The Future of Youth Orchestra (TFOYO.EU)
Addressing Physiological and Psychological Needs in Young Orchestral Musicians
A groundbreaking research project led by De Unges Orkesterforbund together with Landesjugendorchester Hamburg and ÖGfMM. Partially supported by the EU, this initiative has advanced the physical and psychological well-being of over 130 young musicians.
- Project Documentary
- 360° Rehearsal Experience
- 360° Rehearsal Videos
- Daily Warm-Up
- Sounds & Intensities
- VR Exposure Training
- VR Training
- Stress Monitoring
- Educational Fun Night
- Project Pictures
- Hearing Audiograms
- Hearing Protection Facts
- Ergo-Music Collection
- Research Plan Poster
- Health Surveys
- Ensemble Health Report
- Project Partners
- Web & Blog Postings
- YouTube Channels & Videos
- Further Links
- ÖGfMM Team
- UNOF Team
- LJO Hamburg Team
- Musicians
- Publications
Project Documentary
The TFOYO project concluded with a transformative 10-day summer camp in Bodø, Norway, culminating in an extraordinary concert at the Elbphilharmonie in Hamburg. The initiative integrated artistic excellence with innovative research, focusing on young musicians‘ well-being. A short 2-minute clip provides an impression of the project’s highlights.Watch Documentary | ![]() |
Listen to the different sounds and intensities
During a rehearsal, the sound was recorded at 16 different positions within the orchestra. These recordings allow you to experience the unique timbre and varying sound intensity levels at each location. Explore the Orchestral Soundscape to hear these differences for yourself. You can start and stop the music and click on specific sections to experience the sound from various perspectives within the orchestra. Each position offers a unique auditory experience, showcasing how sound intensity and timbre vary across different locations in the ensemble. Gain invaluable insights into the acoustic dynamics of an orchestra through this interactive tool.Explore Orchestral Soundscape | ![]() |
Daily Warm-Up: „Get in the Zone“
Hearing Protection Facts PDF
Hearing protection is critical for all musicians. Explore the facts: instruments like trumpets, violins, and percussion can produce sound levels exceeding 100 dB, posing a significant risk to hearing. Learn how to protect your ears with effective strategies and understand the devastating consequences of irreversible inner ear damage caused by the loss of hair cells—there’s no cure once they’re gone.Hearing protection is essential for every musician. We provide comprehensive educational resources to ensure young musicians understand the critical importance of safeguarding their hearing for a sustainable and successful musical journey.Download Factsheet | ![]() |
Musicians Hearing Audiograms
![]() | During the project, over 70 musicians underwent professional audiograms to assess their hearing health. While most demonstrated good hearing, some participants revealed early signs of high-frequency hearing loss, potentially linked to exposure to loud music. These findings align with global trends among 20-30-year-olds but emphasize the need for increased awareness and proactive hearing protection strategies among musicians.The audiograms provide valuable insights into the importance of preserving hearing health and underscore the irreversible damage that loud music can cause. Explore the comparative data between project participants and global statistics, shedding light on the critical role of education and protection in safeguarding auditory health.View Audiogram Results |
Virtual Reality Training
The Virtual Reality (VR) Training tools developed at the Motion-Emotion-Lab provide musicians with a unique opportunity to practice performing in iconic concert venues. These tools simulate high-pressure environments, such as the Elbphilharmonie, allowing musicians to refine their stage presence, adjust to acoustics, and build confidence.This training uses photorealistic visuals and augmented acoustics to replicate real-world concert halls. Through motion tracking and real-time feedback, musicians can gain insights into their performance dynamics and adapt to various scenarios effectively. The VR tools are part of a broader effort to integrate technology and artistry, enhancing resilience and improving overall performance quality. Beyond individual practice, VR Training supports pedagogical studies by offering researchers a platform to investigate how environmental factors influence performance. From managing stage fright to fine-tuning interpretative skills, this cutting-edge system is transforming how musicians prepare for their careers.Learn About VR Tools | ![]() |
Virtual Reality Exposure Training (VRET)
![]() | Virtual Reality Exposure Training (VRET) provides musicians with an immersive way to prepare for high-stress performances by simulating real-life scenarios. Using any VR headset, performers can explore venues like the Elbphilharmonie with photorealistic visuals and augmented acoustics, offering a lifelike and adaptive environment for practice.To access the immersive tour, visit vret.at using a VR headset. Focus on hotspots for 3 seconds to navigate between rooms, or look at the floor logo to return to the previous position. The tour can also be explored via a regular browser with mouse clicks, making it accessible for non-VR users as well.This innovative training is a step forward in combining technology and artistry, paving the way for enhanced musical education and stress management.Start VR Tour |
Stress Monitoring with Smartwatches
Watch Stress Monitoring Overview Read about Stress and Challenges | ![]() |
Educational Fun Night
![]() | During the rehearsal week, participants engaged in a Fun Night featuring short lectures on hearing, stress, and health. The night ended with interactive quizzes that reinforced the key learnings. |
Ergo-Music Collection
A collection of ergonomical gadgets, physiological tools and instruments to support Music Performance.
Visit Ergo-Music Collection Website Download PDF
Keywords: physical therapy | ergonomic instrument | carrying aids | gripping aid | ear protection | footrest | support | seat | shoulder rests | chin Rest | accessory | cases | cold protection | rehabilitation | lips and teeth | breathing | sleep and relaxation | lighting | nails | hearing device | physical handicap | sight | prothesis or dysmelia | prevention
360° Rehearsal Experience
Step into the rehearsal setup in Bodø through an immersive 360° Virtual Tour. This detailed experience captures the unique atmosphere of the rehearsals, including acoustic dynamics and spatial sound samples recorded at multiple positions.The tour, created using 3D Vista technology, is designed to provide a seamless experience on any device. On a traditional screen, users can navigate by clicking on hotspots, while VR headset users can immerse themselves fully by focusing on specific areas for 3 seconds to jump between rooms. The floor logo acts as a navigation tool, allowing you to return to your previous position with ease. This interactive tool is perfect for musicians, educators, and enthusiasts, offering a new perspective on orchestral rehearsals and spatial soundscapes. Discover the nuances of rehearsal dynamics and gain deeper insights into how sound and space shape the experience of performers.Explore the Virtual Tour | ![]() |
360° Rehearsal Videos
Research Plan Poster
Learn more about the comprehensive research and methodologies that shaped the TFOYO project. Discover insights on how physiological and psychological needs of young musicians were addressed. | ![]() |
Health Surveys
![]() | Survey Categories:
For results see the Health Data Report |
Ensemble Health Report
Comprehensive health data collected during rehearsals and performances provide exciting insights into the physical and mental well-being of young musicians. The report reveals that 98% of young musicians regularly experience neck pain, 77% continue playing despite discomfort, and many feel that their concerns are not taken seriously. Discover how unhealthy practice habits, asymmetrical playing postures, and excessive performance pressure contribute to these issues – and learn about interventions such as improved warm-up routines, mental training, and strategic breaks that are already making a difference. Explore fascinating statistics and practical recommendations to help you improve your health and performance over the long term. Explore Health Data PDF | ![]() |
tfoyo.eu Project Partners
🇦🇹 AUSTRIA: ÖGfMM – Austrian Society for Musicians’ Medicine Website (E) | Website (D) | ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() Website | ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() Website | ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() | ![]() |
Publications
![]() | Bertsch, M., Reuter, C., Leitz, T. & Roos, M. (2025). Rehearsals, Risks and Resilience: Stress, Acoustics, and Youth Orchestra Performance. In: Fortschritte der Akustik – DAGA 2025, Berlin: DEGA. [Preprint]. Download PDF |
![]() | Bertsch, M. & Reuter, C. (2024). Ears Matter: Protect Them – Hearing Facts Sheet. The Future of Youth Orchestra 2024 Project, Vienna. DOI: 10.13140/RG.2.2.32809.40802 Download Factsheet |
![]() | Bertsch, M., Schmidt, M. & Peschka, M. (2024). Stress Monitoring with the EmbracePlus Smartwatch during Real-Life and Virtual Reality Exposure Training. In: Body, Mind & Music Symposium Proceedings, ÖGfMM Newsletter 8, Wien: ÖGfMM. Download PDF |
![]() | Peschka, M., Bertsch, M., Smale, M., Roos, M., Königseder, L., Reuter, C., Djupedal, B., Steinhagen, C., et al. (2024). Fine-Tuning the Future: Addressing Physiological and Psychological Needs in Young Orchestral Musicians. In: Body, Mind & Music Symposium Proceedings, ÖGfMM Newsletter 8, Wien: ÖGfMM. Download PDF |
![]() | Bertsch, M. & Peschka, M. (2023). Music Performance Science with Virtual Reality: Artistic, Acoustic and Psychological Aspects and Troubles. In: Fortschritte der Akustik – DAGA 2023, Hamburg. Berlin: DEGA. Download PDF |
Pictures from the Project
![]() | Relive the dynamic moments from Bodø and Hamburg with full energy and vibrant colors. These images capture the spirit of the project—the creativity, dedication, and collaboration of the participants and organizers.Discover the stunning collection by Sveinung Hoel Borà, featuring dynamic snapshots of the days filled with music, teamwork, and artistic excellence. Immerse yourself in the visual story of the project’s unforgettable experiences.View Photo Collection |
ÖGfMM Team
UNOF Team
LJO Hamburg Team
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The Digital Wunderkammer of the Landesmusikrats Hamburg e. V. (State Music Council Hamburg is a platform for all actors in Hamburg’s amateur music scene, serving as a knowledge repository, database, and networking tool.
Musicians
We extend our heartfelt thanks and best wishes to the talented musicians who participated in the TFOYO project. Their dedication and artistry are truly inspiring. May their futures be filled with health, creativity, and musical success!
TFOYO Orchestra | 1st ViolinLouise Weitzel (Concertmaster), Ella Svarstad Lauritsen, Valerie Ettenauer, Teodor Nybøle, Sigrid Engelsen Rostad, Lina Donderer, Marta Baches Eckert, Iver Butler Wang, Eline Heistø Carlsen, Beeke Kurdelski, Melina Hübner-Konitsioti, Vera Altreuther, Ellinor Drevvatne, Katharina Heinrich, Mathilda Himmel, Torstein Knardal, Frederik Klein, Jonas Goumairi, Lennart Beck, Lucas Pütter. 2nd ViolinFine Lampert, Cynthia Pigott, Thea Lund Øverland, Marit Bartling, Nele Erdmann, Anna Sæbø, Johanne Nordfjell, Johanna Haul, Aletta Blanke, Ivar Lee Fevang, Hedvig Olin Meling, Anna Katharina Rahmstorf, Annabella Celina Booth, Kathrin Sereße, Anna Lena Seemann, Alma Othilie Bill-Eriksen, Ana Reuschel, Helen Yang, Hannah Baumann, Jasmina Baumann, Floris Paul Frederik Poppe, Domonkos Pésci. ViolaEivind Skeie Dammerud, Clara Gieske, Yoshiko Krawehl, Margrethe Kollien Nygaard, Hedda Kirstine Gudbrandsen, Karline Hjellvik, Ina Aanondsen, Jonas Wuttudal, Erle Marie Tangen Vågen, Annefrid Gaertner, Leonardo Willscher, Signe Rose Nagel-Alne, Simen Rui Eriksson. CelloArina Solheim, Raphaela Heuchmer, Kristian Elias Martinsen, Teresa Sturm, Jan Schurig, Gjermund Pas, Hy Chang Vo, Konrad-Aurelius Osika, Anna Alma Beliakova, Fredrik Heistø Carlsen, Peder Kjerkreit, Juna Becherer, Johanna Schulze, David Csejtey, Charlotte Leathem, Louise Engebretsen, Kha Chang Vo, Hans Ourson Liem, Sofie Chen. Double BassMarlon Kröger, Idun Skei, Tord Robson, Fabian Zwemke, Finja Marzahn, Victoria Maria Kan Selvik, Signe Stensaker, Benno Friedmann, Emma Faber, Noralf Lillevold-Vinje, Jacob Franken, Ole Voß. FluteAnton Eilinghoff, Merle Schnee, Helene Seldal Vangen. OboeLukas Möller, Benjamin Thieroff, Vermund Førisdal, Leon Dalnoki. ClarinetMarlene Sanderell, Olivia Wuttke, Elia de Sandoval, Lene Marie Hofstätter, Johannes Tylden. BassoonBerit Schat, Philipp Lampert, Liann Haaland, Elemine Haare. SaxophoneJoar Henriksen, Robin Rammé. HornVincent Ohnimus, Solrun Hansen Kjestveit, Tuva Kjøbli, Jenny Karoline Fremstad Olsen, Sunniva Åsgård Pedersen, Sigurd Traaseth Skogvang. TrumpetAnneke Kruse, Lena Rehberg, Marie Johnsen Myhra, Torgeir Larsen Haarr, Trym Øien. TromboneJohann Ruwolt, Jan Schulze-Middig, Eliam Wehrstedt, Jakob Bode, Peder Møklegaard, Håkon Rasmussen, Bjørn Mikkelsen, Thorben Buschke. TubaEmil Rademacher Krogsæter, Fabienne Kross. PercussionHugo Crass, Franz Diekmann, Jon Mikkelsen, Nikolai Skilleås, Sofie Voors, Nils Grønbech. HarpSolveig Schürmann, Isabel Henn. PianoEllen Schmidt. CelestaBenjamin Bischoff. |
Other Web and Blog Postings about the Project and Concerts
- Informationen zur Musikergesundheit in der Digitalen Wunderkammer (03-2025) Andreas Gothsch / Landesmusikrat Hamburg e. V.
- Visit to NUSO in Bodø (March 2024)
- LJO’s Exchange with NUSO: August 2024
- Elbphilharmonie Concert Tickets
- Sold Out: Elbphilharmonie Concerts
- Besuch bei dem Norsk Ungdomssymfoniorkester (NUSO) in Bodø (19. März 2024) Marit Bartling LJH Blog (Landesjugendorchester Hamburg / Landesmusikrat Hamburg)
- Marit Bartling LJH Blog (3. September 2024) Unser Austausch mit dem NUSO: Das LJO in Norwegen – 3.8. bis 12.8.2024
- Upcoming Concerts UNOF : NUSO gjester Elbphilharmonie –
- LJO – NUSO Konzert in der Elbphilharmonie Tickets
- Torgeir er i Bodø, men spiller i Elbphilarmonie (9.9.2024) Norsk Ungdomssymfoniorkester NUSO
- Vi er som en stor elefant (8.8.2024) Norsk Ungdomssymfoniorkester NUSO
- Solgte ut Elbphilharmonie (9.10.2024) Norsk Ungdomssymfoniorkester NUSO
- Das LJO in Norwegen – 3.8. bis 12.8.2024 (3.9.2024) Marit Bartling LJH Blog (Landesjugendorchester Hamburg / Landesmusikrat Hamburg)
- Høydepunktene fra Bodø (nuso.no)
- Bruker VR-briller før konsert (nuso.no)
- Solgte ut Elbphilharmonie (orkester.no)
- Høydepunktene fra NUSO samlinga (orkester.no)
- Bruker VR-briller før konsert (orkester.no)
Articles in the Newspaper
- Avisa Nordland 01.08.2024 – Article about the concert with NUSO and LJO in Bodø
- Aftenposten 27.06.2024 – “Kjendiseri fremfor fordypning?” – The concert in Bodø with NUSO and LJO mentioned in an overview of classical concerts in Norway, summer 2024
NUSO Conferences
- 27.04.2024 – Orchestra conference with UNOF, NASOL – the Norwegian Federation for Amateur Symphony Orchestras and EOFed – European Orchestra Federation in Bodø. The project and its collaborators LJO, BDLO (Germany), and ÖGfMM (Austria) were presented.
- 05.11.2024 – “Inspirational Coffee” (online event) with organizations that work with music and young people in Norway. The project’s results and content were discussed.
Participant Information
Ethical guidelines and forms for participants in Bodø and Hamburg 2024 are available for review. All project participants were thoroughly informed about the research goals, methods, and data handling through detailed briefings and a dedicated consent process. Participation was entirely voluntary, with the option to withdraw at any stage without consequences.
See also related YouTube Channels, Videos and Web Ressources
- Musculoskeletal Health for Young Performers (Healthy Conservatoires)
- Hearing Conservation Guidance for the Performing Arts (Healthy Conservatoires)
- Musculoskeletal Health for Young Performers (Healthy Conservatoires)
- Noise Induced Hearing Loss for Performers (Healthy Conservatoires)
- Prevention of Performers‘ Musculoskeletal Issues (Healthy Conservatoires)
- Symptoms of Performers‘ Musculoskeletal Issues (Healthy Conservatoires)
- Treatment of Performers‘ Musculoskeletal Issues (Healthy Conservatoires)
- Healthy Conservatoires Network (Healthy Conservatoires)
- Tuning in – gesund üben, stark performen @Tuning_in_
- Shepheard, Rob, Finola M. Ryan, Paul Checkley, and Claire Cordeaux. Hearing Conservation for Performers: Best Practice Guidance 2020. London: British Association for Performing Arts Medicine (BAPAM), 2020. .
- Don’t Cramp Your Style: Warm Up Exercises for Musicians by BAPAM (British Association for PERFORMING Arts Medicine)
- Primafit Videoseries by the ÖGfMM