Experience the emotionally charged performances of one of the most exciting youth orchestras in the world. Fifteen brilliant young disabled and non-disabled musicians invite you into a musical universe without barriers, performing beautiful new pieces commissioned for the orchestra’s thrilling mix of acoustic and electronic instruments, including the Clarion accessible instrument.

Discover two new commissions – the piano concerto Ring Out! by British Composer award-winner Liam Taylor-West, and Fragile by Yfat Soul Zisso, on the theme of the environment chosen by the musicians themselves. Hear their bold take on Meredith Monk’s energetic, minimalist Parlour Games, and the musicians’ creativity, showcased in their joyful interpretation of the jazz funk tones of Lucky Chops’ Behroozi. The orchestra will also take on the melodious scales of Falling by Kate Whitley and perform Barriers, a heartfelt tribute to lost friends and fellow disabled musicians written by past orchestra member Oliver Cross.

If you’re unable to attend in person, buy a ticket for the live-streamed performance and enjoy the concert from the comfort of your own home!

Access information:

This relaxed performance is suitable for all. It is designed to welcome neurodivergent and disabled audiences, families, and anyone who may benefit from a more informal atmosphere. We maintain a flexible approach to noise, and audience members are free to come and go from the concert hall as needed. If you are attending with young children, we kindly ask that you help minimise excessive noise to avoid distracting the orchestra. 

There will be a relaxed seating area with bean bags, and a Chill Out area outside the concert hall, for anyone needing quiet time before or during the performance. 

This concert will be BSL interpreted, with the interpreter positioned on the right side of the stage. 

Please visit our Access Page for venue access information. 

There will be a RevoLOO situated close to the venue for those who require an accessible changing place. Stewards will be able to direct you to this.

Ticket prices 

Standard – £10

Concession – £5

Feeling the pinch – £5

25 and under – £1

Companion/carer – free

Livestream – £5

Works and composers

Liam Taylor-West (arr. Ellen O’Brien) Ring Out!
Yfat Soul Zisso (arr. Liam Taylor-West) Fragile
Lucky Chops (arr. Ellen O’Brien) Behroozi
Meredith Monk (arr. Julia Koelmans) Parlour Games
Kate Whitley (arr. Liam Taylor-West) Falling
Oliver Cross (arr. Rhian Davies) Barriers
One of the most exciting young ensembles right now.
Michael Betteridge, composer

The BSO's NOYO programme in 2024/25 is generously supported by

The Pointer Family Trust
The Valentine Charitable Trust

The National Open Youth Orchestra is generously funded by founding sponsor ABRSM, supported using public funding by Department for Education, Arts Council England, Esmée Fairbairn Foundation, Paul Hamlyn Foundation, Youth Music, Arts Council Lottery funded, The Northwick Trust, The Lightbulb Trust, and D'Oyly Carte Charitable Trust.

With thanks to our Music Hub partners SoundStorm Music Education Agency, Hampshire Music Hub and Dorset Music Hub for their support of the programme.

In partnership with