Boeing

The Asian Youth Orchestra today kicks-off the U.S. portion of its world tour at The Boeing Company's twin-aisle airplane manufacturing facilities in Everett, Wash. The orchestra will perform an informal concert for Boeing employees prior to its official performance tonight at Benaroya Hall, in Seattle. Representatives from Cathay Pacific Airways - a major sponsor of the orchestra - who participated in helping organize the event, also were in attendance.

This year, the Asian Youth Orchestra celebrates its 10th anniversary with 16 performances in Hawaii, Hong Kong, Japan, western Canada and the United States.

The orchestra's 106 talented young men and women represent the finest young musicians in Asia. Chosen from 2,000 students in 11 countries through highly competitive auditions held throughout the region, the musicians are among the best from China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam.

"These musicians are inspirational to me," said Larry Dickenson, Boeing senior vice president - Asia/Pacific Sales. "The musical excellence that these students have achieved comes as a result of being dedicated, persistent and by working together. The passion and the fun they have performing shines through, too."

Under the direction of Music Director and Conductor Sergiu Comissiona, the musicians spend six weeks together during the summer. Three weeks are spent in rehearsal camp, where they practice more than seven hours each day. Then they embark on a three-week tour, during which they perform with major international solo artists.

This is the first time Boeing has been involved with the Asian Youth Orchestra. Boeing has been a long-time patron of arts and cultural organizations throughout the world. The company donates millions of dollars each year in cash and in-kind contributions to support various arts events and promote activities that make improvements in communities throughout the world.