When will the course be held? 

We’re pleased to announce that our next course will be held from 24-31 July, 2021. Applications are open!

Where will the course be?

We are delighted that the course will be returning to the Old Swinford Hospital school  near Birmingham. 

Our final concert will be given in the Elgar Hall in the Bramhall building at Birmingham University, as well 

as a chamber and solo concert given midweek in the beautiful Great Hall at Old Swinford.   

The school has wonderful facilities and is in a great location - right in the heart of the country and is easy to get to from just about anywhere. We can’t wait to see you there!

Which band shall I apply for?

NCCB is for players aged 11-14 with Grade 4 or 5 standard.

NYCB is for players aged 12-18 of Grade 6 standard or above.

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

What can we expect on the course?

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!

How can I apply? 

Applications for our 2021 course are now open! Please click here for our online application form. 

Email us at admin@nycb.co.uk with any questions.  Applications are open to all orchestral wind, brass and percussion instruments aged 12-18 with ABRSM Grade 6 or above (or equivalent.)

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

Tuba

Orchestral Percussion

When will the auditions be?

Auditions will again be online. Once we have received your initial application, we will contact you with specific audition requirements for your instrument and technical specifications for the video. 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. 

Do I have to pay for the audition?

There will be no charge for applying or auditioning for NYCB this year.

How much will it cost?

The predicted fee for our 2021 NYCB course is £850.  The predicted fee for NCCB in 2021 is £700.

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

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