NOFA has been set up in the belief that no young person aged 11-18 should be excluded from the extraordinary artistic experience and non-musical benefits of making music in a large ensemble with other committed young musicians. It is accessible and supportive of all, regardless of musical ability, ability to pay, specific need or disability. It champions commitment and dedication to the demanding task of learning an instrument, particularly in challenging circumstances. NOFA is non-auditioned and non-selective while setting very high artistic expectations and working with world-class musicians. NOFA prizes innovation and creativity. It has a very big vision: music without boundaries. I have worked with NOFA as pastoral staff, a volunteer as a student and as a brass section coach.