The Orchestra

At the heart of our community and celebrated as ‘the world’s greatest orchestra of teenagers’, these 160 teenagers play epic music and shape shift into different ensembles. And they play their part as changemakers for their generation.

Meet our Musicians

Meet the 158 teenage musicians who through their love of music, and their commitment and talents, play their part in a cutting-edge orchestra that speaks to their generation.

Meet our Musicians

Experience the music

Enjoy the electric energy and extraordinary skill of The National Youth Orchestra with videos of recent concerts and performances.

Our teenage musicians from different backgrounds across the nation come together to surprise and delight music-loving audiences in concert halls, communities and online.

Experience the Music

Our Alumni

See all the extraordinary musicians who have played a part in the orchestra since it was founded in 1948. 

All our alumni are welcome to keep in touch and remain valued members of the NYO community.

Search our Alumni

The NYO Adventure: find out about how we work

Take a look behind the scenes and find out what makes joining the NYO community, the greatest adventure in orchestral music.

From the exceptional challenges to the opportunities to inspire others, it’s an exciting and growing community to be part of. 

Find out more

Stories from our musicians

See more case studies
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Aki, Violin

At NYO, I’m able to share my enthusiasm and passion for music with people of my age and inspire and be inspired with others.
  • Orchestra Experiences
Michael playing trumpet at a rehearsal

Michael, Trumpet

NYO brings out my best self and allows me to become a better trumpet player and collaborator.
  • Orchestra Experiences
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Tara, Violin

I can be a different person in music because I feel a lot more comfortable.
  • Inspire Journeys
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Ellie, Trombone

Here, I enrich myself musically and share my passion of music with others, and simply enjoy being a part of something bigger than myself.
  • Orchestra Experiences
Double bass players at a rehearsal

William, Double Bass

I'm looking forward to meeting different people from all over the country!
  • Orchestra Experiences
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Evie, Cello

NYO Inspire offers a love of classical music that we don't get to experience elsewhere.
  • Inspire Journeys
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Smera, Bassoon

After lockdown I really valued music so much more because I realised what life was like without music.
  • Inspire Journeys
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Aki, Violin

At NYO, I’m able to share my enthusiasm and passion for music with people of my age and inspire and be inspired with others.
  • Orchestra Experiences
Tara REBRAND.00_00_11_08.Still001

Tara, Violin

I can be a different person in music because I feel a lot more comfortable.
  • Inspire Journeys
See more case studies