As IYBO 2025 approaches, I eagerly anticipate another week of inspiring music-making. The course offers an immersive experience, filled with engaging baroque dance sessions, stimulating rehearsals, and relaxing Feldenkrais sessions. Participants experience an intense period of learning over just a few days, and the progress from the first day to the final concerts is always remarkable.

Each year, a new orchestra is formed, and the standard of performance reaches even greater heights. Everyone performs on period instruments, which we provide if needed. IYBO has a history of delivering fantastic concerts, including performances at Dublin HandelFest and Waterford City Hall in 2024, as well as Varaždin Baroque Evenings Festival in Croatia in 2022, where the orchestra was honored with the Ivan Werner Award. I am incredibly proud of what the IYBO musicians achieve each year, and I am very much looking forward to meeting and collaborating with the talented musicians who will form IYBO 2025.

Claire Duff
Director
Irish Youth Baroque Orchestra