Help a teenage musician say yes to their place in The National Youth Orchestra 2026

Bursaries for the Orchestra level the playing field for teenage musicians

At the end of September, 160 young musicians will start an adventure of a lifetime when they’re offered a seat in The National Youth Orchestra. This place means a whole orchestral year of residencies, schools tours, workshops, and concerts in prestigious venues throughout the UK. 

While families of these young musicians are asked to contribute towards the cost of this intensive year of music, not all can afford it. NYO provides bursaries to ensure the Orchestra remains a meritocracy, and that every musician can say yes to their place. 

You can play your part in helping a musician take their seat in the Orchestra of 2026. 

£14 could cover an exhilarating hour of rehearsal. £87 could cover a day of preparation before a spectacular concert.

You’re in the Orchestra because of what you can bring to the music. But, also, because you want to reveal to other people what this deep and complex music can bring to our lives.
Finn
18, Violin

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Help a teenage musician say yes to the orchestral opportunity of a lifetime

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