National Youth Jazz Wales returns to Cardiff this August

National Youth Arts Wales (NYAW) is excited to announce National Youth Jazz Wales will return this summer for a 4-day residency, taking place 25–28 August at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, Cardiff. 

Open to young musicians aged 14+, the residency offers a fun-filled week of playing, learning and making music together, working alongside an excellent team of tutors including Huw Warren, Andrew Bain, Paula Gardiner, Tomos Williams and Joe Northwood. 

The course is not suitable for complete beginners – as a guide, participants should be around Grade 3 standard or above – but the most important thing is a passion for jazz and a willingness to learn, play and collaborate with other young musicians from across Wales. 

Angharad Jenkins, Folk and Jazz Producer at National Youth Arts Wales said: “We can’t wait to welcome young jazz musicians from across Wales to Cardiff this summer. It’s a joyful, collaborative week, and a brilliant chance to play alongside some of the country’s leading jazz educators.”

Head of Jazz at RWCMD, Andrew Bain, said: “It is such great news to announce the return of the National Youth Jazz Wales Summer School. We have a fantastic course planned with some of the finest jazz musicians in Wales, ready to teach the next generation of young, Welsh talent. I can't wait to get going!”

The week builds towards a sharing event in the RWCMD foyer on the Friday afternoon, where parents, friends and family are warmly invited to join in and celebrate the week’s music-making before everyone heads home. 

The 4-day residency costs £400, which includes tuition, three nights’ accommodation and meals. Bursaries are available for those who need financial assistance, and anyone travelling from further afield who needs accommodation on the Monday evening is encouraged to get in touch. 

National Youth Jazz Wales is an ambitious partnership between National Youth Arts Wales, National Music Services Wales and the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama, supported by the Arts Council of Wales, building a new development programme to inspire and support young jazz musicians throughout Wales. 

Places are limited, so early booking is recommended. 

To book your place, visit: www.nyaw.org.uk/whats-on/national-youth-jazz-wales-summer-residency-1

National Youth Dance Wales Heads to Edinburgh Festival Fringe this August

We are thrilled to announce that National Youth Dance Wales (NYDW) will be performing at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe this summer, joining forces with the National Youth Dance Company of Scotland (NYDCS) for a bold double bill of contemporary dance. 

Celtic Collective, presented by YDance and National Youth Arts Wales, runs at Assembly @ Dance Base from 7–16 August 2026, with daily performances at 4:05pm.

Having celebrated their 25th Anniversary in 2025, performing at the world's largest arts festival is a remarkable milestone for NYDW, taking the creative energy of some of Wales' most promising young dancers to an international audience. 

NYDW will perform Momentum – Undone, by the Choreographer Marcus Jarrell Willis drawing on a powerful collection of music including pieces by James Blake, Jacob Collier, Tchaikovsky, and Ólafur Arnalds. The piece is a reminder that the journey is never truly finished, asking "Once we find true direction, what happens next?" 

Jamie Jenkins, Head of Dance at National Youth Arts Wales, said: "Momentum – Undone is a powerful reflection on resilience, transformation, and the constant motion of becoming. National Youth Dance Wales continues to create space for young artists to explore ambitious ideas with honesty, courage, and extraordinary energy." 

"As a young dancer from Wales, being given the opportunity to perform at the Edinburgh Fringe is an incredible honour. It's a chance to share my passion on stage, learn from so many talented performers, and represent Wales with pride. I'm excited to embrace every moment of this amazing experience" - NYDW Dancer 

Sharing the stage, NYDCS will perform Afterglow, choreographed by Tess Letham - a work that moves through searching, faltering, and ultimately surrendering to collective joy. Together, the two pieces celebrate the very best of what the next generation of dancers from both Wales and Scotland have to offer. 

YDance Director, Anna Kendrick, says: "YDance are thrilled to be presenting Celtic collective at the 2026 Fringe. This collaboration between National Youth Dance Company of Scotland and the National Youth Dance Company of Wales celebrates the blending of two distinct cultural influences, and the creation of a powerful, cutting-edge double bill. I'm so excited to see these young performers come together to push themselves, share techniques, develop their artistry - and to inspire the next generation of contemporary dancers."

We hope you'll join us in Edinburgh this August and experience first-hand the passion, precision and ambition of Wales' exciting young dancers. 

Tickets start from £14.25 and the 60-minute show is recommended for ages 12 and over.

Tickets are available via the Edinburgh Festival Fringe website.

From Welsh Stages to Hollywood Screens: Ruth Jones Leads Celebrations as National Youth Theatre of Wales Turns 50

The National Youth Theatre of Wales (NYTW) is launching a year-long anniversary campaign celebrating fifty years of ambitious theatre-making, creativity and opportunity for young people across Wales.

NYTW50: Reconnect. Celebrate. Shape the Future. will bring together generations of former members, current participants, supporters and audiences to celebrate the productions, people and stories that have shaped the organisation since its beginnings.

Launching the campaign is acclaimed writer, actor and producer Ruth Jones, one of NYTW's most celebrated alumni, who is inviting former members from every decade to reconnect with the organisation and share their memories, photographs and stories.

Ruth Jones, NYTW Alumni and Campaign Ambassador, said:

"For over 50 years, the National Youth Theatre of Wales has been a place where journeys begin. It's where so many of us first found our place in theatre, whether that was on stage, backstage, in the rehearsal room, in the director's chair, or shaping the work from behind the scenes.

"NYTW didn't just teach us skills. It set a standard—a belief in excellence, professionalism and ambition—and the confidence to meet it. It gave us community and helped us understand what kind of theatre professional we wanted to be.

"Now, NYTW is inviting us, its alumni, to be part of what happens next. To reconnect with old friends and collaborators, to celebrate the experiences that shaped us and, if we're able, to help open those same doors for the next generation of Welsh theatre makers—on stage, behind the scenes and everywhere across theatre."

Ruth Jones by Jordan Sheehy Videography

For over fifty years, NYTW has created ambitious productions, nurtured young talent and provided opportunities for young people to perform, collaborate and develop their creative skills. Many former members have gone on to successful careers across theatre, television, film and the wider creative industries, while countless others have carried their NYTW experiences into every area of life.

From mounting bold reinterpretations of classic works to championing entirely original new productions, NYTW has created unforgettable art that has fundamentally become part of the story of Welsh theatre.

Beyond the technical skills learned, these milestone productions are remembered for the lifelong friendships formed, the immense confidence gained and the creative possibilities they unlocked for thousands of young people.

A Pipeline of Global Talent

Look at the credits of the UK's biggest cultural exports and you will find NYTW's DNA. The organisation's alumni roster features the likes of:

• Matthew Rhys (The Americans, Perry Mason)

• Rakie Ayola (The Pact, Anthony)

• Michael Sheen (Good Omens, Frost/Nixon)

• Morfydd Clark (The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power)

• Russell T Davies (Doctor Who, It's a Sin)

Beyond the household names on screen, NYTW has helped shape the wider theatre industry in Wales and beyond. Alumni include Manon Steffan Ros , the Welsh novelist, playwright and broadcaster and Daniel Evans, Co-Artistic Director of the Royal Shakespeare Company, alongside directors, producers, writers, designers, educators and arts leaders working across the BBC, S4C and major UK touring companies.

As part of the anniversary celebrations, NYTW is launching a nationwide call-out for alumni stories, production memories, photographs, programmes and archive material, helping to create a living record of five decades of theatre-making in Wales.

Throughout the year, the campaign will share alumni stories, celebrate landmark productions and create opportunities for former members and current participants to connect, share experiences and celebrate their contribution to Welsh cultural life.

The anniversary programme will culminate in a major celebration event later in the year and a future-focused performance project in Summer 2027.

The campaign will also launch the Cylch Alumni Circle, a new alumni network designed to strengthen connections between past and present members, alongside the Play Your Part: 50 More Years Fund, helping to support the future of theatre in Wales.

Megan Childs, Head of Theatre and National Youth Theatre of Wales Producer, said:

"NYTW has always been about bringing exceptional young people together to create ambitious theatre. For fifty years we've told extraordinary stories on stages across Wales while helping generations of young people discover their creative voice. As we celebrate this milestone, we're looking ahead with the same ambition: to create space for even more stories to be told, more voices to be heard and more young people, from every background and every part of Wales, to discover that they belong on our stages. That's the future we're celebrating and the future we're building together."

Former members, supporters and friends of NYTW are invited to reconnect and become part of the anniversary celebrations by sharing their stories, memories and photographs, and by joining the growing NYTW alumni community. Follow @nationalyouththeatrewales and @nationalyouthartswales on Instagram and visit the National Youth Arts Wales website https://www.nyaw.org.uk/nytw-50 for campaign updates, anniversary events and ways to get involved. Whether you performed on stage, worked behind the scenes or supported the company in any way, NYTW wants to hear your story.

National Youth Theatre of Wales Commissions Playwright Bethan Marlow for 50th Anniversary Production

We’re excited to announce National Youth Theatre of Wales (NYTW) has begun work on a bold, bilingual, semi-verbatim work by acclaimed playwright Bethan Marlow that has the voices, stories and ambitions of Wales's next generation at its heart.  

This 50-year milestone comes at a moment of renewed focus on the kind of Wales we want to build and how young people want their stories to be told. To mark this, 25 of Wales's most promising young performers will collaborate this summer with Bethan to develop an ambitious new music filled state-of-the-nation production set to tour Welsh stages in 2027. 

Working alongside the ensemble members and Bethan this summer will be director Hannah Noone and a wider creative team who this year will present an exclusive preview of this work in progress featuring a selection of scenes and musical numbers at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama on the 30th of July 2026.  

The work has already started with a series of online workshops held over the past months where the NYTW members and Bethan have got to know each other and collaborated to shape this work and its identity.   

Originally from North Wales, Bethan is known as a writer that creates fictional worlds with real voices working with and within easy to ignore communities in our society. Scripts that seep of queer joy, gut-punching drama and authenticity. 

Bethan’s work spans theatre, film and television with the acclaimed work Nyrsys (Theatr Cymru) and the coming-of-age classic Cysgu’n brysur, both testament to their unique approach that finds the extraordinary and joy in the everyday through stories that connect with audiences from all ages and backgrounds.   

Bethan Marlow says: "To have the opportunity to work with young people in Wales, to write a piece of theatre in response to their thoughts and feelings about today's world, is an absolute privilege. I never get tired of working with real-life voices and hearing what makes them tick. I'm excited to see what we can create together."

Megan Childs, Head of Theatre at NYAW, says:

“Having had the pleasure of sitting in on the online workshops all I can say is If what comes next is half as prolific creatively and as collaboratively generous then this is shaping up to be something very special for participants and audiences alike.”

Come and see the work

For a special glimpse of the work by National Youth Theatre of Wales 2026, a limited ticketed sharing performance will be held at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama on Thursday 30th July at 7pm.  

Book your tickets now

Photo: Bethan Marlow by Kristina Banholzer 

Creative Futures: Transforming Young Lives Through Arts

"Before Creative Futures, I wouldn't have had the confidence to do anything like that. Seeing myself on screen dancing and singing made me realise what I'm capable of." 

 The Creative Futures project was a dynamic, collaborative arts programme led by National Youth Arts Wales. Delivered in partnership with Gwent Music Service, Ballet Cymru, Public Health Wales and local services, it explored whether creative opportunities can have significant impacts for young people facing the challenges of poverty. 

Reaching Those Who Need It Most 

Funded through the Welsh Government’s Child Poverty Innovation Fund, Creative Futures supported 233 young people aged 10–18 across Torfaen and Blaenau Gwent. Over the course of 6 months, the programme delivered 61 workshops across 9 locations, employing 13 freelance practitioners. It reached young people in schools, youth clubs, community venues and beyond, extending its reach further with a 5-week programme in Merthyr Tydfil and Discovery Dance sessions in Mold - proving there is an appetite for high-quality creative experiences in communities across South Wales. 

Recognising barriers such as transport, cost, confidence and competing commitments, the team adapted quickly from a traditional weekly community model to a more flexible, responsive delivery: 

• School-based sessions 

• Youth club partnerships 

• Creative Futures Experience Days at Ballet Cymru 

• One-off workshops and intensive experiences  

By taking creative opportunities directly to young people and providing free access (including food and transport support), the programme aimed to remove traditional obstacles to participation. 

Creative Skills, Confidence & Career Aspirations 

Participants immersed themselves in music production, DJing, beatboxing, dance (including breakdancing), songwriting, instrumental learning and filmmaking. Working alongside industry professionals – including artists from The Voice – proved transformative. 

Young people shared: 

• "I was blown away we were in the same room as someone from The Voice, and he was teaching us." 

• "Creative Futures has helped me with confidence playing guitar." 

• "It made me think I could do that."  

Many reported significant confidence gains, with one participant moving from a self-rated 4 to an 8 after performing on stage. Others discovered new skills in drumming, choreography, filming and teamwork, while gaining real insight into creative career pathways. 

Wellbeing and Social Connections 

Wellbeing was woven throughout the programme through mindfulness, music, movement and reflective activities. For many, Creative Futures became a vital anchor: 

• "If I wasn’t doing Creative Futures I’d be laying in bed." 

• "I’d be doing nothing if I wasn’t here, oh wait, I’d go on my Xbox..." 

The project fostered new friendships, reduced isolation and created safe, inclusive spaces. Participants particularly valued the social aspect:  

"The best thing about Creative Futures is getting to meet new people and the amount of activity we do." 

A landmark achievement of the project was the completion of a Health Impact Assessment (HIA) – the first time an arts organisation in Wales has undertaken this formal process. Conducted in partnership with Public Health Wales, the Welsh Health Impact Assessment Support Unit and Aneurin Bevan Health Board, the HIA provided robust evidence of the programme’s positive effects on participants’ physical, mental and social wellbeing. This pioneering approach strengthens the case for arts as a powerful tool for public health and community development. 

Abigail Malcom, Senior Public Health Practitioner (Policy and Impact Assessment) at Public Health Wales, who partnered with National Youth Arts Wales on the programme said:   “The Wales Health Impact Assessment Support Unit (WHIASU) at Public Health Wales provided advisory support to National Youth Arts Wales (NYAW) to deliver a Health Impact Assessment (HIA) of their Creative Futures programme. The HIA helped to highlight how the project was likely to impact the health and wellbeing of young people living in Torfaen and Blaenau Gwent. By considering a wide range of impacts, the HIA identified opportunities to maximise positive health outcomes and mitigate against potential unintended consequences.  

The HIA made a number of recommendations, including emphasising the importance of using inclusive and accessible language throughout the project to challenge perceptions and encourage wider participation. Consideration of these recommendations will help inform future delivery and strengthen the programme’s capacity to support positive health, wellbeing and life‑course outcomes for young people across Torfaen and Blaenau Gwent.”  

Stronger Communities Through Partnership 

Creative Futures exemplifies the power of collaboration. National Youth Arts Wales worked closely with Gwent Music Service, Ballet Cymru, Public Health Wales, Aneurin Bevan Health Board, local schools and youth services. Together, they co-designed solutions that delivered responsive, high-impact provision while breaking down barriers to the arts. Theatre trips to the Wales Millennium Centre and The Riverfront, alongside studio days at Ballet Cymru, opened up cultural experiences many participants had never accessed before. 

Creative Futures’ Project Manager, Bruna Garcia, said: “It has been a real blessing to work on Creative Futures and to meet so many amazing young people. I’m incredibly proud that we were able to give them the opportunity to explore their creativity through dance and music. The project offered more than just workshop, it created a safe and supportive space where young people could try new things, develop their talents, and build meaningful social connections with their peers. 

It has been truly rewarding to witness their growth and see how far they have come over the course of the project. For many, it has inspired them to get creative and pursue their passions in the arts. This project has been invaluable not only for the young people involved, but also for National Youth Arts Wales, allowing us to expand our reach and introduce more young people to the organisation and its opportunities.” 

Learning for the Future 

While the programme was overwhelmingly positive, honest feedback highlighted areas for development – such as offering more choice in wellbeing activities and managing noise levels in music sessions. These insights, along with the clear risk of losing momentum when projects end, will shape future work. 

Why This Matters 

“Creative Futures was more than a series of workshops. It is proof that when we invest in creative opportunities for young people affected by poverty, we see measurable gains in confidence, skills, wellbeing, aspiration and social connection. In the words of participants, without these opportunities many would have remained disengaged, isolated or "getting into trouble." With them, they became performers, filmmakers, musicians, confident young people ready to step into the world.” - Jamie Jenkins, Head of Dance, National Youth Arts Wales 

“National Youth Arts Wales believes every young person in Wales deserves access to transformative creative experiences. Projects like Creative Futures demonstrate the powerful role arts organisations can play in tackling child poverty, supporting mental health and building stronger, more creative communities. We urge funders, policymakers and partners to continue investing in youth arts provision that is flexible, inclusive and deeply connected to local needs.”  - Evan Dawson, CEO, National Youth Arts Wales 

For more information about the project and the work done throughout Wales by National Youth Arts Wales, please contact nyaw@nyaw.org.uk or visit our website www.nyaw.org.uk 

National Youth Dance Wales announce 2026 company led by Welsh Choreographer Osian Meilir

Following a rigorous audition process after seeing it’s highest ever membership applications this year, National Youth Dance Wales (NYDW)’s 2026 cohort met for the first time last week at the University of South Wales, Cardiff.  

The NYDW 2026 Members Discovery Day was a chance for the young dancers aged 16-22 to meet their fellow performers from all across Wales, take part in pre residency preparation sessions and an official company photoshoot - capturing the start of what promises to be a memorable, transformative experience. 

“To be a member of National Youth Dance Wales is definitely a huge privilege and an incredible opportunity, especially seeing their past pieces that they’ve made.” - Isabella, aged 17 - NYDW 2026 Member 

“Being a part of National Youth Dance Wales opens up a lot of opportunities for me and allows me to work with amazing choreographers” - Baz, aged 16 - NYDW 2026 Member 

“Being a National Youth Dance Wales member is really important to me as I get to connect with lots of dancers from across Wales and collaborate with choreographers” - Tabitha, aged 22 – NYDW 2026 Member 

The talented and eager young dancers – 9 of whom are returning members – had the chance to meet the National Youth Arts Wales team and learn more about what’s involved in a NYDW summer residency, where the dancers will come together for an intensive two-weeks to train, collaborate and create. 

Packed with daily technique classes and creative workshops led by an exciting and diverse range of professional dance artists, the summer residency is a chance for the dancers to explore different dance techniques and grow as a versatile performer while gaining insight into the wider dance industry. 

Jamie Jenkins, Head of Dance at National Youth Arts Wales said: "I'm so energised by this year's ensemble. It’s exciting to see many returning faces alongside a wealth of new talent. Together, they bring a wonderful mix of familiar and fresh faces to NYDW. These dancers all bring something unique, and we can’t wait to see them at work this summer!" 

A key highlight of the residency will be the creation of a brand-new work with our 2026 guest choreographer, Osian Meilir. The NYDW 2026 members will be part of the full creative process, from initial ideas to performance, working closely with Osian to develop a piece that reflects their collective talent, individuality, and voices. 

NYDW 2026 Guest Choreographer, Osian Meilir, says: "I'm very excited to be creating with NYDW this year. Being a former member of the company myself, I know how important and informative those years of training were in my development as a young dancer. I'm looking forward to meeting and working with the incredible young dancers of Wales and to be back as part of the NYDW family."

For NYDW’s 2026 cohort, Osian will lead a creative collaboration, guiding this year's exceptional group of dancers through an exciting journey of creation and performance. Under his direction, the dancers will explore new movement languages, deepen their artistic identity and work together to create bold, original work that will be premiered both on stage and on film, set against some of Wales’ most inspiring landscapes. 

National Youth Dance Wales will perform alongside the outstanding Ballet Cymru at The Riverfront, Newport, this October. Ticket information will be announced soon. 

Sign up to NYAW monthly news and opportunities newsletter to keep up to date with the NYDW news.  

NYDW 2026. Photo by: Kirsten McTernan.

National Youth Theatre of Wales 2026 Members Announced

We're excited to reveal the National Youth Theatre of Wales 2026 Membership! 

Exceptional young performers from every corner of Wales and beyond, all sharing a creative drive that embodies the ambition and spirit of NYTW.  

This talented group of returning members and new faces will work with us across our Ensemble and Profession al Pathways programmes, taking part in exceptional skills and theatre-making residencies and be at the heart of developing NYTW's landmark 50th anniversary production. 

“What our audition tour of Wales revealed earlier this year is that Wales’s cultural and creative future is in safe and exciting hands. These 50 young people all bring an extraordinary appetitive to grow their practice and share their talent as members of Wales’s National Youth Theatre.  I can’t wait to get in the room with them alongside our industry professional teams and partners to celebrate NYTW turning 50 and shape the vision for the next 50!” - Megan Childs, Producer and Head of Theatre at National Youth Arts Wales

Keep your eyes peeled for creative team announcements soon...

National Youth Arts Wales Members Celebrate Success at Eisteddfod yr Urdd Ynys Môn 2026

National Youth Arts Wales (NYAW) is delighted to celebrate the outstanding achievements of our members at Eisteddfod yr Urdd Ynys Môn 2026. Across music and drama performance competitions, our members secured an impressive number of first, second and third-place awards, demonstrating the exceptional skill, creativity and dedication of young musicians and performers from across Wales.  

Congratulations to all members who competed and represented their communities with distinction! 
 

Eisteddfod yr Urdd Ynys Môn 2026 winners - NYAW members: 
 

National Youth Brass Band of Wales members  

• Brass Solo – Under 19s: 1st - Gruffydd Siôn, 2nd - Iestyn Seiriol, and 3rd - Meilir Tudur Davies  

• Guitar Solo - Yrs.10 and under 19 years old: 1st - Meilir Tudur Davies 

• Percussion Solo - Yrs.10 and under 19 years old: 2nd – Catrin-Alaw Gwilliam  
   

National Youth Choir of Wales members 

• Sir Bryn Terfel Award - Solo, 19-25 year olds: 2nd - Leisa Mair Lloyd-Edwards 

• S/A - Yrs.10 and under 19 years old: 1st – Mared Eos Phillips, 2nd - Celyn Richards, and 3rd - Beca Hogg 

• Folk Song Solo - Yrs.10 and under 19 years old: 2nd - Celyn Richards 

• Cerdd Dant Solo - Yrs.10 and under 19 years old: 1st – Gwenno Beech, 2nd - Celyn Richards, and 3rd - Ela Mablen Griffith-Jones 

• Individual Recitation - Yrs.10 and under 19 years old: 1st - Gwenno Beech 

• Performance of a Musical Song Yrs.10 and under 19 years old: 2nd - Mared Eos Phillips 
   

Heledd Wyn Newton. Photo: Kirsten McTernan

National Youth Orchestra of Wales members

• Main Composer: 1st - Heledd Wyn Newton  

• Rakhi Singh Award - Instrumental, 19-25 year olds: 2nd - Carwyn Lloyd 

• Woodwind Solo Yrs.10 and under 19 years old: 1st – Owen Frohawk, and 3rd - Alys Lavery 

• String Solo (with the exception of guitar) - Yrs. 10 and under 19 years old: 1st - Tanwen Lloyd  

National Youth Theatre of Wales members

• The Drama Medal: Glain Llwyd

• Matthew Rhys Award - monologue, 19-25 year olds: 1st - Jona Milone 

• Performance of a Musical Song 19-25 years old: 3rd - Miriam Llwyd Davies  
  
  

National Youth Arts Wales is incredibly proud of every member who took part in this year’s festival. Their success reflects not only their talent and commitment, but also the strength of youth arts provision across Wales. Congratulations! 

National Youth Arts Wales announces Momentwm dance development programme

National Youth Arts Wales (NYAW) is delighted to announce new funding support from Arts Council Wales for the development and launch of Momentwm, a youth dance development programme designed to strengthen high-quality dance provision for young people in Wales.  

The programme will provide consistent weekly training opportunities, offering sessions that create space for technical development, creativity, reflection and wellbeing. Momentwm aims to address gaps in regional provision while nurturing the next generation of dancers in an inclusive and supportive environment.  

Alongside the weekly programme, a series of events will be delivered across Wales to celebrate youth dance and bring the sector together through discussion, exchange and shared creative experiences. 

“Momentwm is about creating opportunities for young people to grow technically, artistically and personally through dance,” said Jamie Jenkins, Head of Dance at National Youth Arts Wales.

“We want young people across Wales to feel connected, supported and inspired, with access to regular, high-quality training and creative experiences that can have a lasting impact on their confidence, wellbeing and future ambitions. This funding allows us to build something sustainable and genuinely transformative for youth dance in Wales.”

Read Arts Council Wales’ statement here.

Your Sound of Summer! National Youth Arts Wales announces Summer 2026 Concert Tours

National Youth Arts Wales (NYAW) is excited to announce the launch of its summer 2026 concert tours, with National Youth Orchestra of Wales (NYOW), National Youth Brass Band of Wales (NYBBW) and National Youth Choir of Wales (NYCW) taking to stage across Wales this July and August.   

NYOW celebrates an incredible milestone of 80 years as the world's oldest national youth orchestra in 2026, launching its Anniversary Tour in Bangor at the Prichard Jones Hall on 29 July. Leading the 100-piece orchestra for this celebratory year will be Andrew Gourlay. Hailed by The Guardian as "a star in the ascendent", Andrew has quickly established himself as an internationally recognised conductor with a dynamic, collaborative style. He has conducted extensively across the UK and Europe, is a regular guest at the BBC Proms and a passionate advocate for youth orchestras.  

Also kickstarting in North Wales, the NYCW launches its 2026 tour in St Asaph Cathedral on 19 August. Established in 1984, with its alumni including Sir Bryn Terfel and Katherine Jenkins OBE, the choir will be conducted by another former member of the Choir, Tim Rhys-Evans MBE. One of the most celebrated figures in Welsh choral music, Tim has been at the forefront of choral singing in Wales for over 20 years. 2026 marks his eighth year conducting the choir which this year is made up of over 90 young singers. Under Tim's direction, audiences can expect a vibrant mix of music - from brand-new pieces and choral favourites to a few surprises along the way. 

NYBBW will be led by Philip Harper as conductor of the Brass Band this summer. Philip, who last worked with the band in 2022, is one of the most influential conductors in the brass band world, having led The Cory Band to unprecedented success since taking the reins in 2012. Known for his high-energy rehearsals and inspiring leadership, we look forward to Philip bringing out the very best in our players in a varied programme that combines challenging competition works with entertaining concert pieces. Audiences can look forward to an evening of high-quality, energetic musicianship. The band – made up of 59 of the best young brass players in the country - finishes its 2026 tour at The Riverfront, Newport, on 23 August. 

Tickets for all three tours are on sale now. Book at nyaw.org.uk/whats-on‍ ‍and follow us on social media @nationalyouthartswales for the latest news and updates throughout the summer. 

Full concert tour dates:

National Youth Orchestra of Wales

29/07 - 7:30pm, Prichard Jones Hall, Bangor 

31/07 - 7pm, St Davids Cathedral, St Davids 

01/08 - 3pm, Brangwyn Hall, Swansea 

National Youth Choir of Wales
2026 Season Sponsor: Lux Family Law

19/08 - 7:30pm, St Asaph Cathedral, St Asaph 

20/08 - 7:30pm, St Davids Cathedral, St Davids 

21/08 - 7pm, Brangwyn Hall, Swansea 

National Youth Brass Band of Wales

21/08 - 7:30pm, Prichard Jones Hall, Bangor 

22/08 - 7:30pm, St Davids Cathedral, St Davids 

23/08 - 2pm, The Riverfront, Newport 

New Trustees Appointed at National Youth Arts Wales

Left to right: Karen Pimbley, Matthew Smith, Christina Timms, Sanea Singh, and Geraint Pugh.

National Youth Arts Wales (NYAW) is delighted to announce the appointment of four new trustees to its National Board, following a public recruitment process earlier this year. They are Sanea Singh, Christina Timms, Geraint Pugh and Matthew Smith. 

Chair of Trustees, Karen Pimbley, commented: 

“We are thrilled to welcome Sanea, Christina, Geraint and Matthew to our Board. This year marks two major milestones for National Youth Arts Wales — the 80th anniversary of our groundbreaking National Youth Orchestra of Wales and the 50th anniversary of the National Youth Theatre of Wales. We are already reaching more young people than ever before, across the whole of Wales and from every kind of background. With the expertise and fresh perspectives of our new trustees, we are determined to go further still — so that every young person in Wales has the opportunity to experience the life-changing power of the arts. Welcoming four outstanding new trustees to our Board at such a pivotal moment for the arts in Wales reflects our confidence and optimism for the future of National Youth Arts Wales.” 

Sanea Singh is a dancer, choreographer, facilitator and advocate with a strong commitment to youth arts and inclusion. 

A First Class BA (Hons) Dance graduate from LIPA, she trained with Studio Wayne McGregor and Jasmin Vardimon Company (JV2). She has performed extensively as a company dancer with Ballet Cymru (2020–2025), appearing in over 300 performances across the UK, and has worked as Associate Artist with National Youth Dance Wales (2023–present) and as Movement Artist with National Youth Theatre Wales (2024). Through her facilitation, choreography and mentoring, she champions equitable access, representation and wellbeing for young people from diverse backgrounds. 

“I’m honoured to have been appointed as a Trustee of National Youth Arts Wales. I’m keen to support the organisation’s commitment to championing young people, widening access to the arts, and ensuring more diverse voices are represented within creative spaces and leadership.” 

Christina Timms is an experienced arts professional with over 25 years’ expertise in the cultural sector, specialising in music education, youth and community music, classical music, fundraising and organisational development. 

She has held roles with major funders including Arts Council England (as Relationship Manager for Music, 2012–2023) and Youth Music (Regional Executive Officer, 2005–2012), where she supported programmes that widen access to high-quality creative opportunities for children and young people from disadvantaged backgrounds. Christina brings valuable governance experience from board observer and funder liaison roles with organisations such as Welsh National Opera, City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra and Ex Cathedra, alongside strong skills in advocacy, partnership building and strategic development. Having recently moved to Cardiff, she is committed to supporting the arts in Wales. 

"I'm delighted to be joining the board of NYAW to support a growing & thriving organisation, and to help promote a wide range of high quality arts opportunities for young people across Wales. I'm looking forward to sharing my experience from my work in England, and to contribute to the dynamic cultural scene in my new city and country, Wales." 

Geraint Pugh is an experienced professional in the field of governance and a fluent Welsh speaker who lives in Aberystwyth, with a strong commitment to youth arts and public service. A former member of the National Youth Choir of Wales (2000–03), he brings deep personal insight into the transformative impact of high-quality creative opportunities on the lives of young people. He currently works as Board Secretary of S4C (since 2021), where he provides strategic advice on governance, along with experience in risk management and regulatory matters. He represents the organisation in its dealings with the UK Government, the BBC, and Ofcom. Previously, he served as Secretary of Aberystwyth University, and he also brings valuable experience as a trustee with the HAHAV charity and as a former External Trustee of Bangor University Students’ Union. 

“NYAW does vital work in opening doors for young people from all backgrounds through the arts — work that I experienced directly as a former member of the National Youth Choir of Wales. I am delighted to be able to contribute my experience in strategic governance and public oversight to support the Board in delivering the organisation’s mission. 

Matthew Smith is a Partner at Blake Morgan LLP and Head of the firm’s national Education sector practice, with deep expertise in employment law and experience in governance and charity regulation. He advises boards and senior leaders across universities, further education colleges and charities on complex HR, employment, regulatory and succession issues. A Cambridge law graduate, Matthew brings valuable strategic, risk management and legal oversight experience to support NYAW’s governance and sustainability. Personally passionate about the arts and theatre, he has seen first-hand the positive impact of youth arts participation through his children's involvement in the arts. 

“I strongly believe in the enormous value of NYAW’s work in supporting excellence in music, dance and drama and in ensuring opportunities for talented young artists across Wales. I am delighted to become a trustee at an exciting time with some groundbreaking initiatives under way, such as the Creative Passport which has the potential to bring great benefits for those interested or involved in youth arts.” 

National Youth Arts Wales and Cardiff University School of Music

National Youth Arts Wales works with partner organisations throughout Wales to ensure that every young person has the opportunity to flourish through the arts. One of our key partners is Cardiff University’s School of Music, which offers Higher Education courses across a wide range of music genres. This Easter, they generously hosted residencies for the National Youth Orchestra of Wales, National Youth Choir of Wales and National Youth Brass Band of Wales at their facilities in Cardiff. We were also delighted to welcome work placement student Poppy Ancell to work with us, helping us prepare for those intense rehearsals. 

“It’s been a privilege to host the choirs and instrumental ensembles of National Youth Arts Wales this past week and to hear their outstanding music-making filling our concert hall and rehearsal spaces.  

No one should underestimate the collective commitment in Wales to embedding transformative music and arts education, with National Youth Arts Wales standing at the very forefront of this work.  We hope that by experiencing our environment this week the students have gained a fresh sense of the fully realistic path that exists for them into higher education and the profession.

Speaking of which, we have also been thrilled to work with NYAW as part of our Business of Music scheme at Cardiff School of Music, which has so far given more than 250 students invaluable placement experience across the arts, music education, the commercial music industry and the charity sector as part of their degree.  

Our NYAW placement student Poppy was able not just to get involved in the extensive behind-the-scenes work towards the Spring courses but also to see how, like all of NYAW’s expert tutors, you can balance a successful performing career with being an inspiring mentor to future generations.”

Dr Charles Wilson

Director of Student Professional Development, School of Music, Cardiff University 

“Doing placement for the Business of Music II with NYAW was such a pleasure, and I was truly grateful for the unique opportunity it gave me to explore youth arts, as working with young people is something I’m passionate about. While my job was very admin focused, organising music for the Easter rehearsals, it gave me such a helpful insight into arts management and has inspired me to pursue it after my degree. Working in youth arts feels like making a valuable contribution to the life of young people and a way of watching them grow but in a different way to teaching, which I’m also interested in pursuing. Everyone was so welcoming and created a relaxed environment where I felt comfortable asking questions and sharing opinions.”

Poppy Ancell
Student, Cardiff University 

“It was great to be able to offer Poppy a work placement as part of her music degree at Cardiff University and it came at a very opportune time for us as well. In a particularly busy period for National Youth Arts Wales, Poppy provided vital support in the lead up to and during our music ensemble rehearsals which was very much appreciated. As well as helping us prepare for the rehearsals Poppy spent time with various members of the team learning about their roles and the different elements of the organisation. She even attended a leaving do for one of the team. It was a pleasure to work with Poppy, her enthusiasm for music and her hopes for working with young people in some way in the future aligned perfectly with us, making it a very positive experience all around.”

Matthew Jones

Senior Producer and Deputy CEO, National Youth Arts Wales 

We look forward to further developing our partnership with the School of Music and hopefully welcoming more of their students to enjoy a work placement with us in the future.

Meet the NYAW 2026 Folk and Jazz Discovery Day Tutors

National Youth Arts Wales (NYAW) is excited to announce the tutors who will be leading our upcoming Folk and Jazz Discovery Days across Wales this month. 

The free workshops will offer young musicians aged 14–22 and at a grade 4 and above level, the chance to experience folk or jazz in a fun, supportive and inclusive environment.   

2026 Folk Discovery Day Tutors   

Patrick Rimes (Cardiff, Aberystwyth and Carmarthen Folk Discovery Days)
Patrick Rimes is a musician, composer, arranger and educator from North Wales. Born and raised in Eryri, he got his early musical experiences with William Mathias music service, as well as learning traditional music through the vibrant local scene, before going on to study classical violin and viola at Leeds University, Janáčkovo Akademie Muzických in Brno, Czech Republic and the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama. As a founder member of both Calan and VRï he has toured extensively in the UK, Europe and North America, and released multiple acclaimed studio albums. He has appeared as a soloist with the BBC National Orchestra of Wales, City of London Sinfonia and Sinfonia Cymru.  

Jordan Price Williams (Carmarthen Folk Discovery Day)
Jordan Price Williams is a Welsh-language folk singer and traditional musician from Cwmafan, South Wales. Rooted in the living traditions of Wales, his work centres on sharing, reinterpreting and sustaining Welsh-language repertoire for contemporary audiences. A founding member of the chamber-folk trio VRï, he has toured internationally and released two critically acclaimed albums (Tŷ Ein Tadau and islais a genir), bringing Welsh song and instrumental music to major stages including Celtic Connections, Festival Interceltique de Lorient, Edinburgh International Festival and Celtic Colours in Canada.  

Aneirin Jones (Cardiff, Aberystwyth and Carmarthen Folk Discovery Days)
Hailing from Pontardawe originally, Aneirin started playing the fiddle at aged 7, having a strong musical upbringing attending local Welsh trad. sessions in the Swansea Valley (‘Cwmtawe’) (as well as school orchestra and classical lessons). He studied a BMus in Traditional Music at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland in Glasgow, then returning to Wales. As a member of the chamber-trad string-trio Vrï, he’s already enjoyed a very exciting career as a traditional musician. The band’s studio releases ‘Islais a Genir’ and ‘Ty Ein Tadau’ both won “Best Album” at the Wales Folk Awards (2019 and 2023). They’ve performed in many parts of the world on international stages (from Canada, Brittany to India to name a few) and many tours across the UK.  

Stephen Rees (Mold and Caernarfon Folk Discovery Days)
Stephen Rees is a multi-instrumentalist who is well known in the world of Welsh folk music, having performed throughout the UK and internationally with the groups Ar Log and Crasdant. He is also an experienced tutor who injects creativity and enthusiasm into his workshops. Stephen’s main instruments are fiddle and accordion, although he can occasionally be seen (and heard!) playing the pibgorn. 

Gwen Mairi (Cardiff, Aberystwyth, Mold and Caernarfon Folk Discovery Days)
Gwen Màiri is a harpist, singer and composer, creating music rooted in Welsh tradition combined with her own contemporary style. She has released two albums (Mentro, 2019 and Douze Noëls, 2021) and her playing can also be heard on the albums of Gwilym Bowen Rhys (O Groth y Ddaear - 2016, Arenig - 2019, Aden - 2025).  Gwen's track Teifi, from Mentro, was shortlisted for Best Instrumental Track in the Wales Folk Awards 2023. Her third album is currently in progress, to be released in 2026. 

Rhys Morris (Brecon Folk Discovery Day)
Rhys started playing guitar from a young age and discovered his love for folk music as a teenager. Since then, he has played across the country with Avanc and has been a tutor on the Gwerin Gwallgo course multiple times.  

Awen Blandford (Mold and Caernarfon Folk Discovery Days)
Awen is a freelance cellist and singer based in Manchester. A graduate of the RNCM, her performance work has taken her to venues across the UK and internationally, collaborating on projects ranging from rock bands to dance productions. Originally from North Wales, her current work centres on a deepening reconnection with Welsh traditional music, which shapes her creative practice and teaching. She currently enjoys performing regularly with esteemed folk artists, Anna McLuckie, Mikey Kenney, and Seamus Óg. 

2026 Jazz Discovery Day Tutors  

Gareth Roberts (Aberystwyth Jazz Discovery Day)
Gareth Roberts is a jazz trombonist, composer and teacher based in Cardiff. Since graduating from RWCMD in 2005 with a PG Dip in jazz performance Gareth has worked professionally as a jazz musician, composer, and music teacher. The Gareth Roberts Quintet has released two critically acclaimed albums of original compositions; one of these albums won a Jazz Services UK award. 

Gethin Liddington (Brecon Jazz Discovery Day)
Gethin Liddington (LWCMD, AWCMD) studied classical trumpet with Terence Lax at Welsh College of Music and Drama from 1989 to 1993. Since graduating, he has worked mainly in jazz and commercial music. He has performed widely, collaborations including Keith Tippetts' Tapestry, the Paul Dunmall Octet and Big Band, the Pasadena Roof Orchestra, the Syd Lawrence Orchestra, Back to Basie, Blue Harlem, Welsh National Opera, Jeff Hooper, Catrin Finch, Katherine Jenkins, Keith Nicholls, Alex Mendham Orchestra and the Welsh Jazz Composers Orchestra. He has also performed for TV and radio, has recorded and has given performances at many major festivals throughout Europe and is also a jazz trumpet tutor at RWCMD. 

Huw Warren (Cardiff, Carmarthen, Mold and Caernarfon Jazz Discovery Days)
Huw Warren is one of Wales' best known Jazz pianist and composers with a highly original style fusing many genres and influences. Internationally he has collaborated with musicians such as Maria Pia de Vito (Italy) Mark Feldman (USA) Peter Herbert (Austria); whilst in the UK he is known for his long collaboration with singer June Tabor and being the co-founder of influential 90s group Perfect Houseplants. His solo albums have included reworking John Dowland, Hermeto Pascoal and Brazilian Choro and his music can be found on ECM, CAMJazz, Babel, Basho, Linn and his own Maizeh music label. Equally passionate about projects closer to home in Cymru, he has recorded an album of Welsh Hymns (Duw y Wyr) with Lleuwen Steffan and more recently an album of Plygain arrangements (Calennig) with Angharad Jenkins. Huw teaches at RWCMD and Cardiff University. 

Huw V Williams (Mold and Caernarfon Jazz Discovery Days)
Bass player Huw V Williams, originally hailing from rural North Wales is one of the most exciting and unique musicians on the scene at the moment. Huw has been associated with world class musicians in the field of jazz and improvised music, including Jim Black, Huw Warren, Jeff Williams, Laura Jurd and Ivo Neame. As well as being jazz bass player, he also plays in the rock world with musicians Gruff Rhys (Super Furry Animals) and Kliph Scurlock (formerly of the Flaming Lips).   

Andrew Bain (Cardiff, Carmarthen and Mold Jazz Discovery Days)
Andrew Bain, musician, educator and researcher, is one of the leading performers and educators in Europe having performed with luminaries such as Wynton Marsalis, Natalie Cole, Kenny Wheeler, Randy Brecker, John Taylor, NDR Big Band, Dave Liebman and Bob Mintzer, including a New York residency. Andrew was appointed Head of Jazz at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama in 2023.  

Paula Gardiner (Cardiff and Carmarthen Jazz Discovery Days)
Paula Gardiner is best known for her work as jazz bassist and composer, based in Wales. However, her professional career began as a classical guitarist and composer for theatre. She has written extensively for theatre, radio and film. Paula calls herself ‘The Accidental Bassist”, as a number of coincidences found her playing firstly electric bass in an afro-cuban band, and then double bass for Cardiff’s central jazz club, The Four Bars Inn, providing the rhythm section for a host of visiting international artists. During the nineties and noughties, Paula founded several bands including the Paula Gardiner Quartet, 6, The Paula Gardiner Trio, Paula Gardiner 6.0 and the anarchic big band that was Wales’ Jazz Composers. She has worked internationally, taking her own music to the US and composing/conducting a major project in Wales and South Africa for the cultural Olympiad, 2012. 

Joe Northwood (Carmarthen Jazz Discovery Day)
A jazz saxophonist, educator and promoter, Joe has spent his career championing jazz and improvisation and is as a leading youth jazz educator and creative mentor within Wales. Over the past 20 years Joe has performed across the UK and internationally as a band leader, collaborator and session musician. He has released a number of records under his own name including his 2019 trio album 'Taking Flight' and the 2020 dystopian funk EP 'Nurdle'. Most recently he has worked with 'N'Famady Kouyaté and the Successors of the Mandingue' (West African/Welsh Indie Fusion band) and 'Pendevig' (17-piece Folk super band). 

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We want to encourage musicians of all traditional music backgrounds to take part in the Discovery Days – whether your background is Jazz, Welsh Folk, or any other world music tradition, these sessions will be fun for all. 

The programme is delivered by National Youth Arts Wales, in partnership with National Music Service Wales and the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama and strategic support from Arts Council of Wales, strengthening pathways for young people in Wales to discover development opportunities in their musical journeys.  Places are free but limited, so advance booking is required.   

For dates and locations, and to sign-up, visit: www.nyaw.org.uk/whats-on 

Meet the 2026 NYAW Conductors

NYAW 2026 Conductors: Philip Harper (left), Tim Rhys-Evans (centre), Andrew Gourlay (right)

National Youth Arts Wales (NYAW) is excited to announce the conductors who’ll be leading the National Youth Arts Wales music ensembles this summer! 

With auditions completed and the 2026 membership confirmed, the stage is now set for another exciting Summer of Music featuring some of the best young musicians from across Wales. 

The National Youth Brass Band of Wales (NYBBW) is delighted to welcome back Philip Harper as its conductor this summer. Philip, who last worked with the Band in 2022, is one of the most influential conductors in the brass band world having led The Cory Band to unprecedented success since taking the reins in 2012. Known for high-energy rehearsals and inspiring leadership, Philip knows how to get the best out of the Band’s members and is planning a varied programme that combines challenging competition works with entertaining concert pieces.  

National Youth Choir of Wales (NYCW) Alumnus, Tim Rhys-Evans MBE, returns to conduct his former choir this summer in a collaboration that has seen the Choir develop and grow tremendously throughout his 8 years at the helm. Tim has been at the forefront of choral singing in Wales for over 20 years and is passionate about supporting young singers – demonstrated through his work as founder of the Aloud Charity and Only Boys and Only Kids Aloud. A former professional singer himself, Tim combines fantastic musicianship with an extensive knowledge of vocal technique which has led to him becoming renowned for creating powerful, supportive spaces where young singers can grow in confidence and skill. 

The members of the NYCW always provide high quality, energetic performances of both traditional and more contemporary choral works and this summer is sure to be no different under Tim’s leadership. 

In 2026, the National Youth Orchestra of Wales (NYOW) is excited to welcome Andrew Gourlay to conduct the Orchestra in a landmark year as we celebrate its 80th anniversary. 

Hailed by The Guardian as “a start in the ascendent”, Andrew has quickly established himself as an internationally recognised conductor with a dynamic, collaborative style. He has conducted extensively across the world including many of the UK and Europe’s leading Orchestras and is a regular conductor at the BBC Proms. Andrew is a passionate advocate for youth orchestras and has conducted the National Youth Orchestras of Australia, Columbia and Ireland as well as NYOGB.  

National Youth Arts Wales is really looking forward to him leading the NYOW in such a significant year and, as a former professional trombonist, you can rest assured that he has programmed a fantastic (brass heavy) programme that both our members and audiences will thoroughly enjoy this summer! 

Sign up to NYAW’s newsletter to be notified when our summer concerts go on sale. 

NYBBW players to represent Wales as part the 2026 European Youth Brass Band

National Youth Arts Wales (NYAW) is excited to announce that three National Youth Brass Band of Wales (NYBBW) members – Dylan Savage, Matthew Slade and Elis Jones – have been selected to represent Wales as part of the 22nd European Youth Brass Band (EYBB) which will meet this year in Linz, Austria.  

Every year, the European Brass Band Association brings together some of Europe’s finest young brass musicians to form the EYBB, who meet and rehearse together for just a week before performing several concerts, including one as part of the prestigious European Brass Band Championships.  The Band has worked with many prestigious Brass Band conductors, including previous NYBBW conductors Erik Janssen and Philip Harper, who returns to lead the NYBBW this year.  This year, hugely experienced Austrian conductor - Karl Geroldinger - will lead the EYBB for the second time, having first conducted them in 2010. 

Musicians go through a multi-stage selection process with each member country first nominating a few musicians to represent them. These musicians then submit “audition” videos for final selection. Wales has had good representation in each of the previous European Youth Brass Bands, and we are delighted that once again all three of our nominations have been selected for membership. Dylan who plays cornet, Matthew on Baritone and Elis on Bass, will all be travelling to Linz this April.  

Matthew Jones, Senior Producer and Deputy Chief Executive of NYAW, said: “Dylan, Matthew and Elis are not only very fine musicians, but they have also shown dedication to their local bands and of course the National Youth Brass Band of Wales over a number of years. I’m delighted that all three have been selected to join the EYBB and have no doubt that they will represent themselves, their bands and Wales brilliantly. It will be a fantastic opportunity for them to perform alongside musicians from so many different countries and backgrounds, and we look forward to hearing all about it when they come back to NYBBW this summer.”  

Brass Bands Wales, as the Welsh delegate to the European Brass Band Association, plays a key role in enabling these opportunities for young musicians. Each year the organisation is responsible for coordinating the nominations of these talented players from Wales to take part in the European Youth Brass Band, helping to ensure that the country is represented on this prestigious international stage. In addition to coordinating the nominations, Brass Bands Wales is currently fundraising to help cover the travel costs for the three Welsh representatives, as well as the European Brass Band Association membership fees, ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent these outstanding young players from taking part in this once-in-a-lifetime musical experience.

“Brass Bands Wales wishes Dylan, Matthew and Elis every success and hopes they have a fantastic and inspiring experience representing Wales on the European stage. Brass Bands Wales also wishes the Welsh representatives competing in the Championships themselves, Beaumaris Youth Band in the European Youth Brass Band Championships and Tredegar Town Band in the European Brass Band Championships, every success as they represent Wales in this prestigious international event.” - Graham Howe, Brass Bands Wales

Before Dylan, Matthew and Elis team up with their peers from across Europe however, they will join up with their fellow members of the 2026 National Youth Brass Band of Wales this Easter holidays for its first rehearsals of this year’s exciting programme.  

For more updates and to follow the incredible journey of our NYBBW ambassadors, make sure you follow us on social media @nationalyouthartswales and @nationalyouthbrassbandofwales. 

Lux Family Law Announced as National Youth Choir of Wales 2026 Season Sponsor

NYCW (2025)

The National Youth Choir of Wales (NYCW) is delighted to announce that Lux Family Law will be the official Season Sponsor for its 2026 season. This exciting partnership brings vital support to the Choir, helping to amplify young voices and broaden access to life-changing musical experiences across Wales. 

Lux Family Law’s generous sponsorship will enable NYCW to deliver a season of ambitious creative work - from high-level rehearsals to vibrant performances that highlights Wales’s young choral singers. Their support strengthens the Choir’s ability to foster creative excellence and community-building through music. 

National Youth Arts Wales Deputy Chief Executive and Senior Producer of National Youth Choir of Wales, Matthew Jones OBE, says: “We are incredibly grateful to Lux Family Law for their support. Their partnership enables us to continue our mission of nurturing young singers, providing fantastic performance opportunities and sharing exceptional choral music across Wales.” 

As Season Sponsor, Lux Family Law’s commitment will help key elements of the National Youth Choir of Wales’s activity in 2026, including enhanced training opportunities for its members and supporting our efforts to expand audience reach both within Wales and beyond. 

Lux Family Law has a strong history of supporting local communities and cultural endeavours. By partnering with the National Youth Choir of Wales, they reaffirm a shared belief in the power of the arts to inspire, connect and enrich the lives of young people across Wales. 

Charlotte Leyshon, Director of Lux Family Law, says: “We’re absolutely thrilled that Lux Family Law are sponsoring the National Youth Choir of Wales’s 2026 Summer Season. As a strong advocate for the power of the arts to foster connection and wellbeing, we are delighted to support the wonderful work they do for young singers across Wales and look forward to seeing them live in concert this summer!” 

The National Youth Choir of Wales looks forward to an exciting 2026 season celebrating Wales's young voices, beginning its first rehearsals in South Wales in April.  

Folk and Jazz Discovery Days for Young Musicians Across Wales

National Youth Arts Wales (NYAW) is delighted to announce FREE Folk & Jazz Discovery Days taking place across Wales this March, offering young musicians aged 14–22 the chance to find their sound! 

Designed for musicians of Grade 4 and above, these one-day workshops provide a fun, inclusive and supportive environment to experience folk and jazz music with other musicians.  

Led by experienced tutors, the Discovery Days will introduce participants to the foundations of folk and jazz through practical workshops, group playing and creative exploration, ending the day with an informal sharing to parents and carers. 

National Youth Arts Wales Folk and Jazz Producer, Angharad Jenkins, said: “These Discovery Days are all about dipping your toe into a new genre and discovering new ways of making music with others. We warmly welcome young classical musicians who are curious to explore new genres, as well as talented traditional players of all backgrounds and cultures who may not have followed a classical music pathway. Folk and jazz are incredibly welcoming, creative music styles, no matter your musical background or previous experience. Come along and try something new!”  

National Youth Arts Wales would like to encourage musicians of all traditional music backgrounds to take part in the Discovery Days this March – whether your background is Welsh Folk, or any other world music tradition, these sessions will be fun for all! 

The programme is delivered by National Youth Arts Wales, in partnership with National Music Service Wales and the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama and strategic support from Arts Council of Wales, strengthening pathways for young people in Wales to discover development opportunities in their musical journeys.
 
Places are free but limited, so advance booking is required.  

For dates and locations, and to sign-up, visit: www.nyaw.org.uk/whats-on

Dance Discovery Day comes to Theatr Clwyd this March

Young people aged 12–22 with a passion for dance are invited to take part in an exciting Dance Discovery Day, delivered by National Youth Dance Wales (NYDW) in partnership with Theatr Clwyd, Ballet Cymru and National Dance Company Wales, at Theatr Clwyd, Mold, on Sunday 1 March 2026. 

Running from 10.30AM - 3PM, this fun, inclusive and engaging day will give participants the chance to explore a wide range of dance activities, discover new styles and work alongside professional dance artists in a supportive and welcoming environment. Open to all experience levels and dance backgrounds, the day is designed to inspire curiosity, build confidence and celebrate creativity. 

Whether you’re new to dance or already training regularly, Dance Discovery Day offers a unique opportunity to connect with leading dance organisations in Wales, try something new and meet other young people who share a love of movement. 

Dance Discovery Day highlights include: 

• Exploring new dance styles 

• Working with professional dance artists 

• A fun, inclusive and supportive atmosphere 

• Open to all dance styles and experience levels.
  

Event details:

Where? Theatr Clwyd, Mold 
When? Sunday 1 March 2026 
Time? 10.30AM - 3PM


Don’t miss this opportunity to discover, create and dance with NYDW, Ballet Cymru and NDCWales in North Wales!

Sign up today via nyaw.org.uk/whats-on 

For more information, please contact jamiejenkins@nyaw.org.uk. 

U.Dance is calling on Youth Dance Groups across Wales

If you love dance and want to perform on a national stage, U.Dance Cymru 2026 could be your moment. 

National Youth Arts Wales has opened applications for U.Dance Cymru, part of the UK-wide U.Dance programme that celebrates young dancers and dance groups. It’s all about giving young people the chance to share their work, meet other dancers and be part of the UK’s biggest youth dance festival.

What is U.Dance?  

U.Dance is for dancers aged 11–19, or up to 25 if you’re a disabled dancer. It doesn’t matter what style you dance - hip hop, contemporary, street, fusion, or other - if you’re passionate about dance, you’re welcome. 

Groups selected through U.Dance Cymru could be chosen to represent Wales at the U.Dance National Festival 2026, happening 3-5 July in Glasgow. The festival includes live performances, dance films, workshops, and chances to connect with dancers from across the UK. 

Jamie Jenkins, Head of Dance for National Youth Dance Wales says: 
 
“We are delighted to be working in partnership with One Dance UK and our partners to support a youth dance company/dance group from Wales to perform in Glasgow at the U.Dance National Festival. Over previous years, a number of outstanding groups have showcased their skills to audiences across the UK, including Rubicon Dance, Monmouthshire Youth Dance Company, NDCWales Young Associates and Fusion Elite. We are incredibly proud of the talent and creativity within the youth dance sector in Wales and look forward to seeing the next generation of dancers take to the national stage. Please do reach out if you have any questions.”   

Golygfa - NYDW, U Dance National Festival Newcastle (2023)

How Can You Get Involved? 

Dance groups can apply in one of two ways: 

• U.Dance On Stage – perform live on stage (up to 30 dancers) 

• U.Dance On Screen – submit a dance film (no limit on group size) 

Your dance piece needs to be 2–7 minutes long and original. The deadline to apply is 15 March 2026. 

All applications are reviewed by dance professionals, and successful groups will be put forward to One Dance UK for the national festival. 

Why Apply? 

U.Dance isn’t just about performing, it’s about: 

• Meeting other young dancers 

• Taking part in workshops 

• Learning about the dance industry 

• Gaining confidence and experience 

• Having fun doing what you love. 
  
  

If you’re part of a youth dance group in Wales, check out the full details and how to apply.

Who knows? Your next performance could be on a national stage! 

PREMIERE: Celebrating 25 Years of National Youth Dance Wales

National Youth Dance Wales is Celebrating 25 incredible years of providing dance opportunities for young Welsh dancers and artists from across the nation. To celebrate they have created a short documentary to mark the occasion. 

Since 2000, NYDW has supported hundreds of young dancers, helping them realise their potential and develop their dance abilities, creative voices, and talent while working with leading choreographers, outstanding practitioners, and makers, and performing on stages and screens across Wales and beyond. Over the past 25 years, hundreds of young people have had the opportunity to train, create, and share their love of dance through NYDW’s programmes. 

NYDW, Sadler’s Wells (2025)

Now, you can get a behind-the-scenes look at all the magic in the new documentary: National Youth Dance Wales: Celebrating 25 Years premiering on Wales’ digital home for Welsh culture, AM. Filmed by On Par Productions, expect highlights, impact and memories from dancers past and present. 

“National Youth Dance Wales made me understand.... how to work really, really hard, but also really love what you’re doing.”
- Anthony Matsena, NYDW 2014-16 Alumni 

Date? Wednesday 28 January 
Time? 7.00–7.15pm 
Where? Online on AM’s digital platform 

Whether you’ve been a NYDW member, followed their performances, or just love dance, this is your chance to find out about the journey of the nation’s youth dance organisation and celebrate its impact on dancers from all over Wales.