Music Ensembles
If you're looking to sharpen your musical skills or just enjoy making music with others, joining a local ensemble can be a great experience. Below is a list of amateur music groups in the London area, including details about their playing level, fees, and how to get involved.
All Levels
info@eastlondoncommunityband.co.uk
Location: Shadwell Centre, E1W 3HP
Rehearsal: every Friday 5:30pm to 8:30pm
Fee: adults £116 per term / under 30 £58 per term
Location: St George’s Church, Bloomsbury Way, WC1A 2SA
Day: every Monday 7:15pm to 9:30pm
Fee: £50 per term
EAST LONDON LATE STARTERS ORCHESTRA
Location: Phoenix School, 49 Bow Road, E3 2AD
Day: every Saturday 9:30am to 1:30pm
Fee: £15 annual membership, plus £190 per term
Location: Hargrave Hall, Hargrave Road, Archway, N19 5SP
Day: every Friday 8pm to 10pm
Fee: please contact orchestra for details
Location: Salvation Army, Churchbury Lane, Enfield, EN1 3HQ
Day: every Friday 8pm to 9:45pm
Fee: £25 per month subscription or £8 pay per play
Location: Kentish Town Congregational Church Hall, NW1 8PH
Day: every Monday 7:30pm to 9pm
Fee: £85 per term
Grade 6 and above
FORTISMERE COMMUNITY SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
Location: Fortismere School, Tetherdown, Muswell Hill N10 1NE
Day: every Tuesday 7-9pm
Fee: £75 per term
Location: Trinity Church, 15 Nether Street, N12 7NN
Day: every Thursday 7:30-10pm
Fee: first term free
President@BloomsburyChamberOrchestra.org.uk
Location: Several locations in Central London
Day: Saturday/Sunday afternoon
Fee: £35 membership
Location: East Barnet School, 5 Chestnut Grove, EN4 8PU
Day: Every Wednesday 7.45-10pm
Fee: £198 annual membership (£148 concessions)
Frequently Asked Questions
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Ensembles advertised as 'all levels' typically don’t require an audition—you can usually just let them know you’re coming and join right away. More advanced groups, however, often require a certain level of proficiency and may hold auditions or have a probation period to ensure the right fit
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Most ensembles rehearse once a week on the same day, though they may schedule extra practices when preparing for upcoming performances
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This largely depends on the ensemble, but most welcome all ages. They may also have different groups organized by skill level, age, or instrument.
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Yes, most ensembles charge a fee each term, and some also require an additional annual membership fee.
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It depends on the ensemble—some are more serious and perform regular concerts, while others are just for fun and don’t include public performances.
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