copy of nyto 1480 x 555.624 mm

Next Event

Spring Concert 2025

Full details

NYO Celebrates 40 years of inspiring youth music talent!

2025 is the 40th Anniversary of Nottingham Youth Orchestra which was founded in 1985. Since then NYO, an organisation independent of state and local authority funding, has enriched and inspired the young music talent of Nottinghamshire and beyond.

Over the last 40 years, NYO estimates that nearly 10,000 students have been part of its orchestras, something which is of immense pride to everyone involved.

Ten years ago at the 30th Anniversary Concert, William Ruff of the Nottingham Post said "In a world where classical music is threatened with extinction in our schools, it should be a matter of pride for this city that the NYO is fighting so vigorously for its survival."

The fact that it has survived and thrived is very much down to the support of NYO's parents and families who value the many academic and social benefits of music making especially when it involves ensemble teamwork and can result in the development of lasting musical friendships.

Donations make a huge difference to NYO and the number of students it can support through Bursaries and enrichment activities such as music workshops and orchestra trips. In order to offer the next generation the chance to enjoy NYO over the next 40 years, you could help us enormously by becoming one of our valued supporters whether simply fundraising on our behalf or donating through the NYO Just Giving page (simply click the Just Giving logo at the base of every page on this website).

NYO would like to thank its team of wonderful parent volunteers, past and present, as well as its very dedicated instrumental tutors, some of whom have fond memories of being NYO members when they were students.

NYO's Orchestra Manager Margaret Chadwick says "I have been with NYO since 1998 when both my sons were in the violin and viola sections. I have loved every minute, in particular seeing players progress from the younger orchestras to tackling symphonies and concertos with the seniors. It is a privilege to have enabled and encouraged so many young people to be part of an orchestra, something which I believe is a quite unique experience."

The organisation is looking to hear from past NYO and NYJO players so that we can invite them to our Anniversary Year celebrations which will extend across 2025-2026. We very much hope you will celebrate with us!