Applications for the Orchestra of 2026 are open!

Teenage musicians are invited to play their part in The National Youth Orchestra.

Join the Orchestra of 2026 and play your part in the greatest musical adventure!

This is your chance to reach new heights, discover new skills, and make an impact as a musician, mentor and motivator. You’ll conquer epic masterworks, explore new music and gain confidence with world-class coaching and support. Plus, you’ll perform for and alongside people your age across the UK in concert halls, schools and surprising places and spaces.

Join a nationwide community of musicians who are just as passionate as you about orchestral music. Experience every second of this musical adventure with them by your side.ย 

If you play an orchestral instrument at an advanced level, we want to hear from you. Musicians will usually be playing at a level equivalent to Grade 8, but with no need for graded exams.

First and final round auditions are free, with travel and accommodation bursaries for those who need them. Applications close on 19 May and youโ€™ll have until 15 June to submit your first-round video audition online.ย 

Are you ready for the greatest musical adventure of your life?ย 

We all bring our individual talents, but when we play together, we create something much bigger than ourselves.
Alasdair
Oboe, Dunbar