Core Ensembles
Superstrings
8:55am to 9:40am.The children’s ages range from about 6 to 12 years old. We emphasise training the players to follow/understand a conductor, basic orchestral bowing techniques, read music fluently and work as a section.
Phoenix Strings
10:05am to 10:45am. Children up to 18yrs are welcome but a minimum age of 10yrs and previous orchestral experience is advised. Expected standard is approximately grade 5 to 8+. Good sight reading skills are essential.
Amber Strings
9 am to 9:40am. An intermediate group for post grade 3 to 5+. We emphasise training the players to follow/understand a conductor, basic orchestral bowing techniques, read music fluently and work as a section.
Starter & Intermediate Wind Bands
We have a groups for children who can play and few notes and another for intermediate players.
Advanced Wind Band
10:45am to 11:30am. The Senior wind group is run by Benjamin Adams. Typically players range from grades 5-8. Occasionally, we join forces with Phoenix Strings to form a full orchestra.
PBCMS Choir
Our incusive, free choir runs from 9:40 till 10:00. This choir is for all ages and anyone can join in, even grandparents and sibings.
Adult Orchestra
Called “Da Capo”, we rehearse from 10:05am to 10:45am. This ensemble is for people who have started learning as an adult, or who used to play when they were children and are rather rusty and anyone else who wants to join in! Please do find that instrument you have in the attic and join in!
Chamber Music
Any time from 9:00 to 11:15, Chamber groups are by invitation only. The size of groups vary term to term in order to broaden our repertoire. Players are usually experienced orchestral players looking for a further challenge and will play one person to a part.
Ensembles – General Terms
Typically, there are 30 sessions (Saturdays) each academic year – 10 per term.
The price per head is:
- One core ensemble: ₤7/week
- Two or more core ensembles: ₤13/week
- Wind Band: £5/week
- Choir: free for all ages
Parents will be invoiced termly, at the beginning of each term, and payment should be made within the first half term.
Sessions missed are still charged at the normal rate.
A respectful notice period is requested for stopping any group, preferably half a term. If you can’t make the concert let us know in good time so that we can find a deputy.