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Joy Bryer reveals those who have inspired her professional life.

Rt Hon Sir Edward Heath KG MBE

As Founding President of the International Youth Foundation of Great Britain, under whose auspices the European Union Youth Orchestra (EUYO) was founded in 1976, Ted was passionately committed to Europe and the arts. He knew everyone operating in Europe and dedicated himself to ensuring the success of our orchestra. Ted taught me everything I know about working fruitfully with the then nine governments (now 27) of the European Parliament, Commission and the Council of Ministers. He positioned the Orchestra at the very highest level in Europe by requesting the ongoing patronage of Presidents, Prime Ministers, Foreign Ministers and Culture Ministers. He was absolutely fundamental in bringing the EUYO into existence, and the international success we enjoy today is due to his inspired belief in Europe and its cultural values. I was most fortunate to have learnt so much from such a remarkable, witty, extraordinary leader.

Maestro Claudio Abbado

Claudio was the founding Music Director of the EUYO. His commitment to the Orchestra far exceeded his music directorship. He taught me the essentials of making a great youth orchestra: treat the musicians as professionals; ensure they have great accommodation, wonderful food and excellent modes of travel; perform in superb concert halls; and make sure they have fun! Claudio insisted on the highest level of music-making no matter what the cost. If we didnt have the money, I had to find it a useful lesson. He taught me to negotiate with TV, radio and record companies, and if possible to be paid in advance. He helped to fundraise and donated all his fees to the EUYO in order that we should survive our early years. Working with Claudio was electrifying and his musicianship unequalled. His ethos is still at the heart of our Orchestra.

Rt Hon Baroness Diana Elles

Baroness Elles is a brilliant Barrister, outstanding member of the European Parliament (EP) and former Vice President of both EUYO and the EP. Dianas extraordinary ability to transcend and charm the diverse and varied cultures of the EP is legendary. She was responsible for the all-party vote of the EP that ensured the creation of the EUYO. I learnt from her how to negotiate with and lobby members of the Parliament, and the importance of identifying the key issues surrounding government treaties and the effect it would have on our dialogues with different countries. She also taught me how to write endless documents, how to be patient during seemingly never-ending speeches, and how to soothe and build egos.

Herbert von Karajan

I first met Herbert as he landed his own plane, complete with an aviator helmet, jodhpurs and a baton, on a tiny strip in Courcheval, France, which unfortunately the Mayor didnt extend as per Herberts request. He enthusiastically travelled to work from across Europe, where he worked extensively to rehearse and conduct a youth orchestra. He taught me the art and value of showmanship, how to deal with terrifying egos, and how to manage entourages who followed their idols all over the world. I shall never forget Herbert the time he gave my young musicians, his passion for music-making, his genius and, above all, his humility in the face of great music.

Joy Bryer is Co-founder and Secretary General of the European Union Youth Orchestra.
w. http://www.euyo.org.uk