NYOS Auditions Process

Everyone follows the same process to apply for the NYOS orchestra or NYOS Development.

Step 1: Application Form

This is available on the NYOS website and will ask for key info about you including:

• Your name, contact details and age
• Your instrument
• A few questions about your playing level and experience
• An opportunity to tell us which in-person audition day best suits you

Step 2: Video Audition

You'll be asked to send us videos of the following:

• One solo piece (you choose – up to 5 minutes
• Two orchestral excerpts (we'll provide the music to choose from on our website)

Please note: For percussion auditions, you will be asked for four excerpts across timpani, tuned percussion and hand percussion (full details provided in excerpt booklets). You are not required to provide a chosen solo piece.

Our excerpts booklets will be available from Tuesday 18 August 2026.

Step 3: In-person Group Audition

Once solo video auditions are submitted, everyone will be asked to join a half-day group audition session in November with other young musicians. During these sessions, you will work with one of our tutors for a short sectional session followed by a relaxed tutti session with conductor Rebecca Miller.

Specific music will be selected for these sessions and you will be provided with a digital copy and clear instructions on the sections to look at in advance. Printed copies of the music will be provided on the day. 

Full instructions and advice on preparing for your in-person audition will be provided in advance when you are sent your invitation to your in-person group audition.

Video Audition
Two panellists will assess skills such as your musicality, intonation, rhythm, and instrumental technique.

In-Person Group Audition
The section tutors working with you during these sessions will be drawn from the team watching the videos. They will pay attention to how well you play with others, respond to instructions and follow the conductor.

If you want to audition for the Leader position in either orchestra, you’ll be asked to prepare two additional excerpts to be performed at the in-person audition day for a panel consisting of conductor Rebecca Miller and Artistic Director Kirsteen Davidson Kelly. Excerpts will be provided when  your in-person audition date is confirmed.

Anyone auditioning for Leader of either orchestra should be playing at Grade 8 standard or higher.

Still have a question about your NYOS orchestra audition?

Please read our NYOS Audition FAQs where we answer some of the most common queries.