NYJO offers professional development, performance, and educator training opportunities to Emerging Professionals aged 18-25 looking to further their career playing jazz and adjacent genres. In everything we do, we aim to be inclusive and representative of our beneficiaries and the jazz community we want to see.
We have evolved from a single jazz orchestra into a vibrant, varied organisation, working on creatively diverse programmes with ensembles of all sizes. All the musicians in our books are added to a talent pool, to which opportunities are offered. We always welcome musicians’ ideas, input, and feedback, and we will personalise your NYJO experience to your goals and needs. Whether you want to play Big Band jazz, or original arrangements with your trio – we’re here for it!
In our Emerging Professionals’ own words:
I’ve expanded my knowledge of workshop leading through working with other young musicians. I feel like our agency as creatives and educators has adapted our skills to their skills.
I think when you come to NYJO, it’s very highlighted and emphasised that everyone is going at their own rate. Just because you might be a similar age, it doesn’t mean that you have to be at a specific level. You’ve got time, everyone is going on their own journeys.
Longer intensive sessions mean you get the chance to forge a band sound and get a band feeling…We can get an amazing blend with the instruments, with the dynamics and expression and giving everybody space to have a moment where they could be in the spotlight.
Throughout your time with us, you can experience:
- Continuous professional development
- The opportunity to play a wide range of styles in different sized ensembles
- The chance to work with guest MDs and artists from the UK and beyond
- National and international touring opportunities
- Opportunities to train and work as a NYJO educator
- Masterclasses and mentoring (in musical and non-musical skills like personal finance, marketing, and fundraising)
- Arranging and composing opportunities
- Support with your own projects
- The chance to meet and collaborate with peers and established musicians
Keep scrolling, or click on the headings, to find out more below about our Latest Projects, NYJO Stories, and how you can Get Involved. And don’t hesitate to get in touch with NYJO’s Ensembles Manager, George Gatehouse at [email protected] for more info.
Latest Projects
NYJO @ Levels Residency
The commencement of an exciting new residency at Levels in South London has seen collaborations with Levitation Orchestra, Jasmine Myra and Theon Cross to name a few!
Tribute to James Baldwin
NYJOs musical tribute to James Baldwin. Our programme The Fire Next Time led by the visionary bandleader Peter Edwards performed a sell-out show at Southbank Centre.
Fodder on my Wings
When EFG London Jazz Festival coincided with the 60th anniversary of NYJO our musicians celebrated by creating a stunning tribute to Nina Simone’s 1982 album Fodder on My Wings. This project was led by Trumpeter Olivia Cuttill.
NYJO Stories
NYJO Stories: Olivia Cuttill
After first getting involved with NYJO as an Emerging Professional in our programme with guest artist Nikki Yeoh, Olivia and her quintet toured the country to promote their debut album with NYJO's support. Read about Olivia's NYJO story. Read more
NYJO Stories: Jennie Beard
After coming close to giving up music altogether, Jennie joined the NYJO Under 18s programme in 2021, which had a transformative impact in her life. Read about Jennie's NYJO story. Read more
NYJO Stories: Olivia Murphy
Having first joined NYJO as an under 18 musician attending our Saturday sessions, Olivia now leads her own Saturday group at Woolwich Works. Read all about her NYJO journey to get there! Read more
Get Involved
If you’re interested in joining NYJO, get in touch and let us know about yourself and the kind of opportunities you’re looking for. We’re keen to hear something of your playing or to read about the performing you’ve done so far, but also to learn about you, so a combination of show and tell create an ideal introduction. We can’t wait to hear from you!
For more information about our current and upcoming opportunities and how you can take part, please get in touch with NYJO’s Ensembles Manager, George Gatehouse, at [email protected].