NEW IRISH YOUTH ORCHESTRA

* AUDITION BOOKING FOR YOUTH ORCHESTRA 2026 IS NOW OPEN *

New members – book your audition for your preferred venue HERE.

A unique weekend for young instrumental players in P7 to U6 to come together to develop their musicianship, make new friends and learn more about God. 

·      Around 70 young musicians

·      Rehearsals and workshops 

·      Games, activities, and new friendships

·      Bible teaching

·      Concert at the end of the weekend

·      Work alongside musicians from the New Irish Orchestra

Who can join?
You need to be

•       currently in P7 to U6

•       able to play a brass, woodwind, strings (including harp) or percussion instrument at Grade 5 standard or higher. It doesn’t matter what exams you have – the standard you play at is the important thing.

•       willing to attend an audition with 2 of our team

•       able to pass a simple sight-reading test

•       willing to play songs for Christian worship. 

Please note that we are focusing on orchestral instruments, so we can’t offer places to other instruments such as guitar or bagpipes.  

How do I join?

New applicants need to audition on one of the following dates:

Monday 12th January, Hamilton Road Baptist Church, 6:30-8PM

Thursday 15th January, St Brigid’s Church of Ireland, Glengormley, 6:30-8PM

Book your slot HERE

*Returning members do not need to reaudition- contact office@newirisharts.com to sign up.

What happens at the auditions?

At your audition you will bring one prepared piece and do a short sight-reading exercise. Your piece should show off your comfortable level of playing ability – pick something you can play confidently and accurately.  Please bring a piano accompaniment with you. We prefer pieces which are accompanied rather than studies, but if a study is your only option that’s fine.  

After the auditions parents will be emailed and you will have a couple of days to confirm your place. Those who audition successfully will be offered places in the Youth Orchestra.

Cost?

The weekend will cost £220. If this will be a problem, please email office@newirisharts.com. We have a small bursary fund to allow access to people who have particular financial difficulties, or we can arrange for payments in instalments. Don’t let the cost put you off.

The price includes:

·      Accommodation and food at the residential

·      Participation in the orchestra concert at the end of the residential

·      Youth Orchestra Polo Shirt

You can also choose to purchase a navy Youth Orchestra hoodie, for an additional £25.

New members – book your audition for your preferred venue HERE.

Returning members – contact office@newirisharts.com to sign up.