National Youth Orchestra of Canada to Launch New Four-Week Summer Training Model in 2026

The National Youth Orchestra of Canada (NYO Canada) will restructure its renowned summer training program beginning in 2026, introducing a new four-week intensive format that combines concurrent chamber and orchestral study. The change shortens the program by one week and is designed to support the organization’s long-term financial sustainability while maintaining its educational and artistic standards.

Under the new model, musicians will participate in both chamber and orchestral streams simultaneously during the program’s core weeks. The structure allows for expanded faculty engagement, particularly in the string sections, and aims to create closer mentorship opportunities between instructors and students.

“NYO Canada has been designed over many years by dedicated staff and faculty into the ideal launchpad for tomorrow's young artists,” said Christie Gray, CEO. “As much as we cherish that vision, we also feel a deep responsibility to safeguard the organization's future for the sake of Canada's musical heritage. Reducing our program by one week allows us to adapt with care while continuing to uphold our core mission.”

The redesigned four-week session retains the program’s primary educational components, including faculty mentorship, chamber music coaching, sectionals, and orchestral training. Offerings related to wellness, professional development, and career preparation will remain unchanged.

“The cost of the program continues to climb while funding has not kept pace,” said Operations Director Christopher Lamont. “We are struggling with rising rates for transportation, accommodation, food, and facilities. This isn't unique to NYO Canada—everyone in the sector is stretched thin.”

Despite these financial pressures, NYO Canada will continue to provide each participant with a full $23,000 scholarship and $1,500 honorarium, ensuring that young musicians do not bear the cost of inflationary challenges.

“Something had to change, but it would not be our commitment to supporting young artists or fairly compensating our exceptional faculty,” Gray added. “We believe deeply that emerging artists should not bear the burden of economic pressures in the arts sector.”

NYO Canada hopes that the transition will encourage greater community engagement and investment in its mission. “We hope that a larger community of donors will understand that support for NYO Canada is a long-term investment in young Canadians and their growth, as well as an investment in the arts, culture, and musical heritage of Canada,” said Gray.

The organization continues to prepare for its upcoming season, which will include an extensive tour with stops in Stratford, Toronto, Parry Sound, Kingston, and Ottawa, with performances at Ottawa Chamberfest and Festival of the Sound. Additional tour dates will be announced pending funding.

Founded in 1960, NYO Canada remains one of the country’s leading pre-professional orchestral training programs, offering full scholarships to musicians aged 16 to 28. The program provides a tuition-free experience that combines orchestral and chamber performance, masterclasses, and national touring.

For more information or to support NYO Canada, visit nyoc.org/.