NYOS Academy

Programmes

Course Dates	July 2026 - specific dates confirmed in early 2026
Location	Confirmed in early 2026
Age Range	11 - 18
Grade Level	Grade 2-5

NYOS Academy is a series of two-day non-auditioned courses for young people who can’t get enough of playing music. Designed as an introduction to their national youth orchestra, participating young musicians are supported to develop the skills and musicianship needed to be a member of a NYOS orchestra in a fun and welcoming environment.

What can I expect?

NYOS Academy consists of two-day music-making workshops across Scotland. This year they will take place in Glasgow, Aberdeen and Perth.

On the courses young people will work with sectional directors and seasoned tutors to practice and perform a range of music chosen specifically for them. Some sessions will be with all the instruments together, at other times, sessions will be instrument specific.

Alongside rehearsing the music, young people will take part in creative music making activities and social downtime with their peers. Snacks and lunches are provided as part of the course.

The course culminates in a sharing performance for family and friends.

Read Course FAQs

I truly appreciate how NYOS creates such a supportive and inspiring environment for young people to make music together with others of a similar age and level. My daughter had been feeling a bit stuck with her instrument recently, and it’s been incredible to see her rediscover her enthusiasm and love for music.
Parent, NYOS Academy

Applications & Auditions

Applications will open in early 2026.

Eligibility
To be eligible for NYOS Academy, young people should be:

Aged 9-14

Playing at Grade 2-5 or equivalent. Participants should be confident with the basics of their instrument and able to read music independently.

Have a Scottish connection:
- Born in Scotland
- Live in Scotland
- Studying in Scotland
- Have Scottish family
Application Guidelines

There are no auditions as part of the applications for NYOS Academy, and those interested are asked to complete an application form to provide us with information on their music skills and experience.

Full guidance for applying to NYOS Academy 2026 will be available in the new year when applications open.
Financial Support

No young person who is offered a place on a NYOS course should face financial barriers.

The NYOS Bursary Fund exists for participants who find it difficult to meet the costs of membership fees. All applications are treated in the strictest confidence.

You can find out more about applying for Financial Assistance on the dedicated information page. You do not need to supply any financial information before applying.

Still got a questions about NYOS Academy? Read the course FAQs by clicking the button below.

NYOS Academy FAQs

When will I hear back?

After you apply, we will contact you within 1 week to let you know that we have received your application and that either we are a holding place for you, or to ask for additional details.

Then, towards the end of May we will contact you to confirm your place and enrol you on the course.

Places are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, so for particularly busy courses you might be placed on a waiting list. In May we will then we able to tell you if/when spaces become available - they more than often do!
What level is the course aimed at?
NYOS Academy is aimed at early to intermediate players between grades 2 and 5. As a guideline, participants should be able to do the following:
- Read sheet music
- Follow common rhythm patterns
- Play basic scales for their instrument (e.g. C and F major for violin, B♭ and D major for trumpet, C major for flute)
- Play fingered notes – if they play a string instrument
If you’re not sure whether your child is at the right level for this course their music teacher should be able to advise.

We do not recommend NYOS Academy for anyone who is still only starting to learn. We want everybody to have a good time. and anyone who does not have the required skills yet may find the course too challenging and may not get the most out the experience.
Does my young person need to have done graded exams?

No - we use ABRSM grades 2-5 as a guideline, but you do not need to have completed any exams
My young person has just turned 15, is there space for them?

We try to be flexible with each young musician. We know that bassoon, oboe, and percussion players tend to start learning a little later than other instruments, and will consider applications from 15 year olds for these instruments.
Is catering provided?

Yes. Lunch and snacks are provided each day of the course, and we accomodate for allergies and dietary requirements.
How much does the course cost?

The fee for NYOS Academy is £150. Financial support and bursaries are available.

You can find out more about applying for financial assistance on the dedicated information page. You do not need to supply any financial information before applying.
I live far away. Can I access support travelling to and from the course?

Yes. If you live more than an hour away there is financial assistance available to help with costs around both travel and accommodation.
My young person plays the drums, but has never played tuned percussion before, can they still take part?

Yes, NYOS Academy is a great place to be introduced to the basics of orchestral percussion and learn something new. If your child has mastered the fundamentals of drumming, our friendly tutors can help them take their next steps.
Do you offer discounts for siblings?

If you are enrolling more than one person onto a course then you can apply for a bursary.

We offer bursaries for siblings rather than a fixed discount so that we can offer bigger discounts to those who need the most support.
When can I apply for a bursary?

We will open bursary applications in May when you confirm your young musician’s place on the course. Your offer letter will include all the information you need to know about applying for a bursary.

You can find out more about applying for financial assistance on the dedicated information page. You do not need to supply any financial information before applying.