For nearly 75 years, the Australian Youth Orchestra has provided life-changing experiences, pathways, and opportunities for talented young musicians. AYO has built a reputation as one of the world’s finest and most-innovative training organisations, where we engage exceptional, like-minded participants in real-life orchestral experiences, led by industry experts and professionals. In April this year, we celebrated the return of National Music Camp and welcomed 250 young musicians from across the country to Melbourne for a week of intense learning, rehearsals and performances.

During July, the Australian Youth Orchestra will tour the East Coast and bring together 100 exceptional musicians under the baton of Sir Mark Elder, who will lead participants in a performance of Strauss’ epic tone-poem, An Alpine Symphony. In our Summer Season, we welcome AYO Alumni Matthew Coorey to the conductor’s podium for the world premiere of Andrew Ford’s The Meaning of Trees, alongside a newly commissioned arrangement of Stravinsky’s Firebird Suite.

From Young Symphonists and Chamber Players, through to Momentum Ensemble and the Australian Youth Orchestra itself, our programs are tailored to equip and empower exceptional young musicians and administrators with the tools they need to reach their full potential.

At AYO, we will always believe that talent is the only criteria for participation. As we turn the page to a new chapter, your generosity will ensure that we can sustain, grow and enable the next generation of young Australian musicians. Those whose stories are still yet to be told.

AYO Priorities

Sustain the quality and reach of our unique training pathways by allowing us to allocate your gift to an area of greatest need today.

AYO Scholarships

Transform a young musician's life and allow our most gifted musicians experiencing financial hardship to access the same opportunities as their peers through AYO Scholarship support.

International Touring 

Empower Australia’s best young musicians with the opportunity of a lifetime, representing the nation as cultural ambassadors on the world stage.

Orchestral Pathways

Connect the country's best young musicians with Australia's leading music training programs, and each other, by supporting programs like National Music Camp, Young Symphonists, AYO seasons, and Momentum Ensemble.

Community Fund

Inspire AYO participants and audiences to explore music in new and diverse ways, including online learning programs, Momentum Ensemble in-school residencies in disadvantaged schools, the creation of new music, and innovative learning opportunities for 21st century artists.

National Music Teacher Mentoring Program

Create opportunities for every child to access quality music education in the classroom across remote, regional, and metropolitan Australia.