Youth music charity National Children’s Orchestras (NCO) has opened auditions for its Orchestral Weeks and Weekends in 2027. Young musicians aged 8 to 13 (as of 31 August 2026) are invited to submit their auditions for free online by 31 July.
Applicants can audition for the chance to participate in NCO’s residential Orchestral Weeks or its regional non-residential Orchestral Weekends in Orchestral Weekends in the North West, the Midlands, the South West or London. Applications are open to UK-based musicians playing an orchestral instrument at the appropriate level for each of NCO’s eight orchestras. More information about playing levels and the audition process can be found here.
Each year NCO brings together young players from across the country to ‘experience the joy, challenge and community of orchestral music’. Young musicians who play the Flute, Oboe, Clarinet, Bassoon, French Horn, Cornet, Trumpet, Trombone, Euphonium, Tuba, Percussion, Harp, Violin, Viola, Cello or Double Bass will work with tutors, conductors and guest artists to build on their musical skills and develop their confidence, teamwork and creativity. Participants also gain access to online resources and creative opportunities.
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Emma and Will will be performing in this concert. There will also be a live broadcast on BBC TV and BBC iPlayer.
And finally …
Hayes Music blog 