NCO’s Audition Tour hits the road!

Auditions to enter one of NCO’s 2016 Orchestras are now taking place across the country. NCO’s audition team will visit a total of 35 venues in just 34 days, in a bid to find the UK’s best young players.

NCO’s Auditions Tour, which runs from 27 September to 30 October, is still gladly accepting applications. We currently have 1,096 children waiting to audition – a record breaking number – with more applications being made each day! We are particularly looking for tuba players, harpists, percussionists, viola players, trombonists and double bassists.

Children who gain a place with the NCO can expect to learn a wealth of new experiences. Our friendly residential courses are designed to provide a stimulating and safe environment in which members will explore and enhance their talent and skills – as well as creating lasting memories and cherished friendships with other children in their age-banded orchestras.

Each course culminates in an exciting concert – either private or public depending on the age of the orchestra – which gives members the chance to perform to family and friends in an authentic and professional performance. We also offer children the opportunity to be led by internationally renowned conductors and to perform with celebrated musicians such as Nicola Benedetti, our new Vice-President and an ex-NCO member!

After auditioning last year I had the amazing opportunity to join the NCO. I've had such a brilliant time on the courses where I’ve made many new friends whom I now share fantastic memories with. Most importantly I discovered how exciting it feels to play in an orchestra of children who are exactly like me.

2015 NCO Member

To apply for an audition, you must be aged between 7-13 years old on 31 December 2015. You don’t need to have taken any grade exams – all we’re looking for is talent and potential. We aim to make joining the NCO as accessible as possible for everyone, irrespective of financial circumstances, therefore financial support is available. Click here to find out more. 

As auditions have already begun, those interested are encouraged to check which dates and venues are still available before they make an application. Please visit the online application form here and click through until you come to the ‘audition venues and dates’ section. We advise that you also read our auditions booklet before making your application. Alternatively, you may wish to call the office on 01934 418 855 to find out more information about the NCO and all that we offer.