We’re thrilled that you’re interested in joining Samyo!
This is your chance to be part of an extraordinary journey with the only national Indian Classical music ensemble of its kind in the world. At Samyo, we offer young musicians in the UK a vibrant and supportive environment to grow, perform, and connect through the rich traditions of Indian Classical music.
How do I join Samyo?
We open applications to join SAMYO each year in August. We announce the dates primarily via social media (Milapfest and Samyo_UK) and of course always have it listed here as well.
Our application process is simple:
- Membership is by audition , so you’ll first need to fill out a registration form and apply for an audition place. You’ll need to include a link to an audition audio sample file within your application.
- If your application is successful, you’ll be invited to attend an audition, which may be in person or held online depending on your location and times which best suit yourself and our audition team. You’ll need to attend the audition at the agreed time and place. Failure to do so may result in a withdrawal of your audition place.
- You’ll be notified within 10 working days with an outcome of your audition. If successful, you’ll need to confirm that you’d like to join the orchestra within three working days and arrange to send your membership fee payment within two weeks of receiving our initial email to you. If you are unsuccessful, we can work with you to discuss areas of improvement and together with your parent / guardian / music teacher work out a development plan.
Eligibility
Membership of Samyo is open to students who:
- Are trained in Indian Classical music.
- Are between the ages of 12 and 18.
- Permanently reside in the UK.
Application Process
Your journey to becoming a Samyo member starts with a simple application form. On the basis of your application and your audio sample, you’ll be invited to one of our auditions.
Important Dates
Application deadline
8th September 2024
Audition dates:
14 & 15th September 2024
21st & 22nd September 2024
If your application passes the first stage, you will be invited for a second audition. Details about the audition process and expectations will be communicated to successful applicants.
FAQs
How much training do I need to have before joining?
We’ve found over the years that students with at least 3-4 years of continuous formal training in any form of Indian classical music (and who are still in training currently) are able to keep up with the pace of learning and development within the orchestra most comfortably.
Do I need to know either Hindustani or Carnatic?
Formal training in either one of the Indian classical musical formats (Hindustani/Carnatic) is mandatory
Is there a fee to apply to audition?
No. The application and audition opportunity are free of cost.
Can I apply for multiple instruments?
Yes! Just be sure to mention what instrument(s) you’d like to play on the application form.
What is the membership fee?
Milap is committed to supporting every young musician in the UK who wishes to develop their skills in Indian Music. As a National Youth Music Orchestra funded by Arts Council England, we receive funding to invest approx £3500 into each of our ensemble musicians. In order to meet the full costs of ensemble membership, we do ask ensemble members to make a contribution to the costs of their membership. Membership costs include (but are not limited to): Training with world-class artists, summer residential costs, weekend retreats, rehearsals, compositions, recordings and resources. The cost of ensemble membership is £1200 for the full 18 month membership calendar.
However, we aim to ensure that no musician is limited from taking part due to their financial means. We offer a bursary scheme aiming to support young musicians who need it. If you’d like to apply for a bursary, please fill out the form linked below after you have been offered a place on the orchestra. Please don’t let anything hold you back from auditioning!
What is my commitment as a member?
Membership of Samyo is for a period of 18 months during which time there will be:
- One week long summer residential retreat (in Liverpool)
- Five weekenders ( February x 2, April, October x 2)
- Additional rehearsals as required in the lead up to a major performance
- In addition to the above, you will be required to play your part as an orchestra member and come well-prepared to rehearsals and all training sessions as well as keeping on top of your learning via Milap’s online platform.
What a period of Samyo membership might look like:
August & September – Auditions and recruitment of new ensemble members
October / Autumn Weekend – New ensemble members begin their journey spending a weekend together absorbing new sounds, new tutors, new peers and finding their place within the ensemble
February / Winter Weekender – A weekend full of intense learning and discovery with world renowned musicians and activities to strengthen your bond and skills within the ensemble
April / Easter Weekend – The perfect three day retreat to deepen your learning with workshops, bootcamps and repertoire learning. An opportunity to perform in a chamber concert!
July / Music India – eat, breathe and sleep music for six days in a glorious residential festival of sorts with the who’s who of Indian Music. Packaged with open mic concerts bootcamps, workshops, repertoire and loads of fun activities each day, we end the ensemble calendar on a high!
September 2025 – Annual Concert in north England
October 2025 – Autumn Retreat
Feb 2026 – March 2026 – Winter Retreat followed by Grand Final concert showcase in London