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National Youth Arts Wales National Youth Arts Wales

Celtic Collective Dance Partnership Brings Together Rising Talent from Wales and Scotland

National Youth Dance Wales (NYDW) and National Youth Dance Company of Scotland (NYDCS) are proud to continue their Celtic Collective partnership - a dynamic cultural exchange that connects young dancers from both countries through collaborative residencies, performances, and development opportunities.

This year, the partnership sees an exchange between two exceptional young dancers: Eira Daimond from Gwynedd, North Wales, who is studying Maths at Edinburgh University, and Ross Hoey from Glasgow, Scotland. The exchange forms part of a wider effort to build connections between young dancers across the Celtic nations.

Ross said: “My experience has been great coming down to Wales, the stuff is so intense makes you nice and strong and you get so many different teachers, different experiences and movement styles that really broaden your movement.”

Eira joined NYDCS in 2024, following 2-years as a NYDW member, participating in the rehearsals and performances of Weave, choreographed by Anna Kenrick. Since September, she has toured with the company to Stirling, Belfast, and Leeds. Eira returned to Wales to join NYDW’s 25th year company for an intense two-week residency at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama in Cardiff earlier in July.

Eira said: “My experience in NYDCS has been amazing. I think for me it's really, really important to branch out your connections outside of just your local area. so obviously I've danced with these Welsh dancers a lot, so it's really great to go and expand those horizons, meet new young dancers who are just as passionate as I am.

It's also been great to have a lot of opportunities to perform because that's what I like doing most and NYDCS offers so many performance opportunities. We're literally on tour basically for the entirety of the summer, dancing in loads of different places, so I'm grateful to have those performing opportunities as well.”

This year saw NYDCS’ Ross join Eira in NYDW’s company, where he worked alongside 21 members – some of the best young dancers across Wales, to produce an extension to renowned choreographer, Yukiko Matsui’s 25-minute piece - “The Night Is Darkest Just Before the Dawn” - which they took to the stage and wowed audiences at Sadler’s Wells East in London last week.

Jamie Jenkins, Producer and Head of Dance at National Youth Dance Wales, said: “It’s been a pleasure continuing our partnership with NYDCS this year and having Ross join the company during an exciting anniversary year for NYDW. We are proud to support the next generation of talented young dancers and look forward to seeing the partnership develop further.”

Anna Kenrick at National Youth Dance Company of Scotland added: “We look forward to the partnership continuing, offering more Scottish and Welsh dancers a range of exciting opportunities in the future.”

NYDCS member, Ross Hoey, will rejoin NYDW for two final performances at The Riverfront, Newport, on 30 and 31 October. The event will also premier a screening of a documentary following this year’s company as part of the celebrations marking 25 Years of National Youth Dance Wales.

NYDCS will also be performing in YDance’s EVOLUTION at this year’s Edinburgh Fringe. Running from 5-10th August, this international alliance of movement and culture showcases the talents of dancers from the both the UK and Estonia, and celebrates the 20th Anniversary of Project Y. 

To find out more about NYDW’s 25 Years celebrations, click here.

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National Youth Orchestra Wales hit the road for a Summer of Music  

NYOW hit the road for a Summer of Music  


NYOW 2024

The National Youth Orchestra of Wales (NYOW) residency in University of South Wales, Lampeter, is well underway with over 100 young musicians from across Wales working extremely hard to rehearse an energetic all-American concert programme before hitting the road this week.  

Led by internationally acclaimed conductor Kwamé Ryan, the programme will feature Bernstein's brilliant Symphonic Dances from West Side Story and Gershwin’s Porgy and Bess: A Symphonic Picture. 

The NYOW summer concert tour begins with a Dress Rehearsal on July 30th, at the Arts Hall, USW, in Lampeter, before they travel to the iconic St Davids Cathedral the next day for a performance at Fishguard Festival of Music.  

On the 1st of August, they’ll make their way to Hereford Cathedral for Three Choirs Festival, followed by a stint up North to Denbighshire's gothic St Asaph Cathedral, before making their way back down South for a finale concert at the prestigious Brangwyn Hall, Swansea, on Sunday 3rd August.  

National Youth Orchestra of Wales marks its 80th anniversary next year. Established in 1945, with its first performance in 1946, the Orchestra has the distinction of being the first national youth orchestra in the world.  

As with each NYAW ensemble, the Orchestra develops a first-class training experience into performances that are full of passion and works with esteemed, professional musicians to help deliver excellence. 

The performance is not to be missed – book tickets today!  
 

NYOW 2025 Repertoire:  
Mason Bates - Attack Decay Sustain Release - 5’  
Samuel Barber - Second Essay for Orchestra - 10’  
Gershwin - Porgy & Bess, Symphonic Picture - 24’  
Bernstein - Symphonic Dances, West Side Story - 23’  
Wang Jie - America the Beautiful - 6’   
 

For further information on the concerts and to book tickets, visit: nyaw.org.uk/whats-on 

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NYAW Journey – From Choir Member to Trainee Producer 

NYAW Journey – From Choir Member to Trainee Producer 

Almost 10 years ago, I was gearing up to attend my first National Youth Training Choir of Wales residential course in Monmouth. It was my first residential experience, and I was really nervous. So nervous that I almost didn’t go.  

Now 10 years later, 7 residentials under my belt, and better control of my nerves, I can proudly say that I am Trainee Producer for the National Youth Theatre of Wales

My first few years in the Training Choir were integral to the development of my skills as a chorister and a musician, and it was here that I learnt how different choral singing was to being a soloist. Suddenly, singing the loudest or highest wasn’t seen as ‘impressive’, and after a few rehearsals I learnt the meaning of a mysterious word – blending. This new skill would see me through countless choirs over the years and allow me to truly appreciate the music I was making with others. I found that this also had a positive effect whilst working with collaborative pianists, creating much more balance and companionship within performances.  

This residency was also the first time I had been away from home for a week, which came with its own challenges and lessons in responsibility. I would love to be able to say that I was sensible enough to get enough sleep each night, but the novelty of sharing a dorm with 4 others was far too exciting! In hindsight, I would recommend getting enough sleep as possible… 

Graduating to the National Youth Choir of Wales was a big step. I was still young, just 16, but I felt that I was being treated as a professional. Not only were the days longer and the music harder, but the expectations as young adults to be punctual and disciplined were heightened. However, along with this came a bigger sense of community and belonging. Working day in and day out to shape together a varied programme of styles and languages quickly became a privilege and helped create unbreakable bonds that have developed into life-long friendships and connections across the country. Now wherever I go, I will always see a familiar friendly face at every work project or event, which shows that NYAW really does produce and nurture the future talent of Wales! 

Megan Jones

During my time as a Choir member, I was fortunate to have worked with some incredible conductors – including Carlo Rizzi, Tim Rhys-Evans, and Nia Llewellyn Jones who was hugely inspirational to me, stepping into a role that I had typically seen occupied by men. Each have taught me things that have positively impacted the way I perform, but more importantly the way I think about music. Understanding text is now my priority with a new piece, regardless of language. Interestingly, English is often the hardest to decipher and needs the same amount of dedicated time and detail as any other language! 

Conductor Tim Rhys-Evans, who has been conducting the choir since my first year (and still going!) was a huge influence in my exploration of music as a career. I had never considered applying for conservatoires until he convinced me to give it a go at my 2019 NYCW Audition. I’ll forever be grateful to Tim for introducing me to the possibility of a career in the arts and opening the door to study a degree in Bachelor of Music in Vocal Studies at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama

I feel immensely grateful to NYAW for providing me with these opportunities to grow and succeed

The Choir also led me to take part in some amazing opportunities, such as performing numerous commissions, including Brian Hughe’s ‘Sorrows of the Somme’ written to commemorate the Welsh soldiers killed in the battle for Mametz Wood. Another favourite was performing at Principality Stadium to open a Wales v England Rugby match, where we won! Perhaps the Welsh team needs the support of the NYCW again?  

However, the highlight of my time in the Choir was the collaboration between the Choir and Orchestra back in 2018. We performed Bernsteins Chichester Psalms in some incredible venues across Wales, including Hereford Cathedral, St David’s Cathedral and St David’s Hall, and still is the grandest piece of work I’ve ever had the pleasure of working on. It was also my first experience singing with an orchestra, which although deafening, was unlike anything I had ever experienced before! It gave me the chance to gain a new skill and prepared me to begin the more daunting task of solo work. 

When I left the Choir in 2023, it was hard to deal with the fact that I had lost something that had been a part for me for years. I was so lucky that the following summer I was invited back to perform in the 40th anniversary concert as part of the Alumni Choir – performing alongside friends, tutors, staff and a whole host of incredible individuals who have been impacted by the NYCW. 

In the same year, I also had the pleasure to volunteer and become course assistant for the Assemble project, yet another new experience for me to gain skills and explore a different career path in the arts. This project was a key stepping stone in gaining experience and confidence in my skills and ultimately gave me the final push I needed to apply for the Trainee Producer role. 

In my short time of being in the role, I’ve already experienced and learnt so much about the work that goes into producing the residencies, and my past experiences as a member have been invaluable to making decisions and reflecting on what changes I wanted to see as a member. In terms of skills, my confidence in my Welsh Language skills have improved significantly through the bi-lingual ethos of NYAW, as well as the notable improvement in my IT skills through the nature of my role. I’ve already experienced the joy of the 2025 audition tour, and I am counting down the days until I get to experience the residency from a Producer’s perspective. 

Reflecting on the last 10 years, I am incredibly proud of what I have achieved, and I feel immensely grateful to NYAW for providing me with these opportunities to grow and succeed. It’s clear that the remarkable opportunities and experiences I have been offered have led me to the role of Trainee Producer and they will help me continue in my professional development for years to come  

Here’s to the next 10 years, wherever they take me! 


Blog written by Megan Jones, NYAW Trainee Theatre Producer

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Wales Dance Review – Response from National Youth Arts Wales

National Youth Arts Wales responds to ACW’s Wales Dance Review.

The Night is Darkest Just Before The Dawn 2024 production | National Youth Dance Wales | Choreographer: Yukiko Masui ©Sian Trenberth Photography


At National Youth Arts Wales (NYAW), we welcome this
Wales Dance Review and recognise its vital importance in shaping the future of dance in Wales. We fully support its 11 Recommendations and are committed to working collaboratively with Arts Council Wales and other arts organisations throughout Wales to help make these recommendations a reality.

National Youth Dance Wales (NYDW) supports young people in every Welsh local authority to access dance, and our bursary scheme helps ensure that household income should never be a barrier for talented young dancers. Therefore, we particularly welcome the recommendation regarding training.

At a time of great difficulty for the dance community in Wales, this report and consequent funding boost from ACW are a huge opportunity to inject new energy into the dance sector. At National Youth Arts Wales, we will ensure that the interests of young people form part of the ongoing conversation.

In response to a question raised about us in the report, we are pleased to confirm that we actively recruit both dancers in professional training and those who are not, with a strong focus on identifying and developing young Wales-based talent from across the country.

We will continue consulting carefully with young people to ensure a broad range of dance styles are reflected and valued in our own provision. While we will continue to uphold strong technical training in Contemporary styles, these are not our sole focus. Our approach celebrates diversity in dance practice and opens pathways for wider participation and expression across the whole of Wales. With that in mind, we are shortly hosting a Boys Day of Dance in partnership with Ballet Cymru and National Dance Company of Wales; and later this year, we will launch a new programme of dance and music opportunities for young people in specific areas of multiple deprivation.

National Youth Dance Wales is proud to champion homegrown dance artists, from every region of Wales and from a wide range of backgrounds. We actively support and employ Wales-based practitioners and choreographers across our programmes. In recognition of the sector’s significant challenges at the moment, we have strengthened our own capacity by increasing the leadership in dance role to a full-time position, ensuring sustained support and strategic development for dance in Wales for future generations.

Jamie Jenkins

Head of Dance, National Youth Arts Wales

4th July 2025

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National Youth Arts Wales responds to ACW’s review of traditional music in Wales

National Youth Arts Wales responds to ACW’s review of traditional music in Wales

We welcome Arts Council Wales’s strategic review. It eloquently highlights the vitality and fragility of Welsh traditional music, while outlining a clear path for its sustainability and growth.

At National Youth Arts Wales (NYAW), we champion the importance of arts and creativity for all young people, boosting their wellbeing, communities and education. We are keen to play a role in sustaining and evolving Welsh traditional music through the education and training of young people.

Through our national youth ensembles and partnerships, we provide platforms for young musicians to explore Welsh music. Programmes like Strings Attached, Cor Skills and National Youth Jazz Wales show our commitment to inclusive, high-quality music education that celebrates Wales’s cultural heritage while encouraging creativity and innovation.

We are ready to continue our collaborations with partners such as Tŷ Cerdd, the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama and National Music Service Wales to address gaps in provision and create accessible pathways for young people across Wales to engage with traditional music.

The Arts Council’s investment in the Gwerin programme is a vital step forward for the folk music sector, to empower young musicians to connect with and contribute to Welsh folk traditions. Folk music must remain a dynamic and integral part of our cultural identity, safeguarding our uniquely Welsh musical heritage for future generations.

Evan Dawson - Chief Executive,
National Youth Arts Wales

25 June 2025

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Job Opportunity: Welfare Team Lead (NYTW)

National Youth Theatre of Wales is looking for an enthusiastic and energetic Welfare Team lead.

Work with us this Summer!  

National Youth Theatre of Wales (NYTW) is looking for an enthusiastic and energetic Welfare Team Lead to join the Summer 2025 residency.  You’ll work with and manage our welfare officers who play a crucial part in supporting the well-being and day to day needs of our members aged 16 – 22. 

We’re looking for someone who shares our commitment to creating a nurturing and creative environment, allowing our young performers to thrive and do their best work during their time with us. We’re looking for someone who will relish the opportunity to plan and deliver fun social activity on some evenings and who would love to work alongside some of the most creative and exciting theatre practitioners in Wales and beyond. This role requires overnight work and the ability to work flexible hours is essential.  

Essential experience:  

  • Demonstrable experience of working with young adults in either an arts or education setting.  

  • Has undergone accredited training in Safeguarding for Children and Young people. 

  • Excellent organisational and interpersonal skills.

  • Understand the importance of Health and Safety within an educational or arts setting. 

  • Has managed small teams or staff in some capacity.

  • Comfortable speaking and writing in Welsh.  

  • Has a driving licence and able to drive a hire car.

  • Is over 26 (to comply with NYAW’s safeguarding policy).

  • Is willing to undergo an enhance DBS check (paid for by NYAW).

  • Available between the 24th and 30th of August 2025 ( Including overnight) 

 

Desirable (but not essential) 

  • First Aid Accredited training 

  • Accredited Mental Health First Aid trained.

  • Experience of working within theatre or drama. 

 

Terms 

  • Must be available for the period between the 24th and 30th of August (including overnight as this is a residential post).

  • Fee for the period and online briefings in advance will be £900.

  • All accommodation provided in a  single en-suite room within the Welfare team flat with a shared kitchen and lounge.

  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner (+ teas and coffees)  provided by caterers. 

  • Travel costs at the start and end of the residency paid for. 

  • The Welfare Lead will be responsible for the welfare team rota ensuring all welfare team members get sufficient time off from their duties during the week. If the Welfare lead needs a specific time away from the residency this can be arranged with the NYTW producer with sufficient notice.  

Informal Interviews will take place on the 16th of July between 9am and 1pm or 6pm and 8pm. Please indicate which slot you would prefer.  

To apply for this position please fill in the following application form as an expression of interest by the 9th of July.

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Investment in Music Education in Wales will support services to build provision

National Youth Arts Wales (NYAW) has welcomed the Welsh Government’s continued funding for the National Music Service for the next 3 years.

National Youth Arts Wales (NYAW) has welcomed the Welsh Government’s continued funding for the National Music Service for the next 3 years.

National Youth Orchestra of Wales (NYOW)

The £12m investment (£4m annually) is to enable the National Music Service to sustain and build its delivery of the National Plan for Music Education through to March 2028, promoting equitable access to quality music education for all learners in Wales.

Since its launch in 2022, the National Music Service has supported thousands of learners to take part in music activities, learn to play instruments, build creative skills and discover new pathways to wider opportunities in music through school and community programmes.

NMS Wales is co-ordinated by the WLGA and works closely with all the Local Authorities in Wales and a wide range of partners to support delivery. The new round of funding will allow music services to continue to deliver core programmes, such as the Music in Schools programme, Making Music with others, developing the ‘Notes on Inclusion’ strategy and the national instrument library. The NMS will also continue to offer free access to pupils and teachers to the successful bi-lingual music education platform, Charanga Cymru.

Responding to the funding announcement, Evan Dawson, Chief Executive of National Youth Arts Wales said:

“Wales has a proud history of musical excellence amongst its young people, which contributes to our national identity, community, educational outcomes, mental resilience and sheer happiness. This renewed funding from the Welsh Government will help us at National Youth Arts Wales continue to deliver the world-famous National Youth Orchestra of Wales, National Youth Choir of Wales and the National Brass Band of Wales - in close partnership with the excellent music services throughout Wales.

“At a time when families in Wales are struggling with so many challenges, music and creativity can help lift young people’s horizons, rekindle their dreams and inspire them to become flourishing Welsh citizens of the future.”

“The creative, social and educational impacts of NMS Wales for young people right across Wales, whatever their background, have been clearly demonstrated already in its first years, and are extraordinary”, said Professor Helena Gaunt, Principal of Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, and the Chair of NMS Wales’ advisory board.

“Welsh Government’s decision to continue this funding will enable the many music services, music teachers, schools and partner organisations involved in its delivery to maintain the huge successes to date, and take the visionary aims of this service to the next stage.”

NMS Wales National Co-Ordinator Mari Lloyd Pritchard said:

“We are delighted and relieved that the funding will continue for the next three years. Music Services across Wales have worked tirelessly over the last three years to offer excellent music education opportunities for children and young people in every county across Wales and we 2 of 3 are excited by the inspirational results of this work every day. Recovery takes time, and alongside our hugely supportive key partners, we look forward to building on these vital foundations successfully secured since 2022.”

Councillor Lis Burnett, WLGA spokesperson for Education, said:

“We’re pleased to see continued support for the National Music Service. Music plays a vital role in helping young people express themselves, build confidence and develop new skills. This funding will help ensure that more children can experience the joy of making music, wherever they live and whatever their background. “In today’s challenging economic climate, it’s encouraging to see the Welsh Government maintaining its support for music education and the arts. At a time when many services are under pressure, the fact that this funding has not decreased is a strong signal of the value placed on creativity and opportunity for all. Investing in music is also an investment in wellbeing, confidence, and the wider educational journey of our young people.”

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The Return of Yukiko: NYDW announce 25th Year Company 

National Youth Dance Wales (NYDW) is thrilled to announce the return of renowned Choreographer and Movement Director, Yukiko Masui.  

National Youth Dance Wales (NYDW) is thrilled to announce the return of renowned Choreographer and Movement Director, Yukiko Masui.  

The Tokyo-born, internationally acclaimed choreographer based in London, will join NYDW in Cardiff this July for a 2-week residency with the 25th Year Company before they travel to London for an exciting performance at the famous ‘Home of Dance’ - Sadler’s Wells East.  

The company will be restaging The Night is Darkest Just Before Dawn by Yukiko Masui - a powerful fusion of Contemporary Dance, Hip Hop, and Martial Arts. The piece will be reworked and extended featuring new sections.  

NYDW’s 25th year ensemble members came together earlier this month to meet as a company in person for the very first time. The day kicked off with Errol White of White & Givan and The Scottish Institute of Theatre, Dance, Film and Television for an Elite Intensive workshop with our dancers, followed by their costume fittings and having professional headshots taken. 

“It was a privilege to work with National Youth Dance Wales. Beautiful work everyone!”, said award-winning performer, choreographer and movement director, Errol White

NYDW 2025 Company

This year’s company is a vibrant mix of returning alumni and fresh faces. We are proud to welcome back many returning dancers, who bring with them experience and an understanding of the NYDW ethos and values. Alongside them, nine brand new dancers are joining the company for the first time following nationwide auditions in March. 

Jamie Jenkins, Head of Dance at National Youth Arts Wales said: I'm so excited by the energy of this year's ensemble. These dancers are incredibly talented—definitely ones to watch!" 

NYDW 2025 Company

During this year’s residency in July at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, ensemble members will have the opportunity to take a range of classes alongside and delivered by NYDW alumni. 

On Par Productions will be capturing the company’s journey from the ‘Discovery Day’ through to the performance in Sadler’s Wells East, which aims to honour the rich history of National Youth Dance Wales while celebrating the vibrant spirit of its current members. 

By capturing the essence of NYDW, we seek to inspire future generations of dancers and celebrate those who have been part of the ensemble since its founding and have helped shape the program.

This year’s company will be returning to perform on home turf at The Riverfront, Newport, on October 31. Ticket information will be announced soon.

Watch "NYDW 2024 in the studio with Yukiko Masui" 

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National Youth Arts Wales launches Summer of Music 2025 

Three National Ensembles, One Unmissable Season of Concerts Across Wales!

This Summer, the sound of Wales' brightest young musicians will echo across the nation. National Youth Arts Wales (NYAW) is proud to announce its Summer of Music 2025 — a spectacular season of live performances from the National Youth Orchestra of Wales, the National Youth Brass Band of Wales and the National Youth Choir of Wales

These three nationally renowned ensembles will perform across iconic venues throughout Wales, including Brangwyn Hall in Swansea and the gothic St Asaph Cathedral in Denbighshire – as well as beyond the border – offering audiences a chance to experience the exceptional artistry, energy and creativity of the next generation of talented Welsh musicians. 

“This is a landmark summer for young Welsh artists,” said Matthew Jones, Senior Producer and Deputy Chief Executive at National Youth Arts Wales. “Summer of Music 2025 brings together our most talented young musicians, world-class musical direction, and stunning venues in a true celebration of Wales’ musical future.” 

Alt text: National Youth Arts Wales Summer of Music flyer containing black and white images of young musicians, a ticket link and funding logos.

🎻 National Youth Orchestra of Wales – Concert Tour 2025 

Led by internationally acclaimed conductor Kwamé Ryan, the all-American programme will feature Bernstein's brilliant Symphonic Dances from West Side Story and Gershwin’s Porgy and Bess: A Symphonic Picture. Come and celebrate the talent of Wales’ finest young musicians as they bring these iconic works to life! 

31st July @ 7.30pm – St Davids Cathedral (Fishguard Festival of Music) 

  • 1st August @ 2.15pm – Hereford Cathedral (Three Choirs Festival) 

  • 2nd August @ 2.30pm – St Asaph Cathedral, Denbighshire 

  • 3rd August @ 3pm – Brangwyn Hall, Swansea 

🎺 National Youth Brass Band of Wales – Concert Tour 2025 

NYBBW Alumnus and Musical Director of the 2024 Championship Brass Band Flowers, Paul Holland, returns to conduct his former Band in a dazzling programme full of fantastic music that promises something for everyone. Joining Paul and the NYBBW will be the brilliant young percussionist Jordan Ashman - winner of the 2022 BBC Young Musician of the Year 

  • 21st August @ 7.30pm – William Aston Hall, Wrexham 

  • 22nd August @ 7.30pm – Aberystwyth Arts Centre, Aberystwyth 

  • 23rd August @ 3pm – The Riverfront, Newport 

 
🎶 National Youth Choir of Wales – Concert Tour 2025 

Experience the power of voice in harmony in spectacular settings. Under the inspiring direction of their conductor Tim Rhys-Evans, this extraordinary choir of young Welsh talent will deliver a breathtaking performance filled with passion, energy and musical excellence.   

  • 23rd August @ 7.30pm – St Asaph Cathedral, Denbighshire 

  • 24th August @ TBC – St Fagans National Museum of History, Cardiff (Free Entry) 

  • 25th August @ 3pm – Brangwyn Hall, Swansea 

 

🎟️ Tickets & More Information 

Join us this Summer to celebrate the exceptional skill and passion of young Welsh musicians—and be part of the future of music in Wales! 
 
Tickets for our Summer of Music 2025 concerts are on sale now via nyaw.org.uk/whats-on 

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National Youth Arts Wales Receives Award from Garfield Weston Foundation to Support Strategic Expansion Across Wales 

National Youth Arts Wales (NYAW) is proud to announce a significant grant of £30,000 from the Garfield Weston Foundation.

National Youth Arts Wales (NYAW) is proud to announce a significant grant of £30,000 from the Garfield Weston Foundation. This vital funding will help safeguard the future of Wales’ five national youth ensembles and enable NYAW to expand its work reaching young people across the nation. 

“This core support from the Garfield Weston Foundation makes a huge difference at a critical time,” said Evan Dawson, Chief Executive of NYAW. “It not only strengthens our ability to deliver for the hundreds of talented young musicians, actors, and performers across our five national ensembles, but also allows us to continue our strategic programme to identify and address gaps in creative provision across Wales.” 

NYAW's strategic programme includes delivering workshops and targeted creative projects in communities with limited access to the arts—work that is increasingly vital as the wider Welsh arts sector faces unprecedented financial pressures. 

The grant comes from one of the UK’s most respected charitable funders. Established in 1958, the Garfield Weston Foundation is a family-founded grant-maker that supports a wide range of charities across the UK. To date, the Foundation has donated over £1.5 billion, with more than half given away in the last decade alone. In the most recent financial year, it awarded over £100 million to just under 1,800 charities across the UK. 

“This generous grant is not just an investment in our organisation, but in the creative futures of young people in every county in Wales,” Evan Dawson added. “We are deeply grateful to the Garfield Weston Foundation for standing with us.” 

National Youth Arts Wales remains committed to offering inclusive, high-quality opportunities for young artists across the country, ensuring that geography and background are never barriers to participation in the arts. 

If you would like to support NYAW with a financial contribution to our vital work in the Arts in Wales, please contact: tracymarshallgrant@nyaw.org.uk 

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