NYOW celebrates 80 Years in 2026!
The National Youth Orchestra of Wales (NYOW) has the distinction of being the world’s first national youth orchestra, delivering its first performance in 1946. This year, in 2026, NYOW celebrates 80 years of high-level training and vibrant performances.
Join the celebrations!
Are you a former National Youth Orchestra of Wales member? Would you like to celebrate its Anniversary year with us?
Let us know and we will keep you updated with celebratory plans!
National Youth Arts Wales has made the difficult decision to postpone its NYOW 80th Anniversary Alumni Events, originally planned for 1–3 May. While there was strong interest in the event, it has not been possible to bring it together as intended. Plans are now being explored to reschedule a similar celebration later in the year and further updates will be shared on this in due course. Ticket holders, donors and participants will be contacted directly. NYOW is very grateful for the support received and looks forward to welcoming audiences to future events.
For many of us, NYOW opened doors that shaped our musical journeys and lifelong friendships. Our bursaries ensure those doors remain open, removing financial barriers so that ability, not circumstance, determines who can take part.
By joining this celebration, you are also helping to pass that opportunity on. If you are in a position to give more, additional support is warmly welcomed and will make an even greater difference.
If you are a UK taxpayer, please consider adding Gift Aid, increasing your donation by 25% at no extra cost to you.
Every donation is valued, and will make a huge impact on our work, no matter what the size. These donations will ensure we can continue to safeguard the future of Wales’ national youth ensembles and enable NYAW to expand its work reaching young people across the nation.
Supporting the Next Generation
