The National Youth Band of Canada (NYB) showcases a national representation of outstanding young band musicians through community collaboration and performance that celebrates band pathways and traditions. Since 1994, NYB has provided an opportunity for 17-22 year old musicians to gather for an enriching and inspiring musical and cultural experience.

NYB Priorities

Community building through outreach & collaboration
Connecting the National band community, highlighting regional uniqueness
Highlighting band pathways
Leadership development
A high quality, accessible, participant experience

The Canadian Band Association is committed to fostering an environment supportive of inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility. We encourage participation in our programs and in the programs of provincial band associations.

2026 Applications

Applications for the 2026 National Youth Band of Canada (NYB) will open on January 4, 2026.

Application Deadline: January 25, 2026

Eligibility: Applicants must be between 17-22 years of age on January 1, 2026. Please note that this year (2026) an age exception will be made for 22 year old applicants who did not have the opportunity to participate last year. Moving forward, the age limit will be 21 years of age.

Required Application Materials:

Administrative - Application Form including a $25 Application Fee (will be available starting January 4, 2026)
Performance - Video Audition
- To be uploaded as a single MP4 file through the Application Form
- Click here for Audition Rules & Guidelines
- Click here for Audition Packages
Leadership - Personal Statement(s)
- To be included within the Application Form
- Answer 3 questions (below), note that there is a 250 word limit per question
- How has participating in band impacted your life?
- How have you actively demonstrated leadership within your band community?
- How do you envision your participation in NYB benefitting your community?
Provincial Leadership - Proof of Honour Band participation OR Recommendation Letter
- Proof of Honour Band participation - attach (within the Application Form) proof of participation (acceptance letter, concert program, etc.) from any honour bands (regional, provincial, national) that you have participated in since 2023
- Recommendation Letter - If you have not participated in any honour bands, please request your provincial band association submit a recommendation using this link. If you live in a province without a provincial band association, please share this link with your private/school/university teacher. Recommendation Letter submissions must be received by the January 25, 2026

Please note that Performance (audition), Leadership (personal statements & provincial leadership), and Provincial Representation (having participants from across Canada) will all be considered in evaluating applications to the 2026 National Youth Band of Canada.

Questions? Email info@canadianband.org