We welcome three outstanding and vividly contrasting ensembles to the 2025 International Festival. Taking up residency during the Festival run in August, these ensembles offer us in-depth and unique perspectives on the inner workings of their collective sound and ambitions. Residencies make time and space for the ensembles to deepen their connection with Edinburgh’s communities – from primary school pupils to our homegrown rising stars.  

Youthful ambition meets fearless creativity in this International Festival Residency. Travelling from New York, Carnegie Hall’s trailblazing youth orchestra NYO2 lands in Edinburgh for its European debut.  

Motivated by uplifting musicians from communities underrepresented in classical music, NYO2 comprises a free orchestra programme that involves intensive training and performance opportunities. For the first time, NYO2 join forces with their Scottish peers, creating a transatlantic celebration of classical music.

NYO2’s International Festival Residency kicks off withProkofiev’s Fifth Symphony, where American cellist Ailsa Weilerstein shines in Dmitri Shostakovich’s gripping First Cello Concerto. The triumphant optimism of Prokofiev’s Fifth Symphony follows, composed in 1944 reflecting the turning tide of the Second World War.

The following day, NYO2 takes on our hugely popular Family Concert – an interactive introduction to classical music, perfect for children and their grown-ups. Presenter Lucy Drever welcomes you to the concert, guiding you through the contrasting Scottish musical traditions with the sounds of America.  

Supported by Dunard Fund