Applications for the National Open Youth Orchestra (NOYO) are now open to 11- to 25-year-old disabled and non-disabled musicians, closing on 31 March 2022.
NOYO is seeking young musicians who want to develop their playing skills as part of a ‘diverse and dynamic’ orchestra in which music is learned by ear and improvised, as well as played from notation; collaborate with contemporary composers; devise new music; and play in high-profile concerts.
Prospective applicants are encouraged to attend a NOYO Open Rehearsal this month, which are taking place at NOYO Centres in Bristol, London, Bournemouth and Birmingham, and can be joined virtually.
Rehearsals throughout the year take place at these four NOYO Centres, so anyone applying must be able to access these locations.
This year, the free-to-attend orchestra is looking for musicians who play woodwind, violin, viola, cello, double bass, other bass instruments (including electronic), and Clarion.
NOYO has recently shared its first creative output, a music video of What Fear We Then?, composed for the orchestra by Alexander Campkin, co-commissioned with Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra (BSO).
The orchestra has also announced its first ever concerts, taking place from April to June and including a collaboration with disabled-led professional ensemble BSO Resound.
Entry criteria for both disabled and non-disabled musicians are available on the NOYO website, but there are no grade or qualification requirements.
Interested young musicians can apply to be either a NOYO Member or a NOYO Trainee. Members have one-to-one lessons and pastoral support, attend all rehearsals and residentials, and play in concerts.
Trainees have one-to-one lessons and pastoral support but need to gain more confidence and skills before they can attend residentials and play in concerts. They are invited to join some rehearsals, and have up to three years to progress towards becoming a Member.
To apply, young musicians should complete an online application form, which includes submitting a short video of them playing their instruments or using assistive technology or an electronic communication aid.
