Finding the music in everyone

The Bellingen Youth Orchestra (BYO) harmonises the energy and enthusiasm of young musicians with the expertise and dedication of professional music teacher to celebrate orchestral music in regional NSW. With the patronage of David Helfgott, BYO cultivates community partnerships and collaborations with inspiring musicians and ensembles from across Australia. At its core, BYO is dedicated to kindling a lifelong passion for music, unwavering support to all our young musicians. Established in 2007, BYO operates as an inclusive not-for-profit organisation, deriving strength from a network of local music programs that span from primary to tertiary education in the region.

Comprising four ensembles, BYO offers diverse opportunities for musical growth: the BYO String School (BYOSS) nurtures our youngest string players, fostering their musical development within an intermediate ensemble of approximately 40 participants; the Bellingen Youth Orchestra Wind School (BYOWS) provides a platform for junior woodwind, brass, and percussion players to refine their musical, ensemble, and performance skills; the flagship ensemble, the Bellingen Youth Orchestra (BYO), unites over 80 young musicians to perform full orchestral works; and the BYO Sinfonia serves as a select chamber music ensemble, challenging advanced string players with intricate repertoire. Regular performances by these ensembles offer opportunities for collaboration with esteemed guest musicians and BYO alumni, ensuring a dynamic and captivating repertoire for our diverse audience each year.