The Pagoda Chinese Youth Orchestra (PCYO) is the first and largest Chinese youth orchestra in Europe. Founded in Liverpool in 1983 by community elder Mr. K.H. Li, it offers young people the opportunity to learn and perform traditional Chinese music in an inclusive, intergenerational setting.
Over the past 40 years, PCYO has welcomed thousands of children and young people, many of whom start from as young as age 3 and stay into their teens. Members come from diverse backgrounds — British-born Chinese, Malaysian, Thai, Vietnamese, Caribbean, and English — reflecting the multicultural fabric of Liverpool.
PCYO is nationally recognised for its artistic and cultural contribution. Since 2022, it has been part of the National Youth Music Organisations (NYMO) network, supported by Arts Council England. The orchestra has performed at major venues like the Royal Albert Hall and Shanghai World Expo, and has collaborated with global artists including Jah Wobble and the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra.
More than just a music group, PCYO is a space for belonging, identity, and creative growth — nurturing a new generation of cultural citizens proud of their heritage and connected to their community.
