Conductor 2012: Sean O’Neill
Now in its 11th year, the National Youth Wind Orchestra of Wales has developed an enviable reputation as one of the UK’s leading symphonic wind ensembles. Its performances both in Wales and abroad, particularly of contemporary repertoire in which it specialises, have received widespread critical acclaim.
The NYWOW is a 52 strong symphonic wind ensemble, selected by annual audition from throughout Wales. It was formed by Tŷ Cerdd - Music Centre Wales, under the National Youth Arts Wales umbrella in 2002. In the past few years its conductors have included John Greaves, Nigel Boddice, Marco Pütz, Colin Touchin and Simon Wills.
Entry Requirements
- Candidates are accepted for audition on the approval of their county Head of Music Service (or his/her authorised representative or equivalent) and are expected to support music activity at school/college and county level. Where county activity does not exist, the Head of Department in school or college may initially support applications.
- Candidates should normally be of around Grade VIII standard though they do not need to have taken the exam.
- Applicants for the NYWOW should be between 12 and 21 years old (or 22, if still in full time education) on 31 st August 2012.
- Players must be available for all course and concert dates. Please check your availability before applying.
2012 Residency & Concert Tour
2012 will see the NYWOW take part in a unique film project with the renowned Cardiff based composer, Charlie Barber. The Orchestra will give live performances of his new score at screenings of a classic of the silent screen, The Fall of the House of Usher, at major venues throughout south Wales.
This year's residential course will be held in the beautiful surroundings of the National Trust's Stackpole Centre, near Pembroke. During the intensive week of rehearsals our team of expert tutors, led by conductor, Sean O'Neill will prepare the young musicians for the film tour. There will be plenty of opportunity for relaxation and students will also be offered a lively entertainment programme run by the pastoral staff. Activities are planned to include quizzes, talent nights and sports as well as guided nature walks around the 2,000 acres of parkland that surround the Stackpole Centre. Prior to its residential course, the NYWOW will meet in Cardiff for a preliminary rehearsal/recording session in early March.
Conductor: Sean O’Neill
Workshop: 4 March, Cardiff
Residency: 10 - 15 April 2012 Stackpole Centre, near Pembroke
Concerts:
13 April, Lyric Theatre, Carmarthen
14 April, Riverfront Theatre, Newport
15 April, Gwyn Hall, Neath
Contact
Matthew Thistlewood at Ty Cerdd 029 2063 5650 nywow@tycerdd.info
For more information about NYWOW 2012 and application forms click here