The National Youth Symphony Orchestra (Orchestre Français des Jeunes, OFJ) was established in 1982 by the French Ministry of Culture. This ensemble serves as a platform for talented young musicians drawn from across France, providing them with significant performance opportunities. The orchestra maintains a rigorous performance schedule, appearing with the Paris, Lyon, and Dijon Philharmonic Orchestras within France, while also participating in prestigious national festivals and undertaking summer tours abroad.
Since 2025, the ensemble has been guided by Estonian conductor Kristiina Poska. Poska is recognized among Europe’s leading conductors for her interpretations of both symphonic and operatic works, and for her extensive work with major European musical institutions. In a recent interview, Poska addressed several facets of the orchestra’s current activities.
The discussion covered the group’s inaugural concert performance in Lithuania, acknowledging the high level of skill displayed by the young musicians. Furthermore, Poska detailed the planning behind the international tour, specifically addressing the selection of the repertoire for the Klaipėda Festival. She explained the criteria used to select what was deemed the most ambitious program for the engagement.
The interview provided insight into the artistic vision guiding the French ensemble as it continues to perform internationally while developing its young membership.
Topics: #orchestra #most #french
