Championing orchestral music as a powerful agent for teenage development.

The world is changing beyond measure for young people. Society is increasingly divisive. The crisis in young people’s mental health in one of the biggest challenges of our time. We believe in the power of music to address this.

We know that 82% of young people from low-income families who participate in arts activities at school report better well-being. Researchers have been unable to identify a comparable activity that develops the cognitive capacity of young people, in the same ways, or to the same extent as music and arts education. World leaders agree that the interpersonal, social and emotional skills that are fostered by the arts are most needed in the workforce.

Our high-quality opportunities address the growing limitations in music education provision, especially where social inequality exacerbates challenges faced by young people. We have a track record for supporting teenagers to excel whatever their background and circumstances. Our equity initiatives have strengthened the representation of young people from all backgrounds in the NYO community.

Our unique approach fosters understanding and hope between young people, cultivating positive disciplines, values and skills, supporting their futures. Our work plays a vital role in diversifying and sustaining the talent pipeline for the UK’s world class music industry alongside an array of different professions.