UK Amateur Orchestras

East Midlands (Derbys, Notts, Lincs, Leics, Northants)

NEW - entries since 1 Jan 2023

NEW - entries since 1 Jan 2024

Orchestra (full)

Wind band (brass and woodwind)

String Orchestra

Brass band

Miscellaneous

Orchestra

Conductor /
Leader
Rehearsal Venue / Times
 
Contact(s)
 
Philip Burditt
 
Sunday evenings at the Music School in Kettering Road, Northampton (entrance in Clare Street), 8:00pm - 10:00pm
 Dinah Elliott 01536 519414
 
A band open to all and aimed at adult beginners. We try to have strong section leaders to help the other players along and we tackle anything from Monteverdi to the Kaiser Chiefs. There are no auditions, and unless any section gets ridiculously overpopulated, no particular limits on numbers of players.
The Academy Orchestra
Ben
 
Fortnightly at the Attenborough Arts Centre, Leicester
 
 
Any standards, and any instruments - inclusive & fun is the idea. £5 per session and based in Leicester at the Richard Attenborough Centre
Ad Hoc Baroque
 
Howard Kilner
Occasional, on Saturdays or Sundays between 2pm and 6pm about once a month in or around Ashbourne, Derbyshire
 Howard Kilner 01298 84844
 
Come when you can – not a regular, fixed commitment. No auditions but about grade 5 and above. Ad Hoc Baroque is a string group and we play mainly baroque music, not just the famous stuff, with different pieces every time, so no tiresome week-by-week bashing through the same pieces. Guidance is given about how to play baroque music. All the music can be downloaded free from the internet. Pay-as-you-go, to include home-made refreshments.
Adrian Ashton
 
Monday evenings 7.30-9.30 at Holy Trinity Church, Kilwardby Street, Ashby de la Zouch, LE65 2FR
 Adrian Ashton
 Amanda Berry
We are a friendly local community band. We play 3 or 4 concerts a year mainly in Ashby but also in the surrounding area. We have a minimum grade 5 entry standard and entry is by audition.
Ashby String Orchestra NEW
Peter Rose
 
Monthly on a Sunday at St Helen's Heritage Centre Ashby de la Zouch.
 Peter Rose 07986 593340
 
 
Claus Efland
Adam Summerhayes
Intensive rehearsals before each concert
 Mark Penny
 
 
Ray Jones and Gaynor Lovett
 
Tuesdays, 7.15pm at the Zion Church Openwoodgate in Belper
 Ray Jones
 
Players of all brass, woodwind, double reed and tuned percussion instruments are welcome to join our concert wind band. Just turn up, make your self known, and bring your instrument, as there are no auditions. We are a very friendly bunch of all ages, with a variety of different backrounds in music. After a small probationary period a decision is made on membership, and you can then decide on whether you want to be part of a group, who are working to promote music in and around the community. Music is fun so come along and enjoy yourselves.
Dan Watson
 
Long Eaton on Thursday nights, fortnightly
 07794 649030
 
Blackwood was formed, back in 2010, when the clarinet section of Nottingham Symphonic Wind Orchestra came together to hold rehearsals. Blackwood performs all over the East Midlands, in both public concerts and private functions.
Angela Kay
 
Occasional playing days at Albert Hall, Nottingham
 Administrator
 
Our playing days give you the chance to renew your old skills or put new-found ones into practise in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. The conductor will be Angela Kay, the Artistic Director of Music for Everyone, who blends expertise, enthusiasm and a great sense of humour. The instrumental parts will be sent out in advance of the course, to give you time to get to grips with the notes ahead of the day itself.
John Sheppard
Richard Foster
Tuesday evenings 7pm to 9pm on Boots site, Nottingham
 Boots Orchestra
 
Formed in 1951 by Boots players, we welcome enquiries from all local musicians. We meet weekly to play music of all eras and styles in an enjoyable atmosphere. We give around 3 concerts in the Nottingham area each year for local charities. Please see our website for vacancies - we currently have vacancies for all Strings, Trombone and Percussion. Previous orchestral experience is necessary, as is the ability to sight-read.
Georgina Boaks
Andrew Sutton
Mondays 7.30 – 9.30, St.Mary’s Church Hall, 24 Horncastle Road, Boston PE21 9BU
 Georgina Boaks
 Jean Flynn 01205 352240
The Boston Orchestra is a community orchestra, open to anyone playing an orchestral instrument – learners of any age, those returning to music after some time, young people at school and anyone who enjoys participating in, or would like to try, orchestral playing. Despite the limitations of mixed standards, we do two or three concerts a year in and around Boston and play quite challenging pieces, though rarely a standard orchestral concert, more a mixture of shorter pieces (more Classic FM than Radio 3!). The orchestra members are very friendly and we are a happy orchestra and a perfect way in to orchestral playing for anyone learning or uncertain of their abilities and needing a confidence boost!
Nigel Morley
Anne Dales
Rehearsals before each concert.
 
 
Boston Sinfonia was founded in June 1996 by Stephen Maher to give a platform to local professional-standard, top-rate musicians to provide classical music for people of Boston and surrounding areas, to accompany local choral societies and also encourage young talented musicians to play to a professional standard.
Brian Dipple
 
Wednesdays 7.30-9.30, Turweston Village Hall
 
 
We are a friendly, well established group of wind players who play around three or four concerts a year in support of local charities. We play a wide variety of music from light classical to show and film tunes. We ask for minimum grade 5 standard, no audition required.
 
 
Training Band and Concert Band on Tuesday evenings, Symphonic Wind Orchestra on Sunday evenings, all in Loughborough.
 Band Secretary
 
Three friendly community wind bands catering for all ages and abilities from Grade 1 standard upwards. We play all styles of music and perform concerts and fundraisers across the East Midlands as well as at bandstands and fetes.
Nic Fallowfield
Jon Barwell
Thursday 7.30 to 9.30pm, Humphrey Perkins High School, Barrow upon Soar, Leics.
 Simon Marshall
 
The Charnwood Orchestra is a 60-piece symphony orchestra based in Barrow-upon-Soar, Leicestershire. Founded in 1973, the orchestra performs five concerts a year in Leicestershire and tours to other locations in the UK every two years. Playing a rich variety of music including major works from the classical, Romantic and 20th century repertoire, the orchestra features a range of superb solo artists from all over the country.
River Edis-Smith
Lucy Phillips
Rehearsals are on term time Tuesdays, 7.30 - 9.30 at Brookfield School, Chesterfield.
 Joyce Sallis
 
Usually give 3 concerts a year in Chesterfield or surrounding area
Allister Garrod, Master, City of Lincoln Waites
 
Monday evenings, by arrangement
 Allister Garrod 07896 005598
 
This 15th Century Civic Band, perform on period instruments, wearing appropriate historical costume.
David Calow
Jo Conquest
Fridays every fortnight 7.30p.m. until 9.30p.m. at Christchurch Baptist & Methodist Church, 105a Clarendon Park Road, Leicester LE2 3AH
 David Calow 07825 537 647
 
The Clarendon Park Orchestra is a friendly adult amateur orchestra based in Leicester. We aim to give musicians the opportunity to play and perform classical & more contemporary popular pieces in a friendly and sociable environment. Whilst we strive to always improve our playing and individual skills we also believe that playing music should be fun with on emphasis more on the rehearsals than public performances. We welcome new players from the more experienced, those that maybe wish to revive old skills and those who have begun to play more recently but not beginners. There are no formal auditions. All that we ask is that you can cope with the music, feel reasonably comfortable sight reading and are able to regularly attend rehearsals.
Ted Bottle
 
Tuesday evenings (all year) 7:15 - 8:45 pm, Newbridge High School, Forest Road, Coalville, Leics
 Ted Bottle 01530 834133
 
Playing mainly classical music, with piano, in a relaxed environment just for the pleasure of it. No public performances so its members can enjoy playing without the spotlights, an audience and intensive rehearsal schedules. It is an organisation that does not take itself too seriously - and is inexpensive - the nightly fee is even waived for those in full time education! We also have a chamber music section which meets at other times (usually at members homes) to play sonatas, trios, quartets, and more, for various combinations of instruments.
Kieran O'Riordan
 
First Thursday of each month 7-9pm at Nottingham Trent University, Clifton Campus (Dance Studio).
 Anna Claydon
 
CoMA (Contemporary Music for All) East Midlands. We specialise in new music, whether it be from the pre-existing repertoire (e.g. Cage, Cardrew, Glass), commissioned by CoMA (e.g. Nyman, Smith, Bryars, Harvey) or written by CoMA's own experienced and learning composers. The ensemble (some pieces include vocal work too) is welcome to all although some solid ability to read classical notation is needed for most pieces.
Phil Houghton
 
Tuesdays, 10am – 12 noon, Emmanuel Church, Forest Road, Loughborough, LE11 3NW
 Kirstie Hind
 
This group, based in Loughborough, rehearses 3 terms per year. Autumn (Sept – Nov), Spring (Jan – March) and Summer (April – June) with 7 – 9 rehearsals per term. A wide ranging repertoire has been chosen for the orchestra with something for everyone, from classics to film music! No auditions, all players welcome of grade 3+.
Josh Goodman
 
Thursdays, 10am – 12pm, St Martin’s Church, Sherwood, NG5 3FU
 Kirstie Hind
 Anne Jackson
This group, based in Aspley, rehearses 3 terms per year. Autumn (Sept – Nov), Spring (Jan – March) and Summer (April – June) with 7 – 9 rehearsals per term. A wide ranging repertoire has been chosen for the orchestra with something for everyone, from classics to film music!
Simon Willis
Judy McCulloch
Wednesdays, 7:15pm - 9:30pm @ Allestree Club
 music@derbyconcertband.co.uk
 
Derby Concert Band has been practising and performing music as a band in Derby for over 30 years. Our repertoire includes traditional band ensemble music, film, television and theatre themes, classical repertoire and big band jazz. Please enquire on our website for further details on the band and how to join us.
Jonathan Trout
 
Monday evenings during school term from 7.15 - 9.45pm at St.Benedicts Catholic School, Duffield Road, Darley Abbey, Derby DE22 1JD
 Bryan Clarke 01332 559374
 Jonathan Trout 01629 823669
Orchestra members are an eclectic group of individuals, joining together for their own self development as well as to perform live music in the Derbyshire area. Music is chosen for each orchestral season following suggestions by our members, so a broad range of classical tastes is offered. Rehearsals are friendly, businesslike and fun, something to look forward to on a weekly basis. We are often looking for more players, Cellists and Double Bass players at a particular premium at the moment. We can normally accommodate more violins and violas at a suggested standard of around Grade 7-8.
Ian Earnshaw
 
Thursday 7pm to 8.45 pm, at the Royal Derby Hospital
 Enquiries (via volunteer services at the hospital) 01332 786148
 Wendy Smith – chair
Fun friendly wind band, no set skill level, all musicians welcome, practices at the Royal Derby Hospital. All funds we raise through playing events and concerts go straight back into the hospital. We are especially keen to hear from Trumpet/Cornet/Trombone/Horn players. For more information e-mail us, or find us on Facebook.
Derby Orchestral Society
Dan Pedley
 
Tuesday evenings 700pm - 830pm
 Dan Pedley
 
We are an informal group playing a variety of easy listening music, including light classical and well known song tunes. We meet weekly for our rehearsals in Derby during school term time, and perform 2 to 3 concerts per year, largely for fundraising for charities. Our orchestra includes strings, woodwind and brass and we welcome all players of any age or ability.
Derby Philharmonic Orchestra
Helen Nash
 
St Osmunds Church Hall Thursday 7.30 - 9.00
 Helen Nash
 
We are a well established amateur orchestra playing all types of music. We have been established for over 60 years and take any amateur orchestral players with a desire to play with other musicians. We do not have an audition policy just a desire to enjoy orchestral playing.
Sarah Ireland
Matt Simpson
7pm – 9 pm Tuesday evenings St Osmund’s Church Hall – Alvaston
 Matt Simpson 07791616814 / 01332 874424
 Trudi Jones
Fun band, friendly band which specialises in playing Glen Millar, Upbeat Latin American music, with a little Disney for good measure. All musicians welcome regardless of musical abilities. For more information please see our Derby Serenaders Facebook Page.
Mat Davis
Stephen Howarth
Monday evenings at the Djanogly City Academy, Nottingham, 7.00 - 9.15 pm
 Jacky Fisher
 
We are a large friendly amateur orchestra, who rehearse throughout the year. We usually perform three concerts a year, often working with local young musicians or local choirs. We welcome expressions of interest from all competent players, and although our vacancies varies we are currently seeking a Bass Trombone, Double Bass and some other strings.
Dukeries Community Concert Band
Malcolm Bevan
 
Tuesday in term time - 7 - 9pm, Dukeries Community College
 Linda Adrych
 
Any players welcome - no standards, no auditions. We have pupils from 10 upwards. Concerts 3 times a year. Please email for more details.
Sheila Richards
 
2pm-5pm on the 3rd Sunday of the month at St Giles Community Hall, Main Street, Balderton NG24 3LN
 Sheila Richards
 
Prospective members should have a good standard of playing and sight-reading – and be prepared to play any of the usual sizes of recorder (descant, treble, tenor or bass) as required. Players of larger instruments (great bass and contrabass recorders) are particularly welcome – in the interests of balance, the size of the orchestra may be dictated by number of bass players…
Tony Rifugiato
 
Wednesday Evenings, 7:30pm till 9:30pm at the Enderby Village Institute, opposite the Methodist Church, just up from the Coop on Cross Street LE19 4NJ
 Greg Hayes 07766 797057
 
A traditional concert band format, we cater for all wind and brass instruments and our range of players currently includes Clarinets, Flutes and Piccolo, Saxophones, Oboe, Bassoon, Trumpets, Cornets, Horns, Euphonium, Trombones, Tuba and a Percussionists. Our players range from beginners to experienced Grade 8 musicians, of all ages and we play a range of popular and classical band music. We play a whole variety of music from old to new. The band is a great way of making friends and meeting new people, as well as being in the band, improving your playing and learning new skills. Auditions are not required, anyone is welcome.
David Martin
Stewart Smith
Friday evenings 7-9pm September to May at New Sawley Methodist Chapel, Tamworth Road, Sawley NG10 3GU
 
 
A small friendly group of mainly adult amateur players of orchestral instruments (with piano). We play a variety of light and classical arrangements just for pleasure - no public performances - so don't worry if you're 'out-of-practice'. No annual membership subscription, just a nightly fee when you attend. Give us a try, and then play with us again when you can if you've enjoyed your first night!
John Reynolds
Janet Lewis
Wednesday evenings during term time 7-9pm at St Lawrence's Church, Heanor, DE75 7AH
 Freya James 01773 760167
 
We are a friendly, community orchestra that welcomes players of all ages and abilities. We usually have two concerts a year and play a range of music, classical and popular. We do not hold auditions, the first trial session is free, please bring your instrument and music stand. Currently we are mostly strings but would welcome oboe, bassoon and more viola players!
Kathryn Cartwright
 
Church Langton Community Centre (Nr Market Harborough), fortnightly on Monday evenings from 7-9pm (see website for full schedule)
 Andrew Cartwright, Charity Chief Executive
 
Open to all adults with a playing standard of Grade 3 or above, our Adult Flute Choir plays popular classical works, West End show arrangements and new commissions in 4-8 part harmony in a range of concerts. No auditions to join, just a commitment to attend a vast majority of the rehearsals.
Kathryn Cartwright
 
Great Bowden Village Hall, Market Harborough, fortnightly on Monday evenings from 6.30-8.30pm. (see website for full schedule)
 Andrew Cartwright, Charity Chief Executive
 
Open to flautists up to 18 years of age, this choir's minimum standard to Grade 3 and we perform 4-8 part harmony across a range of popular classical works, West End show arrangements and new commissions. This choir performs in a range of concerts including touring Europe. No auditions to join, just a commitment to attend a vast majority of the rehearsals.
Mary Michell
 
The Guildhall Arts Centre on St Peter's Hill in Grantham, usually on the first Saturday of each month (please telephone or e-mail before you come). All sessions run from 9.30am to 12.30pm and the attendance fee is £7 per session.
 SoundLINCS 01522 510073
 
GOOW is one of two 'occasional orchestras' in Lincolnshire giving keen amateur orchestral musicians - including those who admit to being a bit out-of-practice - the chance to play together in a friendly and unpressured environment. Newcomers are welcome, even if you've not played for a while: we just ask you to be comfortable working from notation. All you need is an instrument - whether woodwind, brass, strings or percussion - plus a music stand and the desire to enjoy making music with others.
Susan Grant
 
Wednesday nights 7.30pm to 9.30pm at Corpus Christi Hall, Holy Trinity Parish, Cleethorpes.
 Deirdre Perry, Chairman
 
Grimsby Symphony Orchestra is back rehearsing, playing music for a wide audience. From Prom style pieces to Pop! This first term is Free. It is your chance to catch up with people in your area who enjoy making music. We are especially looking for First and Second Violins and Violas. Players need to be Grade 6 and above. Come and give us a try. You will be most welcome.
Robert Steadman
Ruth Birkett
Ashby Wesley Methodist Church on Tuesdays in term time 7pm to 9pm.
 
 
Founded in 2000. 3 concerts a year. No auditions. 45-50 members. Very friendly orchestra playing extensive repertoire - see Facebook page. If you want to play orchestral music then this is the orchestra for you
Mat Davis
 
7.30 pm - 9.30 pm on the 1st and 3rd (and 5th if there is one) Tuesdays of each month, generally in term time at All Saints’ Church, Ockbrook, Derby DE72 3RB
 Via Website
 
J26 Sinfonietta is friendly group of musicians who play to a high standard, normally performing three times a year. There is no audition but we are looking for players with relevant experience (currently we need a French Horn and more string players). Our members come from a wide area including Derby, north Nottingham and Mid-Derbyshire.
Eric Darlington
 
Monday 7.30 - 9.30 p.m. at the John Cleveland College, Hinckley, Leicestershire
 Hazel Baker
 
A 'Big Band' playing a range of music including popular classical works, Miller medleys and show tunes, we regularly play concerts in local churches and theatres, and also play for dinner dances and balls, including very popular '1940's nights' at the Heart of the Shires in Northants. New members always welcome.
Graham Tear
Trevor Dyson
Monday evenings 7.30 to 9.30pm at Greenfields School, Highfield Road, Kettering
 Ralph Tatam
 Pam Dyson
A friendly orchestra who perform two concerts a year in the autumn and spring terms and an informal summer term to try something different. We have vacancies for string and brass players so if you are interested please contact us
Paul Jenkins
David Russell
Intensive rehearsals before each concert
 Paul Jenkins, 0116 2702572
 
4 programmes per year including opera performances with Knighton Opera. Full details on or WEB site
Brian Humpherson MBE
 
Wednesdays 19:00-21:00 (term time only) Covenant Life Church, 93 Commercial Square, Freemen's Common, Leicester, LE2 7SJ
 
 
We are an adult only amateur wind bind based in the city of Leicester. We are currently about sixty-eight strong but still have empty chairs.We perform music in a wide range of musical styles including repertoire composed specifically for the British Wind Band tradition, as well as arrangements of classical pieces, popular songs, Musicals & Novelty items. looking to attract players of a minimum of grade v or equivalent standard.
John Andrews
Catherine Cole
Usually at Mayflower Church Hall, Ethel Road, Leicester, on Sunday afternoons and Monday evenings leading up to a concert
 Pat Dobson 0116 2677372
 
New players of a good standard are invited to join where there is a vacancy. In particular we would be very interested to hear from violin and double bass players. An extensive repertoire of 19th and 20th century symphonic music is performed.
Leicestershire Sinfonia
Theo Lester
Jane Parker
Intensively leading up to the concert; usually two concerts a year
 Jane Scannell
 
Enthusiastic and friendly orchestra, rehearsals usually Tuesdays or Wednesdays and Sunday afternoons leading up to the concert. We particularly need violins and violas.
Nigel Morley
Caroline Siriwardena
Tuesday evenings from 7.15pm to 9.15 pm. (Term-time only), Swallowbeck Methodist Church, 472 Newark Rd, North Hykeham, Lincoln LN6 8RZ
 Via website form
 
Lincoln's premier Chamber Orchestra is well known for performances of music for string orchestra. Now, under the baton of Conductor Nigel Morley, they are performing chamber works from the late Baroque to the Romantic period. If you are a string player and would be interested in playing with us, we would love to hear from you. As a guide, a minimum standard equivalent to Grade 8 or relevant orchestral playing experience is required. Registered Charity: 1205831
Aric Prentice
Caroline Siriwardena
Thursday nights 7.30 - 9.30 Bracebridge Heath Community Hub
 Sally Goodman
 Kay Ritchie
The orchestra was founded in the 1880s, and currently has around 60 members. We perform 5 concerts a year in the Lincoln area.
Dave Coble
 
Greenfields Sports Club, Holt Drive, Loughborough every Thursday at 7.30pm
 All enquiries through website please
 
 
Trevor Lax
Zosia Cocker
Upper Charnwood College, Thorpe Hill, Loughborough on Monday evenings
 Gillian Butcher (Secretary)
 
We are an amateur orchestra of some 40 members who meet weekly to play music in an informal and enjoyable atmosphere. Two or three public concerts, of late eighteenth to early twentieth century music, are given each year.
Steve Simpson
 
Tuesday during term time at Limehurst Academy, Loughborough between 4:00 and 5:15 pm.
 Steve Simpson 01509 263444
 
At more than 40, we are the longest Orchestra for young people in the Loughborough Area. We cater for a wide range of abilities. Our current members consist of grade 1 up to grade 8. We have members from both primary and secondary schools. (Aged currently between 9 and 16 years old).
Louth People's Orchestra
Susan Grant
 
Twice monthly on a Sunday afternoon in Louth
 Amanda 01507 356814
 Terry 01507 450264 or 01507 473637.
It is an open access orchestra; all you need is an instrument and a music stand - there is no qualifying standard. We are looking for new members - strings and brass particularly welcome at the moment.
David Pearce
 
Every Thursday, 6.30 - 8pm at Louth Methodist Church, 2 Nichol Hill, Louth, LN11 9NQ
 David Pearce
 
The Louth Wind Orchestra rehearse weekly and is always open to any woodwind, brass or percussionists who wish to join the orchestra. We play a wide variety of music to suit all tastes, from musicals, pop, classical and traditional wind orchestra music, swing, jazz and even rock! The orchestra perform several public engagements in the year.
Jason Griffin, Sophie Gray, Luke Bryan
 
Monday evenings 6.30 - 8.30 pm, Wigston United Reformed Church, Long Street, Wigston, LE18 2AJ
 Jason Griffin 07582 619487
 Rosalind Read (0116) 2888115
The Magna Music Band - Getting Music into the Community...and the Community into Music. Any age, any instrument - join us for rehearsals, workshops, performances and more - it's your band, so come and play!
Stephen Bell
David Leech
Intensive rehearsals, just prior to the concert, late January and September
 See orchestra web page
 
The Market Harborough Orchestra is a friendly group who welcome adult players (over 16s). No auditions.
Mat Davis
Jenny Beaumont
Second and Fifth Fridays of a month. 7.30pm-9.30pm. The Church on Rise Park, Nottingham, NG5 5EB
 Mat Davis
 
A large symphony sized orchestra dedicated to breaking down the barriers and stereotypes of classical music. Repertoire ranges from the likes of Beethoven to Bruno Mars including lots of film music. Join us to rehearse and perform high quality music in a relaxed and supportive environment. Strings: Grade 4 and above. Wind and Brass: Grade 6 and above. All ages welcome!
Jayne Cooper
 
Burton Lazars Village Hall, Melton Mowbray, LE14 2UR, Monday evenings 8.00pm to 10.00pm.
 Alan Walton
 
We are a small amateur orchestra of standard Grade 5 upwards. We perform typically 3 or 4 concerts per year, usually in north east Leicestershire.
Matt Haddock
 
Brixworth Village Hall on Monday nights during term time 7.00 – 9.00pm
 Sarah Hall
 
We offer an inclusive group for all wind instrument players, regardless of age or ability, and as such we believe we are unique in Northamptonshire. We play music at a grade 2/3 standard arranged for wind ensemble. Currently we are very lucky to have the services of an excellent musical director, Andy Johnson, who has graduated from music college, and works full time in music education at NMPAT (Northampton Music and Performing Arts Trust).
Mary Michell
 
The C of E Aided Junior School on Mill Hill in Nettleham, near Lincoln, on the second or third Saturday of each month (please telephone or e-mail before you come). All sessions run from 9.30am to 12.30pm and the attendance fee is £7 per session.
 SoundLINCS 01522 510073
 
NOW is one of two 'occasional orchestras' in Lincolnshire giving keen amateur orchestral musicians - including those who admit to being a bit out-of-practice - the chance to play together in a friendly and unpressured environment. Newcomers are welcome, even if you've not played for a while: we just ask you to be comfortable working from notation. All you need is an instrument - whether woodwind, brass, strings or percussion - plus a music stand and the desire to enjoy making music with others.
Colum J O'Shea
 
Nearly every Tuesday between 7.30pm and 9.30pm at Winthorpe Community Centre, Woodlands, Winthorpe, Newark, Nottinghamshire, NG24 2NL
 Richard Williams
 
Newark & Sherwood Concert Band comprises 50+ musicians G5+. Anyone wishing to come along please email us at info@nscb.uk for more information.
Tony Wheat / Kelly Lashbrook
 
Nearly every Tuesday between 6.30pm and 7.15pm at Winthorpe Community Centre, Woodlands, Winthorpe, Newark, Nottinghamshire, NG24 2NL
 Kelly Lashbrook
 
Newark & Sherwood Development Band is for new musicians and returning musicians of any age: young and old are all welcome! General expectation is c. G2+ standard but if you are working towards that but not quite there then that's fine! Anyone wishing to come along please email us at info@nscb.uk for more information.
Tim Robinson
 
Wednesday 7:30-9:15pm, Newmount Methodist Church, Blagreaves Lane, Littleover, Derby DE23 1PS
 Newmount Brass - Committee
 
Friendly, community brass band with weekly rehearsals and sensible number of annual engagements. We play a nice mix of hymns, marches, concert items and film music. All abilities welcome! Fun, sociable rehearsals.
Northampton Baroque Players
Derek Skinner
 
Rehearsals in the Northampton area as required for concerts
 Derek Skinner 01604 761836
 
An amateur orchestra formed in 2010 with a repertoire of music from the baroque period. Amateur musicians of moderate to good musical standard are invited to join this friendly and easy going orchestra.
Graham Tear
NA
Sunday mornings 10:30 - 12:30 at NMPAT headquarters, NN1 4AZ
 Members Secretary
 
We are a thriving community wind band suited to players of grade 7 and above. We perform around 8 concerts a year and have received many gold & platinum awards at the BASBWE festival. New members are always welcome.
David Chambers
 
Thursday evening at the University of Northampton (park campus) Boughton Green Road, 7-30 to 9-30pm.
 Christine Irons 01604 770487
 
An amateur orchestra formed over 100 years ago with a repertoire of mainly light music. We welcome musicians of moderate to good musical standard to join this friendly and easy going orchestra.
Sue Amos, Patsy McNally
Michelle Koster
Once a month, usually on the second Saturday of the month at Camp Hill Community Centre, Northampton, NN4 9RR . Please email for further details
 Michelle Koster
 Neil Stafford
We are a group set up to offer recorder players of all abilities the possibility of playing in a moderate sized ensemble.
Northampton String Orchestra
David Leech
Mike Gosling
Wednesday Afternoons from 2.00 - 4.00 pm (during term time) at the Music Scool, Clare Street, just off the Kettering Rd in Northampton, NN1 4AZ.
 Kate Smith
 
We are a relaxed and friendly group of string players who enjoy making music together for fun. We do not usually give concerts though we sometimes invite friends and family to Open Rehearsals. We play mainly classical music including much of the repertoire for strings plus other pieces which have been adapted for String Orchestras. We have vacancies for all string instruments, and welcome any player from around Grade 4 standard and above.
John Gibbons
Emily Groom
Wednesday evenings (term time) from 7.30-9.45pm at Northampton Music School, Kettering Road, Northampton
 
 
Established in 1893, the orchestra welcomes amateur and semi-professional players and performs 6 times a year in and around Northampton. New players always welcome - see website for details.
Brady Mould
Sarah Bongiovanni
Once a month. Sign up using Google Form.
 Emma Mackinder
 
The Northern Musical Theatre Orchestra (NMTO) was formed in 2017 to bring together musicians and singers throughout the North of England, who share a passion for musical theatre. The result of 2 years hard work has now produced a wonderful amateur orchestra, who meet once a month at their home, The Majestic Theatre in Retford, to host a private play-through. We pride ourselves on a relaxed, happy and supportive atmosphere, where musicians and singers get together to perform some of the most fantastic arrangements and orchestrations for the best shows ever written. We would be absolutely delighted to welcome you into the NMTO family; we find that when people visit us once they generally return again and again as they enjoy the experience we provide so much! Performers interested in getting involved should join our Private Group on Facebook or contact us above, as there is lots to find out!
Nottingham Chamber Orchestra
Andrew Foxley
Sarah Foxley
Wednesday evenings, Wollaton, Nottingham East Midlands
 Pen Sensky
 
Nottingham Chamber Orchestra is a friendly group based in Wollaton, Nottingham. We perform 2-3 concerts per year at local venues with a varied repertoire for chamber orchestra. We would love to hear from string players, especially violas and cellos!
Robert Parker
 
Jesse Gray School on Musters Road in West Bridgford each Tuesday evening
 Jeff Fry (Chairman)
 
Part of the musical landscape of the East Midlands since 1991, Nottingham Concert Band is an independent and entirely self-financing community wind band based in West Bridgford, South Nottingham. The band draws on a diversity of musical styles, from classical transcriptions to contemporary compositions and from film and show compilations to big band favourites, and an extensive repertoire ensures a different programme for each performance.
Mark Heron (Music Director)
Clare Bhabra
6 rehearsals prior to each concert in the season - Tuesday evenings
 Jean Kelly (Administrator)
 Elspeth Brien (Player Liaison)
The NPO was founded in 1974 originally as the Nottingham Sinfonietta. We play five concerts in each season in and around Nottingham. Many of our players are professional instrument teachers. New members are selected by audition.
Keiron Anderson
Gill Henshaw
Every Sunday Morning in term time, Bluecoat School, Aspley Lane, Nottingham
 Margaret Frogson 0115 9410543
 
If you are an advanced level wind, brass or percussion player (generally Grade 8+) and prepared to give up your Sunday mornings, then we'd love to hear from you! We are always keen to hear from talented, committed players on any instrument, and at the moment we are looking particularly for tuba, horn and oboe players.
Derek Williams
Alex Hodgson
Rushcliffe Leisure Centre, West Bridgford, Nottingham, Monday evenings
 Philip Hawker
 
We are a weekly rehearsing amateur orchestra and normally play four concerts each year. See our web site for further information.
Nottinghamshire Police Band
Pete Stockdale
 
Wednesday evening, 7.30pm-9.30pm, Force Headquarters, Meadow View, Sherwood Lodge, Arnold, Nottinghamshire, NG5 8PP
 
 
We would describe ourselves as a group of serious amateurs, with most members being able to pass grade 6 or above, and many playing to a standard of grade 8 (or armed forces A1). You do not need to be employed by the Police to join the band, it really is a community band open to musicians from all walks of life and of a good standard of playing. Please contact us by email on nottspoliceband@gmail.com . We currently have vacancies for Percussion, Tuba / Bass, Trombone, French Horn and Bass Clarinet but welcome enquiries from all sections.
Keith Smith
varies
Usually rehearsing (and performing) at : Wigston College (formerly Guthlaxton College), Station Road, Wigston, Leicestershire, LE18 2DS.
 Andrea Harding-Smith
 Andrew Wallace (webmaster)
Oadby & Wigston Civic Orchestra consists of local musicians who play classical music concerts in south Leicester, usually at Wigston College (formerley Guthlaxton College) in Wigston
Keith Barstow (temporary)
 
Methodist Church in Calver in Hope Valley District in North Derbyshire, Tuesdays 7.30 to 9.15
 Keith Barstow
 Lynne Potter
We meet every Tuesday to play mainly the traditional classics but with an occasional foray into the works of lesser-known composers. We are looking for string players of about grade 6 standard, though the most important thing is that you enjoy playing.
Charlie Westbrook
 
Wednesday evenings during school term time. Start 7.30, until 9.30. Tea break and chat at half time! St Oswald’s Catholic Church, 933 Lincoln Road, Peterborough. PE4 6AE. Car park behind church.
 Caroline
 PCO
Set up in spring 2018, Peterborough Community Orchestra welcomes players of any instrument, from grade 3 upwards (no certificate or audition required). All ages welcome from 11 to 111. (under 16’s must be accompanied by an adult). Family groups welcome. If you would like to play music with others, in a relaxed and fun atmosphere, then you will enjoy PCO. If you have not played for a long time, or are fed up with serenading yourself, then come along and meet us. Give us a try and see what you think! We always welcome new members. We play mainly but not exclusively classical music. We aim to perform a public concert at the end of each term.
n/a
Charlie Kisby
Thursdays 7.30-9.30pm, Orton Longueville
 Charlie Kisby (or via Facebook)
 Peterborough Flute Choir
New players need to be confident reading music and we recommend being Grade 5 level. We rehearse and perform conductorless in order to maximise the development of ensemble playing. There are opportunities to try piccolo, alto and bass flutes, and the repertoire is varied to encompass all tastes and in order to amuse, encourage and enthuse all players. We work towards performances in and around the local area throughout the year, and aim to hold flute workshops annually to broaden members’ experiences, skills and enjoyment.
Matt Appleyard
 
Friday evenings from 7.30pm until 10.00pm, Hasland Methodist Church.
 Sandra Rushton
 
We are an adult wind band based in Hasland,Chesterfield. We welcome wind or brass musicians of Grade Five standard and above. We rehearse and perform a variety of music ranging from film scores,selections from musicals,light classical and contemporary wind band music.
Tony Rifugiato
 
Every 2nd Sunday from 10am to 12 noon at Church Langton Community Hall, Market Harborough, Leicestershire
 Judith Allen 07900 988892
 
At Phoenix, we aim to provide a forum for adults to enjoy playing the saxophone together and to share the versatility of the sax with a wider community audience. Our current members play seven different types of saxophone, from sopranino down to contrabass, and we play a wide variety of music, from traditional folk songs, modern pop and rock, to film music, jazz and classical works. We are currently looking for new members so, if you’re aged 18 or over, play the saxophone to a minimum grade 5 standard and can read music, why not get in touch? You’ll get your first two rehearsals for free with no commitment, so you really can ‘try before you buy’!
Ian Riley
 
Roade Primary School, Hartwell Road, Roade, Northants NN7 2NT, 6.30 p.m. to 8.00 p.m. in school term times
 Ian Riley 07976 427396
 
Our members include children and adults with an age range of over 70 years! Some are learning to play, some have dusted off an old instrument from the attic and others are very able musicians keen to pass on their skills. Our repertoire is mixed including classical, film themes, musicals, pop and rock scores, folk and jazz. See the website for more information.
Vince Davy
Douglas Butler
1st & 3rd Mondays of each month, Jan-June and Sept-Dec, in or near Oundle
 RPO Secretary
 Kate Thain
Formed in 2009, the RPO welcomes adults who may be returning to playing after a break, or good instrumentalists keen to develop a second instrument. We enjoy exploring new repertoire and improving our ensemble playing. We hold free concerts 2 or 3 times a year, including a major concert as part of the Oundle International Festival in July. The string section has a parallel program of concerts. All concerts are aimed at friends and family, plus the inhabitants of whichever village whose church forms the venue. We are now in excess of 50 regular players and continue to welcome players on all instruments. In the last few years we have played away in France (Loire Valley) and Norfolk (Cromer and Blakeney).
Rutland Cello Ensemble
Melanie Cortese
Melanie Cortese
Tuesdays 5.15pm-6pm at All Saints Church, Church Street, Oakham, Rutland LE15 6DR.
 Melanie Cortese 01572 756504
 
All ages and abilities welcome. The first rehearsal in the new year is Tuesday 9th January 2018
Ian Halcrow
 
Tuesdays 1930-2100, Oakham
 05603 849 240 to leave us a voicemail
 
The Rutland Concert Band, founded in 2008, is a community group and our ethos is one of musical inclusion in a convivial environment – we have no minimum standard and all ages and abilities are welcome (subject to rehearsal space - please contact us). Our membership has been growing steadily over the years and we now have more than 60 regular members from 12 to 70+ years old. We rehearse weekly in Oakham and perform approximately eight times per year throughout the county, often in conjunction with a community partner.
Rutland Ensemble
Albert Cortese
Albert Cortese
Tuesdays 6pm- 7pm at All Saints Church, Church Street, Oakham, Rutland LE15 6DR.
 Albert Cortese 01572 756504
 
All ages and abilities welcome. The first rehearsal in the new year is Tuesday 9th January 2018
Paul Hilliam
Katherine Collison
3 Fridays before each concert, 7-30pm to 10pm at Uppingham C of E Primary School, Rutland LE15 9RT
 Sarah Ayre
 
The Rutland Sinfonia is a friendly amateur orchestra based in Oakham, but there is nothing 'amateur' about the quality of our performances. It was founded in 1976. It performs 3 concerts per year in Oakham and 1 in Oundle, providing a varied & interesting programme alongside amazing soloists. New players of a good standard are invited to join where there is a vacancy. We would be very interested hearing from string players in particular.
 
 
Thursday evenings, 19:30-21:30 at The Priory Hotel, Ashby Road, Scunthorpe DN16 2AB.
 Ken Wardman (Chairman) 07591 591504
 
Scunthorpe Concert Band is a friendly amateur concert band based in Scunthorpe, North Lincolnshire. We are scored for woodwind, brass, and percussion and play a varied repertoire of music that is constantly evolving and being added to. We have players ranging from 15 - 80 years of age, but we all share the same common goal - to have fun and make music.
South Notts Hussars Association Band
Neville Buxton
 
Wednesday at 7.30pm at the T.A. Centre, Hucknall Lane, Bulwell, Nottingham. NG6 8AQ
 David Drewitt 07847099245
 
We are an ex T.A. Band that now play as the band of the regimental association. We are a wind band and are always looking for new players of any age or gender.
Southwell Orchestral Society
John Sheppard
Jean Russell
7-30 p.m. Wednesday evening in the W.I. Hall, Queen Street, Southwell, Notts
 Hon Secretary Ardene Gillies 01636 815762
 
A wide variety of music is rehearsed. Three or four concerts are performed each year, one of these being Carols for Everyone in Southwell Minster. New players of any standard are always welcome.
Mark Austin
Anja Smith
Thursday evenings, Copthill School
 Anja Smith
 
The Stamford Chamber Orchestra was formed by Jeremy Pike in 1983. Its players are all local musicians, both professional and amateur, drawn mostly from Stamford, Oakham and the surrounding areas. We welcome enquiries from players grade 8 and above interested in playing with the orchestra. Please email our leader, Anja Smith.
Phil Smith
 
Sunday afternoon from 2.30pm – 5.00pm, once a month at Nottingham Trent University, Clifton Campus NG11 8NS
 Kirstie Hind
 Anne Jackson
Grade 3+. A friendly, informal group that meet approx once a month.
Annette Negus
 
Sunday afternoon from 2.30pm – 5.00pm at Nottingham Trent University, Clifton Campus NG11 8NS
 Kirstie Hind
 Anne Jackson
Grade 3+. A friendly, informal group that meet approx once a month.
 
 
Monday at Syston Conservative Club from 7.30 pm
 Emma Gibson 0790 3816043
 
New members and guest players always welcome
Syston Brass Band CMFF Kids Brass Group NEW
 
 
Wednesday during term-time from 6.30 pm at Syston Social Club
 Emma Gibson 0790 3816043
 
Learners up to age 18 can apply for sponsorship from CMFF for professional music lessons
 
 
Tuesday at Syston Brookside Club from 7.30 pm
 Emma Gibson 0790 3816043
 
New members and guest players always welcome
Sam Giles 
Claire Grocock
Sunday Afternoons approx. three weekly from 3 – 5pm
 Claire Grocock 07305 211942
 
Adult players from Grade 2 standard and above. Termly fee £45
Sam Giles 
Claire Grocock
Sunday Afternoons approx. three weekly from 1 – 2:45pm
 Claire Grocock 07305 211942
 
Junior players from beginner to around Grade 4. Termly fee £40
Watling Wind Ensemble
Lesley Hodgson
 
Thursday (term-time) 7-9pm St Francis Community Centre, Tudor Rd, Hinckley, Leicestershire
 Joanne 01455 631694
 
We are currently recruiting new members. Wind and percussion players of any age of a minimum grade 4 standard are welcome.
Colin Radford
Jonathan Gray
Thursday evening 7.45 - 9.15 pm at Queen Street Methodist Church, Queen Street, Whittlesey, Peterborough PE7 1AY
 Jonathan Gray
 
WWE aims to provide an opportunity to people of all ages to participate and enjoy themselves within a Concert Band style ensemble. A wide repertoire of popular music from the shows,films, classics and more. The standard varies from grade 3 to grade 8. The ensemble is looking for tenor sax, clarinet, cornet/trumpet, horns Eb and F, trombone and tuba players.
Adam Green
Louise Maskill
Full rehearsals every other Thursday with some sectional rehearsals on alternate Thursdays
 Denise Boddy 01629 824055
 
WACO's aim is to provide an opportunity to people of all ages to participate and enjoy themselves within an orchestral ensemble. A wide repertoire of popular orchestral music is played.

If you have any information you'd like to appear here about a non-professional orchestra you conduct, play in or know of, let me know: ku.gro.sartsehcroruetama@ffoeg
(You won't be able to cut and paste this address from here directly, you'll need to type it in to your favourite email program)

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