JOIN US
Lift the lid on playing in an orchestra!
We welcome new members at any time during the year and there are regular open days for you to attend. We are always very happy for people to come along just to see what the orchestra is like, even if the children don't want to play at first. We will try to answer any questions and make sure you are looked after and have fun!
"Exeter Children's Orchestra is a brilliant opportunity to make music, but the thing that keeps you coming back is the people - it's a great place to make friends!"
Alex, violin
Exeter Children's Orchestra
MUSICAL STANDARD
Anyone aged 7-18 who is learning to play an instrument and can read music is welcome to join us - there are no auditions. We currently have over 100 playing members, with a range of ability and experience.
You can join the Junior Orchestra, if you want to gain confidence playing together and then move up to the main Exeter Children's Orchestra later.
More senior players are invited to join the Youth Orchestra, which tackles more challenging music.
WHICH INSTRUMENTS
We welcome all the usual orchestral instruments plus some others and we don't limit how many players of each instrument can take part. The orchestra is organised in traditional way and each section has both a lead and a tutor.
THE MUSIC WE PLAY
Director of Music Robert Willis selects a great mix of music covering lots of different styles: classical music, jazz, film and TV themes, arrangements of pop and folk as well as music written specially for the orchestra. There's something everyone will enjoy playing and chances for different sections of the orchestra to show off!
Take a look at what we're playing now
...
WHERE AND WHEN WE MEET
Orchestra rehearsals are held on Saturdays in term time at St Leonard's Primary School. Main orchestra rehearsal is from 9.45am to 12pm and the Youth Orchestra continues to 1.15pm. We have a tuck shop which provide refreshments during break times.
CONCERTS
The Orchestra gives at least one public concert each term - including outdoor performances. Concerts are usually in the Exeter area, at the Corn Exchange or the Mint Methodist Church, as well as other venues. We often combine concerts with fun days out: for instance we have played at Crealy, Bull Meadow Park and on the Cathedral Green, as well as the outdoor bandstand in Connaught Gardens, Sidmouth.
MEMBERSHIP COSTS
Membership costs £40 for each term (discounted to £30 for each subsequent child).
Membership for the full year costs £110 if paid before October 31st (discounted to £80 for each subsequent child).
We have also introduced a £5 per child surcharge if subs are not paid by the school half-term .
For any queries about fees, contact our Treasurer in confidence.
ANY QUESTIONS?
If you have any other questions please don't hesitate to contact us on exeterchildrensorchestra@gmail.com