Fancy performing in concert halls all over the world?

Then get along to the annual auditions of the Essex Youth Orchestra.

Essex Music Services’ flagship orchestra is open to orchestral instrumentalists playing at Grade 7 or above, aged 11 to 18 years old and in full-time education in Essex or who live in Essex.

Celebrating its 60th anniversary last year, it has seen many of its players from all over Essex go on to become professionals in the music industry, benefitting from the high standard and opportunities gained from their experience in the ensemble.

EYO do not attend weekly rehearsals but mostly rehearse in the school holidays with two residential courses a year – one at Easter and one at Christmas. The orchestra also goes on European tours most summers. Past tours include Lisbon, Budapest and Prague where they performed at the prestigious venue, Dvorak Hall.

This year’s auditions take place on Sunday, July 22, across the Suffolk border at the Royal Hospital School in Holbrook, from 10am to 4pm. Young musicians should bring a pre-prepared piece where they will be coached by Tony Hougham, principal Double Bass player at the Royal Opera House before auditioning for the orchestra. For further details go to essexmusichub.org.uk/site/ensembles/essex-youth-orchestra