These courses are perfectly suited to all students who play an orchestral instrument. This includes string instruments - violin, viola, cello, bass and harp; woodwind – flute, oboe, clarinet, saxophone and bassoon; brass – trumpet, cornet, french horn, trombone, euphonium and tuba; drums and percussion; guitar, if you have some experience reading sheet music or tab; and piano. We accept all students who have passed grade 1 up to grade 8, except for piano where you must be at least at grade 5 level to apply.
This is not just an orchestral course though. Students will also get to take part in a wide range of ensembles, including wind band, string orchestra, jazz band, choir, chamber ensembles, and more, while covering lots of repertoire. We always aim to challenge students and give them the opprtunity to have a go at advanced pieces of music in a relaxed environment, where they can push themselves and be comfortable making mistakes.
If your child has only just started out on their instrument, or would like to get into music and try some different instruments, then our shorter musical explorers course is the perfect fit! This course runs for 2 days alongside our 5-day orchestral course, so everyone will also get a chance to hear and perform along with the musicians from the orchestral course to be fully immersed in music and discover all the different instruments.
We accept children from ages 6+ at any ability level on this course. Please give us as much information as you can about your child's interest and musical experience (if any) on the registration form so we can make sure we have suitable instruments ready for them to try.