The National Youth Orchestra Association of Canada (NYO Canada) is a nonprofit charitable organization dedicated to advanced orchestral training and education for young Canadian musicians aged 16 to 28. Founded in 1960 by Walter Susskind, former Music Director of the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, NYO Canada aims to nurture and develop the artistic talents of emerging musicians from across the country.

Overview

NYO Canada is recognized as the country's premier training orchestra, offering a comprehensive program that combines intensive musical instruction with high-level performance opportunities. The organization brings together the finest young musicians nationwide for a rigorous summer training institute followed by a nationwide and international concert tour.

Programs

Summer Training Institute

Each June, musicians participate in a five-week summer training program that includes:

• Chamberfest: A two-week concentrated chamber music program where participants rehearse and perform in multiple ensembles under expert faculty guidance.
• Orchestral Institute: Beginning in the third week, sectional rehearsals focus on full orchestral repertoire, with groupings of strings, winds, brass, and percussion. Musicians also attend various masterclasses and workshops led by world-renowned professional musicians and educators.

Tour

The institute culminates in a three-week tour featuring 8 to 10 concerts in major Canadian cities and select international venues. This tour provides musicians with invaluable performance experience in iconic concert halls and fosters cultural exchange.

Mission and Vision

NYO Canada’s mission is to provide exceptional orchestral training and performance experiences that cultivate the next generation of professional musicians in Canada. The organization seeks to inspire artistic excellence and foster lifelong musical growth and collaboration among youth.

Recognition and Support

NYO Canada is supported by government arts funding, private donors, and arts organizations, including the Canada Council for the Arts. It has gained national acclaim for its role in advancing orchestral music education and for its contribution to Canada's cultural vitality.

Online Presence

The organization maintains a digital archive of past performances and educational content, including its "Play With The Masters" series that offers digital masterclasses for orchestral instruments, enhancing accessibility to world-class music education beyond the summer program.

This summary highlights NYO Canada’s role as a vital institution in Canada’s musical landscape, offering young musicians an unparalleled platform for artistic development and public performance.