At NCO, our purpose is to champion the life-changing power of music.

We believe no dream is too big.
We believe orchestral music shapes skills and hearts.
We believe everyone has their own brilliance.
And we believe in the power of community.

Nearly 2000 children aged 8-14 connect with National Children’s Orchestras each year.

They take part in:

Auditioned orchestral weeks and weekends
Non-auditioned workshops
Activities with schools and hubs
Free tickets to concerts

Play together. Be unstoppable.

We empower children to uncover the joy of orchestral music, unleash their creativity, realise their ambitions and embrace a future filled with endless possibilities.

We use the power of music to create supportive communities that enrich lives. The confidence, resilience and teamwork learned through music become skills for life, wherever each young musician’s journey takes them.

“My daughter was particularly motivated and encouraged by the friendliness of the staff - she felt that they were clearly interested in each individual and were keen to listen to her thoughts and opinions.”

Parent of 2024 Young Musician, aged 12

Our values

We believe no dream is too big.

Together with the young musicians and families who are the reason for our existence, we empower children to uncover the joy of orchestral music, unleash their creativity, realise their ambitions and embrace a future filled with endless possibilities.

We believe orchestral music shapes skills and hearts.

Orchestral music is a wondrous world that nurtures empathy, resilience, and the courage to face whatever life throws our way. It builds strength of spirit, deepening connections to ourselves and the world around us.

We believe everyone has their own brilliance.

Everyone has a unique potential waiting to shine. In a supportive, inclusive environment, we can discover their own brilliance, find our voice, and grow with confidence and creativity.