Who we are

We are the raw orchestra of Melbourne. No concert halls, no tails. We play the classics with a contemporary edge.


Shayan, Andrea Keller and VYSO

Composed by Omid Shayan and blending Iranian melodies and rhythms with western classical orchestration and Jazz improvisation; Safar is a suite for symphony orchestra and jazz quartet. The work tells the story of his parents’ dangerous journey from Iran to Australia, and the uncertainty they faced during this period of revolution and war. But it is not a singular story. Safar is about the experiences of millions of people around the world whose lives have been irrevocably changed by conflict, displacement, and the search for a new beginning.

Featuring:

Dr. Andrea Keller (piano),

Omid Shayan (saxophone),

Tamara Murphy (bass),

Ronny Ferella (drums),

and the Victorian Youth Symphony Orchestra.

Made possible by the Creative Victoria and the 2025 Creative Projects Fund


Support the VYSO

VYSO is an independently-run organisation that believes in championing new music and supporting the next generation of musicians. Your donation assists us with everything from sheet music to venue hire, and goes a long way to helping us provide meaningful, interactive musical experiences for our community.

If you have any questions regarding donations, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us and we will do our best to reply quickly.