Music for Youth: National Festival 2025

Join us for one of the UK’s biggest celebrations of youth music!

The Music for Youth National Festival 2025 brings thousands of young musicians to Birmingham for three inspiring days of live performances, workshops and creative activities. From orchestras and choirs to jazz bands, ensembles and new music creators, the festival showcases the talent and diversity of the next generation.

With events in iconic venues like Symphony Hall and CBSO Centre, plus free fringe stages and panels, there’s something for everyone.

Book your tickets now and experience the passion, energy and joy of young people making music together!

Stay tuned for the full festival lineup, which will be unveiled in May. For more information and opportunities to participate in workshops and on the fringe stage, visit: https://mfy.org.uk/get-involved/national-festival-2025/

Ticket price for daytime sessions are £13 (£11 Concessions) and evening sessions are £15 (£13 Concessions).


Workshops & Performances

Thursday 10 July: CBSO Centre

MFY Presents: Rising Stars

Time: 10.30am to 12.45pm

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Impressive sounds from musicians aged 8-11

MFY Presents: Listening In

Time: 1.45pm to 4.15pm

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Exhilarating ensembles from across the musical spectrum

MFY Presents: Roots and Rhythms

Time: 6pm to 8pm

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Music from around the globe in one spectacular showcase of world, folk, and roots


Friday 11 July: CBSO Centre

MFY Presents: Rhapsody in Song

Time: 10.30 to 1.15pm

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Brilliant young voices bringing music to life with passion and energy

Session 2: MFY Presents: Swing, Soul and Rhythm

Time: 3pm to 5.45pm

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A thrilling session highlighting the talent of young jazz musicians from across the UK

MFY Presents: The Late Set

Time: 7pm to 9.15pm

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An exhilarating exploration of jazz, blending tradition with innovation in a stunning showcase


Friday 11 July: Symphony Hall

MFY Presents: Little Stars, Big Sounds

Time: 1pm to 3.30pm

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Impressive sounds from musicians, aged 8-11

MFY Presents: Creative Ensembles

Time: 4.15pm to 6.45pm

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Unique approaches to music making from around the country

MFY Presents: Voices in Harmony

Time: 7.30pm to 9.30pm

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An electrifying showcase of powerful and dynamic choral performances


Friday 11 July: Jennifer Blackwell Performance Space

Frequencies Presents: Next Wave Showcase

Time: 7.30pm to 9:30pm

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Emerging music creators showcasing their talent in front of music industry professionals


Saturday 12 July: CBSO Centre

MFY Presents: Rhythm Revolution

Time: 10:15am to 1pm

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Young percussionists pushing the boundaries of rhythm

MFY Presents: String Serenade

Time: 2pm to 4.30pm

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Strings take centre stage in this compelling session of young musical talent

MFY Presents: The Sound Collective

Time: 5.30pm to 8.15pm

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Exhilarating ensembles from across the musical spectrum


Saturday 12 July: Symphony Hall

MFY Presents: A Symphony of Sound

Time: 10.30am to 1pm

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Full-scale orchestral performances

MFY Presents: Set the Tone

Time: 2.30pm to 5pm

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Adventurous performances highlighting the brilliance of young brass and wind players

MFY Presents: Fanfare and Flourish

Time: 6.30pm to 8.30pm

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Bold sounds, tight rhythms, and unstoppable momentum - this is brass and wind in full force


Saturday 12 July: Jennifer Blackwell Performance Space

MFY Presents: United in Sound

Time: 10:30am to 1pm

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Exhilarating ensembles from across the musical spectrum

Frequencies Presents: Full Volume

Time: 2pm to 4.30pm

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A mix of music from rising artists

Frequencies Presents: Sounds of Tomorrow

Time: 5.30pm to 8pm

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A mix of music from rising artists