors’ arrangements. Auditions take place in person, where there is a competition for each musician’s spot. Later, if you are selected, there are two major projects in the summer and autumn, each including multiple concerts. It is worth trying for everyone because not trying is easier.

For many Latvian students studying in the Netherlands, the question may arise of whether to apply for something like this. Based on my experience, I can definitely say that one must try and do everything possible to be part of such projects. It may seem from the outside that it’s just a student orchestra and nothing more, but in reality, it is a replica of the big Metropole Orchestra, where everything is organized according to the same principles as the actual staff musicians. During the project, a musician from the large orchestra is assigned to each group of students to share experiences and promote better results in the concerts. Throughout the project week, there are several rehearsals and technical preparations for the concert series, and organizers have also arranged various masterclasses with industry specialists. It was interesting to learn how one of the largest concert halls in the Netherlands operates, with more than five halls, and the staff explained the technical details and how musicians are selected for the next season’s program.

I had the honor of participating in the competition for two years, but it was in the second year that we had an autumn project with conductor Johan Nuffer and Donny McCaslin, where we played specially arranged compositions by Donny and throughout the week, we had the opportunity to communicate with the soloist, ask questions. Thankfully, Donny was open and shared his experience, giving recommendations for the future. The summer project, on the other hand, was a blend of Eastern and Western music with conductor Tom Cohen, featuring many Eastern instrumentalists as soloists. We were taught how to play this genre of music and how to stylistically perform, with the goal being to create the best possible sound. Ultimately, the best music students studying in the Netherlands are selected, and the quality is exceptional.

From my perspective, I can say that anyone who has the opportunity should try their best in such a project and not look for excuses or fear not being chosen. I personally went without any expectations and did my best on the spot because the jury is truly kind and will select fairly. Over these two years, I learned how to collaborate with musicians from different countries, each with a different temperament. Communication was key, along with punctuality, as there was no room for lateness in such projects due to the significant costs involved. Organizers expected the same level of professionalism from us as from a professional ensemble, ensuring that nobody would delay or talk during rehearsals. Therefore, one must be prepared to stay focused and serious throughout the working hours. It is essential to be honest with yourself when preparing initially to achieve a good result. As for this type of competition, the requirements found on the website each year may have nuances, but everything is achievable.