NEWS
National Youth Theatre Wales Announces Their 2024 Touring Production “Dal Gafael / Hold On” in Partnership with Fio and Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru
National Youth Theatre of Wales (NYTW) proudly announces its innovative theatre production, Dal Gafael / Hold On, created in partnership with Fio and Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru. Premiering on 4 September at Cardiff’s Sherman Theatre, before travelling to Galeri Caernarfon, this dynamic production directed by Dr. Sita Thomas will showcase the exceptional talents of its 22-member cast, who represent the brightest young performers from across Wales.
Dal Gafael / Hold On has been specifically commissioned for NYTW’s 2024 youth ensemble and is co-written by exciting Welsh playwrights Mared Llywelyn and Steven Kavuma.
The bilingual play intricately weaves together the journeys of two people, each grappling with personal challenges amid the backdrop of a climate crisis and a rapidly changing world. Their lives unexpectedly intersect, leading them to confront not only their own struggles but also the broader implications of their environment. As they navigate these challenges, they question the promises of Echo Earth, a cutting-edge city that vows to safeguard its citizens.
The writing team has taken an innovative writing approach, bringing together two distinct voices and blending both via online and in-person collaboration. Mared, from Pen Llŷn and Steven, Ugandan-born and Swansea-raised, bring diverse perspectives that enrich the narrative, creating a compelling exploration of Welsh culture and contemporary global issues including themes of identity, friendship, grief, and the climate crisis.
Under the artistic direction of Dr Sita Thomas with creative support from Steffan Donnelly, both themselves NYTW alumni, the talented cast successfully auditioned earlier this year and will undertake an immersive ensemble residency during August. The 3-week programme not only focuses on rehearsals but is built to enhance social well-being and professional development. It ensures that each participant flourishes within a supportive and professionally led community. The bilingual nature of the production holds particular significance, providing young people with the invaluable opportunity to collaborate, train, and share their experiences in both Welsh and English, thereby deepening their connection to their shared cultural heritage.
Dr Sita Thomas, Director and Movement Director/Choreography of Dal Gafael / Hold On, expressed her enthusiasm: "We are thrilled to announce our partnership with the National Youth Theatre of Wales and Theatr Genedlaethol for the much-anticipated Summer production of 2024. As a former member of the National Youth Theatre of Wales in 2006, it is a true honour to return to direct this year's production. This collaboration marks a powerful alliance highlighting our joint dedication to nurturing the talents and energies of Wales' next generation of actors and theatre makers. Together, we embark on a journey to spotlight Global Majority and Welsh language stories, cultures, and politics. Our collective commitment to platforming these narratives will be evident as we delve into the exploration of cultural mythologies and address pressing issues of our time such as climate justice. This production promises to be a celebration of Wales' diverse perspectives, an ode to our shared heritage, and a testament to the vibrant and dynamic theatrical landscape that Wales has to offer. We look forward to this exciting venture and welcoming audiences to our performances in the Summer."
Steffan Donnelly, Artistic Director of Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru, added: “It’s very exciting for Theatr Gen to be collaborating with Fio and NYAW on a new bilingual writing examining the climate crisis and centring young voices in contemporary Wales. This production offers young people experiences and pathways into the arts which is so important to us. Back in 2009 I was a member of the National Youth Theatre of Wales, and it was an incredible formative experience - I learnt so much and I’m still friends with many of the artists I met there – so being part of this project feels especially meaningful.”
Audiences will be immersed in the staging and narrative, including the use of video and a soundscape from the talents of sound designer, Eadyth Crawford. Infused with heartfelt emotion and an unflinching exploration of the responsibilities borne by older generations and those in power to safeguard our planet’s future.
Co-writer Mared Llywelyn shared her thoughts: “I’m deeply inspired by the opportunity to co-write a bilingual play that delves into themes of climate and identity, grounded in Welsh folklore.”
Co-writer Steven Kavuma echoed this sentiment: “This is my first writing for young people in Wales and I'm so excited to collaborate with you and write material that suits you. Cymru am byth and dat, yeah”.
Megan Childs, Producer for NYTW, highlighted the importance of the project: "By bringing together outstanding creative partners and artists, NYTW aim to elevate the stories and experiences of the young people of Wales and make sure our talented young company get to shine on stage."
Catch Dal Gafael / Hold On as it premieres in South Wales before touring to North Wales this September. This production is not only a showcase of Welsh youth talent but also a vital platform for discussions about our shared future.
Performance Dates:
All performances will be captioned in both Welsh and English.
• Cardiff: Sherman Theatre, Tue 3 Sept - 8pm; Wed 4 Sep - 8pm BSL interpreted & Audio Described
• Caernarfon: Galeri, Fri 6 Sept – 7.30pm Captioned; Saturday 7 Sept – 5pm
For more information and updates, please visit nyaw.org.uk and follow our journey on social media @NationalYouthTheatreWales.
National Youth Arts Wales Celebrates Success at the National Eisteddfod in Pontypridd
The National Eisteddfod in Pontypridd has always been a celebration of Welsh culture, creativity, and community spirit, and this year was no exception. As always, the event was a grand showcase of the nation’s finest talents, and amongst those making waves were several members and alumni of National Youth Arts Wales (NYAW). Their remarkable performances and achievements underscored the continuing success and influence of NYAW in shaping the next generation of Welsh artists.
Amongst the many members and alumni we spotted on the Maes was Kellie-Gwen Morgan from National Youth Theatre of Wales (NYTW), who wowed the judges and won in the dialogue competition with their acting partner. Another highlight was the strong representation of NYAW members in the instrumental competitions. Many of our National Youth Brass Band of Wales (NYBBW) members participated with Band Ieuenctid De Cymru and Band Pres Ieuenctid Beaumaris.
In the choral category, Côr Taflais, co-conducted by NYAW Changemaker and National Youth Choir of Wales (NYCW) member Caradog Jones, won the ‘New Choir for the Eisteddfod’ competition formed especially for this year’s Eisteddfod. This achievement reflects the hard work and collaboration that are at the heart of NYAW’s ethos, showcasing how our members contribute to the broader cultural landscape of Wales. We were also thrilled to see NYCW members Branwen Medi Jones secure second place in both the “alaw werin” solo competition and the solo from a musical competition, along with Erin Thomas, who impressed by taking second place in the mezzo/contralto/countertenor solo competition. However, it wasn’t just current members we saw. It was great to see NYCW alumni Caitlin Hockley and Rhys Archer securing second places in the solo soprano and tenor competitions respectively as well as Nathan James Dearden claiming the prestigious Tlws y Cyfansoddwr.
Matthew Jones, Senior Producer for NYAW said: “As always, the National Eisteddfod was a fantastic celebration of Wales’s rich culture. Given that this cultural life feels quite threatened at the moment, it was fantastic to be a part of such a vibrant celebration. Congratulations to all our members and alumni who took part, performed on stage and enjoyed success and even worked behind the scenes. It was lovely to walk around the Maes and see so many familiar, friendly faces!”
In addition to these triumphs, NYAW's orchestral musicians also made a significant impact. Five of our current National Youth Orchestra of Wales (NYOW) string players formed the ensemble for a beautiful chamber performance of Fauré’s Requiem at the newly renovated Muni Arts Centre.
As the Eisteddfod drew to a close, we saw NYOW percussionists join our string players to play at the closing concert, who performed a new piece inspired by the National Anthem. This performance was a fitting conclusion to a week that has highlighted the talent and unity of the NYAW community.
National Youth Arts Wales and ABRSM working together to boost music education in Wales
National Youth Arts Wales and The Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music are excited to announce a new partnership to support music education in Wales.
National Youth Arts Wales (NYAW) and The Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM) are excited to announce a new partnership to support music education in Wales.
Both organisations share a commitment to championing high-quality, accessible, engaging and inclusive music education and experiences for young people throughout Wales.
The partnership was announced at a concert by the National Youth Brass Band of Wales at the Great Hall, Swansea on Sunday 28 July.
During the first year, the partnership will focus on the following three strands:
1. Talent Pathways
NYAW holds auditions throughout Wales every year - and then supports the most talented young musicians to form ensembles, receiving world-leading tuition and performing together.
To enable this to happen, NYAW works with music services, organisations and schools throughout Wales to analyse progression routes across different instruments (and voices) and music genres.
Drawing on the above work, NYAW and ABRSM will identify cold spots in provision for young people and deliver a range of projects, including "Côr Skills" to give singers an experience of choral singing, and “Strings Attached” a programme to boost the skills of young violin, viola, bass and cello players.
2. Youth Voice
ABRSM and NYAW will support each other's youth representation programmes, including providing young people with new opportunities for training, influencing policy and work experience. NYAW has recently appointed three young trustees to its board and created a group of young 'ChangeMakers' to influence NYAW activities. It will share these experiences with ABRSM, with a view to developing new models of best practice for the arts sector together.
3. Data
ABRSM and NYAW will develop new ways of gathering data about music education and participation throughout Wales, and correlate their existing data, to identify which instruments are being learnt to a high standard, which are less popular, and which areas of the country are most in need of support.
James Welburn, Deputy Head of Engagement of ABRSM said: “We’re delighted to be collaborating with National Youth Arts Wales on what we anticipate will be an engaging and energetic partnership in support of young musicians across Wales. We’re particularly excited about our youth voice programmes, helping to embed the voices of young people within our organisations and the wider sector, and keeping young musicians at the heart of all we do.”
Evan Dawson, CEO of National Youth Arts Wales said: “ABRSM is one of the world’s leading music education organisations and we're excited to embark on this new partnership. Together, we understand the emotional role that music plays in the lives of young people, recognising and celebrating the diverse range of backgrounds each individual brings, while drawing on our musical network of composers, teachers and performers. We are all thrilled to be working in closer partnership with ABRSM to help inspire and support young people to flourish through creative, innovative and generous music-making, throughout all of Wales.”
Congratulations to our 2024 Orchestra and Brass Band prize winners
Each year on our residencies, we celebrate our musicians who display the most promise and dedication. The recipients of each award is decided by the sectional tutors during the residencies.
Each year on our residencies, we celebrate our musicians who display the most promise and dedication. The recipients of each award is decided by the sectional tutors during the residencies.
National Youth Arts Wales would like to express its gratitude to those who have donated money for the creation of these awards.
NATIONAL YOUTH BRASS BAND OF WALES
The John Childs Memorial Trophy
Awarded to the most promising player at this year’s residency
Solomon Maghur
The David Mabey Prize
Awarded to the most improved player on the residency
Cari Jones
The Principal Cornet Trophy
In memory of Tony Small
Erin Maloney
NATIONAL YOUTH ORCHESTRA OF WALES
The Haydn Davies Award
Awarded to the most promising player still in education
Xinrong Zou
The Irwyn Walters (Friends of NYOW) Awards
Awarded to the two most promising string players at this year’s residency
Sharon Liang and Mali Wood
The Wil Jones Prize
Awarded to the most promising woodwind player at this year’s residency
Amélie Donovan
The Goronwy Evans Award
Awarded to the most promising brass player at this year’s residency
Carys Williams
The Tony Moore Harp Prize
Awarded to the most promising harpist at this year’s residency
Yasmin Richards
The Tony Moore Percussion Prize
Awarded to the most promising percussionist at this year’s residency
Max Manuel
The Welfare Team Prize
For overall contribution to the Orchestra
Aled Thistlewood
A Summer of Breathtaking Concerts by Wales’s Finest Young Musicians
We are delighted to announce our exceptionally talented cohort of 2024 members across the National Youth Brass Band, Orchestra and Choir of Wales will be touring throughout Wales this summer, showcasing their skill and commitment in a series of awe-inspiring public concerts.
We are delighted to announce our exceptionally talented cohort of 2024 members across the National Youth Brass Band, Orchestra and Choir of Wales will be touring throughout Wales this summer, showcasing their skill and commitment in a series of awe-inspiring public concerts. Visiting venues right across the Country from Pembrokeshire to Denbigh this July, August and September and tickets are now on sale.
Following a comprehensive audition process earlier this year, our ensemble members have been selected to represent Wales with a coveted place in their respective National Youth Ensembles of Wales. Soon our members will be embarking on a week-long residency, working with sensational creative teams from around the world, perfecting their concert repertoire before taking to the stage to wow audiences in Bangor, St Asaph, Lampeter, Swansea and Cardiff. All three Ensembles will also perform in the prestigious St Davids Cathedral as part of the Fishguard Music Festival 2024.
Matthew Jones, Senior Producer of NYAW, said: “One of the best parts of my job is experiencing the fantastic performances by our music ensembles. Amongst some of the most talented musicians in Wales, our young members work hard during our summer residencies to put together an exciting programme of music for you to enjoy. We look forward to welcoming you to our performances, where together we can celebrate the best of Wales’s musical talent.”
For the very first time, National Youth Orchestra of Wales will perform an inclusive, relaxed concert. Taking place in Cardiff’s All Nations Centre, this reduced-length performance is designed to provide a welcoming and accessible environment for all audiences, including disabled people, younger children and audience members who are neurodivergent.
Celebrating the work of NYAW Alumni is also a feature of this year’s season. The ensembles will be performing music written by three former members with Cardiff-born Michael Triggs’ Steel Tracks being performed by the Brass Band, Five Windows by Niamh O’Donnell from Aberystwyth featured in the Orchestra programme whilst the Choir will perform Cainc, a brand-new commission by Carmarthen born composer Claire Victoria Roberts to a poem written by celebrated Welsh poet, Mererid Hopwood.
With an exciting summer of breathing concerts coming to a venue near you, there’s something for everyone. Don't miss out—visit our What's On page for the full listings and join us in hearing the future of Welsh music.
Our Relaxed Concert at All Nations Centre, Cardiff
On 31 August, National Youth Orchestra of Wales will perform a relaxed concert, designed to be inclusive and welcoming for all ages and access needs.
In this guide, you can find out more about what to expect, and what we’ll have in place on the day to help you enjoy the concert.
On 31 August, National Youth Orchestra of Wales will perform a relaxed concert, designed to be inclusive and welcoming for all ages and access needs.
In this guide, you can find out more about what to expect, and what we’ll have in place on the day to help you enjoy the concert.
What is a Relaxed Concert?
A concert that is suitable for all audiences, no matter their age or access needs.
The venue has flexible seating with plenty of space for wheelchairs, mobility vehicles or prams / buggies.
There will be two breakout spaces for anyone feeling overwhelmed, highly stimulated or would benefit from quiet time at any point during the concert. These are located in the foyer and a separate room where the concert can be relayed via screen. If you need any support, a member of NYAW staff in a red t-shirt will be able to direct you to these spaces.
This concert will be shorter than a typical orchestral concert. It will feature elements of the Orchestra’s main concert programme and will last approximately 1hr 15minutes.
There will be an open-door policy and audience members are free to come and go and communicate as they need to.
Orchestra members won’t be wearing formal concert dress, instead they’ll be wearing their own clothes.
The Music
Five Windows by Niamh O’Donnell
This piece has been written by a young composer from Aberystwyth called Niamh (pronounced Neeve) O’Donnell. Niamh’s music was inspired by different paintings by artists George Braque and Wassily Kandinsky. The music, split into five sections describes what Niamh sees and feels when looking at the paintings. You can find a recording of her piece here: Niamh O'Donnell; Five Windows - recording
The Firebird Suite by Igor Stravinsky
The Firebird was a ballet written by the Russian composer Igor Stravinsy in 1910. Stravinsky later created three suites of the ballet music for concert performances. The music you’ll hear in this concert is selected movements from the suite that was written in 1945.
The theme of the music is based on Russion folktales, and you’ll hear Stravinsky depict enchanted gardens, evil princes, love and of course the magical Firebird!
Romeo and Juliet by Sergei Prokofiev
Another Russian composer, Sergei Prokofiev, wrote his ballet Romeo and Juliet based on William Shakespeare’s play in 1940. The orchestra will be performing selected movements from the ballet in this performance, including one movement that anyone who watches The Apprentice, will recognise instantly!
Each movement beautifully describes in music a different element of Shakespeare’s famous story of these star-crossed lovers.
On the Day
The concert will start at 3.30pm, but we will open doors from 2.30pm, so feel free to come early and get accustomed to the concert space and the venue.
We will have staff available to help with parking and showing you to the venue.
The Orchestra will start making their way to the stage area from around 3.15pm and spend some time playing their instruments to warm up ready for the start of the concert.
Due to unforeseen circumstances, this relaxed concert will no longer include BSL interpretation. We apologise for the inconvenience this may cause.
The Venue
The All Nations Centre is a fully accessible venue with no lips greater than 1cm to get around the whole building.
All activity for this concert will happen on the ground floor, but there is a lift to the first floor if required.
There are accessible toilets available on the ground floor.
Car Parking
There are 260 free parking spaces in two adjacent car parks, with plenty of accessible parking available. We also have the ability to designate additional accessible parking spaces if required.
Accessible parking will be provided in the West car park, accessible via Sachville Avenue, of Whitchurch Road.
Travel to the Venue
The All Nations Centre is well placed for driving and there are 260 free car parking spaces for delegates in two adjacent car parks.
The West Car Park is accessed via Sachville Avenue off Whitchurch Road. This is the smaller of the two car parks and so it fills up quicker. This car park will be used for accessible parking and so we encourage anyone who does not need accessible parking to use the East car park instead.
The East Car Park is accessed straight off the A48 slip road into Cardiff and offers over 200 spaces.
Get in touch
If you have any questions relating to this concert, then please do get in touch with us at nyaw@nyaw.org.uk or ring us on 029 2280 7420 and we will be pleased to help.
National Youth Theatre of Wales members go behind the scenes with National Theatre and Wales Millennium Centre’s ‘Nye’
National Youth Theatre of Wales is excited to launch its 2024 membership offer with Professional Pathways, run in partnership with Theatr Clwyd and in association with Wales Millennium Centre, with this unique opportunity to engage in an intensive day of workshops led by industry professionals.
National Youth Theatre of Wales (NYTW) is excited to launch its 2024 membership offer with Professional Pathways run in partnership with Theatr Clwyd and in association with Wales Millennium Centre (WMC) with this unique opportunity to engage in an intensive day of workshops led by industry professionals. Designed to nurture young talent across Wales, Professional Pathways is open to 16–22-year-olds, who want to gain performance skills and learn about the theatre industry including backstage roles.
In May, more than 40 young people watched one of the hottest tickets in town, as they went behind-the-scenes at the latest National Theatre (NT) and Wales Millennium Centre (WMC) co-production of ‘Nye’. Starring Michael Sheen, himself an alumnus of NYTW, the cast and creative team also featured several NYTW alumni including Remy Beasley, Lee Mengo, Dyfan Dwyfor and Mali O’Donnell.
“National Youth Theatre of Wales is one of the most special things I ever did and I carry it with me, to this day”
Led by Nye’s Associate Director, Francesca Goodridge and Wales Millennium Centre’s Bablu Shikdar the NYTW 24 members took part in script and physical theatre workshops based on scenes from Nye alongside sessions on presenting, podcasting, and career pathways, offering invaluable insights into the diverse avenues within the arts.
The cohort were also given an insight into the exciting new plans for the creative spaces and opportunities for young people within Wales Millennium Centre
Other highlights of the day included access to the Nye cast’s pre-performance preparations along with a Q&A session with cast members and creative team on the production. This provided an inspiring platform for NYTW’s young members to connect with seasoned professionals and gain first-hand knowledge of the industry. The young participants also enjoyed watching Nye in the Donald Gordan Theatre, which was met with great enthusiasm.
During the Q&A session, alumni Remy Beasley said: “National Youth Theatre of Wales is one of the most special things I ever did and I carry it with me, to this day. Most of my best friends that I have now are from National Youth Theatre of Wales. These relationships will go on for decades of your life. It’s a very special place to be.”
NYTW Producer, Megan Childs said: “This was the perfect start to the NYTW 2024 programme, bringing past and present NYTW members together through this landmark NT and WMC play by Tim Price, himself a writer of past NYTW productions. We’re very grateful for the generosity the Nye company and Wales Millennium Centre have shown in throwing their practice and doors open to the next generation of Welsh artists, offering the perfect balance of inspiration and skills development that Professional Pathways aims for”
NYTW extends heartfelt thanks to NT and WMC for making this enriching experience possible.
National Youth Arts Wales calls for public recognition that arts participation is vital to the mental wellbeing of all young people.
During Mental Health Week 2024, we are highlighting the crisis in teenage mental health in Wales, and the significant role that arts participation could play in addressing this.
During Mental Health Week 2024, we are highlighting the crisis in teenage mental health in Wales, and the significant role that arts participation could play in addressing this.
Mental Health of Young People in Wales
24% of teenagers in Wales reported “very high” levels of mental health symptoms in the years following COVID-19 lockdowns, according to the latest report from the School Health Research Network (SHRN) at Cardiff University. Girls were almost twice as likely as boys to have reported very high levels of mental health symptoms.
Similarly, Mind Cymru published research showing that 34% of young people aged 16-24 experienced declining mental health during the past year. High numbers reported feeling more stressed (42%), more anxious (41%), more depressed (36%) and suffering worse sleep (39%), and around a third also reported developing feelings of loneliness (30%).
The Wonderful Effects of Arts Participation
Evidence published by the Social Biobehavioural Research Group at UCL shows that young people who engage regularly in the arts are at a lower risk of depression in adolescence. They also have higher self-esteem, which in turn affects lifelong development and wellbeing.
For the hundreds of young people taking part in the NYAW youth ensembles and projects, we have seen first-hand the important role the arts plays in their health and happiness:
An NYAW Residency Member said: “Being a member of NYAW was really valuable to my mental health over lockdown… Returning to an in-person residency in 2022 was an incredible experience, which definitely helped me regain a lot of the confidence that I had lost over lockdown.”
We have heard similarly positive news stories from our many partner organisations throughout Wales, including National Music Services Wales, the BBC National Orchestra of Wales, Urdd Gobaith Cymru, the Aloud Charity, National Dance Company Wales, Ballet Cymru, the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, Theatr Clwyd and others. Wales has a rich and diverse ecology of arts opportunities for young people, from primary age, right up to higher education, and beyond. The introduction of the National Plan for Music Education in 2022 helped increase collaboration across all the national music organisations, and we are developing similar strategies across the theatre and dance sectors.
Public Investment in the Arts
In its budget for 2024-25, the Welsh Government made cuts across many sectors to address a significant shortfall in its £23bn budget. Support for culture, sport and tourism has dropped by £16m (including a 10.5% cut to the Arts Council of Wales) as the government reprioritises spending for health services. This will drop by a further £1.9m as local authority budgets are impacted.
As a result, arts provision for young people will inevitably be reduced. All the evidence above suggests that we will see a direct impact on the mental and physical health of young people throughout Wales, with knock-on impacts to the NHS and social services. Those consequential additional costs could be greater than the £18m that has been taken away from arts provision.
Evan Dawson, CEO of NYAW said: “The budget for arts education and participation in Wales delivers a huge return on that investment. We urgently need the government to understand that spending less on arts provision for young people will increase strain on the NHS. Conversely, if we invest more in targeted arts provision, we would support mental health for everyone, whilst building a confident, creative and generous Wales for future generations.”
David Jackson OBE, Chair of NYAW said: “The positive impact on mental health of participating in the arts is well established, and never has this effect been more needed than now. It is crucial that National Youth Arts Wales should continue to develop and expand its activities for the benefit of the young people of Wales.”
National Youth Arts Wales launches Change Makers.
On Earth Day 2024, we are excited to launch the Change Makers - a new youth collective that supports young creatives to influence the future of the arts throughout Wales. It will nurture the next generation of arts leaders, with a focus on environmental, cultural and social issues.
National Youth Arts Wales (NYAW) empowers the next generation of musicians, actors, dancers and makers to build a creative, confident and generous future for Wales.
On Earth Day 2024, we are excited to launch the Change Makers - a new youth collective that supports young creatives to influence the future of the arts throughout Wales. It will nurture the next generation of arts leaders, with a focus on environmental, cultural and social issues.
We believe that all young people should have access to a wide range of artistic and cultural opportunities as part of a healthy, connected and fulfilled life. Bringing together young visionaries from across Wales, Change Makers will provide a platform to shape the strategic and artistic direction of NYAW, and influence change in the wider Welsh arts sector. The collective will help identify the barriers that prevent so many young people from participating in the arts, and how these could be overcome. It will empower young people to drive progress and ensure their voices are heard throughout the organisation.
In addition to facilitating dialogue and action, Change Makers will serve as a hub for nurturing future leaders of the Welsh arts sector. Through masterclasses and skills training sessions led by influential professionals, members will have the opportunity to hone their leadership skills and broaden their own career horizons.
Mason Edwards, Assistant Producer at NYAW said: "I'm delighted to see the Change Makers collective launching, as National Youth Arts Wales continues its work towards instilling Youth Voice in all areas of the organisation. As collective members not only will these young people have a seat at the NYAW table, but also the opportunity to come together as the next generation of arts leaders and help shape the future of Welsh arts for the better”.
The Change Makers are ten young people, aged 18-25 from many walks of life throughout Wales - united by their passion for the arts and their commitment to positive change. They will meet throughout the year to collaborate on key initiatives such as environmental stewardship, community partnerships, social responsibility and diversity and inclusion measures.
At the core of the project lies the Change Makers Report, an ambitious document crafted by its members to guide NYAW's work in the coming years. This will represent a collective vision of a more just, equitable and vibrant future, serving as a compass as NYAW navigates the road ahead.
Rightkeysonly, NYAW Change Maker said: “Being physically disabled, neurodivergent, and part of the LGBT+ community myself, I am driven to improve access to the arts, as it wasn't always available to me growing up. I believe NYAW is making the arts more accessible for diverse individuals, and I'd like to contribute to that journey”.
Karema Ahmed, another NYAW Change Maker said: “Joining NYAW as a Change Maker offers invaluable learning opportunities. I love the diverse perspectives within the project, enabling us to understand each other better. I hope that after this project, we are all able to get a better perspective on what needs changing to better the future”.
To find out more about the project and to read the Change Makers individual stories, head over to the Change Makers webpage.
National Youth Arts Wales is helping young people make their mark on the Welsh music scene.
At the end of March, extraordinary music filled the air as over 20 young musicians from throughout Wales came together at Rockfield Studios, Monmouth for the “Music Futures” residency week.
At the end of March, extraordinary music filled the air as over 20 young musicians from throughout Wales came together at Rockfield Studios, Monmouth for the “Music Futures” residency week.
The “Music Futures” project, led by National Youth Arts Wales (NYAW), is a contemporary music development programme for Wales’s music makers of the future. It enables young people aged 16-18, from diverse backgrounds, to find their potential as artists, and supports them to enter the current Welsh music scene. The project covers genres such as Grime, Indie, Electronica and RnB.
Hosted in the iconic Rockfield Studios, where legends such as Queen, Led Zeppelin, Coldplay and Oasis have made iconic recordings, the Music Futures residency was an exhilarating journey of creativity, collaboration and discovery. Thanks to generous funding from the Welsh Government via Creative Wales, these aspiring musicians were selected to take part in the free week-long programme of songwriting workshops, industry discussions, recording and collaboration sessions and mentorship opportunities.
Gerwyn Evans, Creative Wales Deputy Director, said: “Our Creative Skills Fund was set up to create opportunities for aspiring creatives from all backgrounds and promote inclusive practice across the sectors. It’s fantastic to see NYAW putting their funding to excellent use by providing practical, real-life experiences for the music artists of our next generation, and in such an iconic setting! Our Memorandum of Understanding with the Arts Council for Wales will also enable us to identify new ways of working together which will benefit young creatives and open new doors into the creative industries.”
Throughout the week, participants were guided by our industry professional Mentors and Future Mentors, honing their skills and exploring new horizons in music production, songwriting, and performance. From mastering the art of stage presence to delving into the intricacies of audio engineering, the residency provided a platform for young talents to shine and grow. For many participants, they had already developed skills in computer-based music production – but this was their first opportunity to learn how to collaborate in real time with other musicians.
Lily Webbe, NYAW Music Futures Trainee Producer, said: “The Music Futures residency was such a positive and exhilarating experience for all involved. I hope that this experience has inspired them to explore their creativity and helped them discover the many different pathways and opportunities that the Welsh music scene has to offer. I’d like to say a huge thank you to all the fantastic mentors and future mentors that have been involved in this project, and the amazing team at Rockfield. Their support really helped to make the residency a truly magical experience for all.”
Skye Dunning, a participant in this year Music Futures programme said: “This residency has helped everyone in terms of building our courage within recording original music and it has also provided us with useful information in relation to releasing, marketing and promoting our music too. Although we were only there for three days, the industry talks, the collectiveness of the project and being able to collaborate with new people of diverse genres and styles has definitely helped me build my own confidence too”.
But the journey doesn't end there. As we bid farewell to the Music Futures residency week, we look forward to the next chapter in the young participant's musical journey. Soon, you’ll be able to hear the future of Welsh music yourself in an upcoming gig, where these extraordinary young artists will take centre stage, ready to put all they’ve learnt into practice.
Join NYAW as we celebrate the boundless potential of the next generation at The Corn Exchange, Newport on April 28th and get ready to witness the future of music in all its glory.
