Founded in 2019, the Orchestra is a product of the annual European Summer Music Academies held in Kosovo since 2012. The EU, the Czech Embassy in Pristina, and many other partners were there to support them along the way, and these days they are supporting their 2022 Western Balkans tour.

Seeking knowledge

WBYO means a lot to its members. To Alkesta, a viola player from Gjakovë/Đakovica, being part of the Orchestra is an opportunity to gain knowledge beyond what is available in Kosovo. She sees her work with the Orchestra as a privilege and a responsibility to herself and her professional development. 

“The mentality and tradition of fellow Western Balkans musicians are more similar than different. This is why I enjoy the rehearsals and the time that the Orchestra spends together. We overcome challenges and we make it all work because we focus on carrying out the same musical idea,” she said.   

Righting the wrongs

For Nataša, a 21-year violinist from Banja Luka, the WBYO presents a chance to right the wrongs.

‘’I grew up in Bosnia and Herzegovina, where three ethnic groups coexist, so I was brought up to look at everyone as my equal. I carry that from my family, and I am tired of political issues and negativity that surround and divide our region,’’ she said.

“I often hear the older generations complaining about how the young people of today are not good, but I strongly disagree. It is the older generations that were not so good. We are here today because of their choices. However, we can learn from them and do better. We can create new and beautiful experiences, and we can leave the past where it belongs, in the past,” added Nataša, and Fuad, a 27-year-old assistant orchestra conductor from Sarajevo agreed: "'Young people are what connects us in the Western Balkans. It is our duty to educate older generations and to clean up their mess. We can only do that by promoting culture, sports, and arts in the region."

Learning and fun

Violinists Megi from Vlora and Ana from Tetovo appreciated the opportunity to learn musical pieces they did not play before and to learn from more experienced musicians and conductors.

“There are not that many differences between the musicians. Not speaking the same language is not an issue, English works. When we are not playing, we also learn each other’s languages and translate jokes. As friends, we are having a lot of fun," they said, and Fuad added: "The key to WBYO's uniqueness and success is in a constant process of learning from each other, as well as the professionalism and dedication of each member.”

Balkan passion and Western structure

Jelena, a violinist from Podgorica, who currently studies in Austria, noted that the young musicians from the region have the best combination of musical elements.

“We have a Balkan passion, and we match it with the western structure as we create magic. It takes 30 musicians with unique experiences and skills to create the music that is universal, powerful, and unique,” said Jelena hoping that the Orchestra will manage to show others that everything is possible when music is a common language.

Respect and acceptance

After Pristina, the Orchestra is headed to Skopje, Novi Sad, Mostar, and Kotor. Commenting on the whole experience Milica, a cellist from Kruševac, pointed out that the most important thing is respect and acceptance of others regardless of race, creed, and nationality.

“We have to have acceptance for new experiences, and we have to get to know each other and build sustainable networks. We also have to make an effort to understand each other and learn from each other with curiosity and an open mind,” she said.

The WBYO held their rehearsals in Pristina from 14 to 20 July. They are having concerts in the region from 21 to 28 July, and in August, they will travel to Germany to perform in Berlin, Kassel, Königswinter, Aachen & Essen.