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Emirati Music Education Program Opens Doors for Young Talent. Collaboration between Dubai Culture and NYO Dubai aims to strengthen the UAE’s music sector
Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 04 September 2025: The prestigious National Youth Orchestra – Dubai (NYO Dubai), in collaboration with Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture), has introduced the Emirati Music Education Program, a dedicated platform to discover and nurture local talent while advancing the UAE’s music sector. Falling under the umbrella of the Dubai Cultural Grant, the initiative seeks to equip participants with the knowledge, skills, and opportunities needed to contribute meaningfully to the cultural and creative industries (CCIs), reinforcing Dubai’s position as a global hub of the creative economy.
Through a comprehensive curriculum, the program will immerse students in music history, music theory and foundations, and the diverse schools of classical performance. Training covers string and wind instruments, ensemble and choral work, and is complemented by workshops with NYO Dubai’s faculty.
Dubai Culture is inviting emerging Emirati musicians to apply, with registrations open. Applicants can access the form and complete details via the website: www.nyo.ae. Shortlisted candidates will be required to complete an audition to assess their current level of proficiency.
Shaima Rashed Al Suwaidi, CEO of the Arts, Design & Literature Sector at Dubai Culture, reaffirmed the Authority’s dedication to developing initiatives that identify and support the next generation of performers. She said: “The Emirati Music Education Program reflects our commitment to establishing innovative platforms that ensure the growth and vitality of the arts. It provides Emirati musicians with the training and guidance to refine their craft and achieve their ambitions. Our partnership with NYO Dubai strengthens the CCIs and supports Dubai’s vision of being a global center for culture, an incubator for creativity, and a thriving hub for talent.”
Amira Fouad, Artistic Director of the National Youth Orchestras & Choirs – Dubai, added: “The launch of the Emirati Music Education Program with Dubai Culture represents an important step towards providing UAE nationals with access to high-level music education, celebrating our cultural heritage while equipping young artists with the tools they need for future success.”
Applications are now open, with auditions scheduled to begin on 14 September 2025. For registration and further information, please visit: www.nyo.ae.
About Dubai Culture & Arts Authority
Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture), under the leadership of Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, is committed to enriching Dubai’s cultural scene based on the UAE’s heritage and is building bridges of constructive dialogue between various cultures to enhance Dubai’s position as a global centre for culture, an incubator for creativity, and a thriving hub for talent.
Dubai Culture is keen on reviving and preserving the emirate’s historical heritage and developing the regulatory frameworks for the cultural and creative sector in line with its strategic roadmap 2020 – 2025.
The Authority also seeks to empower the enablers that support talent and stimulate active public participation by investing in the various assets under its remit, including the management of five heritage sites, five museums, Al Jalila Cultural Centre for Children, 17 archaeological sites and nine Dubai Public Library branches, all of which help contribute to creating an economic system that invigorates the cultural and creative industries. The Authority also offers 8 services and 26 sub-services.
About the National Youth Orchestras of Dubai
The National Youth Orchestra of Dubai is the largest and most prestigious youth orchestra in the GCC region. Founded in 2018, the National Youth Orchestra of Dubai has grown to include five orchestras and the National Youth Choir of Dubai with over 200 students from 30 different nationalities. Co-founded by Ms. Amira Fouad, Artistic Director and led by American Conductor and Composer Mr. Jonathan Barrett, the Orchestra is presented by acclaimed violinist and Co-Founder Ms. Eva Gräsbeck – Head of Strings, Bassoonist Ms. Jackie Hayter – Head of Winds, Cellist Ms. Clara Asuaje – Lower Strings Specialist and Mr. Ronald Vint – Head of Percussion.
The National Youth Orchestra of Dubai nurtures talented young musicians from throughout the UAE, offering weekly repertoire rehearsals with an experienced faculty. The Orchestra performs regularly on the main stage at Dubai Opera and in 2025 had its debut at Carnegie Hall in New York.
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