Are you a jazz musician aged 18-25 looking to connect with like-minded artists, develop your skills, and become part of a welcoming musical community? At NYJO, we’re excited to invite you to our open large ensemble sessions – a new opportunity to explore your creativity, meet incredible musicians, experience the joy of playing together in an inspiring and inclusive environment, and to get to know what NYJO is all about.
What’s Happening?
Four times a year, we host an open large ensemble session led by one of our amazing Resident Musical Directors (MDs). These sessions are all about creating a space where musicians can come together to play, learn, and grow. Each MD brings their unique musical approach to the table, making every session fresh, exciting, and packed with opportunities to push yourself technically and creatively. We are very excited to be shaking up the way that we’re introduced to each other.
What’s Different?
We’re extremely excited to be shaking things up at NYJO and making some changes to how we welcome new musicians. We want to build a community where your voice matters and your ideas are heard. We’re committed to breaking down barriers, encouraging fresh perspectives, and making NYJO a place where you can be yourself, explore your creativity, and feel truly at home.
Reflecting on our first Open Session in November, our Ensembles Manager George Gatehouse said:
‘It was brilliant to welcome so many new musicians to NYJO last autumn, most of whom were able to join us from outside of London as a result of our travel bursary scheme. I feel very proud to introduce our Emerging Professionals Programme as an environment that aims to challenge and inspire what people think jazz is and who it is for, using a wide variety of jazz repertoires and approaches to foster creativity and community, as well as high-quality learning and performance opportunities.’
Who’s Invited?
If you’re aged 18-25, passionate about jazz, and eager to discover more about NYJO’s Emerging Professionals programme, we’d love to see you there! Whether you’re already part of our Emerging Professionals family, thinking about applying, or just curious, these sessions are for you.
You’ll get to play exciting large ensemble jazz with talented musicians from across the country, meet our Resident MDs, and immerse yourself in the world of NYJO.
What Can You Expect?
These sessions are about much more than music. This is what you might take away:
Professional Development
- Work closely with one of our Resident MDs and learn from their expertise.
- Play exciting, creative large ensemble pieces with fellow musicians.
- Challenge yourself and explore new ideas in a supportive environment.
Community and Connection
- Meet other musicians and potential collaborators from all over the UK and build friendships that could last a lifetime.
- Be part of an inclusive, welcoming community where everyone’s voice is valued.
- Chat with our Resident MDs and the NYJO team – this is your chance to connect and collaborate.
A Fresh Perspective
- Discover what makes NYJO a unique space for emerging talent.
- See how we combine musical excellence with an environment that’s approachable, open, and inspiring.
- Find out how NYJO offers more than just gigs.
‘I believe these sessions are important in fostering a community of people who are already involved with NYJO and those who are interested in what there is on offer if you really get stuck in. There’s more than just the musical aspect up for grabs and I feel like it starts with the openness, for lack of a better word, of the Open sessions.’ Kenyah Johnson, Programmes Coordinator
Why Join Us?
We’re committed to creating a space where all musicians can feel welcome and inspired. Whether you’ve thought about joining us before or this is your first time hearing about NYJO, this is your chance to see what we’re all about.
We want you to know that NYJO is a place where you can be yourself, connect with others, and grow as an artist.
‘I had an amazing time during this session, meeting new people, working together for the first time, and with good vibes and level. The fact that the pieces were contemporary jazz and Olivia was here conducting her own stuff was a very nice plus too, I felt that we were really practising creatively.’ Pierre
How To Get Involved…
Sound good? Keep an eye out for our next large ensemble session on our ‘What’s On’ page and social media channels, grab your instrument, and come along! There’s no pressure – just bring yourself, your instrument (including your voice) and maybe even a friend who might have fun too!
We can’t wait to meet you, play some amazing music, and welcome you to the NYJO community.
Follow us on social media or join our mailing list here to stay up-to-date with upcoming sessions and events. See you soon!