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
Mini Maestros Beat Keepers Newbury Music Centre
Ability / Age
Reception
Location
Newbury and West Berkshire
Day & Time
Saturday 9.30am-10.00am
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Group
Mini Maestros Baby Beats Reading Music Centre
Ability / Age
0 to 18 months
Location
Reading
Day & Time
Friday 11.10am-11.40am
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Group
Mini Maestros Family Beats Crowthorne Q Dance Academy
Ability / Age
18 months to 3 years
Location
Bracknell
Day & Time
Tuesday 9.30am-10.00am
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Group
Mini Maestros Baby Beats Crowthorne Q Dance Academy
Ability / Age
0 to 18 months
Location
Bracknell
Day & Time
Tuesday 10.20am-10.50am
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Group
Mini Maestros Baby Beats South Ascot All Souls Lady Chapel
Ability / Age
0 to 18 months
Location
Windsor and Maidenhead
Day & Time
Wednesday 10.20am-10.50am
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Group
Mini Maestros Family Beats South Ascot All Souls Lady Chapel
Ability / Age
18 months to 3 years
Location
Windsor and Maidenhead
Day & Time
Wednesday 9.30am-10.00am
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Group
Mini Maestros Family Beats Hampstead Norreys Hampstead Norreys Village Hall
Ability / Age
18 months to 3 years
Location
Newbury and West Berkshire
Day & Time
Wednesday 10.20am-10.50am
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Group
Mini Maestros Baby Beats Hampstead Norreys Hampstead Norreys Village Hall
Ability / Age
0 to 18 months
Location
Newbury and West Berkshire
Day & Time
Wednesday 9.30am-10.00am
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Group
Mini Maestros Baby Beats Lambourn Memorial Hall
Ability / Age
0 to 18 months
Location
Newbury and West Berkshire
Day & Time
Tuesday 10.20am-10.50am
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Group
Mini Maestros Family Beats Lambourn Memorial Hall
Ability / Age
18 months to 3 years
Location
Newbury and West Berkshire
Day & Time
Tuesday 9.30am-10.00am
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 auditioned ensemble. Some of our other ensembles will require certain grade requirements to ensure a good fit
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!)
