National Open Youth Orchestra – auditions open

If you’ve got musical potential, now is the time to apply for an audition with the National Open Youth Orchestra (NOYO). They’re looking for talented 11-25 year old musicians who either already play an instrument – acoustic or electronic, or control assistive technology or a communication aid (such as an EyeGaze computer) to a standard that could translate to playing an electronic instrument such as the Clarion.

The National Open Youth Orchestra (NOYO) is the world’s first disabled-led national youth ensemble. Launched in 2018, it pioneers a more inclusive orchestra where talented 11-25 year old disabled and non-disabled musicians rehearse and perform together. We’re super proud to say we have three former students and one of our sixth form students currently involved with NOYO.

NOYO collaborates with cutting-edge composers to create exciting new music for a diverse range of musicians and instruments.  Alongside traditional instruments, audiences will discover the sounds of electronic instruments such as the LinnStrument, Seaboard RISE and Clarion – an accessible instrument which can be played with any movement of the body.

Get involved!

Applications to audition for the National Open Youth Orchestra are now open until 31 March 2022. This is a real opportunity for young people interested in developing their skills as part of a creative, dynamic orchestra where music is not only played from notation but also learned by ear and improvised.

Before applying, aspiring musicians are invited to attend Open Rehearsals at a NOYO centre in London, Bristol, Birmingham or Bournemouth. Attending an Open Rehearsal is a great way to get a feel for what being in NOYO is like. Even if you can’t attend in person, it is possible to join over Zoom.

Learn more

If you’d  like to find out more, and meet three members of the Orchestra, including Treloar sixth form student Sally watch this short film.

You can also learn more about a new composition written by Alexander Campkin for the National Open Youth Orchestra

And watch a performance including our very own Sally playing the LinnStrument

Filmed during the COVID restrictions of 2021, this music video by award-winning director Justin Edgar showcases the potential of 26 young musicians – disabled and non-disabled members of NOYO. Each musician was recorded playing live to create this unique film.

The first concerts will take place in April – June 2022:
24 April – Milton Court Concert Hall, London, 4-5pm
15 May – St George’s Bristol, 4-5pm
22 May – Lighthouse, Poole (live and streaming), 4-5.30pm
5 June 2022 – Town Hall, Birmingham, 4-5pm