Bristol NOYO Ensemble
Award-winning inclusive music making for disabled and non-disabled young people
The Bristol National Open Youth Orchestra Ensemble (NOYO) is an inclusive group where 11-25 year-old disabled and non-disabled musicians rehearse and perform together. The ensemble is for young musicians with strong musical potential who already play an instrument, or use assistive technology independently, controlling it in a way they could apply to playing an accessible instrument such as the Clarion – though there is no need to read music or have taken graded exams to join.
Rehearsals are held monthly at Beacon Music Centre, Southmead, Bristol.
There are five regional NOYO ensembles across England and Wales, providing an inclusive and accessible rehearsal environment. Members of the Bristol NOYO Ensemble can also apply to audition and perform with the National Open Youth Orchestra.
The Bristol NOYO Ensemble is run by Bristol Beacon in partnership with Open Up Music.
Why join the Bristol NOYO Ensemble?
- Develop your musical skills
- Be creative with music, even if you don’t read notation. We also play by ear and through improvisation
- Play acoustic, electronic and accessible instruments
- Collaborate with award-winning living composers
- Meet new people and perform
- Potential to join the National Open Youth Orchestra
The impact we make
Breaking down barriers within the music industry
We make opportunities for those who face barriers to develop their skills, confidence, and creative potential in an inclusive environment. Through collaborative projects, training, and accessible programmes, we are shaping a more diverse and representative music sector.
National Open Youth Orchestra rehearsals enable participants to gain skills that transform their musical journey and remove barriers to music-making. Initiatives like NOYO provide young people with the tools and opportunities to thrive, ensuring that inclusive music-making becomes a fundamental part of the sector.
By investing in accessibility and representation, our work within Music & Disability is creating pathways for the next generation of diverse musicians.
Ben’s story
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. Joining NOYO allowed him to find his voice, his passions and shaped his journey as a disabled artist.
Bristol NOYO Ensemble
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Bristol NOYO Ensemble
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How to apply
Make an application
Applications are open once a year, after applicants have attended an Open Rehearsal.
Applications are for 11-25 year-old disabled and non-disabled musicians to join the Bristol NOYO Ensemble.
You don’t need to live in Bristol to apply – you just need to be able to make it for rehearsals approximately once a month.
Please read the application pack before you start your application.
2026 application dates will be updated here in due course.
Information pack
When applications are open, and in preparation for applying, we recommend you take a look at the Applicant’s Information Pack. It gives lots of information about how to apply and audition. about the application and audition process. The word ‘audition’ might sound scary, but it’s just a way for the NOYO team to meet you. Auditions are friendly and relaxed.
The venue
Beacon Music Centre
Getting to the venue
Location: Beacon Music Centre is located on Stanton Road in Southmead.
Address: Beacon Music Centre, Stanton Rd, Bristol BS10 5SJ
Bicycle
Bicycle racks are available in the Beacon Music Centre car park to the left of the main entrance. Find your nearest cycle routes using Cycle Planner.
Car parking:
Beacon Music Centre has an on-site car park which is free to use for visitors.
Bristol Clean Air Zone
Beacon Music Centre is outside the Bristol Clean Air Zone. View a map of the Zone and check if your vehicle will be charged.
Bus
The nearest bus stop is Pen Park Road a short distance (200m) away.
Access
Mobility
Beacon Music Centre is an accessible space, with level access and ramps throughout.
Toilets
There are accessible toilets in the centre.
Assistance Dogs
Registered assistance dogs and emotional support animals are welcome.
Hearing Facility
There is no induction loop facility at this venue.
Join our access register to help us, help you to have an enjoyable visit.
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