AS AN eight-year-old in 1955, Gidon Kremer, the virtuoso later described by German maestro Herbert Von Karajan as the ''greatest violinist of a generation'', performed with a youth orchestra at the prestigious Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow.
It was Kremer's first time on a big stage and the experience left an indelible impression - an understanding of how important it is to give young musicians an opportunity.
It is no wonder Kremer has chosen to again perform with a youth orchestra, offering his services as a soloist and a drawcard for a high-profile tour by the Asian Youth Orchestra (AYO).
It is not only an act of charity, but also one of reciprocation.
''I have always liked initiatives that involve young people,'' he said. ''When you deal with young musicians there is less of the routine attitude that you sometimes have with professional musicians - there's enthusiasm and energy.'' Funded by Cathay Pacific, the tour is nothing if not ambitious.
The concerts will feature pianist Vadim Sakharov, conductor Eri Klas and 99 students from a number of Asian nations.