JOIN US
Lift the lid on playing in an orchestra!
We welcome new members at any time during the year. We are always very happy for children to come along just to see what the orchestra is like, even if they don't want to play at first. We will try to answer any questions and make sure you are looked after and have fun! To book a trial session, please contact us.
"Exeter Children's Orchestra is a brilliant opportunity to make music, but the thing that keeps you coming back is the people - it's a great place to make friends!"
Alex, violin
Exeter Children's Orchestra
MUSICAL STANDARD
Anyone aged 7-18 who is learning to play an instrument and can read music is welcome to join us - there are no auditions. We currently have over 100 playing members, with a range of ability and experience.
You can join the Junior Orchestra, if you want to gain confidence playing together and then move up to the main Exeter Children's Orchestra later.
More senior players are invited to join the Youth Orchestra, which tackles more challenging music.
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WHICH INSTRUMENTS
We welcome all the usual orchestral instruments plus some others and we don't limit how many players of each instrument can take part. The orchestra is organised in traditional way and each section has both a lead and a tutor.
THE MUSIC WE PLAY
Director of Music Robert Willis selects a great mix of music covering lots of different styles: classical music, jazz, film and TV themes, arrangements of pop and folk as well as music written specially for the orchestra. There's something everyone will enjoy playing and chances for different sections of the orchestra to show off!
Take a look at what we're playing now
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WHERE AND WHEN WE MEET
Orchestra rehearsals are held on Saturday mornings in term time at Woodwater Lane Academy in Exeter.
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Depending on the time of year, the whole orchestra may play together for the whole session, or break off into sections according to instrument type.
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If you'd like to try out ECO, please get in touch for full details of timings and where to find the sheet music.
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CONCERTS
The Orchestra gives at least one public concert each term - including outdoor performances. Concerts are usually in the Exeter area, at the Corn Exchange or the Mint Methodist Church, as well as other venues. We often combine concerts with fun days out: for instance we have played at Crealy, Bull Meadow Park and on the Cathedral Green, as well as the outdoor bandstand in Connaught Gardens, Sidmouth.
MEMBERSHIP COSTS
Membership costs £50 for each term (discounted to £40 for each subsequent child). Early Bird offer is £45 and £35 respectively.
Membership for the full year costs £130 if paid before October 31st (discounted to £100 for each subsequent child).
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For payments via bank transfer, you can find the details here.
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For any queries about fees, please do get in touch.
ANY QUESTIONS?
If you have any other questions please don't hesitate to contact us.