Lukasz Swiatek (LS): Adam, congratulations are in order, firstly, for your success. Had you always aspired to play in the SBS Radio and Television Youth Orchestra?

Adam Wasiel (AW): I think that to be part of a youth orchestra outside of the Conservatorium had been on my mind for quite some time. The interaction with a new diverse group of young musicians, the musical activity (with regular concerts and greater exposure to new and challenging repertoire) as well as the chance to gain invaluable orchestral experience were all factors leading to my wish to join the SBS Youth Orchestra.

LS: A student of the Conservatorium High School, now of the Conservatorium of Sydney. You have also been performing widely around New South Wales. Would you say your invitation to join the Youth Orchestra is the most prominent achievement in your musical “career” thus far?

AW: I would definetely say that it is one of the highlights in presenting me with an golden opportunity to progress and to grow musically. I say one of the highlights for there have been others that I equally cherish – playing my first recital at the Polish Consulate was a very special occasion for me, as were the two Ewa Malewicz Competitions (2004 & 2006) and the numerous Kosciuszko Mountain Festivals. No doubt another achievement will be at the eagerly anticipated Szymanowski 125th Anniversary Concert, which hopefully shall occur later this year to celebrate the great Pole who was Karol Szymanowski.

LS: Describe your first rehearsal. Under whose baton are you now being conducted? Have you already met many like-minded musicians? Will you be required to attend many rehearsals and to sacrifice many hours?

AW: My first rehearsal was very exciting as I had been very curious as to how rehearsals were structured in comparison with the Conservatorium. Our conductor is the Russian born Matthew Krel, a man who from what I have seen, is enormously passionate and dedicated to music and to young people. His enthusiasm and sharpness keeps everybody on their toes and holds their attention throughout the weekly Friday three hour rehearsals. The orchestra is full of energetic musicians whom I have been pleased to meet and talk to agreeing that the weekly exercise is indeed one of time well spent!

LS: The Youth Orchestra is, of course, touring Europe in September 2008, as part of its 20th anniversary celebrations. Hopefully, you will join them, as well!

AW: I very much hope to join the orchestra on its 20th Anniversary 2008 European Tour to Germany, Austria and France.

LS: The Orchestra performs to a very demanding schedule – having given concerts in New Zealand, Tonga, China, New Caledonia, Taiwan, Germany, Austria, France, Malta, Italy, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Estonia, Finland, Spain, Japan and Russia. Poland doesn’t seem to be listed, though! Perhaps you could convince its members to hold a concert or two there, one day...?

AW: That shall indeed be one of my top priorities! Poland’s rich musical heritage warrants if not more than two concerts!