A unique model in France, the Lycée David d’Angers Orchestra (Olda) has brought together several dozen middle and high school students each year since 1983 around the practice of symphonic Music.
This year, 67 musicians make up the orchestra. – © Olda
Since 1983, the symphony orchestra of the Lycée David d’Angers (Olda) has offered a unique musical experience of its kind. This project, carried out by young people aged 12 to 18, today brings together 67 musicians from the David d’Angers middle school and high school.
A story rooted in a common passion
Olda was born from the initiative of Jean Jo Roux, teacher at the David school campus in Angers. “ Inspired by an exchange with a school orchestra from Osnabrück, a twin town with Angers, he decided to bring together students and college students to form a symphony orchestra », Explains Florent Chartier, vice-president of Olda.
From its beginnings, the orchestra has allowed students to practice music in groups in a symphonic setting, while remaining supported by a convention at the high school. This particular link allows musicians outside the school sector to request an exemption to join the establishment.
The orchestra operates under the aegis of the Olda association, entirely managed by parent volunteers. The latter are responsible for various tasks: “ They are present for the organization of concerts, tour logistics, costume management and supervision of young people. “, he specifies.
This collective commitment is essential for the life of the orchestra, especially since its annual budget, which is around 100,000 euros, is 90% based on family contributions and concert ticketing.
The year begins in August for the Olda musicians. – © Olda
A musical and human commitment
The orchestra offers young musicians the opportunity to play in a collective setting, without replacing the musical education provided by conservatories or private teachers.
« The year begins with an intensive course in August, during which participants discover and work on the annual repertoire, ranging from classical to film soundtracks », Continues the vice-president of Olda.
Rehearsals take place every Saturday morning. A rigorous approach, due to a dense schedule: “ The orchestra gives around ten concerts per year, with a mix of concerts nearby, but also internationally. », adds Florent Chartier.
After various destinations such as Germany, Austria and Spain, the orchestra is preparing for a tour of the United States in April 2025, with performances planned in particular in Austin and Houston.
Before the tour, the next performance of Olda will take place at the Chanzy Theater this Wednesday, December 18 for the benefit of the “Music in the hospital” program at Angers University Hospital.
With nearly 40% renewal expected among musicians next year, the orchestra is also banking on its gala concert at the Angers Congress Center, on May 3, 2025, to continue to attract new talents. This concert, open to all, which will also bring together guest orchestras from Spain and Canada, aims to bring together nearly 1,200 spectators.
« Being part of Olda goes beyond simple musical practice, it is a collective adventure which shapes a kind of small family and transmits strong values to young musicians », concludes Florent Chartier.
By Eline Vion.
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