About National Open Youth Orchestra: Ring Out! No more barriers, just great music

Age  Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult 18+

Running time  Event start: 3pm, Event end: 4pm. No interval

Ring Out! No more barriers, just great music

“One of the most exciting young ensembles right now.” Michael Betteridge, composer

Experience the emotionally charged performances of one of the most exciting youth orchestras in the world. Fifteen brilliant young disabled and non-disabled musicians invite you into a musical universe without barriers, performing beautiful new pieces commissioned for the orchestra’s thrilling mix of acoustic and electronic instruments, including the Clarion accessible instrument.

Discover two new commissions - the piano concerto Ring Out! by British Composer Award-winner Liam Taylor-West, and Fragile by Yfat Soul Zisso, on the theme of the environment, chosen by the musicians themselves. Hear their bold take on Meredith Monk’s energetic, minimalist Parlour Games, and the musicians’ creativity, showcased in their joyful interpretation of the jazz funk tones of Lucky Chops’ Behroozi. The orchestra will also take on the melodious scales of Falling by Kate Whitley and perform Barriers, a heartfelt tribute to lost friends and fellow disabled musicians written by past orchestra member Oliver Cross.

Booking Info

Ticket prices

  • Standard: £10
  • “Feeling the pinch”: £5
  • Over 65: £5
  • Student: £5
  • Unwaged: £5
  • 25 and Under: £1

This relaxed performance is suitable for all, and designed to welcome neurodivergent and disabled audiences, families, and anyone who may benefit from a more informal atmosphere. We maintain a flexible approach to noise, and audience members are free to come and go from the concert hall as needed. If attending with young children, we kindly ask that you help minimise excessive noise to avoid distracting the orchestra.

There will be a relaxed seating area with bean bags, and a Chill Out area outside the concert hall, for anyone needing quiet time before or during the performance.

This concert will be BSL interpreted, with the interpreter positioned on the right side of the stage.

Please visit our Accessibility Information page for venue access information.

There will be a RevoLOO situated close to the venue for those that require an accessible changing place.

Ticket commission

*Events may carry a £1 - £5 ticket commission; charged per ticket. This is charged when you book through B:Music’s Box Office – online, by phone or in person. Any advertised prices will include any per-ticket fee that may apply.

Wheelchair Users and Disabled Patrons

If you require a wheelchair position (subject to availability) please call the Box Office on 0121 289 6343.

A range of tickets and services are available under our Access Scheme. To find out more, or to join the Access Scheme, email boxoffice@bmusic.co.uk or call us on 0121 289 6343.

Running Times

Our performance running times are usually confirmed close to the show. Where available we'll post the times as soon as we can get them, so check back about a week before for updates. Performance running times are approximate and subject to change.

Getting here

  • Town Hall
    Victoria Square
    Birmingham
    B3 3DQ
  • More info