Our work

We exist to support the early careers of young musicians so they can go on to move generations of audiences around the world with their talent.

Building and sustaining a highly effective career pathway in which talented young musicians can learn, develop and thrive has been at the heart of YCAT’s work for 35 years.

"If it hadn’t been for YCAT, I’d probably still be dithering about whether to become a singer"

   

  Ian Bostridge CBE (YCAT Artist 1992)

YCAT aims to establish a sustainable career pathway to support the identification and development of young musicians who have the potential to lead fulfilled careers in music.

Every year, hundreds of young musicians reach a point where they need to consider their lives beyond education. Being seen and heard within the music industry as a young artist, is one of the greatest barriers to success. 

We know that when a young artist receives high quality support, recognition and personal development opportunities during the critical early stage of their career, it makes a lasting impact on their future.

"YCAT Artists are the finest there are. I know first hand how much of a difference YCAT can make to their future careers. Book them, hear them, support them and be part of an exciting journey"

 Alison Balsom OBE (YCAT Artist 2001)      

The difference YCAT makes

Our alumni artists, their trajectory and demand amongst agents and industry professionals, demonstrate that the time spent with YCAT makes the biggest difference to their sustained career as high-level solo artists and ensembles. Since its foundation in 1984, over 100 gifted musicians have launched their careers as YCAT Artists. These include Ian Bostridge CBE, Alison Balsom OBE, the Belcea Quartet, James Baillieu as well as finalists of the BBC Young Musician of the Year who include Martin James Bartlett, Jess Gillam and Sheku Kanneh-Mason.

World class musicians are a unique asset to our society

The UK public benefits from over 470 concerts a year reaching communities who might otherwise not experience such high level music making, from St Magnus Festival in Orkney to Penzance.

Our artists are also an international cultural export performing over 170 international concerts in Europe, China, South America, USA and the world.

Each year our artists reach audiences of 90,000+ a year around the world.