Orchestra
Conductor /
Leader
Rehearsal Venue / Times
Contact(s)
David Boarder
David Boarder 01992 623489 or 07876444701
The A10 Concert Band is the adult concert band of East Herts Music Centres. The band is an extension of the A10 Orchestra offering adults who play wind and brass at grade 3 and above the chance to work together 3 or 4 times each term and explore some repertoire. There are no formal entry requirements: rather the emphasis is on making music together.
David Boarder
Wednesday evenings 8.00 - 10.00 or Saturday afternoons 2.30 - 5.00 at Roselands School, Highwood Road, Hoddesdon EN11 9AR.
David Boarder 01992 623489 or 07876444701
The A10 Orchestra is the adult orchestra of East Herts Music Centres. Most of us learnt when we were at school, perhaps continued until we started work and then stopped when other things took over. Now we are enjoying playing again. Others have taken up their instrument as adults. We have no formal entry requirements - rather the emphasis is on making music together.
Martin Beach
Keith Cotton
Meetings are on Thursdays 8.00pm-10.00pm at St Michael's C of E JMI School, St Albans
Our long established amateur orchestra is looking for additional string players. We are a friendly orchestra who play a wide range of musical genres ranging from The Shed Symphonies by Elgar to Pirates of the Caribbean . In the past we have performed Saint-Saens Organ symphony as well as compositions from some of our orchestra members. Musicality rather than virtuosity is our hallmark . We have accompanied choirs, ballets , and advanced instrumental examinees as well as supporting community functions in the local area and playing in occasional concerts. Under new orchestral leadership we offer a positive playing future under the baton of our long serving conductor.
Scott Wilson
Chris Shelley
Alternate Sunday evenings 7.30 - 9.45. See website for details.
Founded in 1968 by local school students, who wanted an opportunity to share their enjoyment of music making, it has grown into a thriving local amateur orchestra giving three concerts a year. In that time it has covered a broad range of the symphonic repertoire, and soloists have been drawn from local talented musicians, students setting out on a professional career, as well as members of the orchestra itself. Friendly orchestra that welcomes applications from new players, especially strings.
Adam Pounds
David Richmond
Tuesday evenings 7.30pm - 9.45pm in the University Church, Market Square, Cambridge.
David Carter, orchestra manager
The Academy of Great St. Mary's was set up by its present conductor in 2007. It gives four concerts each year in the historic University Church, Cambridge. The repertoire is wide-ranging and has included pieces by composers such as Shostakovich, Britten, Beethoven, Dvorak and many more as well as performing with local choirs. We are always interested to hear from potential new players.
Ben Bottone
Keith Saunders
Occasional, Saturdays
We are a small Concert Orchestra, based in Ampthill, Bedfordshire. We started out in 2005 and have enjoyed playing a number of concerts in the local area, including the hugely successful Ampthill Proms in the Park which enjoyed its 10th year in 2018. One of the huge advantages of Ampthill Concert Orchestra, is that we are a group of local musicians, coming together on weekends to make music for our local community. We're not trying to make a profit. We just want to play good music and share it with the community. We love our music, and we hope you will too!
Terry Veasey
Thursdays 8-9:30pm during term time at Letchworth Free Church, SG6 1NX
via website
We're a group of local people who enjoy music and who wanted to be part of an orchestra. Some of us are a little rusty from practice, some haven't been playing for very long and others are, well, pretty good! The point is to just join in, to try, and to make music, regardless of your musical expertise. Our first rehearsal was on Thursday 10th September 2015, when 18 musicians met for the very first time..
Ian Chang / Samantha Rick
Monday nights during term time at Goldington Academy, Haylands Way, Bedford, 7.30pm-9.30pm
The BCCO was founded in 2006 by a small group of friends who wanted the opportunity to play in an orchestra again. Having spent most of our childhood and adolescent years learning and playing instruments regularly, it seems a shame for them to end up sat in a wardrobe unused. Since it’s beginning the BCCO has grown in numbers and now accommodates for all adults (regardless of age!). The first concert was given in July 2006 and we now give 3 concerts a year, usually March/April, July and December. We are always looking for more players who would like to ‘get back’ into playing regularly.
Jeni Melia
1st and 3rd Wednesdays of the month at All Saints Church Hall, Kempston.
Jill Wightman 01767 682012
BASS was set up to fill a gap in the musical market place - adults who play at a level between grade 2 and grade 5. We have put on a couple of concerts for friends and family and have been invited to play at a Country Fair this coming June.
Michael Rose
Caroline Waters
Wednesday evenings (term time) from 7:30 - 9:30 at Goldington Academy, Bedford
Formed in 1967, its aims are to provide an opportunity for amateur/semi-professional players to rehearse and perform to a high standard on a regular seasonal basis.
Liz Childs
Monday evenings 7:30-9:30pm, at St. Nicholas Church Hall, Church Road, Barton le Clay, MK45 4LA
This group is intended for all enthusiastic flautists of Grade 3 and above who wish to experience playing a varied yet extensive repertoire of Flute Choir music. The group performs regularly in and around Hitchin, often for charity functions but also in concert, most notably in the Hitchin Festival. No audition required just an enthusiastic and committed approach. The group uses the full range of flutes and rehearses to the highest possible standards.
Ray Jones and Gaynor Lovett
Tuesdays, 7.15pm at the Zion Church Openwoodgate in Belper
Players of all brass, woodwind, double reed and tuned percussion instruments are welcome to join our concert wind band. Just turn up, make your self known, and bring your instrument, as there are no auditions. We are a very friendly bunch of all ages, with a variety of different backrounds in music. After a small probationary period a decision is made on membership, and you can then decide on whether you want to be part of a group, who are working to promote music in and around the community. Music is fun so come along and enjoy yourselves.
Dean Foley
Quarterly, The Band Room, Warley, Brentwood, Essex CM13 3BH
via website
Brentwood Horn Club is run for the benefit of its members and meets quarterly to rehearse and perform Horn Ensemble repertoire, both existing and new arrangements and compositions. If you're a horn player, grade 5-8 or above and over 18, living or working near Brentwood in Essex (or willing to travel to us), we're always happy to hear from new friends.
Various
Charles Clark
A month before each event, Sunday afternoon and Tuesday evening, Bishops Hill Adult Community College, Brentwood CM13 1BD
Contact via website
We play 3 orchestral concerts a year with a rota of conductors. Players should be a minimum of grade 8. No auditions.
Julia May
Richard Hollingham
Thursday evening during term time at Sandringham School in St Albans starting at 7pm
Community jazz band, formed in 2006 and with an active membership of around 15 musicians playing a wide range of jazz and jazz inspired music. New members are always welcome and we believe that we have a role to play in being a part of, and helping, the community through playing music. We are currently looking for trumpet players.
Rob Head
Bob Settle
Monday evenings -7-30 - 9-30pm Riverwalk School, Bury St Edmunds
Contact via website
Founded in 1991 this is an adult band with some 40 members giving approximately 12 concerts per year. See our website for further details of vacancies and concerts in preparation.
Chris Parsons
Nicki Lancaster
Tuesday evening 7:30pm – 9:30pm during term-time
Founded in 2006, Bury Friendly Orchestra is a community orchestra, with approximately 65 members. We play a wide variety of orchestral repertoire and give up to 3 concerts per year. New members are not auditioned but should be Grade V or above. Refer to our website for further details, including vacancies and future concerts.
Tom Harman
Tuesday evenings from 6-8 at Christ Church Moreton Hall, Lawson Pl, Bury Saint Edmunds IP32 7EW.
Thomas Harman 07723749525
The Bury Student Orchestra is open to absolutely everyone who enjoys music. We're a super friendly bunch, made up of mostly adults of all sorts from professional musicians all the way to those who have just started learning their instrument. The main focus of rehearsals is to have fun making some noise, and hopefully improve a little on the way. The music we play is an eclectic mix at around a grade 3/4 standard, but there are absolutely no entry requirements other than a good sense of humour. Each week is £3, which includes homemade cakes at the interval - Just bring a music stand and an instrument! We're especially keen to hear from Tenor and Baritone Saxophones and basses of any kind (Trombones, Tuba, Cellos, Bassoons etc.)
Suzanne Dexter-Mills
Susan Chapman
Wednesday evenings (school terms), central Cambridge
Contact via website
Established in 1967, playing a repertoire of light music, popular classical, film & TV/radio themes, selections from shows, as well as recent and contemporary music. Rehearsing weekly (during school terms), we perform three concerts a year. Most of our concerts are fundraising events in association with other charities. New players welcome to apply, although we have waiting lists for most sections. There are no auditions.
Timothy Redmond
Stephen Bingham
Monday nights 7.15-9.45, Chesterton Community College (Orchestra), Tuesdays 7.30-9.45 same place (Choir)
Jan Moore (Society secretary)
Orchestral secretary
Established for over 100 years. The society comprises both orchestra and chorus, concentrating especially on the romantic repertoire, but also performances of classical works and more modern twentieth century compositions. Entry is by audition.
Peter Britton
Helen Waller
7:30 - 9:30 Thursday evenings during term time, at Milton Road primary school, Ascham Road Cambridge
The Cambridge Sinfonietta exists to give amateur musicians the opportunity to play orchestral works in a friendly, supportive setting. The Sinfonietta welcomes new members subject to a reasonable balance between sections. Music is drawn from the classical repertoire and players are grade 4 to soloist standard, though it depends on instrument.
Tom Milford
Weekend rehearsals take place at Culford School, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, and Ellesmere College Shropshire
We run Symphonic Wind Band Weekends for adult musicians with grade 6/7 standard (or equivalent) and above, currently with locations at Culford School in Suffolk and Ellesmere College in Shropshire. The rehearsals take place over two days, culminating in an informal concert and are designed to bring together like-minded musicians to explore some challenging music from the Wind Band Repertoire.
Rosanne Goldman
Thursdays from 7.30pm to 9.30pm at Trinity Methodist Church, Biggleswade
Rosanne Goldman 01767601404 or 07717795688
Central Bedfordshire Orchestra plays arrangements by their in-house arranger, specifically for the players in the group, specifically for their abilities, so no one feels over- nor under-whelmed. All levels and all instruments are well catered for, not just conventional orchestral instruments. It is run and supported by three professional musicians.
Judith Underwood
Chantry Centre Billericay, 2nd Sunday in the month 2 - 4.30pm
Judith Underwood
Lisa Brittan
We are a group of flautists who enjoy making music together. We play a wide variety of music, from specially composed flute choir pieces to arrangements of the classics and popular music on four sizes of flute. Age, 18+, standard grade 5+. Cost £70 pa, but the first two rehearsals are free! Pop along , give us a go and you'll soon be hooked on flute choir music!
Gerald Hines
As required before performance(s).
Chelmsford City Opera is an exciting and innovative amateur opera company in Essex. Its aim is to bring the best community opera to the widest audience. We rehearse when we have a project/ concert coming up.
Daniel Hogan
Tuesday evenings
Andrew McFarlane 07876 124204
A friendly new orchestra in Chorleywood (M25 J18) rehearsing on Tuesday evenings. New players of around Grade 6 and above welcome, especially strings and horns.
Robert Hodge
Philippa Barton
Tuesdays, 7.30pm to 9.30pm, Parkside Community College, Cambridge.
The City of Cambridge Symphony Orchestra (CCSO), formerly known as the Cambridge String Players, performs about six orchestral concerts a year, usually at the University Concert Hall in West Road, Cambridge. The repertoire is based on music from the 18th Century to the present day, with occasional works for strings only and others for winds and percussion.
Bjorn Bantock
Liz Taylor
Queen Katharine Academy, Peterborough
Steve Osborn
Deirdre Culloty
We are an Orchestra of mainly local amateur musicians. Performing a wide range of challenging repertoire we have staged three to four concerts each year since starting in 1989.
Francis Garland
Ruth Baker
Tuesdays at 7.30pm at Clacton County High School Community Hall
We are a friendly orchestra of about 25 players and give about 5 concerts a year, all in aid of local charities. All new players are welcome, especially strings and brass. If you would like to join us please contact Brenda Ellis, who is concert manager and chairman, on 01255 223455, or e-mail.
Robert Johnstone
St. Margaret's Church, Stansted Rd, CO2 8RA on Fridays at 19:30
Robert Johnstone 07958 562041
Band Secretary, Heather Lomas: 07835 160437
We are a charity run community band providing free tuition for, primarily, those with a disability. However, all are welcome to come along and play with us.
Anthony Weeden
Jill Davison
Two Sundays (10:00am - 2:00pm) prior to each concert
via Website
We are a friendly, enthusiastic orchestra who enjoy performing three concerts per year and are always on the lookout for enthusiastic musicians. We aim to feature local and young 'up-and-coming' soloists of high quality and perform a range of music in Braintree.
Barry Sinclair Salmon
Cecilia Metherell
Tuesday mornings 10am to 12noon, Henley Community Centre, Church Meadows, nr Ipswich
The CLO has approximately 70 members who between them play a wide range of instruments forming a full classical orchestra. We are open to anyone (subject to vacancies) who is reasonably proficient with an instrument and can commit themselves to rehearsals and to participate in our Saturday evening concerts (normally three per year).
Norman Moor
Mike Griffin
The Belfry Arts Centre Overstrand, Mondays in term time 7.00 - 9.00pm
Norman Moor 01263511600
Mike Griffin 01692 402202
New members always welcome, no auditions just come and enjoy some music making.
Diane Moore and Sam Scheer
Pauline Barge
10:05-10:50 on Saturday
Pam Moutoussi
Mark Guerin
We are an inclusive chamber orchestra made of parents and friends of all standards.
John Saunders
Wednesday evenings from 8 to 9.30 p m at St John's Church Hall, Boxmoor, Hemel Hempstead.
The Dacorum Recreation Orchestra welcomes all comers: re-starters, beginners and those with little experience of playing in groups. Auditions are not required and concerts are not performed.
Dennis Light Orchestra
Ray Bell
John Winsworth
Monday 7.15 to 9.15 at the United Reformed Church, Jessopp Road, Norwich, Norfolk
Sheila Blowers (Chairman) 01603 505314
Debby Gregory (Secretary) 01603 610705
The Dennis Light Orchestra has been in existence for over 60 years. We take our music mainly to sheltered housing complexes and residential care homes. We have no formal entry requirements, although grade 4 or above is desirable. Enquiries are welcome but, as there is often limited space at concert venues we have to limit our numbers, and do hope you will understand if we cannot invite you to join us.
Jerome Cacace
St.Mary's Rooms at Church End in Great Dunmow most Wednesday evenings from 1900 to 2100.
Jerome Cacace 07415 060 359
Woodwind of Dunmow is a group of musicians who came together in 2008 and plays a range of tunes and styles, ranging from the original marches we did at the start to popular songs and theme tunes along with some ragtime and jazzy numbers. We perform regularly at most of the retirement and care homes in the area during the course of the year. Occasionally we play at village fetes, charity functions, and meetings such as the Alzheimer's Society and Blind & Housebound Club. We also do a round of Christmas concerts at the local homes, joining up with the Dunmow Singers.
Nigel Bennett
Fortnightly 10:30am – 12:30pm Thursdays, Cambridgeshire Music Centre, New School Rd, Histon CB24 9LL
The Dust It Off Orchestra (DIO) is a daytime music group, run in association with Cambridgeshire Music, for people who have plenty of free time during the day but are unable to commit to or attend evening rehearsals with other groups. It is aimed at adult players of strings, woodwind and brass instruments who are, perhaps, looking to return to playing after a period of time away from their instrument, or who are currently playing and would just like to play in a daytime group. The cost is just £5 per session.
Carol Taylor
Sandy Tate / Sue Podbury
Selected Wednesdays in term time, St Mary’s Church, Kelvedon, Essex, CO5 9AL
Secretary (Louisa Sadler) – via website
EASRC, an ensemble of clarinets and saxophones was formed in 2000 and rehearses in Kelvedon, Essex. We welcome players of at least grade 6 standard with the ability to sight read. We are a friendly bunch and enjoy exploring a varied repertoire, including arrangements by members of the ensemble.
Frankie Ayers
First Sunday of each month (rather than the third) at Broads Equestrian Centre
The ECS was founded by locally renowned musician and conductor Frankie Ayers in November 2016. The orchestra is formed of friendly and talented local musicians from Lowestoft, Waveney and surrounding areas. The orchestra aims to provide live music to the local area by giving three or more concerts a year. We also aim encourage any musicians in the surrounding communities that have not yet had the opportunity or experience to play or perform in such an orchestra.
The East Hertfordshire Youth Orchestra
David Boarder
7-9pm on Friday evenings at Simon Balle School, Mangrove Road, Hertford (term times).
David Boarder - tel 01992 623489 fax 01992 643795
Hertfordshire County Music Service.
Steve Bingham
Kate Clow
One or two full Sundays and Tuesday and Thursday evenings before concerts
We are an educational orchestra: though our core membership is asked to have grade 8 or above, we also run workshops and occasional concerts where we give learners (youngsters and returners) the chance to play major works with a full-scale symphony orchestra, including concertos with big name soloists.
Andrew Morley
Suzanne Loze
3 weekends per year on a resident / non-resident course basis.
Established in 1979, ECHO recruited its players from those members of the Essex Youth Orchestra who were obliged to 'retire' on reaching the age of 21. The orchestra now also recruits players who live or work in the County, those who attend Essex schools or colleges, and other invited players for particular concerts. We are always interested in recruiting new players particularly String players of Grade 6 standard. Woodwind and brass need to be Grade 8+
Geoffrey Harniess
Tuesday evenings at 7.30pm in the Village Hall at Rowhedge, Colchester
We are an established community ensemble formed during the 1980s. For more details about the band and forthcoming concerts please visit our website. Please e-mail us for details of current vacancies.
Tom Hammond
Philippa Barton
St John Payne School, Chelmsford, Monday evenings
Hilary Cheek 01245 471588
The Essex Symphony Orchestra has been established since 1949 and has been conducted by world famous conductors. We perform four to six concerts per season; most of these concerts are in Chelmsford Essex, but we do take opportunities to perform around Essex, in such venues as Thaxted, Cressing, Rayleigh and Harwich. We are always in need of players; see our site under membership.
Greg White
Boreham Village Hall, Main Road, Boreham, Chelmsford, Essex, CM3 3JD, Sunday mornings 10am - 12:30pm
Jan Flanders (Treasurer) 07976 310647
The Essex Yeomanry Band is one of the oldest established Military bands in the East of England being originally formed in 1809. We are based in the City of Chelmsford, Essex. We currently have vacancies within the band for Trumpet/Cornet, Oboe, French Horn, Double Bass (string bass). We are always looking to strengthen other sections within the band as well. We would very much like to hear from applicants who are capable of playing to a grade 6 (ABRSM) standard or have prior experience of playing in a similar ensemble.
Martin Georgiev
Monday evening (8 -9.30) @Homewood Road UR Church St Albans
Roger Barnes 01727 851987
'Just for Fun' approach. No auditions but ability to sight read helps. Can currently accommodate most instruments in the standard classical line-up.
Felixstowe Community Strings
Kaye Stone
John Cope
Mondays during term time 7.30-9.30 pm at Kingsfleet School, Felixstowe, Suffolk
Nicky O'Brien 07749238418
We are a newly formed group, currently recruiting for all strings, all adult players welcome playing Grade 3 upwards. We are very friendly, playing a variety of Classical and Contemporary music culminating with a small concert at the end of each term.
Evan Turner
Annette Nelson
Wednesday evenings 7:30pm to 9:30pm at Cottenham Village College, Cottenham, Cambridge, CB24 8UA
Mary Prechner 01223 426811
A new amateur orchestra that plays for fun with the occasional concert for family and friends. No auditions and we try to include everyone. No minimum entry requirements although the music is probably grade 5 standard. Perfect for those who want to play again after a long break, adult learners, those who want a chance to play their second instrument or really good players who don't want to have to practice.
Ceri Griffin
Friday term time 7.30 – 9pm
Beth Letts
Friday term time 6.30 – 7.30pm
For players of all ages grade 1-4 standard
Edward Kay
Three, each spring, leading to one performance
The Fleetville Swing Band comprises both professional and amateur musicians from St Albans and the surrounding area in Hertfordshire. We perform about once a month in and around St Albans. We charge competitive rates for private functions and always try to support, free of charge, local charity events so we can share our love of music.We are a friendly, welcoming band and are eager to welcome new players of all ages who enjoy swing, jazz and big band era music. There are currently 30 or so regular members of the band who rehearse twice a month, and strive to continually improve our musical skills.
Nigel Bennett
Thursday at Our Lady of Lourdes Roman Catholic Church Hall, Sawston CB22 3HJ
Essentially a concert band that plays light music. We give just two themed concerts per year, usually in May and November. Past concerts have included Sounds of the Sixties, Motown Magic, A Night at the Movies and the Great American Songbook. New members welcomed!
Funky Strings
Chris Pyne
Hitchin, Thursday evenings
Open to all string players, any age/ability. Playing jazz, Latin and world music.
Callum Abram
7-8:30 pm in the Foakes Hall, Stortford Road, Great Dunmow.
The Great Dunmow Town Band (formerly known as Dunmow Wind Band) is a concert band based in Great Dunmow, Essex. We play a wide range of music from pop, jazz, film, show, big band and traditional. The band consists of Brass, Woodwind, Lead Guitar, Bass Guitar, Keyboard and Drums and our musicians are all ages and music abilities. We are a fun, relaxed concert band who enjoy playing a wide range of music and all new members are welcome so feel free to come along to a rehearsal to see what we are all about.
Kay Bartlett
Mondays 7.30 - 9.30 p.m. in term time, Beaumont Community School, Durrant Road, Hadleigh. IP7
We play a wide variety of music - mainly popular classical and welcome newcomers. If you are looking to join an orchestra for the first time - or are getting back into orchestral playing after a lapse of some years - we are an ideal orchestra for you. We give two concerts a year and some other occasional playing.
Andrew Bruce
John Hilton.
Tuesday during school term times, Harlow
The orchestra was founded in the early 1960s. Membership numbers have varied over the years and are currently very strong, although we are always pleased to hear from local players who may be interested in joining.
Roy Dignum
Wednesdays in term time 7.45-9.45pm The Warehouse Centre, Brooke Rd Industrial Estate. Rayleigh , Essex
We are a community wind band with around 50 members. We perform about 10 concerts per year for various local charities. We regularly play at Orsett Show, Essex Country Show and Southend Band Stand. In the past we have played at St. James' Park, Greenwich Park and Eastbourne Band Stand. We welcome players of all abilities but Grade 5 is needed to play at concerts. Trumpet and percussion players are particularly welcome.
Matt Harrison
Tuesday 20.15 at Crabtree Junior School Harpenden
The Harpenden Concert Band is Harpenden's very own community wind band. Our repertoire is very broad, from classical to pop, Latin to marching band. We play for our own entertainment for an hour and a half every Tuesday evening, and we give regular performances in community events in the town and to our families and friends. We're always happy to welcome any woodwind or brass players - no auditions or grade requirements.
Luke Pinkstone
Luke Pinkstone
Weds 8:00-9:00pm during term time, Harpenden Musicale, Sun Lane, Harpenden, AL5 4GJ
Caroline Marriott 01582 713333
This Adult Only Band caters for Wind and Brass players of all standards and no audition is required. It meets at Musicale in Sun Lane, Harpenden, for just one hour on a Wednesday evening for fun and the enjoyment of making music together.
Darren Bloom
Play Day Format, 6 per year, the next is 15.07.2023
Chris Lowe (or via the website)
The Harpenden Sinfonia is a friendly amateur orchestra in Harpenden, Hertfordshire which aims to give amateur musicians that cannot commit to regular rehearsals the chance to play larger-scale orchestra works. The format is of a play day, i.e. rehearsals with a run through at the end of the day. Please get in touch to find out more or to join us!
Hartington Flutes, Cambridge NEW
Tuesday evening in term-time 7.00 - 8.30 pm at the Meeting House in Hartington Grove, Cambridge, CB1 7UB.
We are a small friendly flute choir, playing a lively and varied repertoire of classical, popular and folk music from around the world. We welcome Piccolos, Flutes, Alto Flutes and Bass Flutes.
Haverhill Flute Group
About once a month, Fridays 7.30-9.30, Kedington Community Centre, Arms Lane, Kedington
Elizabeth Quarterman 07817 095 443
We are a group of keen adult amateurs of all abilities with flutes of all sizes from bass to piccolo!
Kevin Hill MBE
David Ogden
2.30-5.30pm, various Sundays
Deena Shypitka, Tel & Fax 01440-763799
5 orchestral concerts per season, also promotes recitals and Haverhill Sinfonia Soloist Competition. Minimum standard grade 8
Claudio Di Meo
Tuesday evenings 7:30 - 10:00 during term-time; John F Kennedy Catholic School, Hollybush Lane, Hemel Hempstead, HP1 2PH
Formed in the autumn of 2018 after the closure of the Dacorum Symphony Orchestra, the HSO is a friendly community orchestra with a passion for music and an ambition to improve and expand, directed by a dynamic and charismatic conductor. We give four concerts a year in the Dacorum area and beyond. We are especially keen to recruit more violins and violas, but all instrumentalists of a good standard are encouraged to get in contact.
Tom Hammond
Margaret Holter
Millmead school, Port Vale, Hertford, Tuesday evenings 7.30
Claire Lovegrove 01920 469839
The Hertford Symphony Orchestra has gained a reputation for its accomplished performances of exciting programmes, which has developed further with the appointment of its talented and ambitious new musical director Jonathan Mann. The season includes three symphony concerts as well as family, children's and Christmas concerts. Membership is drawn from a wide area in Hertfordshire and the orchestra is always looking for new members of a good standard.
Guest conductors
Various
Thursday evening 7:30pm-10:15pm at Applecroft school Welwyn Garden City
We perform six or seven times a year in locations throughout Hertfordshire and are looking for Grade 8 standard and above string players, though enquiries from other players are welcome.
vacant
Monday evenings in Welwyn Garden City
he Herts Big Band was formed in 2003 and has performed at many venues in Hertfordshire as well as having participated in the national concert band festival on several occasions, produced a CD and undertaken 4 overseas tours to France and Spain. The Herts Big Band (amateur) are looking to appoint a new musical director after current MD Mike Hamnett steps down at the end of July.
Nick Evans-Pughe
Friday, 7:30, Hitchin, Herts
Hitchin Chamber Orchestra is primarily a string orchestra and boasts both amateur and professional musicians amongst its members. Together we strive to play music from a range of styles and genres to the highest standards. We put on three concerts each year and usually have five evening rehearsals to prepare. We work with a number of professional guest conductors and soloists and occasionally include other instrumentalists to play works beyond the string repertoire. If you are a string player and interested in playing with HCO please email us.
Alison Eales
Sunday evenings every two or three weeks usually at Little Benslow Hills, Hitchin
Alison Eales 01462 896778
Colette Elliott 01462 835310
The band's ethos is essentially one of a large group of friends meeting to rehearse and perform music for the pleasure of doing so. The band welcomes new members and can accommodate a wide range of performing ability.
Chris Pyne
Hitchin on Tuesday evenings in term time
All ages, all abilities, all instruments. Repertoire light music, jazz, world music.
Rowan Baker
Janet Hicks
Wednesday evenings during school term time from 7.30 to 9.30 pm at Kingshott School, Hitchin
Rowan Baker
Karen Smallbones
HSO is always keen to hear from instrumentalists looking to join an exciting and friendly orchestra in North Hertfordshire. At present we would particularly like to hear from violinists, cellists and double bassists looking to play with an orchestra.
Alf Ball
7.30 pm. in the crypt hall of the Union Church, Westgate, Hunstanton (opposite the Library).
An amateur wind band based in the north west of Norfolk and the town band of Hunstanton. This busy band plays between 15 and 20 engagements each year at a variety of venues, playing a very wide range of music. There are no auditions or joining requirements at the moment and the band welcomes new players of all ages to join us and make music in a very friendly atmosphere.
David McClintock
Anna Thompson
Every Tuesday from 7.45pm to 9.45pm at Jubilee Park, Huntingdon, Cambs, PE28 2NR
We are a Community Wind Band, self funding that plays about 8 Concerts per year. Our styles range through all genres from Original works for Wind Band through Big Band Arrangements, Film and Stage. We have vacancies for Trumpet, Horn, baritone Saxophone and Tuned Percussion and ask for a standard of Grade 6 as a minimum.
Saturday mornings (during term time), Hinchingbrooke School
01480 584867 or 07719 835472
Saturday morning music school for adults and children. We continue to offer individual lessons and the following ensembles: Junior Music Workshop, Ukulele Group, Community Choir, String Groups, Community Orchestra, Community Jazz Ensemble and Big Band. We encourage music for all ages and abilities. See website for full details.
Dan Watson (orch) Leanne Singh-Levett (Choir_
Cathryn Neuhauser
Tuesdays (choir) and Thursdays (orchestra), 7:30 to 9:30 PM during term time, Godmanchester County Primary School
Orchestra Secretary
Choir Secretary
The choir and orchestra perform separate concerts (two each) and also two joint orchestra/chorus concerts at Christmas and Summer. Open to new members. We are audition free.
James Symington
Tuesday evenings from 7:30pm to 9.30pm at St Peter’s by the Waterfront
The Ipswich Hospital Band has been entertaining the people of Ipswich and the surrounding area for over 40 years. The band is a concert band with flutes, oboes, clarinets and sax players as well as brass, so woodwind are welcomed too players too. Any students or adult learners in or around the east anglian area are most welcome! We need all instruments to improve our sound.
Adam Gatehouse
Richard Armitage
Holywells High School, Ipswich, Thursday evening (from 7.30 to 9.45 pm)
Jane MacDonald 01473 652913
A well-respected symphony orchestra giving three concerts a year in Ipswich Corn Exchange, performing with world class soloists. Our annual Family Concert is also a very popular event. Membership enquiries are welcome, Grade 7 for strings and Grade 8 for winds/brass.
John Seeley
Thursday evenings - 7.30pm to 9.30pm, £7 Entry, The Fisherman's Chapel, New Road, Leigh-on-Sea, Essex, SS9 2EA
If playing as part of a group appeals to you, why not join John Seeley’s Jazz and Saxophone Group? We are a welcoming group and are always looking for more members to join our Jazz family! All ability levels and instruments are welcome, there is no need to book, just come along and join in. I provide a creative, friendly and relaxed atmosphere for musicians of all levels, to learn theory aspects of music, and gain practical knowledge of performing. The music used will range from Hard Bop, Modern to Contemporary Jazz and Popular music and will be arranged to a high level. I assist with developing Jazz techniques and the sessions explore musicianship skills that will enhance the individual and group performer.
Chris Jessop
Laurence Drake
Alternate Mondays during term time in either King's College School or St John's College School in west Cambridge
Founded in 2006 by a group of Cambridge parents, the KJO is now a flourishing small orchestra. The orchestra is friendly and welcoming, especially to those who have not played for a while. There's also a strong social element to rehearsals, which always include time for a glass of wine and a chat. There are vacancies for new members, particularly in string and brass sections.
John Ravenor
Julia Shepherd
Sacred Heart Church Hall, 5 Beaudesert, Leighton Buzzard, Beds. LU7 1HZ - Tuesdays 7:45-9:45pm – two rehearsals to accommodate CoVID distancing
Julia Shepherd 07707- 995812
The Leighton-Linslade Concert Band was formed in the summer of 2008, we are a concert band - a wind orchestra - consisting of woodwind, brass and percussion. The Band has members from Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire and Hertfordshire. We welcome brass players, woodwind players and percussionists. If you enjoy playing a wide range of music styles and you are interested in joining a friendly ensemble please contact us!
Rowan Baker
Janet Hicks
Sundays 2.30 - 5.30pm every other weekend (term-time only) The Settlement, Nevells Road, Letchworth
Amanda Freshwater 07523 875720
Founded in 1984 - we are a friendly Chamber Orchestra that perform 4 concerts a year. We welcome new players and have vacancies for String players Grade 6 upwards.
Karen Sanderson
Sunday 15.00-17.00 Linton Village College, Linton, Cambridgeshire
Karen Sanderson
Josephine Paterson
Linton Jazz was established in 1999 and has grown from strength to strength. With the current age range spanning a good 60 years the most important ingredient of success for us has not been the quality of the playing, though we certainly do our best, but to have fun. We welcome players of all ages and abilities and aim to be as informal and as friendly as possible. We play perhaps 6-8 times a year, mainly at charity events, and we have helped raise thousands of pounds for good causes over the years from our various gigs around the county.
Steve Kent
Robert Kendrick
5 Fridays before each Concert in April/May and October at a location in the Luton/Dunstable area
The Orchestra presents at least two concerts each year playing a wide variety of light music and featuring local singers and solo instrumentalists as their guests. The Orchestra is always looking for new players, especially those of stringed instruments. New members are not auditioned, but players should be of Grade 5 standard or above.
Dafydd Billinghurst
Angela Pulsford
Friday evenings 7.30 - 9.30 at Farley Road Methodist Church, North Drift Way, Luton, LU1 5JE
Julian Towler 01582 664484
Deborah Billinghurst 01525 376275
We are a friendly community group, performing 3 concerts a year covering a wide variety of orchestral repertoire. We aim to promote live orchestral music to a high standard and to showcase young, talented soloists. New string players of at least Grade 6 standard are always welcome.
Ron Bewers
Anne Brewer
7:45pm Friday nights at the West Maldon Community Centre, Sunbury Way, Maldon CM9 6YH
Our ethos is to enjoy playing music with likeminded people, We don't audition and are happy to welcome anyone who can play an appropriate instrument.
Michael Copley
Sunday evenings in central Cambridge
We welcome anyone who can play an orchestral instrument and read music. Don’t worry if you feel a bit rusty; there are no auditions and the arrangements are made specifically for the orchestra by our Musical Director, with the individual players in mind. So why not come along and try a rehearsal? The MRCO normally gives two concerts every year. The atmosphere is friendly and informal and we play a lovely range of classical and folk music from around the world. We meet on Sunday evenings in term-time and we would love to hear from you!
Steve Robinson
Steve Robinson
Monday evenings 8:15–10:15pm at The Sweyne Park School, Sir Walter Raleigh Drive, Rayleigh, Essex, SS6 9BZ
The Melvin Beddow Big Band is a traditional 20 piece big band line up with two vocalists. We play a wide range of authentic big band music including swing, jive, rock & roll, pop and jazz right from the 1920s through to the current day. Founded in 1991, the band have been playing in and around Essex for 25 years and perform on average around 8-10 times a year. Vacancies: We are currently looking for a trombonist to join our brass section
Chris Parsons
one or two Mondays a month, All Saints Church, Newmarket, Suffolk
Debbie Farrell 07473 491114
New, high standard chamber orchestra, exciting and varied repertoire performed, Grade 7/8 level required. We would like to hear from all string players.
Linda Purdy
Thursday evenings in the Thatched Barn at Hall Farm, Staithe Road, Repps-with-Bastwick.
The Band always welcomes new Brass, Woodwind or Percussion players. If you are an experienced player who no longer has an instrument we may be able to help. We have a limited number of instruments available for loan only to band members.
Steve Bingham
Brigitte Mallon / Alice Ruffle
Friday evenings 7.15-9.30pm in or near King’s Lynn
Friendly and successful symphony orchestra with international conductor and professional leader, playing to a high standard. Vacancies for committed string players and some percussion. See website for up-to-date information.
Keith Hobday
Jonathan Folkard
Tuesday evenings in term time 7.45-9.30pm, East Runton Village Hall
Angela Robinson
Kate Munro
We’re a friendly orchestra, performing 3 concerts a year with wide ranging repertoire. We’re always interested to hear from anyone who would like to join us, usually grade 6 and above. We are particularly on the look out for string players at the moment, so please get in touch!
Lea Wiggins
Wednesday between 7.30pm - 9.30pm Mile Cross Methodist Church Aylsham Road Norwich
Via Website
We are a Concert Band based in Norwich and consist of a committed group of Woodwind, Brass and Percussion players. We play a wide range of music at various venues in and around Norfolk throughout the year.
Matthew Andrews
Dominic Hopkins
Tuesdays in school term time at 7.15pm, Norwich High School for Girls, Newmarket Road, Norwich.
The Orchestra welcomes new members as and when places become available - established over 150 years.
Charlie Westbrook
Wednesday evenings during school term time. Start 7.30, until 9.30. Tea break and chat at half time! St Oswald’s Catholic Church, 933 Lincoln Road, Peterborough. PE4 6AE. Car park behind church.
Set up in spring 2018, Peterborough Community Orchestra welcomes players of any instrument, from grade 3 upwards (no certificate or audition required). All ages welcome from 11 to 111. (under 16’s must be accompanied by an adult). Family groups welcome. If you would like to play music with others, in a relaxed and fun atmosphere, then you will enjoy PCO. If you have not played for a long time, or are fed up with serenading yourself, then come along and meet us. Give us a try and see what you think! We always welcome new members. We play mainly but not exclusively classical music. We aim to perform a public concert at the end of each term.
n/a
Charlie Kisby
Thursdays 7.30-9.30pm, Orton Longueville
Charlie Kisby (or via Facebook)
Peterborough Flute Choir
New players need to be confident reading music and we recommend being Grade 5 level. We rehearse and perform conductorless in order to maximise the development of ensemble playing. There are opportunities to try piccolo, alto and bass flutes, and the repertoire is varied to encompass all tastes and in order to amuse, encourage and enthuse all players. We work towards performances in and around the local area throughout the year, and aim to hold flute workshops annually to broaden members’ experiences, skills and enjoyment.
The Philharmonic at UH
Robin Browning
Richard Aylwin
Thursday evenings (7:30 - 10:30) at the University of Hertfordshire
The Philharmonic at UH (also known as the Hatfield Philharmonic) is a sociable orchestra giving first class concerts at the University of Hertfordshire's auditorium in Hatfield. As we are fortunate to have the support of the University we are able perform around six concerts a year of diverse symphonic repertoire.
Chris McGinity
Thursdays 20:00 to 22:00 Christ Church, Watling Street, Radlett, Herts, WD7 7JJ
Chris McGinity 020 8364-9862 or 07901-972855
The Phoenix Concert Band aims to set high standards in its performances, giving playing opportunities to musicians at the upper end of ability. Players are generally minimum Grade 6 - some well above - so do call if you would like to come along. We don't audition, we'd rather you came along for a few rehearsals to see how it goes.
Margery Baker
Martin Wyatt
Every second and fourth Tuesday in the month from 2-4pm at the Memorial Hall, Pulham Market, Norfolk. IP21 4SU
Garry Whitehead 01379 388590
The Pulham Orchestra is an established (40 years) amateur orchestra conveniently and centrally located near the Suffolk / Norfolk border with about 35 adult members of mixed ability. A comfortable and fully accessible venue, a relaxed but constructive atmosphere, experienced musical direction, a wide variety of music and a warm welcome awaits new members. Just click on our name (above) for details of our activities, events, history, governance and more.
Vince Davy
Douglas Butler
1st & 3rd Mondays of each month, Jan-June and Sept-Dec, in or near Oundle
Formed in 2009, the RPO welcomes adults who may be returning to playing after a break, or good instrumentalists keen to develop a second instrument. We enjoy exploring new repertoire and improving our ensemble playing. We hold free concerts 2 or 3 times a year, including a major concert as part of the Oundle International Festival in July. The string section has a parallel program of concerts. All concerts are aimed at friends and family, plus the inhabitants of whichever village whose church forms the venue. We are now in excess of 50 regular players and continue to welcome players on all instruments. In the last few years we have played away in France (Loire Valley) and Norfolk (Cromer and Blakeney).
Richard Hull
Sarah James
4-5 Sunday evenings preceding each concert,usually at Newport village hall.
We perform 4-5 concerts per year, primarily of large-scale romantic and 20th-century repertoire; there are four or five rehearsals for each concert, usually on a Sunday evening. We are always interested in hearing from potential new players, especially in strings, though there may well be vacancies in other sections, too.
Nigel Partridge
Stansted House, Shire Hill , Saffron Walden.CB11 3AQ, Wednesday 7.30pm-9.30pm. Junior Band 6.45pm – 7.15pm
Steph Thake 077792 66853
(Or via contact form on website)
The Saffron Walden Town Band was reformed in the early 1980s. We are a community based ensemble of woodwind, brass and percussion players. We currently have around 50 members, who rehearse in a relaxed and friendly environment. The Band enables musicians of all ages and abilities to come together to make music, have fun and share musical knowledge and enthusiasm with others. We hold 3 main concerts each year, in and around Saffron Walden. We also perform at local events and help to raise money for various different charities. In June 2010 we formed the Junior Band to cater for young people between the ages of 8 and 13 who are just starting their musical adventures.
Matthew Hardy
Sue Hind Woodward
Wednesday mornings (during school term) 10:00 to 12:00 at The Mid Herts Centre for Music and Arts, Hatfield
Secretary: Caroline Tough 01727 863 058
Founded in 2002 to provide an opportunity for persons available during the day who wish to get together simply to enjoy the making of music. No commitment to a program of concerts although we do occasionally play for schools and the elderly.
Julie Beaman
Tuesday mornings 10:00 to 11:45 during school term time, at Marshalswick Baptist Free Church, 4 Sherwood Avenue, St. Albans AL4 9QL
SARO Winds was formed in 2004 to accommodate an overflow of wind and brass players from St Albans Rehearsal Orchestra. We play a very wide range of music, primarily for fun, although we do visit local schools and play in concerts in aid of local charities. We don't audition but potential players are welcome to come along to a few sessions to see how they get on.
Tom Hammond
Jennifer Wigram
Homewood Road United Reformed Church, St. Albans on Wednesdays from 7.30 - 10.00
We present a full season of large-scale concerts in St Albans and the surrounding region. These include major symphonic repertoire, concertos with leading soloists, an annual New Year concert in St Albans Abbey, weekend workshops, and chamber orchestra programmes. Normal minimum standard: Gr.8. Check website for playing and deputising opportunities.
Karol Jaworski
Morning of concert + 1-2 afternoons prior (typically Sunday, 2-5pm)
A friendly chamber orchestra based at St Clement's Church in the heart of Cambridge. We welcome enquiries from all players, though the orchestra works on minimal rehearsal so you will find it much easier if you are already a confident reader. Concerts focus on core classical orchestral repertoire. Players are fixed per concert from a larger pool of players, and there are no minimum membership requirements. We give 1-2 concerts per term, often working with professional soloists and/or accompanying choirs.
Martin Wyatt
Pat Plumstead
St. Cuthbert's Church, Sprowston, Saturday mornings between 9:45am and 12pm.
If you are interested in joining the orchestra or for more information, please email Martin Wyatt. We give three or four concerts each year in various local churches.
Chamber Orchestra of St Ives
Chris Hiscock
Bryony Lang
Typically once per month, Thursday 7:30 PM to 9:30 PM in the Free Church, St Ives
This newly formed orchestra in St Ives Cambridgeshire gives several concerts each year for the local community, usually linked with wider community initiatives. They are varied and include children's' concerts, traditional classical concerts, performances linked with the choral society, poetry and more contemporary productions. The playing is of a very high standard. There is no joining or membership fee nor are auditions required to join.
Reginald Searle
Naomi Laredo
Every Tuesday during term time, 07:45 PM to 09:30 PM in music hall at Ernulf Community College in St Neots.
Jean Searle, 01480 212298
We are the community orchestra for the St Neots area in Cambridgeshire. We typically perform five public concerts each year: two traditional concerts, one with the St Neots Choral Society, a PROM type concert for St Neots town and a children's' Christmas concert. We pride ourselves on being an extremely friendly orchestra and welcome new members of grade VII and above, Associated Board. We generally have vacancies for string players (all instruments) and occasionally also for wind players. There are no auditions to join.
Frankie Ayers
Every fortnight on a Monday, 7:15-9:15pm. Locations Beighton, Norwich
Frankie 07960 923727
Saxobility is a Saxophone ensemble that was founded over 10 years ago. They are amateur musicians of all ages and abilities and welcome saxophonists with open arms.
Every Friday night unless told otherwise at Clacton Baptist Church 7pm-9pm
We play different styles of music please note our new email address
Zöe Ramsden
Tracey Forsdyke
Wednesday evenings, St Mary Magdalene Church, Norwich
Tom Herman (Chairman)
Mary Thrower (Membership Secretary)
A friendly amateur orchestra of approx 45 musicians, specialising in ‘light’ music from stage and film, to popular and classical. Formed in 1926 it performs at least three concerts a year. Entry qualifications are not set, but current members are approximately Grade 5 and above.
Barry Bryant
Barry Bryant
Tuesday evenings 7.30pm at Ipswich Road United Reformed Church, 40-42 Constable Road, Norwich, NR4 6QF
he Sillars Windband is a group of about 20 amateur woodwind and brass players based in Norwich, Norfolk. Formed in 2005 it specializes in entertaining the elderly in residential homes in and around Norwich. It also performs in churches and other venues. We aim for variety and play short pieces which are easy to listen to and often well known. We do not hold formal auditions or specify a particular standard. New players are invited to rehearsals to see how we suit each other.
Theresa Long
Theresa Long
Tuesday term time 18:30 – 19:30 at Framingham Earl High School
Theresa Long 07455 440445
Currently recruiting for ALL instruments (particularly strings and brass) to join us. We are a mixed age and ability group with a friendly atmosphere who want to enjoy playing music together. We have around 2 concerts a year (Christmas and Summer)
Matthew Andrews
Lorraine Kelly
Wednesday evenings at St Margaret's Church Hall, Lime Avenue, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 3PA 7.30 - 9.30
Mandy Bearman - 01268 793920
We give three concerts a year. Occasionally we have vacancies in the wind and brass sections but string players are always welcome. There is no audition. We play a very varied repertoire.
David Clark
Wesley Methodist Church, Elm Road, Leigh-on-Sea, Essex, SS9 1SJ, on Wednesday evenings 7.45 – 9.45pm
Membership Secretary
Sallie Falvey 07595 906398
Only established in April 2002 but already 50 strong. Minimum standard Grade 6 but most members are well beyond that. We play the whole range of the wind band repertoire, with a special emphasis on contemporary works.
Mark Austin
Anja Smith
Thursday evenings, Copthill School
The Stamford Chamber Orchestra was formed by Jeremy Pike in 1983. Its players are all local musicians, both professional and amateur, drawn mostly from Stamford, Oakham and the surrounding areas. We welcome enquiries from players grade 8 and above interested in playing with the orchestra. Please email our leader, Anja Smith.
Phillip Brunton
Pam Davies
Wednesdays 8pm at the Community Arts Centre on Roaring Meg retail park, Stevenage
David Handley (chairman) 01727 858714
We are an amateur orchestra based in Stevenage, Hertfordshire, performing a number of public concerts each season. New players are very welcome, especially strings.
Matthew Andrews
Steve Calder
Every Thursday in term time
We are a friendly amateur orchestra based in Sudbury, Suffolk, performing three public concerts each year. Occasionally we have vacancies in the wind and brass sections but string players (Grade V standard and above) are always welcome. Currently we have a vacancy for an oboe player, ideally grade 8 standard with substantial orchestral playing experience.
Neil Carlson
Wednesday evenings in term time, 7:30-9:30, South Lee School, Bury St Edmunds
(contact via website)
Suffolk Sinfonia is a symphony orchestra based at Bury St Edmunds in West Suffolk. We give three concerts a year at The Apex in Bury. Professional music teachers make up the core of the orchestra which rehearses regularly on Wednesdays during term time. Music students and gifted amateurs also help to maintain the high standard of playing. All are welcome to enquire, but we are mainly looking for string players of grade 8 standard.
Vince Taber & David Stowe
Various/during college/university vacation periods
Suffolk County Music Service
An auditioned programme for Suffolk’s finest young musicians. These orchestras and bands offer exciting rehearsal, performance and touring opportunities throughout the year. Applications open in September each year.
Alan Stratton
Great Dunmow, Essex. Monday evenings 7.30-9pm
Take Note is an exciting and newly formed concert band based in Essex. We’re an enthusiastic and sociable collective of all ages and we're looking to grow over time into something very special. If you’re a musician of at least grade 5 standard or a similar ability and you’d like to join us at rehearsals to make some music, then drop us a line and tell us about yourself and your musical experience. We rehearse on Monday evenings in the Rodings.
Professor Christopher Green OBE
Steve Browne
Various/during college/university vacation periods
Based in Ipswich, Suffolk, Trianon performs varied and exciting programmes in venues such as Snape Maltings Concert Hall and Ipswich Corn Exchange. With rehearsals scheduled in and around college vacation times, membership need not interfere with other commitments. No audition is necessary but a minimum standard equivalent to grade 5 (Associated Board) is required.
University of Hertfordshire Big Band
Richard Barnard
Hertfordshire University, John Lill Centre, Hatfield, Hertfordshire AL10
Richard Barnard 07754406965
Grade 5+ (but not mandatory) We are looking for new recruitment.
Alex Reid
Rotating principal
Rehearsals are scheduled in the fortnight prior to the concert
The Vivace Ensemble specialises in producing exciting concert programmes in the chamber orchestra setting. As well as performing locally in Cambridge, Vivace Ensemble has toured to Germany this year this year under its musical director, Alex Reid.
Michael Cayton
Jeanne Mann
Tennet Centre Theatre, Watford Grammar School for Girls, Lady’s Close, Watford WD18 0AE on Wednesdays from 7.30 pm - 9.30 pm
Based in Watford, with over 170 members and our own orchestra we are one of Hertfordshire’s largest and oldest amateur choral societies – founded in 1935 by Leslie Regan in association with the great Sir Henry Wood of BBC Proms fame. If you play an instrument up to the standard required for a Grade 8 award or its equivalent and would like to join our orchestra, we would be pleased to hear from you. Currently there are vacancies in all sections.
Edward Kay
Rebecca Boyle
Thursday evenings, 8pm at Nascot Wood Junior School, Watford.
Cathy Shipman, Secretary 01923 239288
A well established high standard orchestra providing experienced amateurs with an opportunity to make classical music in a friendly environment. We perform 4 concerts a year at Clarendon Muse, our boutique concert hall. New string players of grade 8 standard welcome.
Gill Barrett
Kate Durham
Term-time Thursday evenings 8pm, St Oswald's Church Hall, 17 Malvern Way, Croxley Green, Hertfordshire WD3 3QL
Secretary/Registrar – Simon Peachey (via website)
The Watford Workshop Orchestra is a small orchestra based in Croxley Green. We provide an opportunity for improving and returning adult players to enjoy a varied repertoire in an encouraging and friendly environment. If you want to give it a go, just turn up (checking the dates on our website) and give it a go or get in touch via our website.
Adrian Brown
David Adleson and Lizzie Skinner
Saturday afternoon and evening, and Sunday morning of weekends preceding concerts
The Waveney Sinfonia Musical Society was formed in 1978 and was the brainchild of Richard Featherstone. The aim was to give Waveney (a district in Suffolk, UK) an orchestra and to provide an opportunity for local young people to play with more mature musicians in an orchestra under a professional baton. The orchestra is based in Lowestoft and performs three times yearly (October, January and May/June). Rehearsals take place during the weekend before each concert and also on the day itself. Prospective players (preferably with their instrumental teacher's support) should email music@waveneysinfonia.org.uk
Debs Whomes
Generally every other Sunday afternoon 2.00-4.00 at Bungay Community Centre, Suffolk.
We welcome players of all kinds of string instrument of approximately Grade 3 standard and above (formal qualifications not required). We aim to give at least one concert a year – often in collaboration with other musicians or singers. Established in 2008, Waveney Strings is a ‘late starters’ orchestra offering a friendly and supportive playing environment. Some players are relatively new to their instrument, others have returned to playing after an absence of a few years. Rehearsals provide opportunities to meet other players, learn and share skills, gain knowledge and experience playing in an orchestra to increase confidence. Our repertoire is extremely varied so there’s something for everyone. For example, at our 2022 concert we played pieces by Handel and Vivaldi, but also medleys from films and musicals like James Bond & Mama Mia, as well as UpTown Funk (Bruno Mars). To find out more please email Claire. We offer a free first taster session.
James Ross
Christos Kokkinos
Templewood School, Pentley Park, Welwyn Garden City AL8 7SD; Chorus: Mondays, 7.45-9.45pm, Orchestra: Tuesdays, 7.45-10pm
Celia Smith, Orchestra Secretary 01992 551943
Margaret Breese, Choir Secretary, 01438 718702
A chorus and chamber orchestra performing 4 main concerts and special events each season in Welwyn Garden City, Welwyn and Hatfield. Chorus and orchestra both perform together and separately. Inquiries from prospective members welcome.
Graham Wilson
Heathlands School, West Bergholt, near Colchester, Essex, Fridays 7pm-9pm Training Band 6pm-7pm
Graham Wilson 01206 824157
The band was founded in 1978 by a local music teacher, and offers musicians of all ages & abilities a relaxed atmosphere in which to perform a wide range of music - Swing, Classical, Pop, Marches, Show Tunes, Film Themes, etc. There's no audition - you can just turn up at a rehearsal.
Peter Strudwick and Chris Brown
Springwood High School on Wednesday evenings 6:30pm until 9:00pm
WNJYO has been around for 30 years now and was started back in 1977 with its first conductor, Roy Whittingham (now deceased). Since then we have expanded and generally got better. We have two ensembles - the Orchestra and Concert Band.
Robbie Germeno
Saturday 10am during school term, Springwood High School, King’s Lynn
West Norfolk Music Centre runs a range of groups for children and adults. Our friendly community beginner wind band has no auditions. As a rough guide, the beginner band is suitable for players at Grade 1-3 level. The band plays in the Music Centre concerts at the end of each term.
Robbie Germeno
Saturday 11.50am during school term, Springwood High School, King’s Lynn
West Norfolk Music Centre runs a range of groups for children and adults. Our friendly community orchestra has no auditions. As a rough guide, the orchestra is suitable for players at Grade 4+. The orchestra plays in the Music Centre concerts at the end of each term and occasionally at other community events.
John Mellor
Saturday 10.50am during school term, Springwood High School, King’s Lynn
West Norfolk Music Centre runs a range of groups for children and adults. Our friendly community wind band has no auditions. As a rough guide, the band is suitable for players at Grade 4+. The band plays in the Music Centre concerts at the end of each term and occasionally at other community events.
Colin Radford
Jonathan Gray
Thursday evening 7.45 - 9.15 pm at Queen Street Methodist Church, Queen Street, Whittlesey, Peterborough PE7 1AY
WWE aims to provide an opportunity to people of all ages to participate and enjoy themselves within a Concert Band style ensemble. A wide repertoire of popular music from the shows,films, classics and more. The standard varies from grade 3 to grade 8. The ensemble is looking for tenor sax, clarinet, cornet/trumpet, horns Eb and F, trombone and tuba players.
Conductors by invitation
Jamie Forman
Concerts preceded by two all-day Sunday rehearsals at Stoke High School, Maidenhall Approach, Ipswich IP2 8PL
Contact via website
Wolsey Orchestra is committed to musical excellence and to promoting concerts of the highest musical standard. It is justly proud of its growing reputation as one of the finest amateur orchestras in East Anglia. The orchestra consists of a large core group of established members, augmented by invited players drawn from a 'pool' of local players who are drawn to the challenge of focused working on attractive programmes over a short time-scale.
Neville Reeder
Peter Hodge
Monday evenings from September to March during school terms The Methodist Church, St John's Street, Woodbridge IP12 1ED
Neville Reeder 01473-240737
Mary Reidy 01728-685642
Long established orchestra (1907), currently numbering around 50, has players with a wide range of abilities. Since our repertoire has moved towards popular classical music, our string section has strengthened considerably. Although our orchestra is essentially complete, we can accept a few more string players, and a waiting list is maintained for players of other instruments.
Andrew Parnell
Frances Banham
Tuesdays during term time from 7.45-9.45pm at Wymondham High School,Folly Road,Wymondham,Norfolk
Adrienne Cleary 01953 789637
Brian Randall 01953 601939
The orchestra was founded in 1984 as a community orchestra with the aim of providing an outlet for the musical aspirations of talented school children and adults who wished to play their instruments on a regular basis with like-minded musicians. Nicholas Daniel has kindly agreed to be the new patron since the recent death of Sir Malcolm Arnold, the orchestras original patron.