PERFORMANCE

Performing as part of an ensemble is an integral part of learning to sing or play a musical instrument, providing a vital context in which to perform as well the opportunity to develop the important skills of co-operation, collaboration and communication. Worcestershire Youth Music is committed to providing a variety of regular high quality rehearsal and performance opportunities for over 1,000 young musicians throughout the year by means of a progressive system of groups that cater for beginners through to orchestras and bands that perform at the highest levels.

WYM members are entitled to take part in an unlimited number of WYM activities. Thus, a young clarinet player could take part in windband rehearsals, a woodwind ensemble and theory sessions at his/her local Area Music Centre while also attending Intermediate Orchestra rehearsals in Worcester on a Saturday Morning – all for one single annual subscription payment! As members of Worcestershire Youth Music, young players can be involved in regular weekly music making activities including opportunities to work under the guidance of and alongside visiting professionals. Recent activities have involved members of the CBSO, the Band of the Welsh Guards, Piers Adams, Ken Burton, Bob Childs, Steven Lloyd, Tommy Pearson, Leon Gee and others.

Cost of Ensemble Membership

At Worcestershire Youth Music we understand the importance of being able to play and enjoy music. To support this we offer discounts to children and young people who have lessons with us and/or who already have a sibling who is an ensemble member. The higher cost of central groups reflects the longer rehearsals.

Our prices for Area Music Centre and Central ensemble membership are as follows:

All WYM members can participate in end of term concerts which take place in various venues throughout the County and provide an opportunity for family and friends to see and hear them play. These concerts also provide performance opportunities for soloists and ensembles of all abilities.

WYM arranges national and international music tours. In recent years, WYM has provided Worcestershire young musicians with opportunities to visit Ireland, Austria, Canada, Italy, Holland and France.

WYM ensembles regularly perform successfully at national and international festivals. Worcesteshire Youth Wind Orchestra participates regularly in the National Concert Band Festival and has achieved 2 silver and 2 gold awards in recent years while other choirs and ensembles have participated in, among others, the Worcester Competitive Arts Festival, the Cheltenham Competitive Festival and the National Festival of Music for Youth.

WYM organises annual residential courses for singers and for string, brass and woodwind players. The variety of activities provided on each course includes workshops, masterclasses and tutorials by guest artists, recreational activities such as swimming and tennis supervised by specialist pastoral staff, rehearsals under the direction of specialist tutors and a final informal concert for parents and friends. These courses provide an ideal opportunity to develop musical skills and make new friends in an enjoyable and relaxed environment.

Download AMC Ensemble Membership Form