Nederlands Jeugdorkest

About

Since 1959, Jeugdorkest Nederland (JON) has been one of the Netherlands' key stepping stones for young orchestral talent. Around 75 to 80 musicians aged 14 to 21 come together from across the country to form this symphony orchestra, with members ranging from students balancing school life with their instrument to conservatory students already deep into formal training. Conductor Jurjen Hempel leads the ensemble, drawing fresh, energetic performances from a repertoire that spans baroque and romantic classics through to contemporary works. Every winter the JON takes its annual tour on the road, bringing a young soloist along, traditionally the winner of the NJON Prize at the Prinses Christina Concours from the previous year. For many members the orchestra serves as a genuine launchpad toward a professional music career, though the experience of rehearsing, growing and performing together at this level stays with everyone, whatever path they end up taking.