The Pagoda Chinese Youth Orchestra (PCYO) is the first and largest in Europe. During the past 28 years, many young people between the ages of 4 to 20 have learned to play Chinese musical instruments. Orchestra members have included 'BBC' (British Born Chinese), English, Caribbean, children recently arrived from China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Laos, Vietnam, Singapore, and Malaysia.

We strongly believe that during their stay with the orchestra, members do not only learn about music, but they are also able to gain great benefits in regard to: developing self confidence, the team work ethic, leadership skills, positive self-identity, as well as developing self discipline. Last, but by no means least, they can become more aware of their rich cultural heritage.

Classically trained multi-instrumentalist, Mr Li teaches woodwinds, strings and percussion. Mr Li developed bass instruments for the PCYO and this makes it unique. The traditional Chinese orchestras don’t have bass instruments and they still use the cello for the bass sound in China.

Major TV and live performance appearances include:

1. •In 1988 winning an “Outstanding Performance Award” at the national youth festival.
   

2. •Invited to perform at the Schools Proms 1988
   

3. •The Royal Albert Hall, Royal Festival Hall in London, St. David’s Hall, (Cardiff), Liverpool Philharmonic Hall
   

4. •Aldeburgh Music Festival (Snape, Aldeburgh), Eden Project (Cornwall)
   

5. •Shanghai World Expo (Shanghai).
   

6. •Blue Peter
   

7. •Queen’s Jubilee Celebration
   

8. •BBC & TV's coverage of the new millennium;
   

9. •Cbbies ‘Take A Bow’
   

10. •Recording with world acclaimed musician Jah Wobble & won the ‘Best Cross-Cultural Collaboration’ Award from the Song-lines Music Award 2009
    

11. •Performed with the RLPO in the Shanghai World Expo 2010, Shanghai.
    

12. •Performed well respected Liverpudlian folk singer Jacqui MacDonald – ‘The Willow Pattern Song’ , to celebrate Jacqui & Bridie's Folk Club 50th Year and Final Night at the Philharmonic Hall in January 2011
    

13. •7 Gold, 9 Silver and 25 Bronze Arts Award.
    

The PCYO is currently looking at:

1. •Collaboration opportunities
   

2. •Recruiting more members
   

3. •Expanding audiences
   

4. •PCYO meet every Saturday (10 – 3) and Sunday (12 – 4). Young members will be learning their own instruments and practise with the orchestra.
   

We also provide various activities during Easter, and Summer holiday.

  

    ©2012. Pagoda Arts is a registered Charity (1141098) and Company (7035527) in England and Wales.

    Website by: Indigenous