If you know a young musician aged 8-13 years old as of 31st August 2023, who plays an orchestral instrument to the appropriate standard and is a British citizen or lives/studies in the UK then they might be interested in auditioning to be part of National Children’s Orchestras. The auditions process for the 2024 programme of orchestral activity is free and auditions are submitted as a video recording. Auditions will close at 9am Monday 31st July 2023.
NCO are proud to support children to be happy and healthy through transformative orchestral experiences and exceptional performances. They inspire young musicians to be the best musician they can be, unlock their creative potential and support their wellbeing, all while they make friends and have fun! They are interested to hear from all young musicians with promise! They are particularly keen to increase applications from young musicians who are currently underrepresented in their membership, including Black children, disabled children, children attending state schools and children from lower income families.
Please do get in touch via [email protected] if you have any questions at all about applying.
All young musicians need to apply is access to a camera (a phone camera is fine) and to play two contrasting pieces (with extra short excerpts for violinists and cellists applying to our National programme). There’s no need for an accompanist, unless the young musician would like one. They then complete a short application form with their parent/carer, include their video link and submit. The NCO team cannot wait to watch each and every young musician play!
For full information, please visit NCO’s website at Auditioning for NCO | The National Children’s Orchestras of Great Britain. See them in action on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter or with direct enquiries please email [email protected]
“It’s given me more confidence in making friends outside of school. I would love to play in orchestras for many years to come!” Projects Member, aged 9, 2022
“I want to be a musician 10 times more now. That’s the highest standard orchestra I’ve ever played in – I wish I could do it every day.” National Member, aged 13 2022