Young musicians: apply for NYO Inspire 2027
Are you aged 13–18 and ready to take your music-making further?
August 20 @ 4:00 pm – September 29 @ 5:00 pm
Applications close 30 September 2026
Applications are now open for NYO Inspire 2027, the National Youth Orchestra’s free programme for teenage musicians who want to develop their playing, meet other young musicians and experience high-quality ensemble music-making. There is no audition and the programme is completely free
Who can apply?
NYO Inspire is for musicians aged 13–18 who play at approximately Grade 6–8+ level. You don’t need to have taken formal graded exams – what matters is your playing level and enthusiasm to develop as a musician. The programme particularly aims to support young musicians who may face barriers to accessing opportunities to progress in music. It is primarily for young people attending state schools, with applications also welcomed from home-educated musicians and young musicians who face systemic challenges in accessing musical opportunities.
What could you take part in?
NYO Inspire offers opportunities throughout the year, with activities matched to individual musicians and where they are in their musical journey.
These can include:
- NYO Unite – a day of music-making bringing together musicians from across the NYO community;
- NYO Inspire Ensembles – three-day residencies for strings, woodwind, brass and percussion, alongside creative ensembles;
- NYO Inspire Schools Tour – residential orchestral activity, workshops and performances; and
- NYO Inspire Orchestra Experience – the opportunity to experience playing together as a full orchestra.
Successful applicants will also receive invitations to free one-off music-making events taking place in their local area.
What instruments are included?
Applications are welcomed from young people playing orchestral instruments including strings, woodwind, brass, percussion, harp, orchestral keyboard and saxophone.
NYO is also developing creative opportunities for musicians who play non-orchestral instruments, so young people are encouraged to apply whatever instrument they play.
How much does it cost?
Nothing. NYO Inspire is completely free. Young musicians usually arrange their own transport, but travel bursaries are available for those who need financial support.
How to apply
There is no audition. Young musicians create an account and complete an application through the NYO Musicians’ Portal.
Find out more and apply for NYO Inspire