European Union Youth Orchestra

The European Union Youth Orchestra (EUYO) is one of the world’s leading youth symphony orchestras. Since its founding in 1976, it has brought together the most talented young musicians from the member states of the European Union and, like few other ensembles, embodies artistic excellence, cultural exchange, and the European ideal.

Since 2018, the EUYO has been a regular guest in Grafenegg. In early 2023, Grafenegg finally became the orchestra’s official home and administrative headquarters. As a result, one of Europe’s most significant orchestras for young talent is now permanently anchored in the heart of Europe.

The close partnership between Grafenegg and the EUYO also forms the foundation for the new festival Heart of Europe, which will take place starting in 2027 as the third pillar of the Grafenegg summer, alongside the Summer Sounds and the Grafenegg Festival. During a residency lasting several weeks, the young artists will live, work, and make music together in Grafenegg. Concerts, chamber music, workshops, and encounters foster a vibrant exchange between musicians and the audience. The title Heart of Europe describes not only Grafenegg’s geographic location but also the festival’s concept: people from different countries, cultures, and perspectives come together here through music. Europe is not merely represented but brought to life.

Already today, the MusicHub-Austria initiative—a collaboration with Musik & Kunst Schulen Management Niederösterreich—promotes cross-border exchange between the musicians of the Lower Austria Youth Symphony Orchestra and the EUYO. This creates a network that connects young talents and actively shapes the musical future of Europe.