Abbey Brass are always keen to welcome any players, whatever standard and whatever instrument. We rehearse in our own premises situated behind the Abbey Grounds open air swimming pool, two full brass bands (Main Band and Training Band) and a learners group.

Abingdon Community Orchestra is an adult music group open to any orchestral instrument of any level. We meet weekly for rehearsals in a friendly and welcoming environment. Performances happen during the year at the Abingdon Music Centre Concerts. We are always excited to have new members to what is already a great group of like-minded musicians!

Friendly community wind band who rehearse and perform concerts in and around Abingdon, just south of Oxford. We currently have vacancies for brass players (ideally of grade 5 standard or higher) so would welcome enquiries from anyone who would be interested in joining us.

The orchestra is aimed at adult learners of roughly grade 2 to 5 standard, playing a wide range of music: classical, folk and popular in a friendly relaxed environment.

APO is a friendly orchestra primarily for busy people who can't commit to weekly rehearsals. We especially encourage younger people who reached a high standard in youth orchestras, but whose busy lives lead them to put down their instruments, to rediscover orchestral playing. Nevertheless, we are very welcoming to all ages! We put on four concerts a year, usually in October, January, April and June.

 

A friendly community orchestra that always welcomes new members. Our conductor is Arturo Serna an enthusiastic conductor and outstanding celllist who trained originally in Venezuela through the Il Sistema project. We put on 2 concerts a year. Playing standard ranges from about Grade 5 to professional. There are no auditions and the music teachers in our group are always willing to offer technical advice.

We are currently looking for competent musicians with good sight reading skills ( Grade 6 and above ) to join us:  Percussion- kit and tuned, Flautists, Clarinettists, Saxophonists and bassonists.

ACO serves the local community and provides a friendly and supportive forum for all musicians who enjoy playing in an ensemble. All ages and abilities welcomed. We give three concerts a year, raising money for local community charities.

We run several brass bands including a Championship-level Band, Concert Band, Big Band, Community Band, Youth Band, Learner Band and Daytime Band. Rehearsals are at our own purpose-built bandroom in Amersham town centre.

We are the adult rehearsal orchestra attached to the Amersham Music Centre, which is part of Buckinghamshire Learning Trust Music. We are a group of 'rusties' and adult learners, who play for fun, and two short concert performances each year. The entry standard is said to be Grade 4+, but nobody will ever ask. All orchestral instruments are welcome. We play classical music and some lighter music.

Concerts performed throughout the year at various venues.

Enthusiastic players wanted! Modern instruments accepted. We play music from c.1575-c.1775. Grade 8+ standard. Please visit our web site for more details and sound clips.

Established over 20 years ago, the band plays a variety of concerts and other engagements with a mix of familiar pieces and some more challenging ones. New players welcome (woodwind, brass and percussion) preferably grade 6 or above.

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One of the UK's leading Music Centre Youth Orchestras: Winners of Outstanding Performance Award, National Festival of Music for Youth. Exciting repertoire, friendly atmosphere.

Since 1961 the orchestra has been a platform for local amateur and professional musicians to come together to practice and perform the better-known (and some less well-known) pieces from the classical orchestral repertoire.

Basic strings is for beginners and improvers and provides an intense and dedicated training opportunity.

We are a friendly wind band meeting weekly for practice and we organise a number of events and concerts during the year. We are always looking for new bass or percussion players.

The BSO plays three concerts a year in The Anvil, Basingstoke's prestigious concert hall, generally in mid November, mid March and late June.

Small, friendly flute group looking for new members. Music pieces played are around Grade 3/4 and there is a small charge to cover the venue and music (Pay as you go)

The band has developed a repertoire of music written specifically for wind band, and in 2010, it changed its name to Beenham Wind Orchestra, to reflect this change in emphasis, and to avoid confusion with brass bands. However, we still think of ourselves as a band, because our aim is to be sociable, welcoming and inclusive, as well as having fun making serious music. New members are always welcomed.

We work hard to improve our skills in a relaxed and friendly environment under the leadership of our talented conductor, Wendy Marks. New members are warmly welcomed. For further information please see our website.

BCB is a friendly community band, welcoming players of all ages. We are busy providing musical performances in Buckinghamshire and beyond, with a mixture of indoor and outdoor concerts held throughout the year.

Formed over 100 years ago, Blewbury and District Brass Band is a friendly and inclusive village band, and is the local brass band for the area surrounding Didcot, the Hendreds, the Hagbournes, the Moretons…and Blewbury (just south of Didcot). We play 15-20 events each year and can be heard playing at local fetes, parks and community events. Players of all levels and ages are welcomed warmly, into either our Main Band, our Beginner Band (for beginner players of any age, up to about Grade 2), or our Learner Band (for learners of all ages, up to about Grade 4 or 5).

Formed in 1990, we are a community wind band with around 45 members

Hoping to set up a flute choir – please contact me!

Bournemouth-based orchestra giving several concerts a year in the Hampshire/Dorset area. New players always welcome. We are especially recruiting strings, oboe, trumpets and tuba.

Play classical music in a friendly environment, without the pressure of performances whilst still aiming to improve ensemble playing and musicianship.

BWCB Main Band is a 60 piece wind band, open to all grade 6 and above. BWCB also has the 'Second Wind' band for players of grade 3-6 and the Beaufort Band which is suitable for players with less experience, as long as they can read music and have been playing for at least a year. Please visit the website for more details.

The String Orchestra of about 25 players was formed in 1975 and is based in Bridport, Dorset, our players coming from a wide area of West Dorset, East Devon and Somerset. On occasions weare joined by wind and brass instruments for larger works and normally perform three concerts each year. We have a broad repertoire embracing many composers from baroque to modern.

We welcome all brass, woodwind and percussion players, and usually have vacancies. We play at two major charity concerts each year: in June at the Concert Hall at Poole Lighthouse, and in December at Wimborne Minster. Come and hear us at practice, or contact Damon if you would like to play. For more information, visit our website.

Friendly University-based orchestra welcomes new members, particularly strings and lower woodwind. 4 concerts each year with wide repertoire.

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.

We are a band with a professional ethos, providing music for service occasions and charity events since 2017. We have vacancies in most sections and welcome interest from new members.

Based in Witney, Oxfordshire, the Burford Orchestra gives three concerts a year in West Oxfordshire. New players, especially strings and low brass, are always welcome to come and join a friendly fun local orchestra. No audition is necessary.

We are a friendly wind band playing a wide range of music. We welcome all new players of woodwind, brass and percussion instruments. We do not hold auditions to join but suggest a standard of about grade 5+.

An adult jazz band welcoming to all instruments and abilities. We play around 4-6 gigs and concerts each year raising money for various charities. Music is a mixture of original works and well known classics from jazz standards and blues, to movie theme tunes and funk. Music is organised via Dropbox so you can look through all available parts and choose and print whichever you fancy at any point. We’re an incredibly chilled and friendly bunch attracting players from Basingstoke and Southampton to Portsmouth and The New Forest. Small band membership fee of £30 per quarter or £50 per half year, to cover venue and band costs. We’d love to hear from you!

The Bushey Symphony Orchestra, a highly regarded part of the local community and nearing our fortieth year, gives a minimum of five concerts per season with a wide variety of repertoire from the baroque to the present day. We have vacancies in the string section and welcome all players especially post grade 8.

We are looking for trombone and trumpet players for established big band. We play a wide variety of great charts from Basie, Kenton, Nestico, Metheny etc etc.

We are always on the lookout for woodwind, brass and percussion players. There are also instrumental ensembles associated with the Band. The Band presents two main concerts each year, plus many other public engagements particularly during the summer and Christmas period. It raises much money for local and national charities.

The Charity Symphony Orchestra is a leading and successful fund-raising ensemble based on the South Coast of England. The orchestra draws players from across the region and beyond from a pool of nearly 200 musicians from amateur and professional backgrounds. Everyone involved with the orchestra, players and management, donate their time and skill to the goal of raising as much money as possible for deserving causes. The orchestra is very sociable, providing an opportunity for members to keep in touch with friends and meet new people. It is a humbling experience to work with so many talented and enthusiastic musicians.

We are all adult members and are grades 5 and above. We are a very friendly bunch and welcome new players.

We are a friendly group who give 3 or 4 concerts per year, including taking part in the Chichester Festivities and the Chichester Cathedral Lunchtime Series.

We are an adult string chamber orchestra including professional musicians and very advanced amateurs players. Now in our 21st year we meets weekly or fortnightly in the High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire area during school term time. Our concerts are given in locations including Marlow, Amersham and High Wycombe. Our aim is to enjoy making music and to stage about three concerts per year, sometimes including concerts for children. Often we combine with wind players, various soloists and choirs to offer a wider range of music than the typical string repertoire.

The Chiltern Concert Band is a friendly community wind band based in High Wycombe, which strives for the highest musical standards. We play a wide range of music including marches, film and show selections, solo items, popular classics, and recent wind band repertoire.

Adult Orchestra, meeting weekly for 28 weeks with informal concerts at Xmas and before we break up at the end of May. Currently seeking horn and bassoon players. Vacancies also for Trombones - Strings are always welcome.

Chippenham Town Band is a Brass and Wind Band which plays a wide range of music. We tend to play at fêtes, balls and concerts; with seasonal variations e.g. carolling, park events. Instruments include woodwind, brass and percussion. There are over 20 regular members, however some events may feature a smaller group. We play music from most genres: Big Band, theme tunes, classical and marches, to name but a few! We are always on the lookout for new members.

A community concert band looking to welcome competent players of all woodwind, brass and percussion instruments who have good sight reading skills and previous experience playing in a band or orchestra. The band plays music specifically written for concert band ranging from classical to film/musicals and easy listening. To get in touch or find out more information please message us on Facebook (search for Cholsey & Wallingford Concert Band), or drop us an email or visit our website

We are a Not for Profit, free to play, True Community band and welcome past and present players of brass and woodwind instruments. We also offer free Beginner Brass lessons on Cornet or trumpet for children of Christchurch and its Districts. One of our mottoes is 'Music should be available to all regardless of financial standing'.

Immediate vacancies for cornets and soon for trombone. Adult beginners and returners welcomed to Training Band at 6.30pm on Tuesdays

String Orchestra - plus occasional wind/brass/percussion as repertoire requires. Mainly professionally trained musicians

Formed in September 2014 the Concrete Calves is a place for adult woodwind players to come together and share in the joy of playing in a group. Adult beginners who can play 3 notes, to those of around grade 5 standard are all welcome. We welcome players of flute, clarinet, oboe, saxophone, bassoon and bass clarinet.

Cores End Concert Band is looking for founder members to get started. We're after high quality instrumentalists to form a top class wind band, playing challenging works.

 

We are a String Orchestra and we concentrate largely on that repertoire, particularly 20th Century. From time to time we augment with woodwind to perform Symphonic Repertoire. We will celebrate our 21st Birthday at our October 2018 Concert. We would be delighted to hear from string players who might like to join us.

Crowthorne Symphony Orchestra has developed under the leadership of Music Director Robert Roscoe to be an exciting place to play, with a seasonal programme of interesting – if challenging! – concerts and workshops. We're always interested in meeting new players – strings should be towards Grade 8 and wind players beyond. If you are a competent player, even if you have taken a break from playing, do please get in touch and come along to rehearsals, if only to listen.

No minimum standard is set, and the orchestra offers a friendly and supportive introduction to playing in a conducted group. For beginners (who are welcome as soon as they are brave enough to give it a go), returners and rusties.

Da Capo Winds is a concert band for both children and adults. Much emphasis is places on training with the use of the Kodaly approach much in evidence at each rehearsal. Da Capo Winds rehearses during term time only and performs three concerts each year at the end of each term.

This is a community based, friendly orchestra, and welcome new string players in particular. Three concerts a year normally performed.

A rehearsal orchestra meeting weekly in Didcot. We have a significant portfolio of our own music as well as hiring one or two major works to focus on each term. New players welcome.

Didcot Concert Orchestra is the first high-quality amateur concert-giving symphony orchestra based in Didcot, Oxfordshire. It brings together the best players, so participation is by invitation or audition. Upper string players of conservatoire standard are encouraged to contact us. Professional players lead each string section. Players meet for four rehearsals before each concert. After the inaugural concert in February 2018, DCO plans to give three concerts per year - February, May and September. Repertoire is mainly from the late-Romantic period, and each concert features a rare unjustly-neglected gem.

We meet in a warm and friendly environment where every player makes a contribution to our music making as we explore the range and diversity of repertoire available to cello ensembles.

A friendly enthusiastic orchestra welcoming players of all orchestral instants and levels. We deliver two concerts a year for charity inviting friends and family.

Currently performing four concerts per year in Dorchester, Dorset. We are happy to hear from potential players of the appropriate standard, please see the orchestra website for all details.

Members are semi-professional and amateur adult players of Grade 6 standard and above. There are current vacancies, particularly for Violin & Viola players.

The Dorset Sinfonia, formerly Weymouth Arts Centre Orchestra and Weymouth Sinfonia, welcomes new players. Feel free to come and give us a try - there are no auditions. It would be good if you would ring Trish beforehand so that we can ensure that we have an appropriate part available. Check out the website for more information.

The Emsworth Concert Band is a friendly community band of woodwind, brass and percussion players of a wide range of ages and abilities. We perform concerts each year, including Spring and Christmas concerts, as well as playing at outdoor events during the Summer.

This is an orchestra for adults returning to playing after some time away, or have just taken up an instrument. Only stipulation is to be grade 3 level or above. We are looking for new players, particularly violin and viola players. It is held in a room at Chichester university. £5 per session.

We are a wind chamber group that plays to a high standard performing concerts for local and national charities. We are very proud of our large, diverse library of music which encompasses a wide range of musical genre. If you would like us to support your charity please contact us to discuss opportunities for a concert of musical entertainment.

We are a friendly group of flutists who enjoy playing a wide range of flute choir arrangements, from pop to jazz to classical. We enjoy bass and alto flutes and piccolo.Currently we are grade 4 and up but would welcome anybody of any ability. We busk once a year for charity and enjoy great cakes in the rehearsal break! Find us on Facebook under Tutti Flutti flute choir.

A friendly sociable band with many high profile engagements through the year in London and the South East of England, including overseas travel.

The Farnborough Concert Orchestra gives four concerts a year in the Hampshire/Surrey area, plus a Play Day in summer to which all players of suitable standard are invited. The orchestra's wide-ranging repertoire includes well-known classical works as well as selections from stage and screen. Concerts are popular and well-attended. New members are always welcomed by this remarkably friendly orchestra. We currently have vacancies for violins, violas, trumpet, bass trombone and tuba.

Four concerts given per season. Actively recruiting all strings, including Leader.

We are a friendly and enthusiastic group of flute players of all ages. Flautissimo rehearses and regularly performs a wide and challenging repertoire. Piccolissimo plays simpler pieces and helps develop ensemble skills. We have alto, bass and contrabass flutes for our members to play.

An enthusiastic and friendly ensemble that is currently expanding under our new conductor. We warmly invite anyone who can play an orchestral instrument. What's most important to us is that there is a wish to improve individual playing standards and, for the more experienced, to share technique and musicianship.

Friendly community orchestra with vacancies for viola, double bass and brass players.Grade 6+. Concerts twice a year.

We welcome mandolinists and classical guitarists of all standards and have instruments for newcomers to borrow. The ability to read music is essential. Find us on Facebook too!

A fun loving flute group that enjoys playing and progressing. Wrong notes don’t matter in rehearsals.

Formed in 2003, the ethos of the Giocoso Concert Band is one of playing in a relaxed, friendly environment. Members range in age from 11 to 65. No auditions. Music ranges from Beatles through to Mozart! We are desperate for new members - any wind players or percussionists please get in touch!

The band - a friendly community band of around 45 woodwind and brass players of a wide range of ages and abilities - welcomes new players. We perform about 12 times a year, mainly during the summer months, at local fêtes, regattas and parks.

The Starter Band is open to wind, brass or percussion players of all ages and abilities who wish to gain (or develop) experience of playing in a group, or wish to exercise their second (or third) instrument. There are no auditions for membership. As a rough guide players at Grade 2 - or for whom Grade 2 is the next step - would probably not be out of their depth.

We are a friendly orchestra who put on two or three concerts/workshops per year. String players particularly welcome!

The Guernsey Symphony Orchestra is an independent amateur orchestra founded in 1991. The orchestra demands high standards from its players, and engages high quality conductors and soloists to perform three ambitious concerts each year in the St. James Concert Hall, St. Peter Port.

HRS is a group of forty recorder players. Some are seasoned musicians, others are talented amateurs. There is no limit to the style of music which HRS plays; it ranges from very early to modern - you name it; they play it. HRS has also commissioned new and exciting works for recorder orchestra. They play 4 concerts a year in some lovely venues plus an Open Playing Day. New players are welcome. If you would like to become a member of HRS, you need to be a confident recorder player, and preferably be able to play both C and F instruments.

Hampshire Symphonic Winds has been formed to allow high quality musicians from the South East to come together twice a year to put on high quality concerts. The band will play a wide ranging repertoire from pure wind band, to music from stage and screen. Our aim is to perform an entertaining programme at an extremely high level. By holding only 3-4 rehearsals at fortnightly intervals in the Camberley area prior to a concert, our aim is to attract the top players from surrounding areas to perform good quality music, whilst not having to interfere with other regular commitments. If you are interested in playing with a group of like-minded quality musicians please get in touch. We would be interested in hearing from woodwind, brass and percussion players of grade 8 standard or above.

Formed in 1962, friendly full symphony orchestra. Minimum standard of entry around Grade 8 Associated Board or equivalent. Informal audition process involving attendance at some rehearsals and chat with section leader and conductor. At least three concerts each season, usually with international soloists, mostly at Oaklands School in Waterlooville. Particularly keen to hear from Double Bass players, but all enquiries welcome: if we don't have a space for you at the moment we often need extras or deps.

We are a friendly and supportive community string orchestra in Buckingham open to adult string players of all abilities: from accomplished musicians to learners to those who are returning to playing after many years. We hold two or three concerts a year and cover a varied repertoire from Baroque to Pop and Classical to Modern.

Under the guidance of Ian Brown, HSO is now one of the country’s leading amateur orchestras. It attracts some 60 players from across the Thames Valley and promotes an annual series of four concerts featuring internationally acclaimed artists. The aim is to provide high-quality music-making at affordable prices and to give local musicians a chance to perform the great classical orchestral repertoire. HSO has also given performances in Henley’s twin towns of Falaise and Leichlingen, at Bled International Music Festival in Slovenia, and has annual appearances in its hometown at Henley Festival.

Highly Strung is a string ensemble of enthusiastic and talented musicians who want the opportunity to explore the rich and extensive string music repertoire. We meet twice a month on the first and third Tuesdays. We are actively seeking more players particuarly violin and viola players.

The Innovations Jazz Orchestra is an exciting friendly Big Band. We perform the music of Basie, Fitzgerald, Buble, Sinatra and others. Playing music from the 1920s to current day, this 20 piece band does regular performances in the Basingstoke/Reading/Newbury triangle. The band self-finances so there are no associated costs. Players must all be good readers equivalent to grade 7/8 and above only. If you can improvise then opportunities to do so will be offered. Get in touch to come along and try out with us.

The ISIS Chamber Orchestra gives several concerts per year, in and around Oxfordshire, and performs a variety of orchestral works, mainly for chamber orchestra.

The IWSO is a well-established non-professional Symphony Orchestra on the Isle of Wight. The Orchestra performs music from a varied repertoire, usually at the Medina Theatre in Newport, with 5 concerts a year.

A band for Grade 5 plus Saxophonists. We play a wide range of trad jazz and a few others.

We are a traditional Brass band that plays all kinds of music, perform concerts that are both fun and often challenging and have a membership that draws from latent talent in Southampton and Hampshire. All brass players are welcome.

J4BB is a member band that plays Jazz and Swing and more modern music

Workshops for string players under 12 years of age. Lively ensemble sessions and opportunity for solo performing.

Kidlington Concert Brass is a Championship Section brass band based in Kidlington, 5 miles north of Oxford City Centre. The band has a balanced programme of contests and concerts, including our own local concert series which is growing in popularity. The band is ambitious, but not at the expense of our enjoyment of making music. The band welcomes enquiries from players interested in joining (current list of vacancies on our website) or if you would like to book the band.

We are a friendly bunch who enjoy playing together, who passed our 50th anniversary in 2021. We give two formal concerts a year, one usually at St Mary’s in Wallingford. There is no audition to join, and we currently have vacancies in all string sections.

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!

Clarinet ensemble for beginners to grade 5 playing music from Mozart to the Muppets! £60 per term.

The Lymington Town Band would welcome new players - Brass, Woodwind and Percussion. The Band has a number of vacancies in all sections. We have a programme of public Concerts which include the regular outdoor Concerts on Lymington Bandstand during the Summer.

This is a brand new auditioned amateur orchestra launching in Bournemouth this year. Our vision is for an orchestra for Dorset that is committed to music-making of the highest quality. We exist primarily for the musician, devising programmes and rehearsal experiences that focus on the pleasure of playing orchestral music. We will do 3-4 concerts a year using different professional conductors for each concert. We're always on the look out for more players who are grade 8+. Please get in touch.

The Maidenhead Concert Band is a community band formed in January 1998 by Father and Daughter, Peter Ripper and Carrie Rogers to enable musicians of all ages to get together and play on a regular basis. The band give two or three major concerts a year as well as perform at many local fund raising events during the summer months.

We play at local Bandstands, village Fêtes, and similar events, including Remembrance Sunday at Malmesbury Abbey and a big Annual Concert at Malmesbury Town Hall. We don't require auditions, but we do appreciate some sight-reading skills. Right now, we're especially looking for more brass players. If you play woodwind or brass instruments, feel free to ask about open spots!

Part of the Marchwood Orchestras group. This ensemble is for everyone, but especially for musicians who for some reason, may lack confidence. It plays a wide range of genres using bespoke music. It presents optimum levels of challenge with good humour, high standards and non judgmental support.

Marchwood Sinfonia is fun new amateur chamber orchestra based on the edge of the New Forest in Hampshire. As part of Marchwood Music Society, the orchestra has been established with the aim of playing fun classical pieces for amateur musicians grade 5+. We are currently looking for strings and brass players, if you would like to join us, please get in touch

We have accordions of all sizes available to borrow or players can bring their own. All ages welcome from about 6 years and we provide tuition for all standards - from total beginners with no musical knowledge at all. All tutors are D.B.R. approved. We are a very friendly group with players from all walks of life and many different local schools. Please visit our website to see more details.

MCO plays light music and popular classics. It has entertaining rehearsals and performs 3 exciting concerts a year. It aims to promote, improve, develop and maintain public education in, and appreciation of, the art and science of orchestral music in all its aspects. Members' ages range from 14 - 70!

We play various works catering for all standards. We have some very new players, some returning to the instrument, and some semi professionals. Subs paid either by the term or yearly. Special rates for Students. Anyone welcome to get in touch. We are currently looking for violins and bassoons although all other instruments will be very welcome .

We are a friendly group of adults playing a wide variety of music for our own enjoyment. We perform at local events and some formal concerts. New members of all abilities and most instruments are very welcome. We moved to The Meon Hall in January 2019; the acoustics are good and we have gained several new members.

The band numbers around 35 members performing high quality concerts across South Hampshire, with a repertoire that includes modern, traditional and light entertainment music of different genres.

We are the adult orchestra of the Milton Keynes Music Service. We don't have any formal entry requirements, and emphasise enjoying making music together and playing our instruments. Typically members used to play in orchestras, but haven't for quite a while, or have only taken up their instrument as adults.

All instrumentalists are welcome. At the moment we are especially looking for brass players and string players. We have regular Saturday workshops and have an extensive collection of music which we own.

All welcome esp. experienced violin, viola & bass players.

4 concerts per year in the Chiltern area. String and brass players very welcome.

Based at University of Winchester as part of Foundation Music, It was set up to allow students, staff, graduates and members of the local community to come together in a fun, friendly environment to make music. We play everything from big band, to theme tunes, to popular music, to musical theatre. There are NO fees and NO auditions. We welcome players of ANY age, ANY ability and on ANY instrument, however we are especially looking for players to join our brass section.

We are a group of amateur musicians of all ages from a wide variety of backgrounds. We aim for a high standard; there is no entrance audition but would suggest Grade 5 standard as a minimum. We perform classical repertoire and some lighter material. We are currently especially aiming to recruit additional string, wind ( except clarinets) and brass players.

Newbury Symphony Orchestra, founded 1879, is a local amateur symphony orchestra with a professional conductor and leader. We give three full orchestral concerts a year as well as taking part in smaller events.

Friendly Southampton based orchestra giving two concerts a year. Proceeds to charity. Young players very welcome. Started in 1926, so 2016 is our 90th Anniversary!

For Grade 4 plus wind instruments. Easy fun rehearsals where mistakes can be made !

The Orchestra welcomes members of the local community who can make lunchtime rehearsals. It was started in January 2005, and is developing into a full symphonic orchestra. Currently we have vacancies for violas, 1 bass, 1 horn and 1 trombone, but do check our website. We give three lunchtime concerts a year plus contribute to other musical events.

The OUP Orchestra is a high-quality amateur orchestra based at Oxford University Press and made up of over 60 staff members of the Press and the University, though we welcome enquiries from anyone wishing to join us or simply find out more. The orchestra rehearses 5.30–7.30pm on Wednesdays over 8-week terms, with a break for Oxfordshire schools’ half-term holidays, and gives 3 concerts per year. A new conductor is selected by the players every year.

Out Of The Attic is a friendly and inclusive orchestra, run for adults at our Saturday morning music centre in Newbury. The group's name was given by its founding members, many of whom were returning to playing an instrument after a long break and so were getting their instruments back 'out of the attic'. (on the website please scroll down and select 'adult' in the 'I'm interested in' category)

Founded in 1984, giving an average of four orchestral concerts per year, mostly in Oxford. We also accompany choral societies.

No formal auditions. Violins, violas, double basses, and brass especially welcome to apply.

Oxford’s principal non-professional symphony orchestra founded in 1902. 3 concerts annually + occasional other appearances (eg Truck Festival). Presents both well-known and under-performed masterworks from the large symphonic repertoire. Concerts in Oxford Town Hall and the Sheldonian Theatre. Welcomes players at Grade VIII standard or thereabouts. See website for current vacancies and more information.

Pangbourne All-Comers' Band seeks musicians and ANYONE is welcome, whatever instrument they play! We meet every Wednesday during school terms, as a forum for enjoying making music in a group. The music we play is suitable for anyone of about Grade 2 and above, and is ideal for children and adults alike. Perhaps you have a child learning an instrument, or maybe you would like an outlet for a second instrument. If so, the Pangbourne All-Comers' Band could be for you.

Per Piacere Chamber Orchestra is a group of non-professional musicians specialising in performing music from the Baroque and Classical musical periods. Founded in early 2007, the group started with just string players, and has rapidly grown to include appropriate wind and brass instruments.

A friendly amateur orchestra who give 3-4 concerts a year, in November/December, March and June, usually at the Festival Hall, Petersfield. We would particularly welcome enquiries from String players (Grade 6 and above).

Phoenix Brass Band draws its members from West Berkshire, Wiltshire, Hampshire and Gloucestershire. Phoenix Brass is a community Band providing entertainment for audiences and its members. The Band prides itself on its friendliness and enthusiasm and caters for all ages and standards of musician. Our current players range from 9 years to 80+ years. Everyone shares the one common goal, that of making music with like-minded people. Rehearsals are generally easy going and are a mixture of playing through musical pieces currently in our programme and working in more detail on new music to add to our programme. There are no auditions but there is an expectation that if you join the band you will attend regularly. The Training Band meets at Froxfield War Memorial Hall on Saturday mornings, from 10.30am until 12 noon for individual lessons and group practice. The Training Band is open to learners of any age.

Piccolissimo is a flute choir for rusty players and beginners up to grade 5 standard. Only £3 per session! (or £25 for the term). You must be able to play some notes and read music.

We play mainly light music e.g. selections from the shows, Strauss waltzes, Sousa marches etc. but sometimes go a little more classical. We are a very friendly orchestra and give concerts three or four times per year.

The Pops orchestra play music from shows and films also full concerts of James bond, Queen & Take That: a full orchestra set up with added saxes and synth / keyboard and 3 vocalists. We have a vacancy for French Horn & cello.

Annual subscriptions £40 (includes Community Centre Membership). Student Rate £16.

We welcome players of all standards, with no auditions, but some popular instruments have waiting lists. See the website for more details. We do three concerts per year for charity and so far have raised £15,000 since our foundation in 2009.

The Orchestra performs a wide variety of repertoire with three programmes each year. Players need to be a minimum of grade 5 standard, and wind players will usually be asked to audition due to a high demand for places

The Wind Band performs a light repertoire of music from the stage and screen, pop songs from various decades and well-known classical pieces and folksongs. All woodwind and brass instruments are welcome, as well as string bass, drums and percussion. The recommended standard for members is Grade 3 minimum, although beginners are welcome to enhance their learning in a friendly, relaxed environment.

The Radcliffe Orchestra is a full symphony orchestra made up mainly of staff, relatives and friends of the Oxford Hospitals. We give three concerts per year (usually in November, March and June) in aid of various medical charities.

 

 

Reading Youth Orchestra is a friendly group of musicians aged 11-21, welcoming members Grade 5 and over from the greater Reading area.

Riverside Concert Band, previously known as Eastleigh Town Band was founded on the 1st of January 2015. We are a very friendly band of all ages and musical ability. We regularly provide entertainment in the local area, from Bandstands in the summer months to more formal summer and Christmas concerts.

The Romsey Chamber Orchestra performs three concerts a year, focusing on repertoire from the 'classical' period. Founded at the end of 2018, the orchestra has an established membership of 40 players. There are currently vacancies for two 1st violins, one 2nd violin, one viola and one contrabass. Applicants should be over 18 years of age. For further information please email romsey.orchestra@gmail.com.

We are the band Detachment within The Royal County of Berkshire Army Cadet Force. We are always looking for new Cadets to come along and Join us on a Monday Evening at Brock Barracks in Reading. If you are aged 12 ( In year 8 ) to 17 and maybe interested in coming to join us as a cadet or if have children in the above age range who would like to come and join us. We are also able to take on Civillian Assistants and Cadet Force Adult Volunteers if you would like to get involved in the organisation, check out the website above. We are a military themed youth organisation, with an ethos build upon the values and standards of the British Army. We are NOT a recruiting vessel for the army, but we are part funded by the MoD which enables us to provide training and facilities at a fraction of the cost to the cadets of comparable youth organisations. Please feel free to contact us with any questions or further information.

Royal Wootton Bassett Concert Band is seeking more players. We are a friendly band seeking to expand our repertoire and concert footprint. We are particularly looking for more Brass players (Cornet/Trumpet, French Horn, Trombone), and Saxophone players, but all players are most welcome.

Royal Wootton Bassett Orchestra is a relaxed, friendly amateur orchestra. We give three concerts a year with occasional extra events. Members are mostly adult, but we do have a few younger members. There are no auditions. We take players at about Grade 5 or over. Strings are normally welcome, but places for other instruments (regulars and deps) vary from season to season according to our vacancies and programmes.

We are a friendly community concert band of about a 40 who work closely with a training band of about 20 (adults and children) so people of all levels are catered for, from professionals to learners and people just wanting to play a second instrument. We do 4 concerts a year and especially have vacancies for percussion, trombone and tuba players or anyone else interested in joining us.

We are a full sized orchestra that performs proper orchestral works (overtures, concertos, symphonies) 3 times a year. We work hard to keep our programmes exciting and fresh. Vacancies are listed on ourwebsite. Do come join us!

St Ambrose Strings started in 2007 as a double string quartet. We have now expanded the orchestra and play such things as Elgar and Tchaikovsky String Serenades. We are based in Bournemouth and are looking for first violins and violas

Oxfordshire's favourite amateur orchestra, playing 4 concerts per year. Please see our website for concert details and vacancies

The band is often 20-strong, with large sax & brass sections, sometimes clarinets, a piano, bass and drums. They have a large choice of music which includes arrangements from the swing era. They sometimes do concerts for charity events

We meet to enjoy playing classical music and occasionally to rehearse concerts for charity. Currently there are vacancies for strings and a French horn.

Sax Bandits is an all-saxophone band for adults, playing your favourite rock and pop songs! Suitable for beginners, learners and returners, meet like-minded saxophonists in a friendly and relaxed environment who want to play for fun. Playalongs and video tutorials are available to help you learn the music. The first session is completely FREE!

Sax Bandits is an all-saxophone band for adults, playing your favourite rock and pop songs! Suitable for beginners, learners and returners, meet like-minded saxophonists in a friendly and relaxed environment who want to play for fun. Playalongs and video tutorials are available to help you learn the music. The first session is completely FREE!

Sax Bandits is an all-saxophone band for adults, playing your favourite rock and pop songs! Suitable for beginners, learners and returners, meet like-minded saxophonists in a friendly and relaxed environment who want to play for fun. Playalongs and video tutorials are available to help you learn the music. The first session is completely FREE!

Sax Bandits is an all-saxophone band for adults, playing your favourite rock and pop songs! Suitable for beginners, learners and returners, meet like-minded saxophonists in a friendly and relaxed environment who want to play for fun. Playalongs and video tutorials are available to help you learn the music. The first session is completely FREE!

We are a friendly saxophone ensemble who play a wide variety of music: classical, pop, rock, film theme, jazz, latin etc. We do not require a Grade exam but players are expected to assess themselves to be playing at Grade 5 or above

Aimed at intermediate and advanced players the music is fun, varied and occasionally challenging too! Membership fees are £15 per term. All pieces are arranged for sopranino, soprano, alto, tenor and baritone. A mixture of original sax ensemble compositions and arrangements of popular songs means there is something for everyone.

Offering group lessons and experience for Violin Viola and Cellists, catering for returners to string playing from beginners to grade 5 standard, all returners welcomed but must be over 50 years old (ID required 😊) with a PMA! We are a relaxed, friendly but devoted group of string players getting together on Monday afternoons for music and refreshments. We play all styles of music including Folk, Pop and Classical (so far..) Occasional relaxed performances.

Shaftesbury Symphony Orchestra is a friendly group of amateur musicians. Under the guidance of our professional conductor we meet regularly to rehearse and perform 3 concerts a year.

New musicians always welcome of Grade 5 standard and above.

Sibford Community Orchestra, based at Sibford school near Banbury in N. Oxfordshire, are looking to build on their small and enthusiastic group for monthly rehearsals and occasional concerts. We are particularly keen to hear from cellists, double bassists, bassoonists, and all brass players, anyone else is welcome too. All ages and abilities.

Well established part of the community for over 70 years. 5 High quality concerts per year (September - May). Orchestra welcomes experienced players, particularly violas, cellos, double basses and trombones. Chorus welcomes all-comers and also offers group singing lessons with specialist vocal tutor.

A small, friendly group of saxophonists who meet on Saturday morning during term time to play a wide variety of music from Mozart to The Muppets! Beginners to intermediate players of any age welcome. Fees, £50 per term, no audition and no music hire costs.

This orchestra is for musicians who want to play light orchestral pieces with the occasional challenge of more demanding symphonic works. A friendly and supportive group who give several concerts a year within the local community. A grade 5 or similar experience is suggested to be able to access the music with the attitude of wanting to develop skills being preferred

We are a symphonic wind orchestra providing a platform for professional musicians, experienced instrumentalists and young musicians to explore orchestral wind repertoire. The orchestra aims to perform two public concerts a year.

The SSO - Portsmouth's own Symphony Orchestra - we provide three high quality concerts each year with repertoire ranging from full symphonic works (Beethoven, Shostakovich, Hindemith) to smaller chamber music (Stravinsky, Mozart, Gordon Jacob) for our summer concert. Rehearsals are limited so players need to be experienced orchestral musicians. Concerts - Sept, February and July.

Sound Worship is a Christian orchestra based in Hampshire. We specialise in playing traditional hymns and contemporary worship songs. We are available to play at church services and events throughout Hampshire on request and have taken part in a wide range of celebrations including songs of praise style services. Our players are from churches of various denominations from all over Hampshire. New players are always welcome. We offer our services for free, although a donation to orchestra funds would never be turned down!

We are a community woodwind, brass and percussion music group who perform throughout the year with both formal evening concerts and afternoon bandstand events. For more information and to see current band vacancies, please visit our website.

Southampton based orchestra giving up to 7 concerts a year. New players always welcome. Please phone or e mail for further details.

The band's concert programme incorporates a variety of musical styles including original, classical, shows, popular, traditional and jazz. We introduce new music whenever possible whilst trying to remain accessible and entertaining for the general public. SCWB perform at venues across the South Hampshire region, mainly during the summer months. Our primary aim is to have fun playing a wide variety of music and we hope that people who join the band enjoy themselves and feel able to take an active and long-lasting part in the band's future development.

We are a predominantly amateur group of musically minded people who have formed a flexible musical ensemble. The Band is primarily a wind band, playing everything from show tunes to original pieces composed by members of the band. We are always on the lookout for new players. If you are interested in joining us, please get in touch. No audition is required to join, though players are expected to have a reasonable level of musical ability. We do not follow a vacancy system so you will not have to wait to join us.

The City Of Southampton Orchestra is one of the leading non-professional orchestras in the south of England, performing a wide variety of interesting works from across the orchestral repertoire. We have been established for over thirty years and perform five concerts each year, including one concert designed specifically to introduce children to orchestral music. Check our website for current vacancies.

The Southampton University Symphony Orchestra is widely recognised as one of the leading student orchestras in the UK. The orchestra seeks to provide students with the opportunity to study and perform some of the most challenging symphonic repertoire, performing between 4-6 concerts each year. The strings section is also open to non-students from the local community, if you are interested in joining please get in touch.

At The String Studio Limited we believe the experience of playing in an ensemble or orchestra should be available to all people of all ages. Our adult and junior orchestras provide a platform that beginners can comfortably get started on and that more advanced players can be enjoyably challenged. Working closely with conductors, composers and a recording studio we commit to providing an exciting and moving journey into music. Expect repertoire that embraces modern music as well as traditional classics and exciting collaborations with Swindon's inspired local performers.

We are community orchestra for beginners, late starters, and rusties. We play all kinds of music, with a range suitable for all abilities. We welcome players of orchestral instruments who have reached about grade 2 standard or above. No auditions, no pressure, just fun making music together. We rehearse at The Exchange on Saturday mornings and give short public (free entry) concerts at the end of each term.

Swindon Community Concert Band is a new music group in Swindon. We aim to play a mixture of music such as Film Scores, Jazz, Blues, Classical and Pop Music. In the future we would love to stage some concerts with other local groups like dancers or actors. Maybe even put on a musical. Our rehearsals are really relaxed and we try to make sure there is plenty of cake at each rehearsal.

Providing great music and entertainment throughout Wiltshire and the surrounding area, Swindon Concert Band is a vibrant and award-winning amateur wind band, playing everything from classical and contemporary favourites through to big band and Broadway standards. Whilst we take our music-making seriously, we are a fun-loving and friendly bunch of musicians and always keen to welcome prospective new players.

A friendly orchestra playing familiar and less-familiar but nevertheless highly-rewarding works, the orchestra supports a charity each concert by means of a retiring collection. If you are an accomplished upper string or brass player, we would love to hear from you and we will be very happy to place any other enquirers' names on a waiting list.

Thame Concert Band was formed in 1993 by a small group of local musicians. We pride ourselves on being a community band and regularly take part in some of the biggest events in Thame. We have grown considerably since the formation of the band in 1993 and now boast around 30 regular members - although we are always keen to welcome new musicians!

An off-shoot of Thame Concert Band, Thame Concert Training Band was introduced in March 2023 as a safe space for developing musicians, whether you’re returning to music or starting playing an instrument for the first time. We play a wide variety of music and are always keen to welcome new members!

Friendly chamber orchestra in the North Bucks/Oxon area. Players at least grade 8 standard. Please get in touch if you're interested in joining us. Strings particularly welcome.

Trinity Concert Band is a full symphonic wind band, our repertoire exploiting the tonal qualities such an ensemble can offer; classical transcriptions, original wind band compositions, music from stage and screen, pop, rock and swing as well as traditional marches! We hold 4-5 formal concerts each year, plus a few bandstand gigs in the summer months. Regular entrants at the National Concert Band Festival, we were awarded the top Platinum Award in the national finals in April 2018.

Trowbridge Symphony Orchestra has a long history having been formed in 1923. It draws its members from around Wiltshire and meets regularly during term time, performing 3 concerts per year at differing venues, including The Wiltshire Music Centre Bradford on Avon, Holy Trinity Church Bradford on Avon and St James' Church Trowbridge. Recent concerts have included Shostakovitch Piano Concerto no.2, Beethoven Symphony no.3, Dvorak Symphony no.8, Sibelius Symphony no.2, and Gershwin Rhapsody in Blue. Vacancies exist in several sections of the orchestra.

Ukulele Hangout meets in a number of locations giving residents of Lymington, Hythe and Ringwood a chance to meet, play and socialise in groups guided by a qualified, experienced teacher who supervises the sessions and practises. Mixed ability groups learn to play their ukuleles together with parts for everyone.

The Vale Symphonic Wind Band is a thriving wind band that aims to play good music to a very high standard. The band aims to continually expand repertoire as well as perform several concerts a year. Band members are friendly and hardworking, coming from all walks of life, with playing abilities ranging from Grade 8 to professional standard. We welcome players of any age who are of this standard; particularly clarinets, horns and percussion. If you are interested you would be welcome to come to one of our rehearsals.

The Wantage Orchestra was founded in February 1977, to provide an opportunity for local musicians, including schoolchildren, to play together. We normally give three concerts a year. Repertoire is broadly symphonic; typical concert consists of an overture, a concerto & a symphony. Recently we have also played joint concerts with Oxford Studio Orchestra, with whom we share a conductor: Holst Planets in 2012, Mahler 5 planned. New players are welcome. Wantage Orchestra is registered charity No. 274065

If you love playing in an orchestral group and you want to meet more like-minded people; that's what we are about and we need YOU!

A relaxed and friendly concert band with a repertoire taken from ballets, musicals, film scores, marches, etc. We give three main concerts per year plus a number of other performances in the community. We welcome new members of all ages and suggest a standard of grade 4-5 above. We also have a training section for less experienced players.

Rather than have regular rehearsals, we perform regularly throughout the year as a marching band, concert band, Bavarian band and others at a variety of engagements. We travel to Germany every year and have played previously at the Royal Albert Hall. The band welcomes all new instrumentalists aged 13+; Grade 5 standard and above is preferred.

Founded in 2014, Wessex Sinfonietta has established itself as one of Hampshire’s leading chamber orchestras. Professionals and similarly talented musicians perform exciting and entertaining programmes at a high level. Rehearsals are held near Southampton on three Sunday afternoons near Southampton leading up to a concert in the beautiful Royal Victoria Chapel, Netley, where we have been appointed the Resident Orchestra. The orchestra enjoys performing with highly-regarded guest conductors. In 2023, conductors who have been invited to conduct the orchestra are Jonathan Lo (Royal Opera House), Mark Biggins (English National Opera), and Leo Geyer.

Wessex Strings is always happy to welcome experienced new players of about Grade 7 standard.

We are a small friendly community orchestra for all ages playing mainly light classical pieces. We perform two concerts a year including a long-standing Christmas concert in aid of Barnardos. The first session is free for newcomers if you want to try us out.

Clarinet choir for players of Grade 6 and above.

A friendly & supportive community wind band for players of up to Grade 3 standard or for those who have never played in a group before. All ages.

A friendly community wind band for players of Grade 4 standard and above. Brass players particularly welcome.

Bournemouth-based orchestra, giving 8 concerts a year in the Hampshire/Dorset area. New players always welcome.

If you are an experienced player and want to play at a semi-professional level this would be of interest to you. For more information please contact the lead player Mr Harry

The band was formed in October 1985 by a small group of enthusiastic musicians from within the police force. It is a traditional military style band, comprising of woodwind, brass and percussion sections. Note that despite the name, you don't have to be in the police force to play with the band, and in fact none of the current members are!

Amateur orchestra, open to all grades. £5 per session. Check website for dates.

For players of all orchestral and band instruments regardless of level or experience. Recent beginners and rusty returners equally welcome. We play a mix of ‘classical’ and light music chosen to suit the current line-up. Anyone welcome to give us a try: just let us know you are coming!

We are a friendly amateur orchestra and welcome players of roughly Grade 6 standard upwards. We encourage adult 'learners and returners' to join us, and don't hold auditions but do have an informal review process. The orchestra is currently led by more experienced musicians of grade 8 standard and above. If you are interested, all vacancies are advertised on the website.

The orchestra is a pro-am group which plays with the WMC choir for 2 concerts per year. Strings are mainly amateur with professional section leaders. Other sections are professional.

We are a large friendly symphony orchestra tackling ambitious works and putting on 3 concerts per year in the Winchester area. We host a biennial Young Soloist Competition where talented under 18s get the chance to perform a concerto with the full orchestra.  We are always happy to hear from potential new members, particularly strings and especially double basses.

Windsor & Maidenhead Symphony Orchestra is a registered charity, which provides an opportunity for local musicians to develop their skills and explore great orchestral masterpieces. We perform 3 major concerts each season in Eton College Hall and other local venues and the winners of our young musician competition are given the opportunity to play a concerto with the orchestra. See our website for our latest concert details and vacancies.

A friendly local orchestra for all young people and adults aged 16 and over. We meet to learn a wide range of music and perform together in the community. We welcome players of any instrument, grade or ability, especially those starting out or returning to playing music. The orchestra is designed for those under grade 5, though we also welcome more advanced players up to grade 8, with arrangements made to suit every player.

The Winslow Concert Band is a true community band, welcoming musicians of all ages and standards. It is made up of a very friendly group of players, and less experienced musicians get plenty of encouragement from more experienced members and from musical director Paul How. Members agree that their playing, especially their sight-reading, has improved since they joined, and the overall standard of the Band continues to progress. We always welcome players of any age or playing ability (although we usually suggest grade 3 and above) to any section. However we are currently particularly keen to recruit players of the French horn, tuba (instrument available) and baritone sax.

We are one of the oldest orchestras in the area, offering the opportunity for players of all ages and abilities to rehearse in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. No auditions but you need to be able to play to a reasonable standard (usually grade 5 or above). We put on 3 to 4 concerts per year including a sell-out Christmas concert. Repertoire includes light classical, musicals, film and pop. We have current vacancies in all string sections and french horn, but are interested in hearing from players of other instruments too.

Woodley Concert Band is an award-winning, high quality wind band based in Woodley, near Reading in Berkshire. We’re a warm, welcoming band and we’re proud of the extremely high standard we achieve, the variety of engagements we carry out and our thriving social scene.

We are a wind band encompassing woodwind, brass and percussion instruments, and we play a wide variety of music from Classical to Jazz suitable for beginners and intermediate players. We are a band for musicians of all abilities, those who are learning an instrument or have restarted playing, and more advanced players developing their musical skills in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

Wycombe Sinfonia is an orchestra of classical proportions consisting of local players of a very good standard. It aims to provide the opportunity for ensemble playing for the members and to organise public performances of a high standard several times a year