1996
Berlin (Germany), Verbier (Switzerland)
In 1996 JM World Orchestra brought together outstanding young musicians in Berlin in Germany, for a performance under the guidance of the Russian-American world-class conductor Yakov Kreizberg. The JM World Orchestra is a historical program of Jeunesses Musicales International and it still represents a significant part of the history of the organisation, as well as the first international youth orchestra of its kind.
In 1996, the Jeunesses Musicales World Orchestra (JMWO) was officially designated a UNESCO Artist for Peace. This honor was awarded in recognition of the orchestra's role as a "harmonious community of musicians without borders" and its dedication to promoting international understanding and peaceful cooperation through music.
The orchestra was awarded this title at the opening concert of the Verbier Festival in Switzerland
During this period, the JMWO was headquartered in Berlin (1986–2004), holding regular winter concerts at the Berlin Philharmonie.
The brass ensemble WeltBlech was founded in 1995/96 by members of the JMWO brass section, performing at the Berlin Philharmonic Concert Hall in January 1996.
Conductor
Yakov Kreizberg (1959–2011) was a Russian-American conductor admired for his refined musicianship and intense, detailed interpretations. He served as chief conductor of the Netherlands Philharmonic Orchestra and later held leading positions with the Vienna Symphony Orchestra.
Kreizberg was particularly respected for his interpretations of the German-Austrian repertoire, including composers such as Ludwig van Beethoven and Gustav Mahler, as well as for his clarity of structure, expressive depth, and close collaboration with orchestras and soloists.
Soloist
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