National Open Youth Orchestra: Where every voice belongs

Ben’s story

Ben Evans was a member of the Bristol NOYO ensemble for 6 years, playing the Seaboard RISE, a, keyboard-style instrument, featuring a flexible, sensor-embedded surface instead of traditional keys. After graduating from the ensemble, his continued passion and commitment led him to undertake a placement as apprentice mentor, supporting fellow disabled musicians to participate in the orchestra.

We spoke to Ben about how being a member of NOYO influenced his musical journey as a disabled artist. Check out his interview below.

What inspired you to join the Bristol NOYO Ensemble? 

”Originally, I joined the South West Open Youth Orchestra (SWOYO) in 2017 when I was 18 years old, having been inspired after seeing them perform at an event. After their performance I went down and asked if I could join, as I love playing music, and it looked like good fun and the musicians were really friendly. I passed the audition and became part of the orchestra, initially playing the vibraphone. SWOYO developed into NOYO in September 2018.”

Can you describe your experience as a member of NOYO? How has it influenced your musical journey?

”It has been a wonderful experience. I’ve enjoyed playing the vibraphone, synth bass and now the Seaboard RISE in the orchestra. I have enjoyed learning lots of new music and being able to access this via MP3 as well as by sheet music. I have made lots of friends over the years, and it’s a happy place to be. NOYO is very supportive of disabled musicians like me and non-disabled musicians, and we all help each other. The concerts let us show people what we can do as musicians. It has made me a better musician and I want to continue playing music once my placement finishes.”

How has being part of NOYO developed your skills, both personally and artistically?

”I feel more confident as a musician and in giving my opinions on how music could be played. I now read music much better than when I started. I am better at listening to instructions and waiting while others go over their parts in rehearsals. I have also had a go at conducting and leading warm up games, which is fun. I am also now starting to arrange and write my own music for the ensemble to play, which is very exciting and is something I would like to continue to do in the future. I’m not sure that I would have done this without being part of NOYO.”