Ensembles

Ensembles are when we come together as a group to learn and enjoy music together.  We have a wide variety of ensembles from brass bands to jazz groups to beginner strings to full-sized orchestras catering for a broad range of abilities. We hope that every young musician in Trafford, whether they have lessons through our service or not, can access and benefit from joining these outstanding ensembles.

We also have ensembles and choirs that don’t require any previous knowledge or to be having lessons on an instruments.  We may even be involved in running an ensemble in your school.

See below for why playing in an ensemble is important – or if you know which ensemble you would like to register for click here – If you are a new student to Trafford Music Service, please click on the New Student [link].

See our full list and timetable of ensembles here. Some of our senior ensembles require a short informal audition for membership. Please see here for a downloadable audition form to send to music.service@trafford.gov.uk.

Rehearsal Location

Our ensembles are usually held at The Claremont Centre in Sale town centre. Sometimes, we may need to change rehearsal venues and parents will be given us much notice as possible if this does happen. In Lockdown times, rehearsals are held remotely via Zoom.

We look forward to welcoming you.

Why is playing in an ensemble important?

  • Helps a student gain confidence in their playing.
  • Student’s get to socialise and make friends from other schools who play their instrument.
  • It encourages and develops improved reading of music notation – though not all ensembles require this skill.
  • Children can experience a broad variety of styles.
  • Develops listening and watching skills by creating blended sounds and following a conductor.
  • Motivation: Playing in an ensemble encourages home practise.
  • Encourages group discipline and learning.
  • Speeds up the learning and knowledge of their instrument.
  • Students get to perform in the region’s top concert venues as well as in the community through our Music Kindness events.
  • It’s fun and the start of something really special in your young person’s life!

“If your child is learning to play an instrument, I thoroughly recommend that you register them for an ensemble as soon as they can. I saw a huge difference in my daughter’s playing – it’s like several weeks’ practice rolled into one session – plus meeting so many children that played the same instrument made such a difference to her personal confidence.”
Year 3 parent, Old Trafford

Already an ensemble member?

Tell us why it’s special….. Does your child attend one of our ensembles? Drop us an email here music.service@trafford.gov.uk and we’ll feature you in our website quotes and on our social media.

Our ensemble directors

All our ensemble directors and leaders are specialists in their field and are highly experienced in working with children of all ages and abilities and your child will learn all aspects of ensemble playing. Learn about our teachers here.