Ava Podgorski appointed Head of YYM – Yorkshire Young Musicians

Yorkshire Young Musicians is delighted to announce the appointment of Ava Podgorski as its new Head. Ava will join YYM in January 2027, bringing a wealth of experience in music education and supporting young musicians to develop their skills and potential.

Ava has held roles at the Royal Northern College of Music, Opera North and the University of Leeds, bringing experience across a range of music education and young musician development settings.

Welcoming the appointment, Joe Wilson, Chair of the Yorkshire Young Musicians Board, said:

“The Board of Trustees was delighted by the number and calibre of candidates who applied for the role of Head of Yorkshire Young Musicians. We believe this reflects the high regard in which YYM is held and the outstanding work of its teachers and students under the leadership of Helen Murray. We are therefore thrilled to have appointed Ava, whose appointment marks an exciting new chapter for YYM. We look forward to working with her as she builds on the organisation’s achievements and continues to ensure that YYM thrives.”

Commenting on her appointment, Ava Podgorski said:

“It is a privilege to be appointed as the new Head of Yorkshire Young Musicians. YYM’s commitment to both excellence and opportunity has created a remarkable legacy, and I am excited to build on the strong foundations already in place. I see YYM as a powerful catalyst for musical development, creating the conditions for young people to discover their potential and develop their artistic identity. I look forward to listening and learning from staff, students, families and partners, and exploring how we can work together to strengthen and expand the impact of Yorkshire Young Musicians across the region.”

YYM is proud to support young musicians as they develop their musical abilities, build confidence and discover what they can achieve. We look forward to welcoming Ava and to the next chapter for Yorkshire Young Musicians.