Exciting times lie ahead for Wales this summer as National Youth Arts Wales has announced its Summer 2026 concert tours. The programme will see the National Youth Orchestra of Wales (NYOW), National Youth Choir of Wales (NYCW), and National Youth Brass Band of Wales (NYBBW) take to stages across the country throughout July and August, bringing together some of the finest young musical talent Wales has to offer.
For audiences across Wales, these tours offer an opportunity to experience high-quality performances while celebrating the next generation of musicians. From orchestral classics to choral works and brass band favourites, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
One of the biggest highlights of this year’s programme is the National Youth Orchestra of Wales, which celebrates a remarkable milestone in 2026. As the world’s oldest national youth orchestra, the NYOW marks its 80th anniversary this year. Since its founding , the orchestra has played an important role in developing young musicians and helping many of them go on to successful careers in the music industry.
The anniversary tour begins on 29th July at Prichard Jones Hall in Bangor before travelling across Wales. Leading the celebrations is conductor Andrew Gourlay, who will take charge of the orchestra’s impressive 100-piece ensemble.
Described by The Guardian as “a star in the ascendant,” Gourlay has built an international reputation for his energetic and collaborative conducting style. Throughout his career, he has worked extensively across the United Kingdom and Europe, appeared as a guest conductor at the BBC Proms, and established himself as a passionate supporter of youth orchestras. His experience and enthusiasm make him an ideal choice to lead the orchestra during such an important anniversary year.
The celebrations continue in August as the National Youth Choir of Wales launches its tour at St Asaph Cathedral on 19 August. Established in 1984, the choir has become one of Wales’ leading youth ensembles and has helped nurture some of the country’s most recognised musical talents, including Sir Bryn Terfel and Katherine Jenkins OBE.
This summer, the choir will once again be conducted by Tim Rhys-Evans MBE, who is also a former member of the ensemble. Rhys-Evans remains one of the most respected figures in Welsh choral music. His career spans more than two decades, and he has played a significant role in promoting Welsh choral excellence both nationally and internationally.
This year marks his eighth time conducting the National Youth Choir of Wales, bringing with him a deep understanding of both the ensemble and its traditions. The choir itself consists of more than 90 young singers, creating a youthful energy that has become one of its defining qualities.
Audiences can expect a varied programme that combines newly commissioned works, established choral favourites, and a few surprises along the way. The result promises to be an evening that celebrates both tradition and the future of Welsh choral music.
The National Youth Brass Band of Wales also returns this summer under the direction of conductor Philip Harper. Last working with the band in 2022, Harper is widely regarded as one of the leading figures in the brass band world.
Since becoming Musical Director of Cory Band in 2012, he has led the ensemble to significant success and earned recognition for his commitment to musical excellence. Known for his high-energy rehearsals, inspiring leadership, and ability to bring out the best in young performers, Harper’s return is sure to be welcomed by both players and audiences alike.
Made up of 59 of Wales’ most talented young brass musicians, the National Youth Brass Band of Wales will perform a programme that balances technically demanding competition works with entertaining concert pieces. Audiences can expect an evening of powerful performances, exceptional musicianship, and the enthusiasm that comes from a group of young performers eager to showcase their talent.
The band’s tour concludes at The Riverfront in Newport on 23 August.
National Youth Orchestra of Wales
National Youth Choir of Wales
National Youth Brass Band of Wales
Tickets for all performances are on sale now through the National Youth Arts Wales website.
If there is one thing to take away from this summer’s programme, it is that Wales continues to invest in and celebrate its young musicians. Whether through orchestral performance, choral singing, or brass band tradition, these tours highlight the depth of talent that exists across the country. For audiences, it is a chance to support the next generation while enjoying a summer filled with outstanding live music.
Read more Art and Culture Stories from KLATMAG
Written by Maria Jonah
Edited by Angel Joanne Okonkwo
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