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 in March (for one year membership cycle) each year. 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:
- Trained Indian Classical Instrumentalists
- Are between the ages of 12 and 17.
- 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
- Orchestra Enrolment Application Deadline 2026:
20th March 2026 - Orchestra Audition Dates:
28th March – 17th April 2026 (may be either in person and online )
Audition dates and times will be allocated as we receive and review applications. - 2027 Orchestra Enrolment Application Deadline:
15th January 2027 - 2027 Orchestra Auditions: Dates 25th Jan – 19th Feb
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. Auditions will be held online via Zoom / Teams.
AUDITIONS ARE NOW CLOSED.
For more information, email ensembles@milap.co.uk
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 a one year membership is £750.
Is there any financial support for the membership fee?
At Milap, we believe that talented young musicians from all backgrounds should have the opportunity to join our ensembles, regardless of financial circumstances. Membership fees should never be a barrier to participation. We offer financial support through bursaries for musicians who may be unable to cover the cost of membership. Please contact us for more information at ensembles@milap.co.uk. Please apply to audition regardless of if / when you apply for a bursary – we want to hear from as many young musicians as possible!
What a period of Samyo membership might look like:
—12 MONTH MEMBERSHIP START—
March – Auditions and recruitment of new ensemble members
April – Samyo membership year begins . The perfect three day retreat to deepen your learning with workshops, bootcamps and repertoire learning.
July – Music India – Summer residential intensive training week in Liverpool. 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!
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.
* Orchestra weekends / retreats are organised according to school half-term schedules of England and Wales.
We look forward to discovering the incredible talent and potential that you bring to Samyo!
