EYO Symphony Orchestra
Applications For 2026 Closed!
Applications are now closed for the 2026 Symphony Orchestra.
For information on late auditions, or to join our mailing list for the 2027 season, please contact Laura Gardiner, General Manager on info@edinburghyouthorchestra.org
Applications for 2027 will open on 1 September 2026.
Course Overview
The EYO Symphony Orchestra is a fully auditioned course for advanced orchestral instrumentalists aged 13-21, offering the experience of performing symphonic repertoire, working with a professional conductor, soloist and inspirational tutors.
Key Dates
Application Deadline: Monday 1 December 2025, 9pm
Auditions:
In-Person: Saturday 10 January (George Watson’s College) and Sunday 11 January 2026 (St Mary’s Music School)
Video Submission Deadline: Wednesday 7 January 2026
Preparatory Weekend:
Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 March 2026
Summer Course and Concerts:
Saturday 1 – Saturday 8 August 2026
Friday 7 and Saturday 8 August 2026 Greyfriars Kirk, Edinburgh
Symphony Orchestra Programme
We are thrilled to share this year’s conductor will be Natalia Luis-Bassa and the programme will include:
Mahler – Symphony No. 1
Oetomo – Soar: Concerto No. 1 for Marimba and String Orchestra (soloist: Calum Huggan)
Hernandez – El Cumbanchero (Wind, Brass and Percussion)
Rehearsals will take place at George Watson’s College, Edinburgh and the course will culminate in two concerts at Greyfriars Kirk as part of the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.
What to Expect
We welcome applications from young musicians who:
are aged 13-21
play an orchestral instrument (strings, woodwind, brass or percussion)
are working above Grade 7 standard (formal exams are not required)
Course Fees
Course fee: £395
A non-refundable deposit of £95 will be required to confirm your place
The balance of £300 must be paid no later than 1 May 2026 (this can be paid in instalments)
Sibling Discount and Financial Support
In families with multiple applicants, the second and subsequent participants will pay a reduced fee of £300 per person
EYO is committed to ensuring that its courses are accessible to all, and financial assistance is available to applicants after a place is offered
Application Process
Apply online by Monday 1 December 2025. Applications are now closed.
After submitting, you’ll receive an email to arrange your audition, either in person, or by video submission (instructions provided in your confirmation email)
In-person audition invitations will be emailed on the week of 8 December; contact us if you haven’t received yours by Friday 12 December 2025
Audition results will be sent by email
If offered a place:
Confirm by paying a £95 non-refundable deposit.
Pay the remaining balance by 1 May 2026 (single payment or instalments; details in your offer email).
Audition Information
Auditions are free and an accompanist is provided for in-person sessions.
Live Auditions Dates and Venues
Saturday 10 January 2026 – George Watson’s College Music Department
Sunday 11 January 2026 – St Mary’s Music School
Video auditions are available if you can’t attend in person. Request this via the link in your confirmation email. Videos must be submitted by Wednesday 7 January 2026.
Audition Requirements:
One piece (or extract) of your choice — max 7 minutes.
Prepared orchestral excerpts (available after the application closing date).
Auditions last 10–15 minutes.
Panel: two musicians: EYO Tutors and Musician Board Members