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, empowering 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 the movement of any part 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 to audition for the National Open Youth Orchestra this year have now closed. If you're a talented 11-25 year-old disabled or non-disabled musician, it's useful to read our last Applicants information pack. It will give you a good idea of what it's like to apply, and also what being a member of the orchestra involves.
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Birmingham here we come!
We’re so excited about the new Birmingham NOYO Centre, in partnership with Town Hall Symphony Hall, Midlands Arts Centre and Services For Education.
Read about it and find out why you should apply: French horn player Georgina created an awesome video about her experience of the orchestra, and what difference it’s made!