FAQs

• Applications for 2026 will open 1 July – 30 September 2025
• All applications will be reviewed after the deadline (there is no benefit to submitting earlier rather than later)
• Place offers for 2026 will be made by 30 November 2025

• Applications are by video audition only and it is free to apply
• Click here for audition requirements for all orchestras

• We have 4 orchestras: Seniors, Camerata, Sinfonia & Sinfonietta
• Each of our orchestra pages has age & playing standard guidelines to look at, but you can also have a look at the audition requirements to see which one seems most suited to your abilities

• The short answer is no. Our music directors discuss audition videos and work together to ensure everyone is placed in the group most suited to their abilities.
• As an example: you may apply for Camerata orchestra and be offered a place in Camerata, or Sinfonia, or Seniors.
• Just apply to the group you feel would suit you best, and where the audition requirements seem suitable.

• Currently, all our Spring and Summer residencies take place at Stamford School, Stamford, Peterborough
• The 2026 residency dates will be as follows:
• Senior: Spring 5-9 April, Summer 11-20 August
• Camerata & Sinfonia: Spring 5-9 April, Summer 12-20 August
• Sinfonietta: Spring 6/7-9 April, Summer 17/18-20 August

Click here for the Fees page

NYSO has it’s own Bursary scheme for those who require financial assistance. The deadline for applying is the same as our audition’s deadline: 30 September

• Senior Orchestra: Spring workshop at Stamford School, Summer concerts at Stamford Arts Centre and other venues around the UK (Summer 2025 concert at Three Choirs Festival). 2026 concerts tbc.
• Camerata Orchestra: Spring workshop at Stamford School & Summer concerts at both Stamford School & the Stamford Arts Centre
• Sinfonia Orchestra: Spring workshop at Stamford School & Summer concerts at both Stamford School & the Stamford Arts Centre
• Sinfonietta Orchestra: Spring workshop & Summer concert at Stamford School