National Youth Orchestra of Iraq launches Kickstarter campaign

6 May 2014, 12:25 | Updated: 6 May 2014, 12:36

Young Iraqi classical musicians have launched an online fundraising campaign to get the National Youth Orchestra of Iraq to the United States for a major tour in August 2014.

The orchestra's fundraising target is $30,000, with various packages available in return for donations.

For example, a donation of $10 will be rewarded with an exclusive thank-you video from the orchestra's founders, while anyone donating $1,000 will be given a recording of the orchestra's Washington concert and a portrait and biography of an orchestra member.

Despite only forming in 2009, the orchestra has already performed in several international locations, including London's Queen Elizabeth Hall and the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

The orchestra's US tour will begin with a three-week study period in Illinois, before a range of concerts in the area. They will be performing a mix of classic works like Samuel Barber's violin concerto and two new compositions from Arab and Kurdish composers. 

Find out more in their Kickstarter video below, and donate here.