The National Youth Orchestra of Canada (NYO Canada) is bringing its Big Little Concert Series to Kitchener-Waterloo this summer. From June 21 to July 11, audiences can enjoy free, live classical performances at Wilfrid Laurier University’s Maureen Forrester Recital Hall, featuring Canada’s most gifted young musicians in an intimate space. 

Returning to Laurier after six years, NYO Canada marks its 65th anniversary with a residency in the newly restored Savvas Chamberlain Music Building. This concert series is more than a performance—it’s a celebration of connection, culture, and youth-driven excellence. 

“There’s something magical about live music when you’re close enough to see the communication between musicians,” says Christie Gray, CEO of NYO Canada. “We’re inviting everyone—whether a seasoned concertgoer or first-timer—to experience that magic up close.” 

A Homecoming to Celebrate 

Laurier’s Dean of the Faculty of Music, Cynthia Johnston Turner, shares her excitement: 

“Having NYO Canada back at Laurier feels like welcoming old friends. These musicians represent the future of music in Canada, and sharing their talents with our community creates something special that goes beyond just concerts – it’s about connecting people through shared experiences.” 

The series is a result of collaboration with local arts partners, including Laurier’s Faculty of Music, Quartetfest, and the Kitchener-Waterloo Chamber Music Society, reinforcing NYO Canada’s commitment to fostering community through music. 

Live & Unforgettable 

Each of the 9 concerts offers a powerful experience—either through beloved classical favourites or bold, contemporary works. For audiences, it’s a thrill to witness up close; for NYO Canada’s young musicians, it’s an opportunity to meet the artistic and technical demands of professional performance. 

“Big Little Concerts are a vibrant testament to the power of young Canadian talent,” says Gray. “We’re proud to showcase these future stars as they bring passion and expression to the stage.” 

All concerts are free and require no reservations, making world-class music accessible to everyone. NYO Canada’s musicians are selected through a rigorous national audition process, representing top talent aged 16–28 from across the country. 

Concert Schedule 

• Saturday, June 21 – 1:30 PM & 7:00 PM 

• Monday, June 23 – 7:00 PM 

• Friday, June 27 – 1:30 PM & 7:00 PM 

• Saturday, June 28 – 1:30 PM & 7:00 PM 

• Friday, July 4 – 7:00 PM 

• Friday, July 11 – 7:00 PM 
   

Location: Maureen Forrester Recital Hall, Wilfrid Laurier University, Waterloo, ON 

More info: nyoc.org/biglittleconcerts 
Follow: @nyo.can 

About NYO Canada 

Since 1960, The National Youth Orchestra of Canada (NYO Canada) has recruited the country’s most promising musicians aged 16 to 28 and prepares them for careers as professional orchestral musicians through a full-honorarium, and tuition-free program. Each summer, participants train under the mentorship of world-class faculty in the Orchestral Training Institute, NYO Canada chamber music concert series, recording sessions, and a concert tour. Today, nearly one in three professional orchestral musicians in Canada is an NYO alum—a testament to the organization’s lasting impact on the cultural landscape. 

This project has been made possible [in part] by the Government of Canada. 
Ce projet a été rendu possible [en partie] grâce au gouvernement du Canada. 

Proudly supported by the generosity of our donors, including the Ontario Arts Council and the Hodgson Family Foundation, whose contributions make these free concerts possible for everyone. 

Media Contact: 
Emily Dunbar 
Communications and Marketing 
📧 edunbar@nyoc.org 
📞 416-532-4470