Our Ensembles

Bury Youth Orchestra

What's it all about?

Bury Youth Orchestra play classical repertoire to challenge the musicians and also some lighter styles. Playing in a large orchestra creates an amazing wall of sound unlike any other ensemble. 

We are a symphony orchestra which is made up of around 50 musicians, playing a wide range of music from film music and show tunes to classical overtures and big symphonies. Playing in an Orchestra means getting to play with all families (squads) of instruments which creates an amazing sound unlike no other. Its an immense wall of rich sound.  

We have performed at venues all over the country including Birmingham’s Symphony Hall, The Bridgewater Hall, Stoller Hall and RNCM concert hall. We were really lucky to have recently performed in several venues in Belgium and are looking forward to performing in the South of Frnace this summer. 

About our lessons

How does it work?

We rehearse every Friday 5pm-7pm, conducted by Gemma Price, and tutors Anna Shipton, Nick Wallwork and Tom Rose.

We select players from all our senior ensembles to join this orchestra which stretches our young musicians to be the best they can be and perform at the highest level possible.   

Standards vary from year to year but Woodwind and Brass tend to be Grade 6 plus, strings grade 4/5 plus. Members are usually also members of our senior ensembles such as Youth Strings, Youth Concert Band and Youth Brass Band.   

Most rehearsals we play all together, but we also sometimes have smaller sectional rehearsals led by our team of tutors to support students with their learning. We like to give our students as many performance opportunities as possible and hold at least three concerts a year.

Frequently asked questions

How do I join?

It works just like a membership to any other group.

Our ensemble fee is £35 per term, which allows you to join as many ensembles as you like. Our experienced teaching staff are ready to help guide you along whichever path you choose.

Enquire now