The National Open Youth Orchestra (NOYO) is a world first, an ambitious orchestra launched in September 2018 to give some of the UK’s most talented young disabled musicians a progression route. It promotes musical excellence, supporting 11-25 year-old disabled and non-disabled musicians to rehearse and perform together as members of a pioneering inclusive ensemble.
Some of the National Open Youth Orchestra musicians play acoustic instruments; others, electronic instruments like the Clarion, which can be played with any movement of the body including the eyes.
NOYO collaborates with cutting-edge composers to create exciting new music for a diverse range of musicians and instruments. Our first commission, ‘The Umbrella’ by Liam Taylor-West won a British Composer Award in 2018.
Stay tuned as we inject new diversity and creativity into the orchestra!
How to apply?
Applications for an audition to join NOYO have now closed. They open every year in spring. Until then, it's a good idea to read our past Applicant's Information pack. It gives lots of useful information about what it's like to be a member. Play in high profile concerts, develop your skills, make new friends... Find out more!
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Launching the Cardiff NOYO Centre
Today, we’re very excited to share that the National Open Youth Orchestra is coming to Wales, in partnership with the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama (RWCMD) and the BBC National Orchestra of Wales (BBC NOW).
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