Every year 2000 young musicians play together at NCO.

If you’re interested in joining as a member of NCO across a whole year, you can audition to be part of one of our seven orchestras!

Depending on your age and where you are with your playing, you can choose to audition to take part in residential Orchestral weeks or in non-residential Orchestral weekends, or to be considered for either.

You’ll be amongst some of the UK’s most remarkable young musicians and will meet friends, make friends and have fun!

Orchestral weeks Orchestral weekends

We have Orchestral days for children at the beginning of their orchestral music making experiences - you don't have to audition, you simply sign up to take part. Plus we have interactive Schools Concerts to inspire the youngest minds.

Orchestral days Schools Concerts

We have Pre-Concert Activities including Talks, Workshops and Open Rehearsals and six opportunities to watch NCO in Concert every year, with £7 tickets for young people and students.

Plus, if you’re already receiving instrumental lessons or taking part in ensembles with your local Music Hub or Music Service, you can access free concert tickets when you see NCO for the first time.

We also have career development opportunities with Student Placements in tutoring and mentoring.

Concerts Student placements

Whatever you choose

you can find your people and have fun at NCO.

This is a place where you can be yourself. Where you can get creative, make friends and try new things. You’ll be amazed at how much you learn, and music is just the beginning.

We’ll help you push your limits, grow your confidence and discover just how incredible you can be. These skills will stay with you forever. You’ve got what it takes – let’s make it happen.