In summer 2024, young people from schools participating in Modulo gathered at Royal Academy of Music in London to play as one epic orchestra. In this heartwarming clip, a group of students share why music and wellbeing are so closely entwined.

NOFA is the most diverse, inclusive, non-auditioned national youth orchestra in the UK. Here we see the ensemble enjoying a dynamic live workshop as members create a new piece, ‘Strength in Numbers’ with composer Joe Broughton.

In April 2024, National Orchestra for All’s inspiring young musicians gathered at Royal Birmingham Conservatoire for their four-day spring residential and as part of this, we hosted an exciting recital evening for members to perform to their peers.

National Orchestra for All trumpeter, Cameron, has been a member of the ensemble for many years and loves its inclusivity. Here he shares his thoughts on why other young people should join NOFA.

NOAH: “NOFA is a second home for me – a second family, a safe space. I can't recall any moment here that I haven’t enjoyed. The music is catchy and the staff are amazing. I’m so proud to be part of this organisation and can’t wait to see what’s next.”

HASEEB: “It feels like a family of people from all over the UK and not everyone is the same – there’s loads of differences between each member and it’s the fact that we can be part of something bigger together.”

MEGAN: “I come from a fairly poor background, so if it wasn't for NOFA I wouldn’t be the person I am today and wouldn't have my friends. I’m so grateful for hope that NOFA continues in future.”

PHOEBE: “I honestly don't think I would have gone down the route I have done in studying performing arts at A Level and then going on to do music at university if I hadn't experienced travelling the country in a large youth ensemble.”

In spring 2023, Modulo participants came together at London music venue, Cecil Sharp House to play in an inclusive ensemble. We caught up with young brass player, Kandia, to hear her thoughts on what it feels like to be part of a Modulo orchestra.

NOFA is about so much more than just playing music. Here young musicians Miecha, Santiago and Keaton share why they enjoy being part of such a friendly, diverse and vibrant community.

The main aim of the Modulo Programme is to create an environment where young people from any background can thrive. We caught up with a group of participants to hear their thoughts on playing with others and what it means to be part of the orchestra.

TIANCI: “I have social anxiety and didn’t think I was up to meeting new people – but National Orchestra for All is like a giant family. In NOFA, it doesn’t matter if you live with a disability – you can still play music.”

HANNAH: “NOFA is special to me because you get to meet people from different backgrounds. They may have started somewhere different to you – but somehow you’ve ended up in the same place.”

JOE: “NOFA advanced my musical skills grade upon grade, year after year and the [team] are always willing to help you learn. It also massively widened my classical music range – I now have a classical playlist that’s 300 pieces long!”