Site Title: Amateur Orchestras - Central Southern England (Oxford, Bucks, Berks, Hants, Dorset, Wilts)

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Orchestra	Conductor	Leader	Rehearsal Venue/Times	Contact(s)
Abingdon Concert Band	Stephen Bell		Thursday evenings at Dunmore Primary School in Abingdon (8:00pm - 10:00pm).	Kathy Wilcox
	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.
Aldworth Philharmonic Orchestra	Andrew Taylor	Neil Maclean	Sunday 2 weeks prior, whole weekend prior and weekend of the concert	Rebecca Stewardson Melissa Ward
	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 and June.
Allegro Wind Bands	Kevin Riley (AWB) Paul Johnson (JuniorBand)		Junior Band - Monday evenings 5-45 to 6-45 AWB - Wednesday evenings 6.30 to 8.00 Harrow Way School Andover	Paul Johnson 01264-339965
Allington Strings	Wendy Staal	Janet Lane	Monday evenings, fortnightly at St Mary's School, Bridport	Sue Smith (chairman) Wendy Staal
	A friendly string orchestra who would welcome new members. We are currently rehearsing Vivaldi's Four Seasons and Tchaikovsky's Serenade for Strings for concert on 1 May at St John's, West Bay. Future music likely to include Schubert Death and the Maiden and Mozart Eine Kleine Nachtmusik
Alton Concert Band	Les Packett		Wednesdays at 2.30 - 4.30pm at the Friends Meeting House, Church Lane, Alton	Les Packett Helen Gardner
	This is a newly formed band, and we would welcome brass or wind players of any instrument.
Alton Concert Orchestra	Graham Cross	Mac Newton	Wednesdays during term time: 7:30-9:30. Amery Hill School, Alton.	Chris Leggett. 01730 893032.
	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.
Amersham BandNEW	Paul Fisher		Monday evenings 8 p.m. at Winchmore Hill Methodist Chapel	Fred Harrrison – Chairman Rod Stevens – Secretary
	Amersham Band is a fourth section brass band. We are a go-ahead friendly bunch: qualified for the National Finals in 2010 and have a thriving training band for children and adults. We give various concerts and make a bi-annual visit to Bensheim, Amersham's twin town in Germany. For more information check our web site
Andover Light Orchestra	Kevin Riley	Karen Snook	Thursday Evening 7.15-9.00
	Concerts performed throughout the year at various venues
The Ashford Baroque Ensemble	Philip Buckmaster		St Matthew's Church, Church Road, Ashford, Middx. Fortnightly on Monday evenings	Philip Buckmaster 020 8751 5315
	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.
Aylesbury Concert Band	Duncan Stubbs		Sir Henry Floyd Grammar School, 7.30 - 9.45pm Wednesdays.	John Dablin 01296 433763
	A friendly community band which welcomes woodwind and brass players, preferably grade 4 or above
Aylesbury Orchestra	Jacques Cohen	Mark Warner	Wednesdays 7.30 - 9.30pm, Aylesbury Music Centre, Walton Rd, Aylesbury HP21 7ST	Julian Chilvers
Aylesbury Youth Orchestra	Hugh Molloy		Saturdays during term time 9.00-11.00am. Age range - up to 18.	01296 437392
	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.
Banbury Symphony Orchestra	Paul Willett	Anna Fleming	Banbury School during term-time on Tuesday evenings, 7.30 - 9.30pm.	Anna Fleming
	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	J D Jenkins	Jill Jenkins ARCM	Fortnightly Monday evenings and Friday afternoons in the Brockenhurst area	J D Jenkins
	Basic strings is for beginners and improvers and provides an intense and dedicated training opportunity.
Basingstoke Symphony Orchestra	Stephen Scotchmer	Rebecca Totterdell	Friday evenings in Basingstoke	Anne Smith, Personnel Secretary
	The BSO does three concerts a year in The Anvil, Basingstoke’s prestigious concert hall, generally in mid November, mid March and late June.
Beech Hill Concert Band	Tony Wythe		8pm at Beech Hill Village Hall, RG7 1AA	Tony Wythe 01635 297 609
	A high quality wind band which carries out a number of concerts throughout the year for various charities. We play a wide variety of music of varying difficulty. We are currently seeking an additional Trombone player and an additional French horn player. If you are around grade 8 standard then please contact us. We are also seeking an additional percussionist (drum kit).
Beenham Wind Orchestra	Robert Roscoe	Mel Poyda	Fridays from 7.30pm to 9.45pm in Beenham School Hall RG7 5NN	Simon Witcomb 01635 869869
	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.
Bournemouth and District Concert Band			Thursday evenings from 7.30-9.30pm at Queen's Park Infants School, East Way, Bournemouth BH8 9PU	Band Chairman
	Approx 40pc Community Wind band. Established 18yrs.
Bournemouth Philharmonic Society	Sam Newgarth, MBE	Janet Fortnum	Wednesday at 7.30 at St Peter's Catholic School	George Barker 01425 479012
	Bournemouth-based orchestra giving several concerts a year in the Hampshire/Dorset area. New players always welcome. We are especially recruiting strings, 3rd horn, trumpets and tuba.
Bournemouth Rehearsal Orchestra	Andrew Cowen	Brian Howells	Talbot House, Bournemouth University, Wallisdown, Bournemouth. 1930-2150 Mondays during term time.	Graham 01929 551050
	Play classical music in a friendly environment, without the pressure of performances whilst still aiming to improve ensemble playing and musicianship.
Bracknell & Wokingham Wind Band	Marc Edwards	Sarah Waite	8pm Wednesday (During term time) Open Learning Centre, Rectory Lane, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7GR	Marc Edwards Alan Yates
	BWCB was launched in Jan 2008 and is a 60 piece wind band performing publicly several times a year. Open to all grade 5 and above. Please visit website for more details.
Bridport Chamber OrchestraNEW	David Price	Alexandra Ennis	Mondays fortnightly, Christian Fellowship Hall, Bridport	Caroline Lewars 01935 824786
	We are a friendly string orchestra giving three concerts a year, playing from the string repertoire or accompanying a soloist. We have approximately five rehearsals before each concert and would welcome further competent string players who can attend the majority of rehearsals.
Brunel University Chamber Orchestra	Michael Sanderson	Genevieve Haughey	Monday evenings, 7.30-9.30pm Recital Room, Lecture Centre, Brunel University, Cleveland Road, Uxbridge	Jay Wilkinson /Karen Lamb 01895 266074
	Friendly University-based orchestra welcomes new members, particularly strings and lower woodwind. 4 concerts each year with wide repertoire.
The Burford Orchestra	Jonny Timms		Monday evenings, 7.30, Witney Community Primary School	Andy Bettle 07984 492976
	Based in Witney, Oxfordshire, The Burford Orchestra gives three concerts a year in and around West Oxfordshire. New players, especially string and brass players, are always welcome to come and join a friendly fun local orchestra.
Burnham Concert BandNEW	Phil Lazenbury		19:45-21:45 on Wednesdays at St Nicholas Church Taplow
	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+
The Bushey Symphony Orchestra	George Vass	Richard Spenceley	Tuesdays 19:45-22:00 Bushey Academy, London Rd, Bushey, Herts	Mike Brien
	The Bushey Symphony Orchestra, a highly regarded part of the local community currently celebrating its thirtieth year, gives a minimum of five concerts per season with a wide variety of repertoire from the baroque to the present day. Some vacancies exist in the violin, viola and cello sections. Grade 8 upwards please
Chalfont Concert Wind BandNEW	Dwight Pile-Gray BMus(Hons) ATCL		Monday evenings at Robertswood County School, Denham Lane, Chalfont St Peter, Buckinghamshire, SL9 OEW	Bryan Ogilvie (Chairman), 020 8998 7042 / 07810 648702 Mary Cadman (Secretary), 01494 863352 / 07765 567305
	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.
Charity Symphony Orchestra	Craig Lawton	varies	On the day of the concert.	Craig Lawton
	The Charity Symphony Orchestra is a leading and successful fundraising 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.
Chiltern Camerata	Sam Laughton	Linda Miller	Approximately fortnightly in High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire during school term time	Dick Morbey
	An adult orchestra which meets approximately fortnightly in High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire during school term time. 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, and various soloists to offer a wider range of music than the typical string repertoire.
Chiltern Edge Orchestral Society	Fa Fa Jin	Rebecca Hart	Tuesday, 7.30, Chiltern Edge School, Sonning Common, near Reading	Ruth Winchester 0118 972 2164
	Adult Orchestra, meeting weekly for 28 weeks with informal concerts at Xmas and before we break up at the end of May. String and brass players particularly welcome.
Cores End Concert Band			Rehearsals will take place in the Cores End United Reformed Church on Tuesdays at 8pm.
	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.
Cowley Orchestra, Oxford	Mary Snow	Irene Butcher	The Music Block, Oxford Academy, Sandy Lane West OX4 6JZ, 7.0pm to 9.0pm Wednesdays during school terms.	Pip Willcox Mary Snow
	We are a small play-through orchestra, largely sight-reading through 6 or 7 pieces in an evening. The orchestra originated over 60 years ago and has accumulated its own library of over 350 sets of music, and we sometimes hire from the Light Music Society. A typical evening ... My Fair Lady, a Haydn symphony, a Gershwin arrangement, Lustspiel, Teddy Bears' Picnic, Fingal's Cave, The ostracized Imp, Le Boulevardier. We welcome all players without audition, since we can never predict who will enjoy our type of music making, and who will find sight-reading satisfying.
Crowthorne Symphony Orchestra	Robert Roscoe	Melissa Lynch	St Johns Church Hall, Waterloo Rd, Crowthorne, Berkshire RG45 7NT. Monday evenings, 7.45 - 10 pm	Ruth Winchester 0118 972 2164
	We are an enthusiastic, light-hearted group who make music for enjoyment's sake, but who take rehearsals, practice and concerts seriously. Players are of all ages and come from all walks of life. We give 3 concerts a year performing varied and challenging programmes including popular classics as well as less well-known pieces. Players of the following instruments are welcome: - Violin - Viola - Double Bass - Trumpet - Trombone
Da Capo (Do All Come And Play Orchestra)	Patsy Moore		Padworth Village Hall (between Reading and Newbury) on Thursdays from 19.30-21.30 in term time	Patsy Moore 0118 9832098
	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	Len Tyler		Monday evenings during term time: 7 - 8.30 at Yateley School, School Lane, Yateley, Hants, GU46 6NW	Len Tyler 01276 34820
	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.
Deane Sinfonia	John Fuller		Mondays, 7.30 to 9.30pm Queen Mary's College, Basingstoke	John Fuller - 01256 398211
	3 concerts a year - always to raise money for charities
Didcot and Wallingford Orchestra	Simon Love	Diane Adams	Northbourne Centre, Didcot. Monday evenings 7:30-9:00 pm	Diane Adams 01235 819943 (evenings) Vicki Gledhill 01235 831817
	A rehearsal orchestra (so no performance pressures), but we tend to focus on one or two hired works and try to manage a complete playthrough just before returning the music to the library. The orchestra also owns several works which we play from time to time. Players of all standards and ages welcome.
Dorset Chamber Orchestra	Robert Jacoby	Anita Hansen	Generally four rehearsals immediately before a concert.	Allan Bickley, Secretary
	Currently performing about 4 concerts / year, in Dorchester, Dorset. We are always very happy to hear from potential players and members, see the website for required standards and contact details. Currently particularly interested in strings (especially double bass), horns and trumpets.
Dorset County Orchestra	Ian Pillow	Anita Hansen	Saturday or Sunday from 2:30 to 5:30 p.m., prior to a concert, usually at Tarrant Keyneston Village Hall.	(via website)
	Members are semi-professional and amateur adult players of Grade 6 standard and above. There are current vacancies, particularly for Violin & Viola players.
Dorset Sinfonia	David Ansell	Rachel Greenwood	Wednesdays 7.30 - 9.30 pm. Weymouth Bay Methodist Church, 32 Melcombe Avenue, Weymouth DT4 7TH	Jennie Balston 01305 775642 Kat Dixon 01305 751726
	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 Jennie or Kat beforehand so that we can ensure that we have an appropriate part available. Check out the website for more information.
Emsworth Concert Band	TBC	Ken Man	Thursday from 7.00pm to 9.00pm in St James Village Hall in Emsworth	Ken Mann 02392 483275 Kay Williams
	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.
Farnborough Concert Band of The Royal British Legion	David Smart		Manor Park, Aldershot. Tuesday evenings 8 - 10pm	David Smart
	A friendly sociable band with many high profile engagements throught the year in London and the South East of England, including overseas travel.
Farnborough Symphony Orchestra	Mark FitzGerald		Memorial Hall, North Camp Methodist Church, Lynchford Road, Farnborough. Thursday mights	Eleri Bailey, Secretary (via website)
	Four concerts given per season. Actively recruiting all strings, harp, trombone, french horn, percussion.
Fleet Orchestra	Mike Ford	Michael McConnell	SS Philip and James Church, Kings Road, Fleet, Every Wednesday during term-time from 8.00-9.30pm	Michael McConnell
	An enthusiastic and friendly ensemble that is looking to expand. We welcome anyone who can play an orchestral instrument at a level of (say) Grade 4 and above, however it is more important that there is a wish to improve individual playing standards and, for the more experienced, to share technique and musicianship. We are led by an enthusiastic conductor, who is also prepared to share the role or hand over to a suitable applicant.
Freeland Orchestra	Wendy Marks		Alternate Wednesday evenings 8.15 to 10 pm in Freeland, Oxfordshire.	Wendy Marks 01993 883379
	We are a friendly community orchestra in the Oxford area looking for more string players. Other instrumentalists also welcomed. No auditions!
Giocoso Concert Band			Thursday evenings 7.45pm-9.45pm, Swanbourne Village Hall, Bucks	David Sharp 01908 503461
	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!
Goring & Streatley Concert Band	Richard Powell		Goring Community Centre, Mondays (except Bank Holidays) 7:30 to 9:30 p.m.	Jan Buhagiar, 0118 984 2616
	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 fetes, regattas and parks.
Goring & Streatley Starter Band	Richard Powell		Goring Community Centre, 6:40 to 7:25 pm on Monday evenings during term time	Jan Buhagiar, 0118 984 2616
	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.
The Great Missenden Orchestra	Paul Luke	Ed Hewitt	Wednesday evenings in term time, Oldham Hall, Great Missenden, Bucks, 8-10pm	Stephanie Baudet
	We are a friendly orchestra who put on two or three concerts/workshops per year. String/brass players particularly welcome.
Guernsey Symphony Orchestra	Various guest conductors		Rehearses in the week leading up to a concert	Tim Wright
	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.
Hampshire Area Guitar Orchestra (hago)	Derek Hasted		Purbrook Church Hall Waterlooville, Thursday evenings	Derek Hasted, 023 9247-9200
	hago is a guitar orchestra with 4 sizes of classical guitar. New players from Grade 4 to 8 are always welcome to audition. We play 3 or 4 concerts a year to raise funds for local community charities.
Hampshire Recorder Sinfonia	Christopher Burgess	Helen Hooker	Wednesday evenings 7.30 pm - 9.00 pm Warblington School Drama studio, Havant, Hants	Christopher Burgess Penny Smith
	HRS is a group of twenty five recorder players. Some are seasoned musicians, others are gifted youngsters and 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.. 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.
Havant Symphony Orchestra	Peter Craddock	Cathy Mathews	Most Fridays in 'term time'  7.00-9.30 at St. Faith's Church Hall in Havant	Sandra Craddock
	Formed in 1962, friendly full symphony orchestra. Minimum standard of entry is Grade 8 Associated Board or other boards' equivalent. Informal audition - 4 weeks trial followed by consultation with section leader and conductor. Three concerts each season, usually with international soloists, at Ferneham Hall in Fareham.
Heart Strings	Rachel Fountain		Wednesdays during term time, The Chantry Chapel, Market Hill, Buckingham	Rachel Fountain 07789 050257
	We are a small but friendly conducted community orchestra, open to adult string players of all abilities: those who maybe learned to play at school and wish to dust down their instrument; learners who have been playing for at least one year and are looking for a supportive environment in which to practise their new skills; or already accomplished string players looking for a friendly local group to play in. We meet weekly during term-time and hold one or two informal concerts a year.
Henley Symphony Orchestra	Ian Brown	David Burton	Henley College, Thursdays 7.30pm - 10pm September to June	Elaine Dudeney, 01491 628520
Highbury Area Band	Richard Horn		Fort Widley, Portsmouth on Wednesday nights during term time between 19:00 - 21:30	Richard Horn 07901650987 Alistair Lane
	The Highbury Area Band is a symphonic youth wind band with an extensive repertoire covering the whole musical range including classical, popular, marches, film themes and music from well known shows. The musicians range in standard from Grade 5 upwards, and are mostly aged between 11 and 21. HAB performs regular concerts throughout the year many in aid of local charities.
Inertia OrchestraNEW	Felicity Griffin, Emily Russell		Mondays, 8- 9.30pm at the University of Winchester	Emily Russell
	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.
ISIS Chamber Orchestra	Paul Cox	Andrew Lack	Tuesdays and Fridays 7.30pm - 9.45pm in the fortnight preceding the concert	Andrew Lack (chair) Sharon Curtis (Webmaster)
	The ISIS Chamber Orchestra gives several concerts per year, in and around Oxfordshire, and performs a variety of orchestral works, mainly for chamber orchestra.
Langtree Sinfonia	Paul Cox	Bill Osler	Wednesday evenings during term time from 7.30 to 9.30 at Langtree School in Woodcote, near Reading.	James Watkins (membership secretary) 0118 9477387 Chris Winch (chairman) 01865 340339
	We are a friendly bunch of mixed musical abilities who enjoy playing together. We give two formal concerts a year, one a programme of classical music at Christ Church in Henley in November, and the other a bigger, more ambitious performance at Dorchester Abbey in May. There is no audition to join, and we currently have vacancies in all string sections and all brass except horns.
Lymington Town Band	Clive Burroughs		Monday evenings 1930 to 2130 at the Literary Institute, New Street, Lymington, Hampshire	Frank Weller (Hon Secretary) 023 80846702
	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.
Maidenhead Concert Band	Peter Ripper		Furze Platt Church, Maidenhead - Monday 7:30 - 9:00pm (During term time)	Carrie Rogers
	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.
Marchwood Orchestra	Tony Kitcherside	Shared	Thursdays in Hounsdown School,Totton, 7.30	Caroline Quinn 023 8057 9061
	We are a small unstuffy orchestra who mainly play lighter classical music. We're particularly keen to hear from string, brass and percussion players. Some instruments are available for loan.
Marlborough Concert Orchestra	Christopher Irby	Edward Judge	Every Tuesday 7:30 - 9:30 St John's School, Chopping Knife Lane, Marlborough SN8 4AU	via website
	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!
Midsummer Players	Mike James		Term time Monday evenings, 8:00-9:30 at the City Church, Central Milton Keynes	Mike James 01908 324448 or 07989 583436
	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.
Millstream Orchestra			Thursday every other week in Damerham	Heather Dobby 01425 473900
	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.
The Milton Keynes Sinfonia	David Knight		Church of Christ the Cornerstone, Milton Keynes, Thursday 7:30p.m	David Knight Christine Hunt, Chair
	All welcome esp. experienced violin, viola & bass players. Forthcoming concerts 25/3, 25/6, 15/7.
The Misbourne Orchestra	Richard Jacklin	Alan Morris	Amersham School, Stanley Hill, Amersham, HP7 9HH, 8 pm Thursdays	Clair McCoy (Chair)
	4 concerts per year in the Chiltern area. String and brass players very welcome.
New Forest Community Orchestra	Lee Marchant		7.30pm on Wednesday evenings in Hordle Church Memorial Hall ( between Lymington and New Milton in South-West Hampshire)	Alan Ford 01590681741
	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 string, oboe and brass players.
Newbury Symphony Orchestra	Christopher Dawe	Mike Jones	Every Wednesday 7.15pm Wormstall Hall, St.Bartholomew’s School, Newbury	Mrs Jane Shillam 01635 42988
	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.
Northwood String Orchestra	Rita Leighton	Sian Buckley	Mondays in term time, 7.30 to 9.30 at Friends Meeting Hall, Ordnance Road, Southampton	Jim Bailey 02380775019
	Friendly Southampton based orchestra giving three concerts a year. Proceeds to charity. Young players very welcome.
OU (Open University) Orchestra	Hugh Molloy		At the Open University, Milton Keynes, generally Friday lunchtime for an hour.	Laurence Holden 01908 605863
	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.
Oxford Sinfonia	various		St Ebbe's School, Oxford, just prior to concerts.	Simon Payne 01235 539888
	Founded in 1984, giving an average of four orchestral concerts per year, mostly in Oxford. We also accompany choral societies.
Pelly Concert Orchestra	Christopher Braime	Amanda Lake	Tuesday from 8 - 10 pm at Oak Farm School, Farnborough, Hants	Secretary
	The Pelly 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.
Per Piacere Chamber OrchestraNEW	Paul Ingram	Chris Knox	Shirley Parish Hall, 7.30pm every Thursday	Chris Knox 07717 705789
	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.
Petersfield Orchestra	Robin Browning	Helen Purchase	Friday evenings during school term times. 7:15pm - 9:15pm at the Avenue Pavilion, The Avenue, Petersfield, Hampshire	Eldrith Ward 02392 252357
	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).
Portsmouth Light Orchestra	Eddy McDermott		Tuesday from 7.45pm. to 9.45pm. at The Buckland Community Centre, Malins Road, Portsmouth	Eddy McDermott 02392 524978 Val Loft 02392 371135
	Annual subscriptions £40 (includes Community Centre Membership). Student Rate £16.
Portsmouth Philharmonia	Spencer Bundy		Sundays during term time from 7pm-9pm at Church of the Resurrection, Drayton	Anne White 02392 731122
	We are a friendly orchestra based in Portsmouth and we aim to perform 3 concerts per year. There are no auditions or trial periods and there is no minimum ability level. Please visit our website for more information on joining us, rehearsals and forthcoming concerts.
University of Portsmouth Orchestra	Colin Jagger		Thursday evenings from 6.30-8.30pm in the Wiltshire Building.	Colin Jagger
	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
Radcliffe Orchestra	various		Six rehearsals preceding each concert (usually on Tuesdays), and also a Saturday afternoon rehearsal on the day of the concert.	John Stradlin (chair) Sharon Curtis (Webmaster)
	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 Symphony Orchestra	Stefan Hofkes	Lynette Wynn	Every Thursday evening, 7:15 to 9:30. St Mary’s School, Wensley Road, Reading.	Julia Luckett, Chairman
Regent Orchestra	Paul Luke	Frank Henderson	Broughton Infant School Narbeth Drive, Aylesbury 7.45pm - 9.45pm Mondays (during school terms)	Secretary - Suzanne Clayton. 0845 430 4567
	Founded in 1955, we are a friendly orchestra, based in Aylesbury, Bucks., performing three concerts per year, ranging from light folk music to full symphonies. New string/brass players particularly welcome.
The Rushmoor Concert Band	Phil Lazenbury	Peter Woods	Mondays 20:00 - 22:00 at the Cody Sports and Social Club, Old Ively Road, Farnborough	Peter Woods 01252 658314 Ossie 01252 651544
	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.
St Aldhelm’s Orchestra	Kevin Smith	Caroline Poon	Mondays 7.30-9.30 in term time, St.Aldhelm’s Church, Branksome, Poole.	Hilary Tointon 01202 246840 Lindsay Extance 01425 627054
	The Orchestra plays varied items from the classical repertoire. The Orchestra tries to maintain the full complement of string, wind and brass players that would be found in a standard orchestra. There are some vacancies and details of these can be obtained from the contact listed
St Giles Orchestra	Geoffrey Bushell	Emily Ormerod	Cheney School, Oxford, Thursdays 7.30-9.30	Geoffrey Bushell 01235 818848
	Oxfordshire’s favourite amateur orchestra, playing 3-5 concerts per year. Please see our website for concert details and vacancies
The Saturday Morning Orchestra	Jerry Lanning	Jane Ely	Saturday 10.30am - 12.45, Beansheaf Community Hall, Calcot, Berkshire	Dan Long
	We meet to enjoy playing classical music and occasionally to rehearse concerts for charity. Currently there are vacancies for double basses, tuba, violas and violins (1st and 2nd)
Shaftesbury Orchestra	Donal Bannister		Term times at Port Regis School,Motcombe,near Shaftesbury	Judy Ashwin 01258 451079
	Established some 25 years ago, termly concert at Port Regis.
Sherborne Community Orchestra	David Price	Robert Martin	Sherborne Boys School in the Big School Room. 4 Sundays a year plus 1 concert. 10am - 4.30pm	Frances Edwards
	New musicians always welcome of Grade 5 standard and above.
The Slough Philharmonic Orchestra	David Wilson	Marilyn Vanryne	Orchestra: Wednesdays 7:30 to 9:45 Choir: Mondays 7:30 to 9:30 Burnham Grammar School, Hogfair Lane, Burnham SL1 7HG	Orchestra: Keith Pocock 01494 524797 Choir:-Michael du Pre 01628-631119
	5 concerts per year. Season is September to May.
Solent Symphony Orchestra	Steve Tanner	Kirstie Robertson	One or two rehearsals in Portsmouth prior to concerts	Helen Walton
	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 WorshipNEW	Reg Fletcher		3pm on the 2nd Sunday of the month at St Peter's Church, Boyatt Wood	Stephen Spencer
	Sound Worship is an orchestra whose aim is to provide orchestral accompaniment to church services and events within the Winchester Diocese. The orchestra is made up of Christian musicians and we offer our services for free, although a donation to orchestra funds would never be turned down!
South Berks Concert Band	Paul Speed		Englefield Church of England Primary School, Friday evenings, 7:45 to 10:00 pm.	Debb Bouch 0118 9475690
	To see current band vacancies, please visit our website.
Southampton Concert Orchestra	Paul Ingram	Cerys Emmett.	Sunday evenings in term time 7 - 9.30pm, Millbrook Church, Southampton	Paul Ingram Mike Hall (Chairman) 023 8084 2865
	Southampton based orchestra giving up to 7 concerts a year. New players always welcome. Please phone or e mail for further details.
Southampton Concert Wind Band	Calum Gray		St Anne's School, Southampton Thursday 7.30pm to 9.30pm	Jacqui Boydell : Membership Secretary
	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.
City of Southampton Orchestra	John Traill	Zena Howell	Tuesday evenings from 7:15 to 9:45pm, at the Cantell School in Southampton.	Orchestra Manager
	The Orchestra began as an ad hoc group in March 1971. The music played by the orchestra usually exploits the full scope of Symphonic instrumentation used in 19th and 20th Century orchestral works. The orchestra has a continuing need for Double Bass and Viola players.
Southampton University Symphony Orchestra	Robin Browning	Andy Weaver	Varies	President Vice- President
Southsea Chamber Orchestra	Natalie Clayton		Albert Road, Southsea, Wednesdays, 7.30-9.30pm	Natalie Clayton
	We explore the classical repertoire for our own enjoyment. Anyone welcome, but especially strings.
Sturminster Newton Orchestra	Mike Nipper		Stour View Centre, Sturminster Newton, Saturday mornings 9.30 - 11.45 in school term time	Jackie Brown 01258 488434
	We are an all-age community rehearsal orchestra for beginners, late starters, and rusties. We usually play simplified orchestral arrangements, and welcome any player of an orchestral instrument who has reached about grade 2 standard or above. Rehearsals start with easy music and get more challenging after the mid-morning break. No auditions, no concerts, no pressure, just fun making music together.
Swindon Symphony Orchestra	Malcolm Webb		Sunday afternoons from 2 until 4 p.m. at Coleview Community Centre in Swindon	Secretary 01793 826857
	The orchestra supports a charity with each concert by means of retiring collections, and the charities chosen are at the suggestion of the members of the orchestra. At present the orchestra does not have any woodwind or brass vacancies, but high standard players of violin, viola and double bass are always welcome, and we could accommodate one or two more cellos.
Symphony in a Weekend	Graham Reid		Annually (March / April), in Milton Keynes	Laurence Holden 01908 605863
	An annual meeting of professional, amateur and student musicians to rehearse and perform a major orchestral piece. The next event is currently being planned - see our website for more info, and expressions of interest in taking part are now welcomed.
Testbourne OrchestraNEW	Chris Thorpe		Tues 7.30 to 9.30 at Testbourne School, Whitchurch Hants	School 01256 892061 Paul Scruton
	This friendly orchestra is now focussing on late classical and early romantic symphonic works, but also plays shorter, lighter works. There is no audition or grade requirement for joining but those whose playing is at the equivalent of grade 5/6 or above are likely to have a more rewarding experience. We have a particular need for French horns at present but also have flute, oboe, bassoon and strings vacancies.
Thame Concert Band	Roger Hewitt		Christchurch, Upper High Street, Thame, every Tuesday 7:30 - 9:30	Roger Hewitt 07977 523 112
	We are a friendly wind band doing several concert and fete appearances every year. We have vacancies in most areas, particularly brass and percussion, but all are welcome. See our website for more information.
Trinity Camerata	Guest conductors	Nancy Roberts	Intensive period of rehearsals before a concert; usually held in Bicester	John Alexander
	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 BandNEW	Chris l'Anson		Trinity Church, Lower Earley on Tuesday evenings 7:45 – 9:45	Dave Robson 0118 9668502
	Trinity Concert Band is a full symphonic wind band and our repertoire exploits the tonal qualities such an ensemble can offer. We play music from all sources – classical transcriptions, original concert band compositions, music from stage and screen, pop, rock and swing as well as traditional marches!
Trowbridge Symphony Orchestra	David Price	John Lauder	Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford on Avon	Frank Martin - Secretary 01225 753379
	If you are looking for an orchestra to play in or support, TSO has a reputation for combining friendliness with demanding rehearsals and rewarding, exciting performances
Vale Winds	Harvey Baigent		Usually first Sunday of the month, near Aylesbury	Harvey Baigent Eoin Woods (secretary)
	Vale Winds 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.
Warminster Philharmonic Orchestra	Amanda Wakelin-Smith		Every other Tuesday at Warminster School from 7.30-9.30pm	Amanda Wakelin-Smith 01985 846557
	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!
The Warsash Band	Dave Gasser		7:30pm - 9:30pm Thursday evenings	Sidney Bell
	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.
Wessex Military Band	Martin Davison		(see notes)	Martin Davison 01308 425010
	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.
WOW - West Oxfordshire Winds	Wendy Marks		alternate Wednesdays 7 to 8 pm in Freeland, Oxfordshire	Wendy Marks 01993 883379
	This newly formed friendly wind band is for players of any age from Grade 1 to 5 standard.
The Westbourne Orchestra	Lee Marchant	Jane Bultz	Friday evenings 7.30 to 9.30 at St Ambrose Church, Westbourne	Debbie Stent (Sec) 01202 425056
	Bournemouth-based orchestra, giving 8 concerts a year in the Hampshire/Dorset area. New players always welcome.
Wiltshire Chamber Recorder Consort	Tyrone Harry		Fortnightly on Thursday evenings from 6.00-7.30pm in Chippenham, Wiltshire	Tyrone Harry 07955 094393
	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 Wimborne Orchestra	John Turner	Kim Grounds	Lockyer's Middle School, Corfe Mullen, Mondays 7.30 - 9.30 p.m.	Cond.: John Turner/01258 455403 Sec.: Bob Cox/01202 698350
	Players of all instruments and all standards welcome, especially 'rusty returners'. String and brass players especially welcome. Varied repertoire of light classical, etc.. Mostly shorter pieces.
Winchester Chamber Orchestra	Craig Lawton	Sarah Noble	All Saints School, St Catherine's Road, Winchester, SO23 0PS, Thursdays from 7.30 to 9.30.	Richard Grover
	Established 20 years, with about 40 members, mostly string with respectable wind sections. New players of roughly Grade 6 standard upwards welcome, especially 'rusty returners'. We are a ""learning orchestra"": no auditions. String players especially welcome. Varied repertoire of post-Baroque classical period for small orchestras; plus themed light classical. Occasional choral works supporting local choral societies. Public concerts late January and late June.
Winchester Symphony Orchestra	Nicholas Wilks	Peter Marsh	Winchester College New Hall on Monday evenings	Sam McKay
	We would particularly welcome string players, and sometimes have other vacancies - please enquire.
The Windsor & Maidenhead Symphony Orchestra	Leon Gee	Liz Greeley	Every Tuesday from 7.30pm to 9.40pm, Dolphin School, Hurst, near Twyford, Berks	Frances Jones
Windsor Community Orchestra	Elaine Foakes		Dedworth Green Baptist Church, 29 Smiths Lane, Windsor SL4 5PE on Thursdays from 7.00 to 9.00 p.m	Elaine Fowkes 01753 859123
	A local orchestra for all ages, including children above 9 years old, young people and adults, who meet to learn a wide range of music and perform together in the community. We welcome players of any grade or ability, but the orchestra is designed for those under grade 5.
Woodley Concert Band	John Sayer		St Dominic Savio RC School, Western Avenue, Woodley, RG5 3BH from 7:45pm every Wednesday.	Dr Catherine Piper (Secretary)
	We are always on the lookout for new members who can play to a good standard. Right now, we are particularly looking for a bassoon player, french horn player and a tuned percussion player.
Wootton Bassett Orchestra			7.30pm every Thursday evening at The Methodist Church, Rope Yard, Wootton Bassett.
	New players are welcome, especially string players at present.
Wycombe and Great Kingshill Wind Band			Fridays at the High Wycombe Music Centre (Millbrook School on Mill End Road) from 7:30pm to 9:00pm	Nigel Moorhouse 01628 522729
	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	John Dunnett	John Graham	Monday Evenings, John Hampden Grammar School, High Wycombe
	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
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