Q. Where and when will the course be held? 

A. We’ve planned a whole new look for 2024, as we travel to new venues and add extra dates! Our 2024 Spring course will run from 30th March to the 6th April at Stamford School with a concert in the Warwick Hall at Warwick School on the 6th April. For members of NYCB, there will be an additional short Summer course, from 23-25 August at Chetham’s School of Music with a concert in the Stoller Hall, Manchester on he 25th August, 2024.

Q.Which band shall I apply for?

A. NCCB is for players aged 10-14 with Grade 4 or above.

NYCB is for players aged 12-18 of Grade 7 standard or above.

If you’re unsure, please get in touch with us directly at admin@nycb.co.uk

Q.What can we expect on the course?

A. The course runs from 9.30am to 9.00pm every day for one week, combining full band and sectional rehearsals with chamber music workshops and masterclasses. Students will also be provided with all food and accommodation, free time activities, optional private study time for GCSE/A Level students, evening entertainment, and opportunities for solo and chamber music performance. The course will culminate in a final concert to which all family and friends are invited!

Q.Will there be time to study for exams during the Easter course?

A. We know that Easter can be a difficult time of year for people studying for GCSEs and A-Levels which is why we always timetable study time each day. We typically leave 2-3 hours free each afternoon and several of the evening activities are voluntary meaning there is always plenty of time available for those wishing to study. We also set aside quiet study zones with qualified and experienced teachers in attendance to make sure our young musicians can study in a peaceful and focussed environment.

Q.How can I apply? 

A. Applications for our 2024 course are now open! Please click here for our online application form where you can also create a profile to help manage your whole application process. 

Q.Which instruments are in a concert band?

Piccolo

Flute

Oboe

Cor Anglais

Eb Clarinet

Bb Clarinet

Alto Clarinet

Bass Clarinet (occasionally contra-bass also)

Bassoon

Contra Bassoon

Soprano Saxophone

Alto Saxophone

Tenor Saxophone

Baritone Saxophone    

Trumpets

Cornets

French Horn

Tenor Trombone

Bass Trombone

Euphonium/Baritone Horn

Tuba

Orchestral Percussion

Please note: We don’t currently accept applications for the piano.

Q.When will the auditions be?

A. Auditions will again be online. Once we have received your initial application, you will be sent an email including guidance on how to share your audition video with us and a link where you can download your audition 

materials. You can record the video at any time that is convenient to you without having to travel long distances for a relatively short audition. Our specially selected audition panel, consisting of specialist tutors, will watch every application video and be in touch with each applicant shortly afterwards. 

Q.Do I have to pay for the audition?

A. There will be no charge for applying or auditioning for our 2024 programme.

Q.How much will it cost?

A. The fees for our 2024 NYCB course will be £985 and NCCB £750. The NYCB fee includes both our Spring and Summer events and if offered a place you will be expected to attend both. Please contact us if you have any queries!

Children will have full board accommodation , music tuition and entertainment planned for the duration of the course.

If you would like to talk to us about finances, please contact us at admin@nycb.co.uk.

Q.Do you have a bursary scheme or any form of financial assistance?

A. We always encourage people to apply as we always try not to turn anyone away due to financial constraints. As a relatively new organisation we have limited funds available but always try to help those most in need. Since our formation, we have built relationships with funding bodies in some areas and can provide further funding information to anyone who requests it.

If you would like to talk to us about finances, please contact us at admin@nycb.co.uk. We also offer the option of paying for the course in instalments.