UK Amateur Orchestras

London (inside the M25)

NEW - entries since 1 Jan 2022

NEW - entries since 1 Jan 2023

Orchestra (full)

Wind band (brass and woodwind)

String Orchestra

Brass band

Miscellaneous

Orchestra

Conductor /
Leader
Rehearsal Venue / Times
 
Contact(s)
 
Various
Tara Persaud
Warehouse Waterloo and performance venue, 2 eve rehearsals and one all day, plus on-day and concert
 Eleanor Merton
 
The aim of the orchestra is to play highly satisfying, top-notch concerts to raise money for small scale, international humanitarian projects. The band is made up of top amateurs, semi and full pros, no-one is paid.
Keith Bramich
Elizabeth Ann Binks
Thursday 7.45 - 9.45 pm in the Church Hall of Our Lady Help of Christians on the corner of Lady Margaret Road and Falkland Road, NW5
 Keith Bramich 020 8840 1564
 
Non-auditioned chamber orchestra in North London. Three concerts per year. New string players always welcome. See our website for other vacancies.
Rob Mason
 
Monday evenings from 8pm - 10.15pm in Upper Norwood SE19
 Lucy Bell (membership)
 Peter Gadd (bookings)
A community concert band which welcomes all woodwind, brass and percussion players. Our members are of all ages and backgrounds – what we have in common is the enjoyment we get from making music. Come and join us!
Graham Goulbourne
Agata Kubiak
All Saints Community Centre, 44 All Saints Road, Wimbledon, SW19 1BX. Every Friday at 7.30 – 8.45 pm
 Graham Goulbourne 07881 362677
 
A small and friendly Ensemble looking for any String and Wind Players for classical and popular music. Mixed age group. Arrangements can be made for any budding soloists or grade exam pieces to perform.
Derek Braddick
 
Nork Hall, Nork Way, Nork, Banstead, Surrey SM7 1JB 11am – 1pm on Sundays.
 Mike 07584 249113
 Helena
This friendly concert band is keen to recruit more players especially, Oboe, Bassoon, Brass (including Tuba, French horns and Sax) and Percussion. We have a new conductor and a large repertoire of lovely pieces from film scores, to marches, to medleys of popular songs. All players are welcome but you might find it helpful if you were at least a grade 5 standard.
Philip Mackenzie
 
Meets three times a year for intensive sessions.
 
 
Training orchestra for music students.
Leo Patsalides
 
Tuesday evenings, City of London
 Contact via website
 
One of London's advanced amateur orchestras
Peter Fender
Abigail Dance
Wednesdays at 7.30pm in St. Silas Church, Risinghill Street, N1 9UL
 Matt Porter
 
The Angel Orchestra was founded in 1990, and is now a well-established and thriving orchestra. We are a friendly music group led by a professional conductor and leader. The Orchestra aims to play a variety of music from well-known classical repertoire to, a recent commitment of, performing at least one piece by a woman composer each concert. We have three concerts a year, rehearsing each Wednesday evening during term. Please see our website for further information and current orchestra vacancies.
Self-led
 
Fri evenings, 8-10pm at Hargrave Hall, Hargrave Road, Archway, N19 5SP
 Vikki Goodridge
 
A friendly self-led big band based in North London playing a range of swing, big band, funk, blues, Latin charts and more.
Philip Buckmaster
 
St Matthew's Church, Church Road, Ashford, Middx. Fortnightly on Monday evenings
 Philip Buckmaster 01932 783343
 
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.
Ashford Orchestra
Peter Legge
 
Tuesdays in term time, 7.30 to 9pm at St Matthew's Church, Church Road, Ashford, Middlesex
 Janet Husband (Secretary) 01784 241027.
 
Players of all standards welcome, especially string players. Ideal for newcomers to orchestral playing.
John Brennan
Rebecca Lewis
Wednesday evenings 7.30 - 10pm, St John's Church, Sutton Road, Watford, WD17 2QQ
 Mallika Buckle
 Hannah Fisher
High level symphony orchestra in Watford playing ambitious repertoire, performing 3 times per season with additional fundraising and chamber concerts. Really fun and friendly group! Welcome to players Grade 8+!
vacant
Karen Burgess
Wednesday 8-10pm. Heston British Legion Club, 79 New Heston Road, Heston, Central Hounslow, Middlesex, TW5 0LG
 Karen Burgess
 
A friendly community based non-contesting brass band, which welcomes all brass and percussion players. Our members are of all ages and background, we are actively seeking a new conductor and players especially trombone, cornet and percussion but all welcome. All enquiries through email link above.
Daryle Lowden
 
Tuesdays at 7.20 pm, St Richard Reynolds Catholic College, Clifden Road, Twickenham TW1 4LT
 
 
If you are a woodwind, brass or percussion player at around Grade 8 standard (or are committed to reaching this level and beyond) we would love to hear from you. We are a diverse bunch with a shared passion to create great music, from Mozart to Gershwin, from classics to TV themes. We play around six concerts a year around SW London.
 
 
Wednesday evening between 7:45 and 10:00pm at East Barnet School, 5 Chestnut Grove, East Barnet, Hertfordshire, EN4 8PU
 Ian Merryweather 020 8347-9208
 
A community Wind Band who meet and play in the Barnet area. Playing enquiries always welcome.
Oliver Till
Clive Hobday
St Margarets URC Church, Finchley Central, London, N3 1BD, 19:45 – 21:45 Mondays
 Paul McLoughlin
 
Very friendly, thriving orchestra seeks keen musicians! We rehearse term time Mondays and play 3 concerts a year. There's plenty of variety in our concert programmes to interest everyone. Please get in touch to find out more - we welcome all enquiries, particularly string players.
Darragh Morgan and Robin Michael
Roberto Foth
7 times a term on Monday evenings in Limehouse
 Jenny Lloyd
 Jenny Thornley
A small, friendly, enthusiastic chamber orchestra for grade 6ish plus, meeting 7 times a term. This is a coached ensemble with excellent and entertaining tuition from professional musicians leading to an informal concert on the last Monday. All modern instruments, all baroque repertoire, suggestions encouraged from players. Come and join us!
Guy WR Jones
 
Saturday or Sunday 11am-4pm approximately every 2 months, E2
 Polly Gannaway
 
We are an orchestra. We sometimes play music written by living humans. We think basements have great acoustics. We clap when we want. We need you.
Matthew O'Keefe
 
Tuesdays 8 -10 pm St Barnabas Church Hall, Perth Road, Beckenham BR3 6PP
 Susanne Petty
 David Chapman
A friendly band performing regularly in South London and the South Coast. All players welcome, particularly Horns, Tubas, Bassoon, Drums and percussion.
Various guest directors
 
 
 Susan Cooksley 07711 666270
 
We play on period instruments and perform three concerts a year as well as have three workshops with leading baroque specialists every year. Players don't necessarily need to be hugely experienced in baroque playing, but do need to be of a high standard. We welcome new players.
Elizabeth Worth
Barry Sullivan
8pm - 10pm Tuesday evenings, Belvedere Sports Club, Woolwich Road, London SE2 0DY
 via website
 
The band formed in 1982 has 50 members and is well known in the local community for it's charity fundraising concerts. We perform a diverse programme at locations such as Royal Parks, Hall Place Bexley, The Orchard Theatre Dartford. Currently looking for trombone, trumpet, euphonium and percussion. Grade 8 standard.
Andrew Raybould
 
Tuesday 19:30 – 21:30, at Bird College, Alma Road, Sidcup, DA14 4ED
 Bird College Office 020 8300 6004
 
A fun and sociable group for adults of any age. Ability is not a priority in the Bexley Band - participation is the key. Adult beginners can be catered for with adapted parts. This band really enjoys performing. Please contact Bird College Office for further details including relevant fees.
Alan Shellard
 
Thursday 20:00 – 21:30, at Bird College, Alma Road, Sidcup, DA14 4ED
 Bird College Office 020 8300 6004
 
The Bird College Light Orchestra is a friendly, informal group of players who wish to enjoy orchestral playing. All orchestral instrumentalists are welcome to join, particularly if you are returning to playing after a long lay-off. All ages and standards are welcome and the aim of the group is to enjoy making music together. Please contact Bird College Office for further details including relevant fees.
Various guest conductors
Lizzie Boulden
Christ Church Hall, 27 Blackfriars Road, SE1 8NY (near Blackfriars Bridge). Tuesdays 7pm-9pm
 Mike Stevenson
 
We are a sociable 'Repertoire Orchestra' - i.e. we play a new programme each week and occasionally may give charity concerts. The majority of players come regularly, but this orchestra also suits people who cannot commit to attending rehearsals every week. No auditions or membership fees but we ask a small amount (currently £3) for each session you attend, just to cover the cost of the hall. We have a library of over 400 works, ranging from baroque to classical. Near Blackfriars Bridge. Easy access from the City & West End. Walking distance from Southwark tube (Jubilee line) and Blackfriars station (District, Circle, Thameslink). We visit the local pub after rehearsals for a chat and a drink :)
Leigh O'Hara
Helena Nicholls
Project based. Contact organisers for details
 Rose Ballantyne
 
Particularly looking for first violins, percussion and French horns.
David Morris
 
7 pm - 9 pm on Monday evenings at Lumen URC, 88 Tavistock Place WC1H 9RS
 Sarah Beardon
 
We welcome players of flute, clarinet and bass clarinet. No audition. Our aim is to provide a friendly relaxed group for adults to make music and improve their playing. We put on concerts several times a year. We are a player-run group with a professional musical director.
Michael Turner
 
Weekend rehearsals in central London venues.
 
 
Friendly orchestra tackling chamber and larger-scale works in 3 concerts per year. We always welcome new string players, please enquire about wind vacancies.
Michael McGowan
 
Tuesday evenings, Band Room, Coram's Fields WC1N 1DN
 Telsey Shaw (Membership Secretary)
 
We welcome players of any woodwind instrument. No audition. Our aim is to provide a friendly relaxed group for adults to make music and improve their playing. We put on concerts at least twice a year, generally for charities and community events. We are a player-run group with a professional musical director.
Seb Valentine
Ruiko Asaba
Three Sunday workshops a year plus ad hoc concerts and associated rehearsals.
 Seb Valentine
 
We are a registered charity which aims to promote wellbeing through music and make Music Therapy available to treat mental illness for UK emergency service workers. We welcome enquiries from all musicians grade 6 and up but give priority to emergency services workers, military and their families.
Bow Road String Ensemble NEW
Orpheus Papafilippou
 
6 times a term on Saturday afternoon, near Bow Rd Underground Station
 Mary Moore
 
A small and friendly group. Give us a try if you are around Grade 6.
Levon Parikian
Adrian Charlesworth
Wednesday evenings at St Martin's Church, Mortimer Road, London NW10 5SN, 19:15-21:45
 
 
We are a sociable full-size symphony orchestra (around 70 players), one of the country's oldest amateur orchestras and celebrated our centenary in 2011. Besides four concerts per season we also have regular repertoire sessions. We have vacancies for all strings (particularly double basses), co-principal trumpet and tenor trombone. We'd also be interested in hearing from wind (particularly oboes, bassoons, contras) and all brass players who would like to do some extra playing as we often need augmented sections for concerts and the occasional dep. We have a limited number of rehearsals per concert, so new players must be grade 8+ standard with previous orchestral experience and good sight-reading skills, and be willing to commit to attending most rehearsals.
Matthew O’Keeffe
 
Project-based rehearsals
 
 
BCO is tiered orchestra, with professional principals playing side-by-side with students and often talented volunteers. We play all types of music - as well as classical favourites you could expect to play swing, disco, grime and gospel (depending on the project). We’re looking for great amateur musicians to join for our larger projects, and are particularly interested in hearing from players originally from or based in and around Lambeth. Visit the website for information about our informal auditions.
Helen Brammer
 
Thursdays, during term time, 7 - 9.30pm at Drayton Manor High School, Drayton Bridge Road, Hanwell, W7 1EU
 Angela Ayton (0208 567 0080)
 
A small, friendly, mixed ability group playing chamber music and larger ensemble arrangements of orchestral pieces. Strings particularly welcome
Tim Burton /Jane Tyler
 
Monday 7.30-9.00pm at the Bromley Youth Music Centre, Southborough Lane, Bromley, BR2 8AA
 BYMT 020 8467 1566
 
BAMO is a sociable orchestra for non-professional musicians, and we love to welcome new members to our group. All abilities and orchestral instruments welcome. If you used to play an instrument at school and would like to start again in a safe and welcoming environment, this is the orchestra for you! We play music from a variety of genres, from classical to film and pop, and we normally perform two concerts a year – one at Christmas with drinks and nibbles, and one in the summer which is sometimes shared with other adult groups. We come from all walks and stages of life and have members of all ages and abilities. There is no audition needed – just a love for making music.
Martin Gibbs
 
Friday evenings from 8pm to 10pm, Bishop Justus School Hall, Magpie Hall Lane, Bromley, BR2 8HZ
 Natalie Lam 07545 254935
 
A large, friendly community wind band formed nearly 60 years ago. We have lots of fun whilst rehearse a wide repertoire of music to a high standard, and we perform at many concerts in some fantastic venues, throughout the year. Please get in touch if you are interested in joining.
Adrian Brown
Andy Laing
Mondays from 19:30 to 22:00 at Bishop Justus CE School, Magpie Hall Lane, Bromley BR2 8HZ
 Paul Jenner
 
Bromley Symphony Orchestra is a large and successful amateur orchestra based in south-east London with a reputation for interesting concerts of almost professional standard. We give four concerts a year at Langley Park Centre for the Performing Arts and occasionally a summer workshop.
Greg Wheeler
Martin Ingram
Monday mornings (term times) 10am to 12:15pm St Mary's Church Hall, Church Road, Byfleet Surrey, KT14 7NF
 Greg Wheeler (via website)
 
A new amateur orchestra, formed in September 2017, and now expanding to welcome a wider range of adult players of all ages who want to improve their musical skills, explore the orchestral repertoire, and play for pleasure. The Brooklands Sinfonia is a 'players orchestra' - cooperative and friendly. Standard - Grade 6+. No auditions
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.
Julia May
Richard Hollingham
Thursday evening during term time at Sandringham School in St Albans starting at 7pm
 Contact via website
 
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.
George Vass
Martin Smith
Tuesdays 19:45-22:00 St. Margaret’s School, Bushey, Herts
 Duncan Brown 07875 525765
 
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.
Charlie Pyne
 
Kentish Town Congregational Church Hall, Monday evenings 7.30 - 9.00 during school term time
 Charlie Pyne
 Luke Pinkstone
Plays jazz,Latin and world music. Open to all instruments, all ages, all abilities. Termly subscription £60 but come to see if you like it free of charge..
Peter Fender
Hennah Garty
Thursday evenings between 7:30 and 9:45, St Mary Magdalene Church, Munster Square, London NW1
 Lee Jonas (Chair)
 Sutapa Gesell (Membership Secretary)
A friendly chamber orchestra near London's West End (NW1). We work with a professional conductor, leader and guest soloists. We hold three concerts a year following each 10 week term. The repertoire is diverse - from baroque to 20th century, but mostly focussing on classical and romantic. All membership enquiries are welcome and we are actively seeking string and brass players. We don't hold auditions but invite new players to join us for an informal trial period.
Luke Pinstone
 
Sundays mornings, 11am - 12noon, Camden Town, North London
 Luke Pinstone
 
Camden Saxophone Band is an amateur group open to any saxophone players of any ability and age. Rehearsals are fun and friendly. We play jazz, pop, classical, latin and beyond!
Lev Parikian
John Crawford
Tuesday evenings, Camden School for Girls, NW5
 
 
A friendly orchestra performing a diverse range of music to a high standard. We have been a mainstay of musical life in north London for more than forty years with around 70 regular players. Under our Musical Director Levon Parikian, we seek to combine the familiar stapes of the Classical, Romantic and 20th century repertoire with less well-known and more challenging works. We rehearse on a weekly basis and perform three major orchestral concerts a year. We welcome enquiries from prospective new members. We don't hold auditions but invite new players to join us for an informal trial period.
 
 
Holy Cross Church, Oldfield Lane South Greenford UB6 9NE, Monday 8pm -10pm
 Angela 07502 419599
 
We are a friendly group who get together to play an assortment of music. Come master you musical skills or challenge yourself to learn a new Instrument. We play five major concerts a year. Instruments needed - Euphonium, cornet, tenor horn, tuba and trombone.
David Cole MVO CBE
Jay Bevan
Wednesday, Crystal Palace
 Phil Willans (band secretary)
 
Always welcoming new players of a high standard, especially trumpet/cornet players. Need not be ex forces. Many engagements throughout the year including Fairfield Hall, Croydon, Sittingbourne, Gravesend, Eastbourne Bandstand for a week, Picnic Concert at Fort Nelson and Festival of Remembrance at St Paul's Cathedral each year.
 
 
Thursday evenings, 7:30-9:30 in the City of London. 2 minute walk from St Paul's tube station
 Katie, Communications Manager
 
The Central London Orchestra is a community/amateur orchestra for intermediate/advanced players. We are run by all members, breeding a culture of participation, inclusion and democracy. Our aim is to play music that is fun and nice to listen to and we want to grow the orchestra into further challenges.
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.
Nick Coote
Rob Puzey
Exmouth Market Centre, 24 Exmouth Market, London EC1R 4QE, Wednesday. Sectionals 6.15-7.45pm Full Orchestra 7.55-10pm
 Nick Coote 01732 780310
 
A friendly string orchestra where anyone is welcome to join. There are no auditions.
Tom Leate
 
Primrose Hill Community Centre, 29 Hopkinson's Place, Fitzroy Road, London NW1 8TN
 Sue Hadley
 
Our aim is to develop technique and ensemble skills through challenging, yet approachable repertoire under the guidance of our professional tutor.
Daniel Hogan
 
Tuesday evenings
 Andrew McFarlane 07876 124204
 
A friendly new orchestra in Chorleywood (M25 J18) rehearsing on Tuesday evenings. New players of around Grade 6 and above welcome, especially strings and horns.
Robert Puzey, Trish Shaw, Anthony Bailey
 
Once a term two-day orchestra workshop courses, at central London Adult Education college 'City Lit' For amateur adult players.
 Trish Shaw (020) 4582 0412
 
2 day Orchestra Workshops every few months, that aim to get students to work through 2 or 3 pieces, including a symphony, in just 2 days. It's a lot of fun and all orchestral instrumentalists are welcome, though we especially welcome violins and violas!
David Smith
 
Usually 3 Friday evenings and a Sunday afternoon prior to each concert. Near Tower Hill tube.
 Ann Bevington
 Kara Settle
Formed in 2006, CLSW is a group of woodwind and brass players based in and around London. Our focus is on performing excellent symphonic wind-band repertoire to a very high standard. We welcome enquiries from new players of grade 8 standard and above.
Darren Sng
Emma Shaughnessy
Mondays evenings from 6.45-8.15pm, St Mary Aldermary Church in Watling Street, EC4, next to Mansion House tube
 CSO Committee
 
An established, friendly and relaxed orchestra which plays show tunes and popular classics. Two terms per year, with two concerts - at Christmas and around Easter. No auditions necessary but we do ask for enthusiasm and commitment! Current vacancies: strings, in particular double bass and viola; brass and bari sax. Flute section full.
City University Symphony Orchestra
Anthony Weeden
 
Wednesday evenings in the University (Angel, Islington) from 6pm-9pm
 Kirsten Dunn
 
We're an orchestra largely consisting of students from the Music Department but would really like to get some players in from outside to spread the word and bring some fresh ideas to the group! We're currently looking for - Cellos (urgently!), Horns, Bassoons, Violins/Violas.
Shea Lolin
 
St. Olave's Church Hall, Mark Lane, London EC3R 7NB on a Monday 7-9.30pm
 Lucy Mavers
 
The City Wind Orchestra is a friendly wind orchestra set up in 2009 for amateur wind, brass and percussion musicians. Concerts given three times a year in the City of London and consists mainly of original Wind Orchestra repertoire.
Matthew Hardy
 
Shoreditch London E1 19.00 - 21.30 Tuesdays
 Caroline Star
 
CoMA London is a contemporary music ensemble looking for new players (including composers). We work with composers at the frontier of new music. All instruments and levels welcome. Get in touch and give it a go!
Guest conductors
 
BMA House, Tavistock Square 19:00 Wednesdays
 Hywel Jones
 
The Corinthian Chamber Orchestra is one of London's leading amateur orchestras. Formed in 1995 under the musical direction of the late Alan Hazeldine, the orchestra has built a reputation for extremely high quality performances in its regular concerts (6 per year) at St. James's Church, Piccadilly. Vacancies for double basses and occasionally other players. High standard of players, post grade 8 or music college. Admission by trial rehearsal/concert, depending on experience.
Corsican Brass
 
Bronwen Taylor
Tuesday evenings in house in Highbury
 Bronwen 07774112562
 
We’re a brass ensemble of 7 enthusiastic and improving, middle aged+ brass players, grade 5 – 8. We need more trumpets, would suit rusty player. Renaissance, classical, and lighter music for school fairs, or raising money for charity.
Guest conductors
Ellen Gallagher
Two evening rehearsals in week prior to concert, two in the week and one on afternoon of the concert, 15 hours total
 Caroline Welsh 07971 566808
 
Very friendly and social chamber orchestra of a high standard that prides itself on working with up-and-coming conductors and soloists as well as established names. New bass section being formed we would welcome enquiries.
Paul Goodwin
 
Monday nights 8pm, Stanley Arts, SE25 6AB
 Rob Cook
 
The band is a friendly and enthusiastic group and warmly welcomes regular new players on any instrument. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a little rusty after an extended break - if you're looking for a community brass band to play in, please email us
David Cox
Hannah Gravett
Christ Church Hall, West Croydon, Surrey CR0 3LJ, Wednesday Evenings 8:00 pm
 Sue Reeves
 
We are a community wind orchestra and welcome woodwind, brass and percussion players to our rehearsals – no auditions! We rehearse weekly on a Wednesday evening and perform 3 to 4 concerts a year – we are back performing in the newly refurbished Phoenix Concert Hall at Fairfield from February 2020. We currently have seat vacancies for trombone and percussion players – please email for more details. See website for a couple of soundbites.
Darrell Davison
Cathy Smart
Friday evenings 7.30 - 10.00'ish East Croydon United Reformed Church Hall, Addiscombe Grove, Croydon
 Phil Myers
 
Friendly orchestra performing mainly romantic and later repertoire. 4 concerts a year in Croydon venues. Vacancies for strings - particularly violas and basses, and brass.
Michael Gray
 
Wednesday, 8-10pm at St John's Church, St John's Road in Penge
 Band Secretary, Rachel Bleach 020 8776-2520
 
One of the few traditional Brass Bands remaining in London. We operate an open band rehearsal - just turn up - but if you need to borrow an instrument, it's probably best to contact the Band Secretary.
Jonathan Milne
 
Wednesday, 20:00 - 22:00 at St John's the Baptist Church, Wood Street, High Barnet EN5 4BW
 Alex/Cheryl 07766 457929
 
Da Capo Concert Band celebrated their 10th anniversary in 2007. We are a friendly symphonic wind band that plays many of the stand wind band repertoire as well as exploring classic and contemporary symphonic band works with a view to entertaining and challenging both ourselves and our audiences. New members are always welcome, please contact us for further information.
Ian Harby
Adrian Mawbey
Wednesday 8:00 - 10:00 pm The Glentworth Club, Lowfield Street, Dartford
 Secretary - Dawn Hollis – 07522591381
 
Friendly wind band playing wide variety of music spanning the classical, pop, musicals, film and jazz genres. We rehearse on a Wednesday evening and give approx 4 or 5 performances a year, in N.W Kent plus a few outdoor summer gigs. Players are approx grade 5 or equivalent standard and we are keen to recruit clarinets, trumpets and percussion at the moment, see web site for more information.
Spencer Down
Eleanor Percy
Wednesdays, 7:30 pm to 9:30pm, at St Anne’s Limehouse E14 7HA
 Spencer Down +44 (0) 7971 387 101
 
Docklands Sinfonia is currently recruiting new players on all instruments (grade 8 standard plus) for its e14 orchestra (non-professional orchestra). Apply via our website. In September 2019, Docklands Sinfonia announced that there will be two separate orchestras under its orchestral family - responding to huge successes and achievements over the last ten years. The Docklands Sinfonia family now consists of a professional orchestra and its e14 orchestra – which delivers high quality concerts for our community in East London - attracting leading classical soloists and excellent non-professional musicians.
Matthew Page / Seraphina Davey
 
Tuesday evenings from 7pm to 9pm in central London near Euston station
 
 
We are looking for keen musicians who have experience playing jazz to join our big band. We rehearse on Tuesday evenings in central London near Euston station in a friendly and fun atmosphere. We are looking for people who are minimum grade 8 standard and have experience of playing jazz.
Leigh O'Hara
Paula Tysall
Tuesdays from 7.30 to 9.30 pm at JAGS, 144 East Dulwich Grove, London, SE22 8TE
 
 
Playing enquiries welcome
John Gibbons
Peter Nall
Rehearsals Thursday evenings. Ealing Green Church, W5 5QT
 Richard Partridge 0208-567 4075
 
Playing enquiries always welcome.
Dave Gordon-Shute
 
Wednesdays 7-9pm, near the University of West London in the South Ealing area.
 
 
We look to welcome locals who want to come and play. The idea is that it is a community venture for adults but under 18s are welcome to come along if they bring a responsible adult with them. The music that the orchestra will play will be a mix of film music, arrangements from musicals, as well as classic wind band music from all over the world, a lot of which uses folksong as a starting point. Currently looking for more French horns.
Leon Gee
 
Twyford School, Acton W3 9PP, Fridays 6:00 - 9.00 pm
 Christopher Brown 07850 595089
 
EYO auditions new players every year in July and September. Applications are welcome from players aged 13-18 of Grade 6 standard and above. We give four or more concerts a year in West London, plus our legendary European tour each summer.
The East Hertfordshire Youth Orchestra
David Boarder
 
7-9pm on Friday evenings at Simon Balle School, Mangrove Road, Hertford (term times).
 David Boarder - tel 01992 623489 fax 01992 643795
 
Hertfordshire County Music Service.
Matthew Hardy
 
Friday evenings all ensembles and lessons run from 17:00-20:15. Main band 18:30-19:45 Shadwell centre, The Highway, London E1
 Sammy
 
East London community band is a community based non-auditioning band based in the Shadwell centre in Tower Hamlets. The band is open to members for all ages and all abilities and we run the following ensembles: premier band for beginners, early music group, jazz band, main band (for all members) and chamber band, for more complex pieces. Lessons and instrument hire is available. We perform regularly for charitable causes and public events.
TBD
TBD
Friday evenings from 6.45 until 8.45pm at the ELCB’s base in the Shadwell Centre. London E1
 Chris Shurety
 
The East London Community Band is planning to start an orchestra to explore Renaissance and Baroque repertoire and to perform in as historically informed way as possible without any requirement, for example, to use gut strings, period instruments or tune to anything other than 440. Once established the orchestra will contribute to the ELCB’s expanding programme of public concerts in support of charities and local community initiatives. The orchestra will follow on from the existing early music chamber ensemble, meeting weekly. We envisage the fee will be in the region of £90 for a twelve week term. Depending on initial interest we will start in September this year or in January 2018. If you are interested in joining this group please contact Chris Shurety at chris@coma.org
 
 
Saturday mornings during school terms; Phoenix Primary and Secondary School, 49 Bow Road, London E3 2AD and Tuesday evenings during term time at Bow Church, 230 Bow Rd, Bow, London E3 3AH
 
 
ELLSO consists of teaching orchestras welcoming all grades of string players, including complete beginners. Also group tuition classes in violin, viola, cello, double bass, musicianship and ensemble playing.
Nick Coote
 
Mondays 7:15pm-9:30pm; Church of St Mary and Holy Trinity, 230 Bow Road, London E3 3AH.
 
 
This friendly and supportive string orchestra is for players who have been playing for at least a year or so and are looking to develop their ensemble playing skills. Ten week term with opportunities to perform at ELLSO concerts.
Khac-Uyen Nguyen
Roberto Foth
St Anne's, Limehouse London E14. Thursdays 7.15 - 9.30pm
 
 
A small friendly string and woodwind orchestra grade 6+, see website for current repertoire in rehearsal, term dates etc. New players most welcome!
Jamie Conway
 
Meets for a few days before each concert during the main university/school holidays
 Jamie Conway
 
East London Symphony Orchestra was founded in 2017 by two aspiring conductors to give young instrumentalists a chance to collaborate on exciting repertoire. The orchestra aims to serve as an opportunity for players at music conservatoires, universities and sixth form students, as well as for aspiring young soloists and composers. ELSO usually performs in South Hackney at St John of Jerusalem Church.
Andrew Morley
 
Maida Vale Studios on Monday evenings at 7.30 pm.
 
 
A versatile and entertaining group made up of over 40 musicians, we play music to a high standard from a range of light classical to contemporary popular pieces, with a focus on film and show music. The band plays at a wide range of venues in and around London and regularly goes on tour to Europe.
Martin Cleave Dip. RCM
Roy Simpson
Tuesdays 7.45-9.30 – Eltham Park Methodist Church, Westmount Road, London SE9 1XX
 Martin Cleave
 Isabel Caetano da Rocha
We are a group of around 25 players consisting of Strings, Woodwind, Brass and Percussion performing monthly programmes of light classics, popular standards and show selections. Our concerts, held in Eltham, (SE London), are augmented by guest soloists, usually singers. With our quick turnover of repertoire, it’s great for your sight-reading, and you’ll never be bored!
 
 
Monday evenings, Cobham, Surrey
 
 John Starling
The Ember Big Band first embarked on their musical voyage of discovery together as a cohesive Big Band in 2010. Under the guidance of the legendary trombonist and arranger, Bill Geldard, they have developed their sound and command of an extensive repertoire. With a full line up of community minded musicians and vocalists, they have performed across the borough of Elmbridge, and wider afield, raising money for some amazing charity projects. For more information or want to get involved, please get in touch.
Martin Smith
Sarah Colley
Mondays 7.30 – 9.30 pm at Grange Park Methodist Church main hall, N21 2EU, near Grange Park Station
 
 
Enfield Chamber Orchestra has been established in Enfield for over 70 years and is a friendly orchestra who first and foremost enjoys playing great music. A minimum standard of Grade 7 is preferred, but a commitment to rehearsals and improving standards are the most important requirements. We are always recruiting new violin and viola players and would love to hear from you!
Eddie Morgan
 
Thursday evenings 8-10pm at Christ Church URC, Chase Side, Enfield, EN2 6NJ. Nearest stations: Enfield Chase (5-7 min walk), Enfield Town (8-10 min walk)
 Adrian Bullock
 Eddie Morgan
We give all new members a whole month absolutely FREE! Enfield Community Orchestra is a non-profit charity amateur orchestra for musicians of all levels. We provide a friendly, relaxed space where musicians can come together to have fun and collaborate free of judgement and expectations. We perform at least 3 concerts per year and play a well balanced repertoire of popular classics and TV/Film scores. Our goal is to help orchestral musicians progress on their instrument, boost confidence and team working skills and reignite the passion for music.​ Visit our website to find our new member submission form or simply drop us an email and a member of our friendly management team will get back to you.
Paul Hooper
 
Fridays 8-9.45 pm Enfield Vineyard Church, Brigadier Hill, Enfield EN2 0NQ
 Tanya Orr
 Paul Hooper
Enfield Concert Band is a new and rapidly expending adult , concert wind band . We welcome wind ,Brass and percussion players of any standard.
Calum Rookes
Julie Wood
Thursday evenings, 8pm to 10pm at Oakwood Baptist Church, Merrivale, London N14 4TE (close by Oakwood Underground Station, Piccadilly Line)
 Martyn Stogden
 
The aim of our orchestra is to encourage people of all ages and experience to get back into playing and enjoying music. We play a good selection of music, including popular classics and movie soundtracks. We sometimes collaborate with our sister-project, English Jazz Orchestra, for larger-scale stage shows. We welcome everyone, wherever you are with your music!
Ensemble Luce
Giannis Giannapoulos
 
Rehearsals before concerts, North London.
 Mine Dogantan-Dack
 
A new orchestra, first concert November 2018
Darrell Davison
Eric Hastings
St. Martin's Junior School, Ashley Road, Epsom. Thursdays 7.30pm - 10pm
 Janet Burr 01372 -812798
 
A very friendly orchestra currently enjoying it's 54th year. 5 concerts performed at Epsom Playhouse, 1 children's concert at Fairfield Hall and an outdoor lakeside picnic concert. Vacancies particularly for violas, trumpets and trombones.
Christopher Stark
John Crawford
Around four rehearsals leading up to concerts,usually on Sundays at Camden School for Girls, Sandall Road, NW5
 Fiona Cairney
 
One of London's leading community orchestras, ERSO performs five to six concerts a year in venues across London. ERSO attracts conservatoire students and graduates, professionals at the start of their careers as well as skilled and experienced amateur musicians. What we all have in common is a commitment to play challenging repertoire to a high standard. Application is by CV to ersoinfo@gmail.com. We are particularly looking for more regular string players
 
 
Wednesday evenings, Herne Hill
 
 
The Fabulous Honeys are London’s sweetest big band. We formed in 2015 as a (mostly) female big band and have gone from strength to strength since. We are a friendly band and eager to welcome new players of all ages who enjoy big band era music. From time to time we have vacancies in some sections so if you would like to become a honey then we’d love to hear from you.
Christopher Stark
George Mattar
Thursday evenings at Trinity Church, Nether Street, Finchley N12
 Rosemary Cook 07966 934186
 
A successful and friendly orchestra in north London, rehearsing weekly and giving five or six high standard concerts each year. We are constantly looking for new challenges and opportunities. For further information please call the contact number or e-mail via our website. We particularly welcome enquiries from string and brass players (grade 8 or semi-pro standard).
Andrew Wilson
 
Fridays 7-8:30pm at Ewell Castle School, Church Street, Ewell, KT17 2AW.
 Andrew Wilson 07904 910848
 
Fitznells has been a part of Ewell Village since 1960, providing music for all ages. Our concert band welcomes anyone approx. grade 3+ looking for a friendly, social group to get back into playing with.
Mark Shanahan
John Crawford
Monday evenings at 7.30pm and the weekend of a concert in Walthamstow,
 Emily Saunders 07905 377558
 
Forest Philharmonic is a friendly yet high-standard orchestra, and is unique in that each string section has a professional leader whose role includes rehearsal and technical advice for the section. Members include music students, teachers, freelancers and amateurs. We perform a regular season in Walthamstow Assembly Hall as well as concerts in the Southbank Centre, Barbican, St John's, Smith Square and St Alban's. String enquiries always welcome.
Thomas Gregory
Alexander Casson
Tuesday evenings during term time 7 - 9pm in the Music Concert Hall at Fortismere School, Creighton Avenue, Muswell Hill
 
 
Fortismere Community Symphony Orchestra is an established and ambitious orchestra that brings players of all ages together to create high calibre music. The Orchestra includes retired and working professionals, students, parents and teachers from Fortismere School, as well as members of the wider community. We perform three times a year at St Andrew's Church in Muswell Hill. There are no formal auditions but we do ask that you are of a Grade 8+ standard for wind instruments, Grade 6+ for brass and strings. You will also have had some ensemble experience. We currently have vacancies in all strings and brass.
Marc Dooley
Tom Evans
Novotel, 1 Shortlands, London W6 (Hammersmith tube) Mondays 19.15-21.30
 Contact via the website
 
We are a large, friendly and ambitious amateur orchestra rehearsing in Hammersmith. We perform 3 or 4 concerts a year, at St John's Smith Square and in the Hammersmith and Fulham area. Please see our website for current vacancies.
The George Miles Light Orchestra
George Miles
Angela Hunt
Thursday, Wellington Road, Enfield 8-10pm.
 020-8360-2505
 
This orchestra gives about 10 charity concerts per year. Is very friendly and welcoming and needs ALL strings and some brass.
Chris Lloyd
 
Thursday evening at 7.50pm in Holy Trinity Church, Southend Crescent, Eltham, London SE9
 
 
Formed in 1988, the Greenwich Concert Band provides excellent experience to musicians of all ages allowing them to continue their musical education and enjoyment long after their school days.
Sharon Broughall
Stuart Quinlan
Tuesday nights in the Canons room at the Harrow Arts Centre, 171 Uxbridge Road, Hatch End, HA5 4EA from 8:00pm to 10:00pm
 Rene Brandon
 John Malcolm
 
Tom Higgins
 
Once a month on a Sunday morning from 10.30am - 12.30pm at the Band Room at the Royal Hospital, Chelsea, London
 via website
 
We are currently in particular need for Trumpet and Trombone players. There is no pre-requisite to have been served in the Brigade of Guards as a musician to join us, but a high standard of performance is required.
Richard Jenkinson
 
Mondays, 7.30, Guy's Chapel, opposite Boland House (orchestra)
 Contact via the website
 
The GKT Music Society is a non-auditioning four-part choir and orchestra for the Medical, Dental and Biomedical Science students and staff at Guy's, King's College and St. Thomas' hospitals; however we do welcome all KCL students and staff, especially those that live around the Guy's area.
Chris Harrison
Jayan Eric Holmes
Thursdays 6:30 at The Bridge Academy E2 8BA
 Jayan Eric Holmes
 
Still going after Lockdown! An orchestra for new and old, all you need is love and an ability to read music. Whether you’re shaking the dust from your violin or wanting to improve your ensemble playing, all instruments are welcome. We are a lively and friendly orchestra meeting every Thursday in term time at the Bridge Academy Hackney E2 8BA. Check out the link on our web page to see us in concert. Call now?
HACS Millennium Symphony Orchestra
Fiona Pacquette
 
Sunday from 3pm - 4.30pm in North West London (NW3 is our base)
 Fiona Pacquette 07746 359 839
 
We do performances every December. If you are a keen string player, please get in contact as we are now rehearsing for HANDEL'S MESSIAH which will be performed 13th December 2014, 5pm - 7.30pm. We'd also welcome trombone and trumpet players.
David Burton, Sean Turpin, Jane Tyler
 
3 workshops each year: a Saturday or Sunday in February, June and October. Keble Prep School, Wades Hill, N21 1BG.
 Jo Anderson
 
Each workshop concentrates on a string chamber work played as a string orchestra. The sessions are led by one of three tutors, all of whom are professional string players. An excellent way to learn some wonderful repertoire in an enjoyable and stimulating atmosphere.
David Burton, Sean Turpin, Jane Tyler
 
3 workshops each year: a Saturday in February, June and October. West Wickham, Bromley, BR4 0PW
 Jo Anderson
 
Each workshop concentrates on a string chamber work played as a string orchestra. The sessions are led by one of three tutors, all of whom are professional string players. An excellent way to learn some wonderful repertoire in an enjoyable and stimulating atmosphere.
Andy Rochford
Tim Miller
Two rehearsals before a concert in St Marks Church, Regents Park NW1
 Tim (Strings) & Ellie (wind)
 
The Hampstead Sinfonietta perform with the Royal Free Hospital Choir. We play three concerts per year consisting of instrumental and choral works.
Mark Prescott
Daniel Pukach
Wednesday 19:45-22:00, St Margarets Church, Lee, Lee Terrace,London SE13 5DL
 Alex Fleming - Chair
 
A vibrant and fun symphony orchestra currently performing three concerts a year. Offering a performance platform for both local amateur players of a high standard and music students from local universities, we also strive to promote contemporary orchestral music by local composers and will feature some of these works in future performances. Vacancies available for strings and brass, G8+.
Grant Bentley
 
Harrow Arts Centre, Uxbridge Road, Hatch End, Middlesex, HA5 4EA, every Sunday 10:00 - 12:00, except concert days
 Grant Bentley 07877 846930
 
We are a friendly community wind band doing a few concert and bandstand/fête appearances every year. We have vacancies in most areas, and all are welcome. See our website for more information.
Tom Kilworth
Robert Was
Thursday 8-10pm Harrow Arts Centre HA5 4EA
 Tony Hunter Chair 07742 535 761
 
10 rehearsals and a concert per term. Particularly need more string players but have opportunities for deps in all other sections.
Lawrence Tatnall
Sandy Thompson
Wednesdays during term times from 7.30pm - 9.30pm at North St Hall, North St, Hornchurch, Essex
 Malcolm Inman 01732 466852
 
A fun and friendly orchestra who extend a warm welcome to new players. Grade 5 or equivalent standard preferred, previous orchestral experience valuable. We play the normal range of Baroque, Classical, Romantic, and modern music.
Various guest conductors
 
Prior to concert, St Andrew's, Thornhill Square N1
 Stephen Glaister 0207 609 1401
 
Formed in 1983 by musicians living in Islington, the Orchestra gives regular concerts in and around North London. The repertoire ranges from the early classics to contemporary works.
Dan James
Lynn Cook
Wednesdays, Term Time, 8-10pm, at St John’s Church, 251 Eden Park Avenue, Beckenham, BR3 3JN
 Ant Fawkes
 Julia Challender
Friendly community orchestra rehearsing in West Wickham in Kent. No audition required, just enthusiasm for making music. We’re looking for violins and brass players so come down and give us a try.
David Smart
 
St. Botoloph's without Bishopsgate Church Hall, Bishopsgate, London, EC2M 3TL. Monday evenings 7.30 - 9.30pm
 01322 370547
 
Formed in 2014, The Heroes Band is a military-style concert band which plays high profile concerts to a high standard, whilst raising money for the Help For Heroes Charity.
Stephanie Jarvis
 
Thursdays, The Howard Venue, Egerton Avenue, Hextable, Kent BR8 7LG
 Stephanie Jarvis
 
All brass and wind instruments are welcome. We play classical to musical theatre, film and pop.
Theo Vinden / Lee Marshall
 
Monday evening 7.30-9.30pm at Charville Library, Bury Ave, Hayes, Middlesex UB4 8LF.
 
 
We are a small orchestral ensemble based in West London. We currently have vacancies for all string and brass players. We play 3 concerts a year with all profits going to local charities. We play a wide wide variety of music including light orchestral and symphonic orchesral works. The group has a mix of players from amateur and professional backgrounds.
Peter Williams
Lucy Cumming
In Ickenham, three or four rehearsals before each concert
 Lydia Holland 01895 252580
 
Three or four concerts a year plus a repertoire day. We play music from 17th to 20th century. New players welcome,especially violins, violas, double basses, horns and trumpets
James Keirle
 
Monday evenings 7:15-9:30 pm at St Giles in the Fields Church, Holborn, WC2H 8LG. 8-10 week terms leading up to a concert, on average 3x a year.
 Hannah Leddy
 
The Holborn Community Orchestra was formed early in 2016 with the aim of bringing musicians in the centre of London together in a new, friendly and motivated local orchestra. Whilst our aim is to make music of a high standard, our rehearsals are very relaxed with very little pressure! We believe arts in general, and music in particular, make people's lives happier and more fulfilling. Our mission is ​to help make music more accessible, to players of all levels and backgrounds, but also to a diversity of audiences. Our motto is to keep rehearsal and concert fees low, to attract a wide range of people to engage with us and music. We play c. 3 concerts a year. Please do get in touch if you're interested in joining, we'd love to hear from you!
Drew Taylor-More & Robbie Henderson
 
Tuesdays during term time 19:00-20:30 Reach Academy, 53-55 High Street Feltham TW13 4AB
 Rachel
 
The Hounslow Community Brass Band for adults is a supportive, relaxed environment where absolute beginners can learn to play, those going to instrument lessons can experience playing in a band, or you can get back to playing an instrument you last touched many decades ago. No experience needed, just enthusiasm. Instruments are available or bring your own. Any brass instrument or drums.
Olsi Qinami
Nicola Garty
St Mary's Church Osterley, Mondays at 7:30
 Geoff Pinney – chair
 Nanako Nakamura – Secretary
Hounslow Symphony Orchestra is an amateur orchestra of around 45 players. We play three concerts each season, usually at St Mary’s Church, Osterley Road, Isleworth TW7 4PW and St Paul’s Church, 56 Grove Park Road, Chiswick, W4 3SB. We aim to be the friendliest orchestra in London and if you play violin, viola or double bass we’d be particularly delighted to hear from you – do get in touch!
 
 
Every 2nd Tuesday and 4th Thursday (from April) during term time from 8:00pm till 10:00 at 31 Elmbank Avenue, Barnet, Hertfordshire, EN5 3DU - 16 players max per rehearsal
 Craig Simons / 020 8441 2117 / 07789 933212
 
We are the UK's first and longest running Clarinet Choir founded in November 1970. We welcome all Clarinettists - from Eb to Bb Contrabass - of Grade 5+ standard from all over North London to come and join us. If you would like to come along and try us out, please get in touch. We look forward to hearing from you.
Angus Moncrieff
 
Thursday evening, Leytonstone E11
 Angus Moncrieff
 
We are a 17 piece big band, rehearsing Thursday nights in Leytonstone. The band has an experienced MD, very strong players in all the key chairs and an eclectic & regularly expanding pad. We gig with some really excellent singers, usually somewhere between 7 and 10 gigs per year. We strive to improve and to use our rehearsal time effectively, but we also have fun! We currently have the following vacancies: Piano, 2nd Trumpet, 4th Trombone
Kaleidoscope Wind
Ferencz Diczku
 
Alternate Tuesdays at St Anne's and St Andrew's Church, 125 Salusbury Road, West Kilburn, London NW6 6RG
 Caroline Lomax
 
Kaleidoscope Wind was formed in 1995 to explore the wide variety of classical and popular music written and arranged for large wind ensemble consisting of pairs of flutes, oboes,clarinets,bassoons and horns (wind decet). The group plays a broad spectrum of music, from the serious to the light-hearted, from the unfamiliar to well known. It has performed at numerous venues in and around the London area and also at the Mill Hill Music Festival and the Proms at St. Judes in Hampstead.
Tom Seligman
Cory Ferguson
Tuesday (occasional Thursday) evenings 4 weeks before concert, Holland Park
 Cory Ferguson
 
One of London's best and friendliest orchestras! 4 concerts a year in Notting Hill performing eclectic smaller orchestral repertoire to a high standard. We sometimes have vacancies for strong upper strings, and occasional wind depping opportunities.
Claudio di Meo
Abigail Dance
Mondays in term-time 7-9:30 at St Gabriel's Pimlico, Warwick Square, Pimlico, London SW1V 4QF
 Rachel Powell (Membership Secretary)
 
A friendly well-established orchestra of a very high standard performing three concerts a year. Enquiries welcome, especially from double bass and viola players.
Russell Keable
Alan Tuckwood
18:30 - 21:30 on Thursdays at Pimlico Academy and 11:00 - 17:00 on the Sunday before each concert at various venues including Henry Wood Hall
 Sabina Wagstyl, Orchestra Manager
 
Founded in 1956, Kensington Symphony Orchestra has built an enviable reputation as one of the UK's most accomplished and adventurous non-professional orchestras. We promote our own concert season at St John's Smith Square, Southbank Centre, Cadogan Hall and Milton Court. Our fixers welcome new contacts to provide deps for individual rehearsals and concerts - contact details on our website.
Daniel Hogan
Catherine Schofield
3 Sunday afternoons and 1 Thursday evening in the month preceding each concert; rehearsal venue The Barn Church, Atwood Road, Kew.
 Babette Standen
 
Kew Sinfonia is a friendly Chamber Orchestra comprising professional and talented amateur musicians of Grade 8+ standard. We play 4 concerts a year, featuring exciting and varied repertoire from the 18th century to the present day, including new works commissioned from contemporary composers. Playing with KS is not a regular weekly commitment: we hold focussed, intensive rehearsals on three Sunday afternoons and one Thursday evening in the month preceding each concert. Kew Sinfonia performs regularly at St Anne's Church on Kew Green, near Kew Gardens, and at other venues in Chiswick and South West London. As well as attracting established artists to play with us, we are pleased to support and give a platform to up and coming young soloists. Kew Sinfonia welcomes enquiries from new players, particularly strings and brass, and we do have occasional wind depping opportunities.
Tom Griffiths
Catherine Bromley
Thursdays 8:00 - 10:00pm, Christ’s School, Richmond TW10 6HW
 
 
The multi award-winning Kew Wind Orchestra is one of Britain's top amateur wind orchestras, renowned for its popular and challenging repertoire of symphonic, classical and jazz music. We rehearse weekly during term time. We welcome enquiries from prospective new members. There is a simple informal process where we invite new players to join us for an informal trial period.
Andy Meyers
Helena Ruinard
Wednesday evenings at 7:30 at Visconti Studio, Kingston University, Kingston Hill Campus KT2 7LB
 Enquiries through website please
 
The Kingston Chamber Orchestra is an amateur orchestra of high standard, based in Kingston, Surrey, UK. Our members are a mixture of professionals, teachers, semi-professionals and keen amateurs. We rehearse weekly during term-time and perform at least three concerts per year.
Scott Wilson
 
7.45pm to 10 pm Fridays, at St.Nicholas Church Hall, Summer Road, Thames Ditton, Surrey.
 
 
Strings needed!
Joshua von Bohlen
Fiona McLean-Buechel
Wednesdays, 10.15-12.30 at United Reform Church, Eden Street, Kingston KT1 1HZ
 Secretary
 
The orchestra welcome new members and, despite its name, is keen to recruit younger amateur musicians. There are currently vacancies for violins.
Peter Selwyn
Alan Thorogood
Wheatsheaf Community Hall, Wheatsheaf Lane, off South Lambeth Road, London SW8 2UP. 19:00 Thursdays
 
 
We play a broad range of symphonic repertoire, with some challenging programmes, but formal playing qualifications are less important than an ability to be part of a section and a willingness to practice outside rehearsals. We don't hold formal auditions, but invite players to join us for one rehearsal period and concert, so we can see how we get on. We're a friendly, welcoming orchestra and can guarantee a fun time, while also getting the most out of the music. We're looking for committed and enthusiastic string players!
Samuel Huston
 
Thursdays 7.30 at Herne Hill United Church, Red Post Hill SE24
 Claire Richards (Chair)
 
We are a friendly community orchestra based in South London. We perform at least 2 formal concerts each year and several informal ones, including bandstand gigs in the summer. There are no auditions; players should be at least Grade 6 and are invited to come along to rehearsals for a few weeks before committing to join. We are currently seeking trumpet, French horn and tuba players, though we are also pleased to hear from others.
Lamorbey String Orchestra (Sidcup)
Nick Youngs
Janet Newis
Last Tuesday in every month at 10.15AM at Hurst Community Centre, Sidcup
 Malcolm Youngs
 Nick Youngs
This orchestra is an amateur group which meets monthly at Hurst Community Centre in Hurst Road, Sidcup. Meetings are on the last Tuesday of the month at 10.15 in the morning. We play a wide variety of music from the string orchestra repertoire. The playing is mainly for our own pleasure with an occasional public performance. The atmosphere at our rehearsals is friendly and informal.
Mark Prescott
 
Euston, Tuesday 7pm – 9:30pm
 Louise Wilson
 
London Lawyers’ Music (‘LLM’) consists of the London Lawyers’ Symphony Orchestra and the London Lawyers’ Chorus. We put on five major concerts each year (three joint choir with orchestra concerts, and two where just the orchestra play), with concert venues typically in the City or West End of London. Standard is generally at or around grade 8 or above (although new joiners have sometimes not played for several years). Membership is not restricted to lawyers; all are welcome.
David Evans
Helen Sanders-Hewett
Intermediate Orchestra (c.grade 4/5) Weds 7-9 pm St Cyprian's Church ,Glentworth Street, NW1 6AX; Main Orchestra (c.grade 5/6+) Thurs 7-9 pm St Pancras Church Hall, Lancing Street, NW1 1NA.
 
 
Established in 1995 we have 2 very friendly orchestras which have been set up to help players to make music in an orchestral setting for the first time or wanting to start again after an interval. We have no auditions - the approximate grade levels are shown above. Each orchestra gives 2 concerts a year. Please consult the website for further details and vacancies.
John Hargreaves
 
Most Sundays, 10-45 am to 12.45 pm. Prenderghast School, Hilly Fields, off Adelaide Avenue, London, SE4. Near Ladywell Station and Crofton Park Stations.
 
 
Lewisham Concert Band is one of London’s top community wind bands, comprising both professional and high-standard amateur musicians, performing throughout the year in the UK and Europe. We welcome musicians of grade 8+ standard. Admission after a successful month’s trial and discussion by committee. We’re a really friendly and social band. See our website for details.
Guy Bennett
Sally Aucken
Tuesdays, 8:00 - 10:00 at St Mark's Church Hall, Church Hill Rd., Surbiton KT6 4LS
 Enquiries through website or by email
 
We are a thriving band that plays good music to a high standard. We are continually expanding our repertoire and aim to give several concerts each year. We come from all walks of life and our playing ability ranges from around Grade 8 to semi-professional standard. We welcome players of any age who are of about this standard. If you are interested, please come along to one of our Tuesday rehearsals. The rehearsal venue is approximately 5 minutes walk from Surbiton main line station, and there is off street parking available. Please bring your own stand. We currently have vacancies for oboe, bassoon, trombone, tuba and percussion.
Dorian Dimitrov
Juan Rezzuto
Twice a month, St. Cuthbert’s Philbeach Gardens
 Juan Rezzuto
 Victor Gomez
At WKMT we organised WKMT Orchestra as an educational endeavour. Rehearsals will be carried out twice a month at St. Cuthbert’s Philbeach Gardens, one of London’s most magnificent and inspiring Churches. The objective of these rehearsals is to train our amateur musicians. Each string line will be lead by one of our master instructors. Our master instructors are WKMT master instructors. The latter transforms WKMT orchestra in the best possible student orchestra as it easily integrates teachers, students and lessons in a single organisation. In that sense, Our teachers can orientate private lessons to strengthen those weaknesses they might spot during their orchestral rehearsals.
Sarah Montague
Sarah Montague
St.Michael's Church, Camden Town, NW1 9LQ, Thursdays 7.30-9.30
 Cathy Taylor
 
An amateur group of intermediate and advanced players of any instrument who have a passion for Eastern European Gypsy and folk music. New members always welcome!
William Carslake
Simon Kodurand
Mondays 7.00-9.30; Chelsea
 Stephen Bonney
 
Performs at St John's Smith Square in aid of charity. High standard orchestra of music students/graduates and strong amateur players. New players welcome (must be Grade 8+) in all departments.
Andrew Brittin
 
Wednesday, 7.30-9.30pm.  St. Margaret Pattens church, Rood Lane, London EC3M 1HS
 Andrew Brittin
 
Traditional brass band based in the City of London.
Pablo Urbina
 
St Botolph's-without-Aldersgate, close to both Barbican and St. Paul's tube stations. Monday evenings 7-9.30pm
 Ben Woodbine-Craft
 
The London City Orchestra was formed in January 2013, and since then has worked itself to the foreground of the classical music scene in London. Run by a Board of Trustees and its elected Committee, the orchestra’s mission is to nurture aspiring musicians and non-professional music making throughout London, the Southeast and the UK. The orchestra performs a minimum of three concerts per season, and rehearses weekly on Mondays from 7pm - 9.30pm, in the City of London.
Simon Rigby
 
St Mary’s Church, St Mary’s Road, Ealing W5 5RH most Monday afternoons during the academic term, from 1 to 4pm
 Simon Rigby
 
Community based orchestra comprising LCM, Thames Valley University and other HE students, and keen amateur players (Ideally Grade 8+) and with a focus on training for LCM Students. All instrumentalists welcome!
 
 
Wednesdays in Herne Hill, SE24
 Alan Taylor
 
A group of 3 wind chamber ensembles, playing the standard repertoire for groups such as double wind quintets and clarinet choirs, plus arrangements of early music and newly composed music. The ensembles perform together.
Alan Taylor
 
Saturdays in Herne Hill, SE24
 Alan Taylor
 
A chamber orchestra rehearsing and performing contemporary music, working with composers on the development of their pieces. Rehearsals and workshops every couple of months. Looking for more string players.
Surjo De
 
Monthly on a Sunday afternoon - Reynolds Building, St Dunstans Road, W6 8RP
 Via website or email
 
The London Doctors Orchestra and Choir is an exciting new ensemble set up by a small group of West London doctors who were keen to keep their musical interests going well beyond university. Our members range from junior doctors through to consultants, other healthcare staff and even some vets. Rehearsals are kept relaxed and sociable, the perfect opportunity to meet some new friendly people and held monthly to help fit in around everyone's busy working lives, with concerts planned every six months. We are always looking for new members for both the choir and orchestra, regardless of previous experience.
Dario Peluso
 
Mostly on Tuesday evenings (check website) from 7 to 9 pm in EC
 (or through website)
 
The London Euphonia is a new orchestra based in the City of London. We are looking for enthusiastic and motivated amateur musicians (around grade 8) to join us for the exciting opportunity to play some wonderful music together and contribute with creative (and social!) ideas. As a new ensemble, the more exciting ideas we come up with, the better!
Tom Briers
 
Thursdays from 7pm to 9pm in Pimlico
 Erik Tomlin 07595 622 653
 
Associated with the London Gay Symphony Orchestra, the LGSW is London's only symphonic wind band for and from the LGBT communities in London. Brass, wind and percussion players are always welcome to join us in a safe , supportive and fun environment, where sexuality is not an issue.
Christopher Braime
 
Sunday evenings, Central London
 Peter Reynolds 07740 354369
 
The London Gay Symphony Orchestra is the only lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans-gender orchestra in the UK. We welcome anyone whatever their sexuality. We perform 4 or 5 concerts a year in a friendly and welcoming environment. We pride ourselves on being a dynamic, player-led orchestra with lots of innovative ideas.
Alexander Conway
John Cummins
St Gabriel’s Music Halls - Pimlico, London
 Lottie Gulliver
 
The London Incidental Orchestra was established to provide performance opportunities to accomplished individuals who have trained as musicians but have subsequently gone on to progress in other fields. At the heart of the orchestra is an inimitable passion for music and the drive to share it with anyone who will listen through high-quality performances.
Alexander Walker
Caryn Cohen
Wednesday evenings, Hampstead Garden Suburb Free Chruch
 
 
Based at Hampstead Garden Suburb's Free Church, the London International Concert Orchestra is composed of retired and working professionals, recent graduates and amateur players; from all backgrounds and of all ages and nationalities. United by their love of music, their aim is to promote the appreciation of classical music through the presentation of concerts and recitals, providing opportunities for individuals to participate in music making and platforms for up and coming soloists.
James Young
 
Monday evenings, twice monthly, at Crown Court Church of Scotland, Russell Street, London W.C.2.
 Maxine Wiltshire
 
A small, classical plucked string ensemble, for players of mandolin, mandola and classical guitar. Our repertoire covers baroque to contemporary music. We give concerts in an eclectic range of venues. Competent classical mandolin players are welcome, as are experienced violinists with an interest in playing the mandolin.
Oliver Till
Tina Bowles
St Mellitus, Tollington Park N4 3AG Tuesdays at 7.15pm
 Ian Merryweather 07958 613673
 
We're a friendly, long-established amateur orchestra and we rehearse in a convenient venue in Islington, North London. We put on 3 concerts a year in support of medically related charities. We have professional leads in all the string sections. We currently have room for more strings and low brass.
Paul Hooper
Stuart Black
Fridays 7:45-9:45pm at Muswell Hill Methodist Church, 28 Pages Lane, Muswell Hill, N10 1PP
 Craig Boulton
 
London Metropolitan Brass is a new brass band, based in North London. We are always on the lookout for more players, whether experienced or coming back to playing after a break. If you don't currently play a brass instrument but would like to learn, we have a beginners band where we can teach you free-of-charge.
Conducting students of John Landor
Various
Wednesdays during term-time 6.30 - 9.30 pm, NW1 6RX
 John Landor
 
Music students, graduates, professionals and experienced amateurs (minimum Grade 8) are welcome to join this conductors’ orchestra on a regular or ad hoc basis. You will be conducted by a variety of student conductors under the guidance of course leader John Landor, an experienced, sympathetic and imaginative teacher. This is a unique opportunity to learn how to respond more effectively to conductors by witnessing and experiencing their development, and to gain deeper insights into the repertoire, currently Brahms Symphony No 2 and Beethoven Symphony No 5. You may also have the opportunity to take part in end of term concerts. Please contact John Landor with your CV.
George Salmon
 
Usually two Friday evenings before the concert 
 George Salmon
 
The orchestra exists to raise money for charity, with a different one picked for each concert (usually 2 per year). Players are a mixture of amateurs and professionals
Lev Parikian
James Widden
Monday 6.35-8.45pm at St Thomas More School, Cadogan Street, London
 David Thorne
 Alan Grant
Run by The Insurance Orchestral Society. We welcome new members, and in particular would like to hear from string players.
n/a
n/a
various activities throughout London
 
 
The London Piano Circle is a members' organisation of proficient non-professional pianists, which organises small informal playing gatherings in some members' homes, concerts and master classes. It was founded in June 1994 by Andrew Cockburn and Elizabeth Gundrey. Subscriptions are £25 per year and members receive newsletters three times a year, in September, December and May, giving details of the Circle's events and articles and information for members.
Guest conductors
Tina Bowles
7:00 to 9:30 Wednesday evenings in at St Joseph's Church Hall, Lamb's Passage, EC1Y 8LE
 Membership Secretary
 
If you love playing in orchestra but get a little bored of repetitive rehearsals then the LRO might be what you are looking for… At LRO we play through a different work each week and enjoy making excellent progress during each session. We currently plan one concert per term, usually supporting a charity. When rehearsing for concerts we dedicate one full LRO session to rehearsing each piece and have a full rehearsal on the day of the concert, so there is always a large range of works played each term. String players are always welcome…..come along and sharpen your sight reading!
Stuart Longley
 
2nd, 3rd and 4th Friday of the month at St Gabriel's Halls, Glasgow Terrace, Churchill Gardens, SW1V 3AA, 7:30PM - 10:00PM.
 Through website or email
 
A group for saxophones only, open to all abilities without audition. We play music written in a wide range of styles and from many different eras, from baroque to modern and jazz, many of which have been specially arranged by our conductor, Roger Cawkwell.
Christopher Cox
Jonathan Lee / Alex Postlethwaite
Full day, the weekend in advance of the concert, followed by an afternoon rehearsal on the concert day. St. James' Church, Sussex Gardens, London W2 3UD
 Judith Ní Bhreasláin
 
Formed in November 1999, the orchestra has achieved its original objective of performing all of Shostakovich’s symphonies in concert. We now aim to provide talented musicians with an opportunity to play less frequently performed works, with an emphasis on the works of Shostakovich and other Russian / USSR / Russian Empire composers.
James Keirle
Galen Woltkamp-moon
Thursdays at St Clements Vicarage, Kings Square, London EC1V 8DA from April 2019
 Galen Woltkamp-Moon
 
We are a full sized orchestra and currently have vacancies for Double Bass and Tuba. We play a wide range of video game music from the classics to the latest releases.
Fred Slide
 
Fridays 17:30-20:00 in North London (near West Finchley station)
 Fred Slide
 
The band, aimed at musicians aged 21 and younger, enjoys an enviable reputation as one of London’s leading youth wind bands. It performs exciting and challenging music with the focus being on playing a wide mix of repertoire including original and contemporary works for wind orchestra, music from shows, films, jazz and classical.
Ben Glassberg
Elaine Ambridge
Approximately 3 concerts per year, with 3/4 rehearsals in the fortnight leading up to it (usually weekends, or one Friday evening)
 Ben Glassberg 07596455546
 
We are a new, young orchestra raising money for a variety of different charities, nominated by members of both the committee and the orchestra, playing adventurous music, with a combination of keen amateurs and college students. Current plans include Holst's The Planets, Berlioz's Symphonie Fantastique and 3 of the Stravinsky Ballet Russes. Rehearsal/concert venue varies from concert to concert.. We are always looking for new players (preferably no older than Uni/Music College students), especially in the string department!
Lucas Wind Ensemble
Peter Lutton
Jonathan Grover
alternate Wednesday evenings from 8pm-10pm in Surbiton, KT5
 Jonathan Grover
 
The Lucas Wind Ensemble is a friendly, relaxed group of wind players (plus horns, double bass and conductor), established in 1969. We perform 3 concerts per year in the local area and mainly play western classical music, including pieces composed specially for us. Please contact us to find out about current vacancies/deps. Grade 8+ standard
Paolo Buttaboni
Sylvia Houghton
The Malden Centre., Blagdon Rd, New Malden, Greater London KT3 4AF Thursday Mornings in term time, 10.00 am to 12.00 noon
 Paolo Buttaboni
 The Malden Centre 020 8336 7770
Passionate about music? The Malden Chamber Orchestra offers an exciting, unique opportunity to play the great symphonic music in a friendly group of players under the leading of a professional conductor: come and enjoy playing a wide variety of pieces selected from the orchestral repertoire, ranging from classical to light music, and including overtures, symphonies, ballet music, concertos, and suites from musical shows. Join us for another successful season of music making: rehearsals are held at the Malden Centre every Thursday morning during school terms and we perform a major concert every year for Christmas. There is no formal audition and we welcome players of all talents and ages.
The Marlowe Ensemble
Malcolm Youngs
Roy Simpson
Tuesday mornings at 10.15AM at Hurst Community Centre, Sidcup
 Malcolm Youngs
 Nick Youngs
This orchestra is an amateur group which meets weekly at Hurst Community Centre in Hurst Road, Sidcup. We play a wide variety of light orchestral music. The playing is mainly for our own pleasure with an occasional public performance. The atmosphere at our rehearsals is friendly and informal.
Nick Coote
 
Friday 8.30pm-10pm Mary Ward Centre, 42 Queen Square, London, WC1N 3AQ
 Nick Coote
 
A String Orchestra which meets at the Mary Ward Centre as part of the Mary Ward String Workshop. Friendly group, short performance at end of term but also lots of sight reading. Minimum Grade 5.
Arnold Bibby
 
Wednesday evenings, between 7:30pm and 9:30pm at Morden Baptist Church, Crown Lane, Morden SM4 5BL
 
 
The Merton Concert Band, based in Wimbledon, was formed in 1981 and was the brainchild of a former mayor of the London Borough of Merton. We’re currently in need of brass players, especially trumpets.
Michael Robinson
 
Sundays 10-12, Whitehouse Center, 45 The Avenue, Hampton, TW12 3RN
 Rhys Hughes
 
An Amateur concert band that welcomes all. We have a long history of music and perform regularly throughout the area every year.
Andrew Wilson
 
Ashcombe School, Dorking, RH4 1LY 7:30pm Mondays
 Sarah Kent (secy) 01372 456176
 
The Training band welcomes all ages of players who want to learn to play in a band or brush up existing skills. Same venue, also Mondays in term time, 5:45pm
Monday Afternoon Strings
Michael Newman
Heather Hall
2pm - 4pm, every Monday in term time, Christchurch, Tudor Way, Petts Wood, BR5 1LH.
 Michael Newman 01622 743834
 Heather Hall 020 8650 3349
For anyone lacking experience or confidence we provide an excellent introduction to playing in a string orchestra, and, for those more familiar with playing 'under the baton', there is the pleasure of exploring the repertoire in a friendly, informal atmosphere, with expert professional guidance. Music is selected according to the average ability level and we suggest a minimum of grade IV to gain maximum benefit and enjoyment. String players of any age can be assured of a warm welcome - we need you all!
Charles Peebles
 
Morley College, 61 Westminster Bridge Rd, SE1, near Lambeth North Tube or Waterloo. Thursday Evenings 19.00 to 21.30.
 Music Secretary 020 7450 1838
 
A small orchestra of high standard, playing music from the 18th century to the present day. The orchestra gives regular public concerts. Students can join in any term, subject to audition.
Morley College Conductors' Orchestra
Paul Sarcich (tutor)
Derek West
2-5 Saturdays term time. At Morley College, 61 Westminster Bridge Rd. SE1 7HT. Underground: Lambeth North
 Tom Whitehouse 02072516339 07702841896
 
This orchestra is conducted by different trainee conductors. From the Morley Conducting Course and plays different pieces each week. E.g. An overture and a symphony. It's free, friendly, great sight-reading practice; no pressure on players. Great experience of playing excellent works straight through. Just turn up any week. Strings always needed. Brass and woodwind please phone to check.
Morley Wind
Shea Lolin
 
Morley College, Westminster Bridge Road, London SE1 7HT. Friday 5.30pm to 7.30pm during term time
 Morley College (Enrolment Line) 020 7450 1889
 
Vacancies in all wind, brass and percussion departments for this new ensemble to be run by Morley College.
Leslie Lake
 
Weekly during school term times only on Wednesday evenings 8pm - 10pm at The Maryfield Hall, 73 Leysdown Road, Mottingham SE9 4UB
 Tony Mahoney
 
MVCB is a wind band based in Mottingham, SE London which performs a wide selection of music for indoor and outdoor concerts and events. We have an extensive library and pad selections are changed every term or for specific occasions. Please see our website for a selection of previous concert programmes.
The Nelson Orchestra
Adam Pounds
David Richmond
19:30 Thursday
 
 
 
Miles Harwood
 
Thursdays from 7.30 to 9.30 p.m. at John Savage Centre, Fencepiece Road, Barkingside, Ilford, Essex IG6 2LJ
 Miles Harwood 02085054329
 
A community wind band established in 1996. New members welcome (minimum standard Grade VI), especially tenor saxophones, trombones and tubas.
Brian Cox
 
Tuesday evenings 8.00 -10.00 at Aitken Hall, St Andrew's Church, Northey Avenue, Cheam, SM2 7HF
 Brian Cox – 07791 688838
 
The New Venture Concert Band is a new band created in the summer of 2018. If you play a wind or brass instrument or percussion and have good sight reading skills we would love to see you.
Dan Shilladay
Stephanie Waite
Thursday mornings in term-time from 10.15-12.15 at the London Interfaith Centre, NW6 6RG.
 Catherine Barlen
 
String orchestra giving public concerts but also with an outreach programme primarily involving school visits. String players of Grade 8+ standard very welcome
various
Sylvia Seaton
1st Sunday of the month, Tatsfield
 Peter Maynard
 
NDS is a thriving Symphony Orchestra based in the village of Tatsfield on the Kent/Surrey border, noted for its high musical standards and friendliness. We play 2 concerts a year to large and enthusiastic audiences under different conductors each season. We welcome new players, especially strings, grade 7/8+, please mail us or refer to our website for more details. Hope to see you soon!
Farnoosh Behzad / Vivien Robbins
Amanda Ladell
Every Wednesday morning from 10.00-12.00am at The Scout Hut - opposite The Jolly Farmers pub, Slades Hill Enfield
 Amanda Ladell 020 8372 9647
 Judy Hunt 020 8366 1808
A friendly orchestra which plays a wide range of light and classical music simply for pleasure. All new players welcome. No auditions ! Also vacancy for double bass player - double bass available on loan.
The North London Philharmonia
Ron Rappoport
Robert Masarachi
Tuesday eves, Golders Green Parish Church, North End Rd. London NW11
 Ron Rappoport 020 8346-8645
 
 
Owen Leech
Gosia Kuznicka
Monday, 7.45-9.45 Mondays, Trinity Church, Nether Street
 Filippa, Publicity
 Donal, Chair
We have a common passion for playing music and relish the opportunity to explore a wide repertoire comprising well-loved, less-familiar and new works. Our ethos is to provide a friendly and supportive environment for musicians to develop their skills. We pride ourselves on being open to musicians of all ages and backgrounds. We maintain a ‘no auditions’ policy, and welcome and encourage all musicians who feel they can make a contribution to join us and share the experience. Especially looking for violinists, basses and violas, but all enquiries welcome
Robert Max
Peter Fender
United Reformed Church, Ferme Park Road/Weston Park, London N8 Mondays 7.30-10.00pm
 Contact for new members
 
Ambitious non-professional orchestra whose aim is to present full large-scale symphonic repertoire featuring a varied mix of adventurous and lesser known works, together with popular well-known pieces. We give three public concerts a year in North London.
Dan Button
 
Mon & Wed evening 8 - 10pm at Northwood Headquarters, Sandy Lane
 Dan Button
 
A versatile and hard-working Concert Band, performing regularly at a wide range of venues in both the surrounding area as well as in Central London. The repertoire is both challenging as well as fun and includes popular tunes, big band/swing, orchestral transcriptions right through to modern day symphonic wind band compositions. We rehearse in a new purpose built facility and all equipment is available to loan if required. As well as the musical aspect the band also enjoys a sociable side away from the stand. All enquiries are always welcome.
Brian Cox
 
Twice a month on Sunday afternoons in Addington Village, near Croydon.
 Sarah Cox
 
We are a friendly concert band who enjoy producing good music to the best of our ability. If you share our ambition and play a wind, brass or percussion instrument to grade 5 standard or above we would love to hear from you.
 
 
Every other Monday evening at Christ Church URC/Methodist Church, 263 Barry Road, East Dulwich SE22 0JT, from 7.30pm until 9.30pm.
 
 
Formed in 2008, Opal Flutes is a friendly South London flute choir based in East Dulwich. We welcome flautists of all ages and abilities - come along and meet other flautists, make new friends, try an alto or a bass flute, improve your sight-reading and of course get plenty of regular playing!
Chris Hopkins
Rebecca Smith
Usually Tuesday evenings 7pm, King Solomon Academy, nr Edgware Road tube stations (NW1)
 General Enquiries
 
One of the leading amateur orchestras in London performing 5 concerts per year at St James's Church, Piccadilly, plus occasional other projects. The orchestra prides itself on its high standard of music-making and friendly, relaxed atmosphere. Visit our website for joining info. Music graduates/post-grade 8 preferred.
Stephen Hope
Variable
Sundays 12 - 6 about four times a year at St Paul's United Reformed Church, South Croydon
 Stephen Hope
 
The orchestra is designed to be an eclectic mix of leading professional players and 'professional amateurs', and instrumentalists of grade 8 plus/ diploma standard are warmly invited to contact us - there is NO audition at present. The repertoire explored consists of the large scale symphonic works of Bruckner, Mahler, Strauss, Elgar, Berlioz etc - pieces not often experienced outside the major symphony orchestras.
Roy Garman
 
The Highway Primary School, The Highway, Orpington, BR6 9DJ on Monday evenings: Beginners and Improvers: 18:30 – 20:00, Main Band: 20:00 – 22:00
 Roy Garman 01689 854657
 Sylvia Blunt 01959 532830
The Orpington Band was founded in 1925 and provides a unique combination of nurturing beginners and providing a platform for more experienced players to perform together. Originally established as the Orpington Silver Band playing marching and other brass band repertoires, it now plays a wide selection of music from old classics to modern pop and film music.
Emily Singh
Sarah Douch
Thursdays 19.30-21.30 during term time. Petts Wood, Orpington
 (chair)
 (secretary)
We are a friendly orchestra in our 72nd season, containing semi-professionals, teachers and keen amateurs. We perform three concerts a year of popular and lesser known classical works. Currently we are actively recruiting violin, viola, bass and brass players of grade 6+ standard. Please contact us with your enquiries and see our website.
Peter Legge
 
Sight Read Public Concert, Friday Evening, 7.30pm to 9pm, Platform 9, Paddington Railway Station.
 Tom Taylor
 
Established about 1860 as the Great Western Railway Paddington Staff Band. There was a Brass Band until 1922 when the Staff Military Band came about. Today it is open to all to come along and make Music.
Stephanie Reeve, David Morris and George Sleightholme
 
Alternate Sunday mornings 10am-1pm, CUFOS, The Old Station, Top of The Avenue, London N10 2QE
 Caroline Franklyn
 
The Palace Band is a large wind ensemble (flute, piccolo, oboe, clarinet, soprano/alto/tenor/baritone saxophones, bass clarinet, bassoon and French horn) for adults of intermediate standard. There are no auditions, and the band has a relaxed and open ethos.
Peter Fender
Brian Lloyd Wilson
Meet for just a few rehearsals close to each concert - Thursday eves and one Sunday.
 Peter Fender
 
London's most adventurous amateur orchestra! We look to interest the reluctant concert goer by working with different art forms and removing some of the highbrow nature of classical concerts. We play music from the Baroque up to today. Amateurs & students of good standard sought. Professional leader. See website for more details
Paula Goodwin
Brian Glicksman
Christ Church Sutton, SM2 5TN, Fridays 19.15 – 21.15, Term time only
 Richard Clifton
 Brian Glicksman (Chair)
The Phoenix Concert Band has about thirty five woodwind and brass players of about grade 5 and above playing a varied concert band repertoire at occasional public performances. We welcome new players, particularly low brass (we now have percussionist!).
Chris McGinity
 
Thursdays 20:00 to 22:00 Christ Church, Watling Street, Radlett, Herts, WD7 7JJ
 Chris McGinity 020 8364-9862 or 07901-972855
 
The Phoenix Concert Band aims to set high standards in its performances, giving playing opportunities to musicians at the upper end of ability. Players are generally minimum Grade 6 - some well above - so do call if you would like to come along. We don't audition, we'd rather you came along for a few rehearsals to see how it goes.
Patrick Massey / Will Hooker
n/a
Mondays 7:30, in Oval
 Patrick Massey
 
Friendly and high quality symphony orchestra based in London. The orchestra raises money through its concerts for charities nominated by the players. Standard required is Grade 8 + (we don’t mind a bit of rust though)! Classical/romantic/20th century orchestral repertoire. Current vacancies for certain strings and brass sections. Subs of £60 a season.
Robert Puzey
 
We meet on Saturdays 14.30 – 16.30, usually every 2-3 weeks in term time, Fairfields Church, Windsor Cl, Northwood HA6 1PD, nearest tube Northwood Hills.
 Robert Elkeles 07956 600206
 Jackie Mulchrone 07808820221
We are a friendly group of amateur string players who meet at Northwood Methodist Church hall. We do not give formal concerts, but there is a play through at the end of each term which our friends and family often attend. There is parking nearby, and Northwood Station (Metropolitan Line) is 5 mins walk. We play mainly classical music, but not exclusively, with the emphasis on enjoying music-making with others. Our Musical Director Robert Puzey is a professional musician and highly experienced in tutoring groups. We welcome players of all ages, of approximately Grade 6 standard and upwards. Do get in touch if you would like to give us a try.
Guest Conductors
Final year RCM students
Once a month on a Saturday, Primrose Hill Community Centre, London, NW1 8TN
 Sue Hadley
 
Playdays Orchestra meets one Saturday a month to enjoy working on a symphony or a couple of overtures in a very friendly atmosphere. Bring your own lunch. Hot drinks and snacks are included. We have an informal playthrough 4.00-4.30. You can apply via the website for any coming Playday.
Sam Jones
George Mattar
All Saints Church Notting Hill, Clydesdale Rd, London W11 1JE, Mondays, From 19.30 – 21.30
 Duncan Gillies via website
 
Friendly orchestra that meets weekly in term time and gives 3 public performances a year. Vacancies particularly for trumpet and strings. See website for more details.
Robert Puzey
 
Thursday afternoons from 2 to 4 pm, at Cecil Sharp House, Camden
 Sue Hadley
 
This is a symphony orchestra for all strings and woodwinds meeting on Thursday afternoons from 2 - 4pm.
Putney & Wandsworth Brass Band
Sam Topp & Ben Knight
 
Wednesday evenings at Granard School in Putney, SW15 6XA
 Martyn Stogden - 020 8366 0657
 
If you live in the Putney and Wandsworth area, play a brass instrument and might be interested in joining SW15's famous town band, please get in touch as we are currently recruiting. Putney & Wandsworth Brass Band is a professionally-coached ensemble, rehearsing on Wednesday evenings in SW15. We are part of the unique North London Brass Network, a family of bands in four London Boroughs totalling around 100 players. We equally welcome experienced players, those returning to brass playing after a break and learners of all ages and backgrounds. We teach and develop valuable musical skills and give players opportunity to rehearse and perform at some of London's most prestigious locations and events.
Sam Topp
 
Wednesday evenings in Putney
 
 
We’re a friendly community brass band with a mixture of ages and abilities, and no formal entrance requirements or auditions. New players always welcome.
John Beswick
David Burton
Holy Trinity Church Hall, Carlton Road, Redhill. Monday evenings in term time from 7.30pm to 9.45pm.
 
 
The Redhill Sinfonia is one of the oldest amateur orchestras in the country. Established in 1891 under the name of “Redhill Society of Instrumentalists”, during its long history it has been associated with many famous names, including Ralph Vaughan Williams and Gordon Jacob who were both Presidents of the orchestra. The orchestra performs three well-attended concerts of varied repertoire each year, in Reigate and Redhill. Key to the orchestra’s continued success, popularity and high standard are the skill and enthusiasm of its professional conductor John Beswick and leader David Burton. We always welcome applications from new members of at least grade 8 standard or equivalent, especially strings and brass. We also offer free Scholarship places to school-age string players who are at or working towards grade 8. We rehearse on Monday evenings during term time, in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere.
Levon Parikian
Peter Nall
Weekend courses in London; annual week-long course at the Edinburgh Festival
 Anne-Marie Norman 07483 924338 (24-hr answerphone)
 
Join us for rewarding weekends of intensive rehearsal of large-scale symphonic repertoire in central London, plus a week-long residential course during the Edinburgh Festival, with professional conductors and string section principals. Each course ends with an open rehearsal/play-through. Players should be grade 8-plus and competent sight-readers.
James Golborn
Chris Childs
Tuesdays 7.30-9.30pm, Putney and Richmond Unitarian Church, Ormond Road TW10 6TH
 Chris Childs
 
A fun and lively orchestra (musically and socially) of mixed ability but with high aspirations. Our core repertoire is based around music from the stage and screen, from show tunes and iconic film music to TV themes and pop music, with the occasional dip into light classical music. There are vacancies for confident brass and string players with an enthusiasm for the genre. All Wind sections (including saxes) are currently full but applications for waiting lists accepted. We rehearse on Tuesdays in Richmond and perform 3 concerts a year in Twickenham to a large and appreciative audience.
Martin Smith
Marina Solarek
Wednesdays, 7.30 to 10.00 pm at The Queens Primary School, Cumberland Kew, TW9 3HJ
 via website
 
The Richmond Orchestra is a full-size non-professional orchestra playing 3 main concerts a year in the centre of Richmond; plus a Children's concert with primary school participation; plus other sessions and events including workshops for young soloists and composers, fund raising and events with charity partners. Repertoire chosen to include playable post-19th Century composers (e.g. Pärt, Barber, Shostakovich, Stravinsky) and a good mix of works involving large forces (e.g. Mahler, Elgar, Tchaikovsky) and smaller from the Classical and Baroque. Currently looking for horns and violins.
Miles Harwood
Martin Forsdyke
Mondays 7.15 pm - 9.30 pm, Roding Valley High School, Loughton, Essex
 Miles Harwood 02085054329
 Stuart Wright
All standards welcome - no entrance audition so ideal for near beginners and 'rusty' players to improve and gain confidence in a relaxed and friendly orchestra. We hold 3 concerts a year in Loughton and have a varied interesting programme of music.
Roy Valenti Big Band NEW
 
 
Monday evenings at Kingswood Village Club (KT20) from 8pm to 10 pm.
 
 
We are a friendly big band rehearsing on Monday evenings at Kingswood Village Club (KT20) from 8pm to 10 pm. There is plenty of free parking. We have a 15 minute break during the rehearsal where we grab a drink in the club’s bar. We are outside ULEZ! We are currently seeking trombone players. All welcome but would be ideal for grade 6+. Please email if you are interested.
Peter Stockdale
 
RAF Uxbridge, Mondays 7.30 to 9.30
 Brian Hoare 01753 654113
 Karen Sutton 01895-811391 Dave Thompson 01895-464916
Vacancy for an experienced solo/lead flute player. We will also consider other instrumentalists of Grade 6 and above.
Mark Bowden
 
Royal Holloway, University of London, Egham
 Sue Geddes 01784 443853
 
The Sinfonietta gives two concerts each year at Royal Holloway and also performs at venues in London and elsewhere in the UK. Its programme features contemporary music by established and emerging composers and regularly features the music of Royal Holloway composers. Entry by audition.
Robert Max / Levon Parikian
 
Royal Holloway, University of London, Egham
 Sue Geddes 01784 443853
 
The Symphony Orchestra gives three concerts each year - two in the Windsor Auditorium at Royal Holloway and one at St. John's, Smith Square in London - and recent tours took them to Germany and Holland. Like the Sinfonietta, outside players can apply to join.
Orlando Jopling, Ronald Corp, Rebecca Miller, Adrian Brown, Tim Redmond
Christian Halstead
4/5 rehearsals held 2 weeks before each concert
 Rosemary Cook  (Hon Sec)
 
Mixture of professional & excellent amateur players plus music college students wanting orchestral experience. Three concerts per year in Cadogan Hall or St John's Smith Square, plus family concerts in smaller venues. Join us for a concert to try us out. You do not have to sign up to all the concerts in one season. Recent soloists include Alina Ibragimova, Thomas Gould, Lawrence Power, Kristine Balanas, Piers Lane, Benjamin Grosvenor, Janice Watson, Sarah Helsby Hughes, Mark Milhofer, Andrew Greenan and Dimitri Sitkovetsky. Celebration of the Orchestra's 150th Anniversary commences in late 2022.
Various
Ellen Galagher
Rehearsals are held 2-3 weeks before each concert
 Robert Spencer
 
Widely described as London's finest non-professional symphony orchestra, Salomon put on 3 London concerts each year, usually at St John's Smith Square and also organise play days, outside engagements with choirs and other activities such as conductors' masterclasses. Players of a high standard are welcome.
Dr James Ross
 
Bird College, Alma Road, Sidcup, DA14 4ED. Every Thursday 7.30-10 from September - early July.
 Dave or Hazel Burnie 020 8850 1170
 
Sidcup Symphony Orchestra performs five full concert programmes per season, with professional music director and leader, and other events in partnership with Bird College and Bexley Music Service. Current season highlights include Tchaikovsky 6, Shostakovich 5, Scuhbert 9, Prokofiev 1st Violin Concerto, Rachmaninov 3rd Piano Concerto, Mozart Sinfonia Concertante and works by Bizet, Chausson, Debussy and Vaughan Williams. Membership and dep inquiries from advanced orchestral musicians are very welcome: current full member vacancies including one horn, one trumpet, one trombone, timpani and strings.
Matt Andrews
Jason Weir
Wednesdays, 7pm-9:30pm at St John the Divine, Kennington
 Ed Smith
 Anna/Nick
We are a vibrant symphony orchestra, combining high quality music making with a friendly atmosphere. Established in 2001, we perform 3-4 concerts a year in beautiful central London locations, featuring well-known classics alongside world premières and forgotten gems. This summer, we will be tackling Brahms’ 4th Symphony, Elgar’s Froissart Overture and Dvorak’s Symphonic Variations. We're looking to recruit some more string players and horns for this ambitious programme - but all instruments are very welcome. Players should be Grade 8 standard or above. No audition required. We'd love to hear from you!
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: Steve Cossins 01494 815255
 Choir: Mike Quincey 07500 668812
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.
Hugo Jennings
N/A
Fortnightly on Tuesdays in Finchley Road
 Rebecca
 
We are a friendly orchestra in London that rehearses fortnightly on Tuesdays with a social organised for each rehearsal. We have 60 members and invite anyone who is roughly Grade 7+ standard (even if your instrument is accumulating some dust!). We want this to be an inclusive, social environment where we aim to help democratise music through ensuring all performances are freely accessible and have elements of interactivity.
Play without one
George Mattar
Intensive before concerts
 Ian Chown
 
New south London chamber orchestra to concentrate, initially at least, on Eighteenth Century music
 
Richard Jones
Meet Saturday mornings 10.30 to 12.30 in Forest Hill SE23
 Richard Jones 02084645920
 
South East London Folk Orchestra open to all acoustic instruments. All standards welcome. We play folk music from the UK and beyond, learning by ear or from music. We perform at community gigs on a regular basis. £5 per session. Under 16s are free.
David Smith
Alan Titherington
Thursdays at 7.30pm in Beckenham. We meet for c.5 rehearsals in a block leading up to concerts, with the occasional weekend rehearsal
 Charlotte Wooley (membership)
 
Formed in April 2012, this new orchestra is ideal for musicians who live in and around the areas of Beckenham, Bromley, Catford, Croydon, Crystal Palace, Elmers End, Forest Hill, Norwood, Penge and Sydenham. Growing fast and welcoming enquiries from all orchestral players.
Tony Ryan
 
Tuesdays 1930 to 2130 (term-time) Acacia Intergenerational Centre, Streatham
 Helena Goldberg
 Sue Redsull
Friendly group of brass and woodwind players playing at a variety of venues and events during the year
Danusia Adamska
Margaret Hawkins
Tuesday evenings 8-10pm at St Mildred's Church Hall, Bingham Road Addiscombe
 Margaret Hawkins
 
We're South London Sinfonia, a friendly no-audition community orchestra rehearsing in Addiscombe, Croydon on Tuesday evenings. Head to our website to find out about our repertoire, next concert, and how to join! Right now, we're particularly looking for cellos and double basses.
Julian Williamson
Andy Teague
Chatsworth Baptist Church, Chatsworth Way, SE27 9HN (Entrance door on Idmiston Road). Friday Mornings, 10.30 to 12.30
 Mike Barrett
 
We are a friendly group and would be very pleased to see new members. No auditions are held, and if you play the violin,viola, cello or double bass, you will be very welcome. We play Baroque, Classical, Romantic and 20th century music and give a concert before Xmas and one in the summer.
Dimitri Chrysostomou
 
8 to 10pm on Thursdays, at Mostyn Road Methodist Church, Mostyn Rd, Myatts Field South, London SW9 6PH
 
 
A lively and growing concert band, performing two major concerts a year, and numerous outdoor and charitable events. Entry without audition, though subject to places being available
Adrian Brown
Angela Hunt
10 per season at St Andrew's Southgate, Chase Side, Southgate, London, N14 5PP. All Wednesdays between 7.30pm and 9.45pm.
 Margery Dey (Secretary)
 
Has provided opportunities for people to hear and make music since 1961. The Orchestra welcomes all musicians of Grade 6 or above. Each season is tied in with school terms and culminates in a live concert at different venues around Enfield, often featuring concerti played by guest soloists.
Robert Hodge
 
St Paul's Community Centre, Inner Park Road, Wimbledon SW19 6ED on Sunday afternoons during school terms
 Julian Hardwick 07887 442489
 
Now in its 70th season, Stoneleigh Youth Orchestra caters for talented young musicians aged 8 to 18 in South-West London and Surrey. We have a Training Orchestra for grades 4-6 and a Main Orchestra for grades 6-8 and perform 3 concerts a year at leading London venues as well as undertaking an annual Tour in July. Auditions in September, January and April.
Peggy Wu
Mario Basilisco
St Bartholomew's Church Hall, Ellison Road, Streatham, London, SW16 5DE, Every Monday, 7.45 to 9.45 pm
 Nicholas Mitchell 07800807898
 
Founded in 1973, we are a friendly amateur chamber orchestra playing mostly classical repertoire plus the occasional première. We play 3-4 charity concerts each year, mostly in South London churches. Although there are no formal auditions, the music we play requires Grade 7. New string players are always welcome, please see our website for wind vacancies.
Sinan Kadafachi, Susanna Wilson
 
Tuesday evenings, Bow Road Methodist Church, 1 Merchant Street, Bow, London E3 4LY or you can join these sessions online from the comfort of your own home! 7.15pm - 8.15pm: Skills session - providing teaching in specific instrument groups. 8.30pm to 9.30pm: Group ensemble to put the skills we learnt into practice. Thursday evenings – Online only technique class from 7.30pm to 8.15pm.
 Susanna Wilson
 
Strings Together is a friendly, relaxed string ensemble for adults which offers orchestral playing in person and online, led by two very experienced tutors, Sinan Kadifachi and Susanna Wilson. We play a wide range of classical music from baroque to contemporary. Our group has a mix of abilities from Grades 1-7 standard and more advanced players are very welcome. We rehearse in Bow, East London on Tuesday evenings with our members joining us in person or online. We also offer an online-only technique session on Thursday evenings – one for violins and violas and one for cellos.
Peter Le Tissier
Kath Roberts
Weekends & a few evening rehearsals leading up to the Saturday concert at St Mark’s Church, Surbiton
 Gillian Barrett
 
The Surbiton Symphony Orchestra is made up of university and local area musicians from South West London who come together dedicated to performing music of the highest quality. Previous works have included Rachmaninov’s Second Piano Concerto, Bruckner’s 4th Symphony “Romantic”, and Mahler’s 5th Symphony. The orchestra meets annually in April over the Easter holiday with about four to five rehearsals leading up to a Saturday evening concert with a dress rehearsal held in the afternoon of the same day. Contact us about joining. All strings and percussion, as well as some woodwinds/brass vacancies are welcomed.
Mark Fitz-Gerald
 
Tuesday evenings from 7:45 pm until 9:45 pm at St John's School, Epsom Road, Leatherhead
 Neil Gilchrist 01372 276949
 
We are a friendly orchestra and are currently looking for new members to join who are Grade VIII standard or above, and in particular, strings, and trumpets.
Philip Aslangul
Annmarie McDade
Tuesday evenings during term time in central Sutton, 7.45 to 9.45 pm
 Nigel Stephens 020 8660 2473
 Sue White 0208 644 4055
Sutton Symphony Orchestra (SSO) is an amateur orchestra which aims to provide the opportunity for players of a reasonable standard to experience rehearsing and performing works from the orchestral repertoire. SSO believes making music should be fun but challenging. The Orchestra performs three major public concerts per year within the London Borough of Sutton.
Dwight Pile-Gray
 
8-10pm on Wednesdays at Martin Junior School, Plane Tree Walk, East Finchley N2 9JP
 Nicole Hawkesford (Secretary)
 Sally Gatward (chair)
An enthusiastic and friendly wind orchestra. We welcome new players especially tuba, euphonium, trombone, trumpet or french horn. We perform three concerts a year.
Teddington Wind Orchestra
Claire Richmond
 
Wednesday evenings in term-time, 7.15 to 8.45 pm Church Road Teddington TW11 8PF
 Mandy Holliday 07850 166874
 
Friendly learning orchestra for all adult wind instrument players from Grade 4 standard upwards.
Byung-Yun Yu
John Haworth
Five Sundays before a concert from 6 to 9 p.m. At New Malden Methodist Church, 49 High St. KT3 4BY
 Secretary
 Chair
Each year we give three public concerts of Orchestral works — March, June and November/December at the Landmark Arts Centre, Teddington. Please see our website for lots more information. If you are interested in playing with us, please contact the Secretary by email with your musical resumé.
Simon Ferris
 
Mondays 6:15-8:30pm, Tiffin Girls' School, Richmond Road, Kingston KT2 5PL
 Hugo Fagandini (administrator)
 
Founded in 2005, the Thames Youth Orchestra offers all orchestral players of Grade 6+ standard a chance to perform rewarding and challenging repertoire, including at prestigious London venues and on tour in Europe. There will occasionally be an informal audition.
Martin Hinckley
 
The Whitehouse YMCA, 45 The Avenue, Hampton, TW12 3RN / Thursdays 8.00-10.00
 Martin Hinckley
 
A well-established and friendly group with a repertoire embracing all kinds of music from Albinoni to Zingarelli including some swing and light music. The Choir welcomes new members of Grade 5 standard or above on Eb, Bb, Alto, Bass and Contra Alto/Contra Bass clarinets.
Guest conductors
Sally Telling
Thursday, Friday & Friday in two weeks preceding concert, Trinity Church, Harrow
 John Andrews, MD
 
Looking for more string players esp. violins and cellos. . Grade VIII is the minimum standard. Six concerts a year. Aim for high quality performances with our Musical Director, regular guest conductors and some of the country's finest soloists.
Daniel Capps + Matthew Wood
Enrique Carreón-Robledo
19:00 Tuesdays, St. Stephen's Church, Gloucester Road SW7
 
 
Founded in 1955, ULSO was established to provide students from the diverse academic backgrounds of the University of London's component colleges with the opportunity to play together. The orchestra seeks to provide students with the unique opportunity to study and perform some of the most challenging symphonic repertoire to the highest standard, catering both for those wishing to continue and develop their performance skills whilst completing degrees in non-musical subjects, as well as attracting members seeking to pursue careers in professional music.
Mario Basilisco
Margaret Whittal
Every Wednesday. 7.15pm - 9.30pm. St Mary's Church, Putney Bridge. SW15 1SN
 Angela Wilson
 
We perform three concerts a year. We have vacancies for string players, double bass, trumpet, tuba but welcome enquiries from all musicians.
Judith Koral
Karen Redmond
Wednesdays at the Scout Hut, Mint Walk Warlingham CR6 9SA
 Secretary Angus Bransby 01883 624512
 
The Band is just coming up next March to its 65th Annual concert so there is a lot of history behind us. We have a range of flutes from Concert, Piccolo, Alto, Bass and the military style F and B flats together with percussion also bugles if required. We give several concerts over the year and support outdoor activities as a Corps of Drums for local fairs, May Queen and particularly the Remembrance Sunday service held on the village green to a large audience. We would welcome anyone who wants to join in with any variety of flute or other instruments i.e. Bassoon, Clarinet, Oboe, Recorder as we want to appeal to a variety of musicians. We have the ability to produce music parts for all. Grade 3 and above is fine!
Water City Festival Orchestra in a Weekend
Rupert Bond
Michael Bochmann
Trinity Buoy Wharf, London E14 - first meeting Autumn 2010
 Richard Mallett 020 7021 0021
 
Recruiting amateur musicians including string, wind, brass percussion and other instruments. If you live or work in East London, are 15 years old or over, play to the equivalent of Grade 5 or above then join up NOW! First meeting in Autumn 2010
Michael Cayton
Jeanne Mann
Tennet Centre Theatre, Watford Grammar School for Girls, Lady’s Close, Watford WD18 0AE on Wednesdays from 7.30 pm - 9.30 pm
 Tim Egan 07717 024 654
 
Based in Watford, with over 170 members and our own orchestra we are one of Hertfordshire’s largest and oldest amateur choral societies – founded in 1935 by Leslie Regan in association with the great Sir Henry Wood of BBC Proms fame. If you play an instrument up to the standard required for a Grade 8 award or its equivalent and would like to join our orchestra, we would be pleased to hear from you. Currently there are vacancies in all sections.
Edward Kay
Rebecca Boyle
Thursday evenings, 8pm at Nascot Wood Junior School, Watford.
 Cathy Shipman, Secretary 01923 239288
 
A well established high standard orchestra providing experienced amateurs with an opportunity to make classical music in a friendly environment. We perform 4 concerts a year at Clarendon Muse, our boutique concert hall. New string players of grade 8 standard welcome.
Gill Barrett
Kate Durham
Term-time Thursday evenings 8pm, ​St Oswald's Church Hall, 17 Malvern Way, Croxley Green, Hertfordshire WD3 3QL
 Secretary/Registrar – Simon Peachey (via website)
 
The Watford Workshop Orchestra is a small orchestra based in Croxley Green. We provide an opportunity for improving and returning adult players to enjoy a varied repertoire in an encouraging and friendly environment. If you want to give it a go, just turn up (checking the dates on our website) and give it a go or get in touch via our website.
Orlando Jopling
 
3 workshops per year in SE London
 Jon Cooley
 
We primarily carry out full scale operatic workshops on Wagner and Janacek, and orchestral workshops on Bruckner and others. Please visit website if you are a player or singer looking to join us.
Philip Hesketh
Iwona Boesche
Tuesdays 7.30 - 10 at Haven Green Baptist Church Hall, Haven Green W5
 Andrew Pears
 Gig Lam
Ambitious and friendly orchestra based in Ealing who perform 6 concerts and a children's concert per year. Players Grade 8+ welcome. We are particularly interested in hearing from you if you play the violin or trombone. Please see our website for further details.
Susanna Wilson
 
Monday evenings 7.15-9.30pm, St Marys Church Hall, Edith Road, West Kensington, London W14 9BA
 Sheila Metcalfe
 
We are a friendly, enthusiastic orchestra performing 2 concerts a year. All welcome, come and try us out in a no commitment first session. Music is chosen and arranged to suit the membership. Our main aim is to experience the enjoyment of working at worthwhile music in a supportive environment. No auditions.
Jonathan Butcher
Ivo Stankov
5 Sunday afternoons leading up to concert – not every week! King Solomon Academy Penfold Street NW1 3RX
 Dug Warn, membership secretary
 Adrian Wheeler
The Westminster Philharmonic Orchestra was founded in 1972 to perform the largest scale repertoire, and has built an impressive reputation as one of London’s leading amateur orchestras. We bring together players of the highest standard from a wide geographical area for music making which covers a broad range of Nineteenth and Twentieth Century music, balancing the central repertoire with less well-known composers and working with many distinguished soloists. We welcome new members of post grade 8 standard, especially violins and other strings. We rehearse and give concerts in central London.
Claudio di Meo
Christian Halstead
Thursdays 7.00-9.00pm at the BEIS building, 1 Victoria St, SW1H 0ET
 Whitehall Orchestra Admin
 
The orchestra provides an excellent opportunity for instrumentalists, particularly in the Civil Service, to rehearse together and perform 3-4 concerts a year to a high standard, often including 'big' orchestral works that are just fantastic to play. We are keen to welcome new members (you don't have to be a Civil Servant, but we'd like more of those too) particularly in the lower string sections. Vacancies in other sections vary, but all full sections run a waiting/deps/extras list. No formal auditions are held, but the minimum standard is Grade 7 for Strings and Grade 8+ for wind with admission by trial rehearsal.
 
 
Whitton Community Centre, Percy Road, Whitton, TW2 6JL. Thursdays, 7.00 – 9.00pm
 Joan Gibson
 
We are a band which plays swing, latin jazz, funk and rock in a Big band format. Instruments: Trumpet, Sax, Trombone, Clarinet, Flute, Tuba, Piano, Guitar, Bass, Vibes, Drum / Percussion all welcome. You need to know your way around your instrument (grade 3 upwards) and be able to read music but here you can get experience not only of the jazz / funk and rock idiom, but also improve your ensemble and sectional playing.
Rupert Bond
 
Saturdays 10.30-12.30 during school terms, St James' Church Hall, Martin Way, Morden, SM4 4AR
 
 
WCO is a newly formed orchestra of adult amateur musicians from a wide variety of backgrounds and abilities. As a community orchestra we aim to provide the opportunity for all players whether you are a late-starter, re-starter or beginner to make music in a friendly fun environment. The rehearsals are relaxed with an emphasis on fun and enjoying the experience of playing in a group environment. New members are always welcome. We don't hold auditions so just turn up and join in!
Andrew Morley
Charlotte Edwards
Tuesdays: 7.30pm - 10pm at the Holy Trinity Primary School, Effra Road, SW19 8PW.
 
 
We play five concerts per annum featuring exciting and varied repertoire, as well as regularly accompany some of the UK's finest emerging classical musicians, including Jennifer Pike, Imogen Hancock, Emily Davis, Benjamin Baker and Michael Petrov. The orchestra is always interested in hearing from good players who are keen to come to rehearsals regularly. If you are interested in becoming a playing member of the WSO please contact our Membership Secretary. String players are always needed esp. violists. There are vacancies for woodwind and Brass occasionally. We are pleased to keep on file contact details of players who would like to be considered and who could deputise at rehearsals for regular members. We currently have vacancies for Trombone and Tuba Players. If you play either instrument to grade 8 standard and would like to find out more about playing with the WSO, please get in touch.
Michael Coleby
Chris Gundry
Thursdays 7:45pm - 10pm at Southgate Methodist Church, The Bourne, London N14 6RS
 Joan Bayliss
 
 
Leon Gee
Susie Henwood
Every Tuesday from 7.30pm to 9.40pm, Dolphin School, Hurst, near Twyford, Berks
 Frances Jones
 
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.
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.
Philip Norman
Rosemary Fitchet
Thursday evening from 7.45-9.45 at Roding Valley High School, Alderton Hill, Loughton IG10 3JA
 
 
Performs three concerts per year. Always willing to recruit strings of all sizes. Currently (June 2016) has vacancies for bassoon and horn.
Martin Pyne
Martin Pyne
Tuesdays, Christ Church, Christchurch Road, Virginia Water, Surrey, GU25 4PT
 Martin Pyne 07951 046064
 
We play a wide range of jazz music - swing, bebop, latin, funk, township and more. If you play an instrument, and can read simple parts, and fancy developing your jazz skills you'd be very welcome to join us. The band usually plays a couple of gigs a year, and is open to all ages.
Zoë Kundu
 
Meets for a few days before a concert, usually during university holidays. St John of Jerusalem Church, Hackney, E9 7EY
 Zoë Kundu
 
Orchestra made up of conservatoire, university and sixth form students.

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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