Playing music with others is what music is all about! We offer a wide range of orchestras and ensembles for young musicians who are getting on well with their instrument and are looking for the excitement of playing with others – either in an orchestra or a more specialised group.
Click on the links below for a short description of the orchestras and ensembles we run at the moment. Let us know if you’re looking for something we don’t yet offer.
If you are interested in any of these orchestras and ensembles, contact us.
Devon Sinfonietta is a chamber ensemble/orchestra for aspiring and talented young musicians in Devon. It is comprised of 25 - 30 performers (strings, woodwind, brass and percussion) who want to work together to create concert music of a high standard with a professional conductor. The group's music is primarily "classical", but it also gives its members the opportunity to venture into associated areas of music such as contemporary, folk and jazz. Anyone between the ages of 12 and 21 who had achieved a comparable standard of grade 7 or above can audition to join.
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The Concert Orchestra allows players to enjoy developing the necessary listening, playing and ensemble skills needed to become a competent and confident musician. Whilst studying a wide range of music from various genres, musicians will be given the opportunity to direct ensembles and to develop their own critical abilities under the guidance of quality coaches. The repertoire includes lighter works, alongside pieces intended to stretch players’ technical abilities.
Ensemble Samples:
The Jazz Orchestras exist to help young musicians learn about, develop skills in and increase their appreciation of big band music. Members will have the opportunity to play music in a wide range of styles, from swing to be-bop, from latin to funk. A key activity will be improvisation: band members will be encouraged to express their musical ideas through a graded programme of workshops, and will be given opportunities to try out their ideas in concerts. All members should be prepared to 'have a go' at improvising. Fluency in (or willingness to learn) a wide range of keys will be essential. New members usually join DYJO2, moving on to DYJO1 by audition, at the appropriate time.
Devon Youth Jazz Orchestra Samples:
Devon Jazz Orchestra Too Samples:
The Wind Orchestra is one of our most popular groups. All players are given the chance to experience music-making at the highest possible level. Group members are encouraged to play a varied selection of music including popular medleys and more classical works, as well as the wealth of marches that are central to the Wind Orchestra repertoire.
Devon Youth Wind Orchestra Samples:
Students will learn about the origins of African drums and how to produce different tones, how to develop rhythmic ideas, how to play in a group and how to develop improvisation skills. A heritage element will also be built in, so that pupils learn about the wider culture of Uganda. This approach is valuable in understanding how some of the unique African rhythmic patterns emerged.
Devon Youth Brass Band is a rapidly growing ensemble. The group aims to broaden the horizons of its members, in terms of music and life skills, by providing a fun and sociable environment in which to develop their technical skills. By building up experience and confidence in this group, members are prepared to face the more rigorous challenges of a career as a professional musician.
Devon Youth Choral Experience (DYCE)
The choral experience is a new choir for young people in Devon aged 11 - 18. DYCE is aiming for an eclectic mix of singing styles including rock, pop, soul, gospel, world, jazz and musicals. Nothing is ruled out: The leaders, Elfyn and Debbie also want to give the members of the choir a say in what repertoire they sing.
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