Ensembles
Whether you are a beginner who can only play five notes, or a Grade 8 virtuoso, there is an ensemble for you. From rock bands and wind bands to swing bands and string groups, there is something to suit everyone. Playing in a group develops skills such as communication, coordination, perseverance and teamwork, and is highly recommended by music teachers to enhance learning. As the only music educator in Berkshire to offer ensembles, our membership to these unique groups is open to everyone.
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Berkshire Youth Symphony Orchestra
Our flagship orchestra is Berkshire Youth Symphony Orchestra. Led by Musical Director Jonathan Burnett, coordinated by Jessica Wilkins and coached by Robert Croft and Catherine Millar, BYSO is the culmination of a student’s orchestral learning, providing members with outstanding orchestral training together with musical, cultural and social experiences that are truly exceptional. BYSO meets three times per year, creating a structure similar to that of a professional orchestra, and performs at prestigious venues including the Royal Albert Hall and Birmingham Symphony Hall. It has benefitted from partnerships with organisations such as the BBC Concert Orchestra, RPO and BBC Symphony Orchestra, and regularly undertakes international tours to countries such as Poland, Hungary, Italy and China. Access to BYSO is by annual audition only.
ENSEMBLES
Finding the right ensemble for you
- Group
- Ability / Age
- Location
- Day & Time
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Group
Windsor Senior Percussion Ensemble
Ability / Age
Senior
Location
Windsor
Day & Time
Wednesday 5.00pm-6.00pm
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Group
Reading Intermediate Brass Band
Ability / Age
Intermediate
Location
Reading
Day & Time
Saturday 9.00am-10.00am
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Group
Reading Contemporary Choir
Ability / Age
Intermediate
Location
Reading
Day & Time
Saturday 11.05am-11.50am
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Group
Reading Clarinet Ensemble
Ability / Age
Chamber
Location
Reading
Day & Time
Friday 6.00pm-6.45pm
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Group
Newbury Initial Guitar Ensemble
Ability / Age
Initial
Location
Newbury
Day & Time
Friday 6.00pm-6.45pm
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Group
Reading Soundstage Bracknell Music Centre
Ability / Age
Contemporary
Location
Reading
Day & Time
Saturday 1.00pm-2.00pm
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Group
Bracknell Soundstage Bracknell Music Centre
Ability / Age
Contemporary
Location
Bracknell
Day & Time
Tuesday 6.00pm-7.00pm
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Group
Bracknell Initial Guitar Ensemble
Ability / Age
Initial
Location
Bracknell
Day & Time
Friday 5.00pm-6.00pm
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Group
Berkshire Youth String Ensemble
Ability / Age
County
Location
Berkshire
Day & Time
Monday 8.05pm-9.55pm
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Group
Berkshire Youth Percussion Ensemble
Ability / Age
County
Location
Berkshire
Day & Time
Monday 5.00pm-7.00pm
Frequently asked questions
Where are ensemble rehearsals held?
Rehearsals are held at our music centres across Berkshire, and sometimes in larger venues where this is necessary
What instruments can play in ensembles?
The vast majority of instruments are welcomed into our ensembles – inevitably some are more in demand than others though!
What level do I need to play at?
We offer ensembles for all levels – if you can play five notes or more, there should be an option for you!
How much do ensembles cost?
Our ensemble fees are kept low to enable access for the maximum number of students – our fees can be found here. If the fees are unaffordable, there may be options for financial support
Do I need to be a Berkshire Maestros student to join an ensemble?
Not at all! Our ensembles are open to everyone – if you have lessons elsewhere, or even if you don’t have music lessons, you are welcome to join us
Do I have to audition?
Berkshire Youth Symphony Orchestra is our top level auditioned ensemble. Some of our other ensembles will require certain grade requirements to ensure a good fit, and auditions take place when moving up to our senior ensembles. No auditions or solo playing is required for our junior ensembles.
How often are ensemble rehearsals held?
Music Centre ensemble rehearsals are held weekly during term time. BYSO rehearsals tend to be longer and held at half terms, during holidays and on specific weekends
What music do the ensembles play?
A whole range! For our beginner ensembles, you will enjoy movie themes, pop/rock, classical, jazz, swing and lots more! We also offer more specialist ensembles for higher levels including rock bands, chamber orchestras, swing bands and more!
Can I try an ensemble out before committing?
Of course – we offer free taster sessions for all of our ensembles
Can I join more than one ensemble?
Yes absolutely – you are welcome to join as many as you wish (or have time for!)
