Which instruments are suitable?
All instruments used in orchestras, wind bands and brass bands are played at Music Centre. Here is a list of them. If you play another instrument, please contact us – we may be able to include you in one of our ensembles.
Strings
violin
viola
cello
double bass
harp
Ukulele
Percussion
timpani (kettle drums)
side drum, bass drum
cymbal, triangle, tambourine, etc.
xylophone, glockenspiel
drum kit
Woodwind
flute
clarinet
saxophone
oboe
cor anglais
bassoon
Brass
trumpet
cornet
trombone
baritone horn
French horn
tuba
Registration form for 2024-25
You must register for music centre membership by completing this Google Form (No paper forms due to Covid-19).
If you would like a gift aid declaration form – this will allow us to reclaim the tax on your subscription at no cost to you, please email: torbayandsouthdevonmusiccentre@gmail.com.
Who can join?
Music Centre is for young musicians living in Torbay, Teignbridge or the South Hams. You can be any age and it doesn’t matter what sort of school you go to. You may be learning to play your instrument at school, or at home or at your teacher’s home – or you may not be having lessons at all. We also welcome parents and other not-so-young musicians. You need to be able to play a suitable instrument – have a look at the list on this page. Players of all standards can enjoy Music Centre, from beginners who can play a few tunes to experts who have been playing for some time. If you have passed any music exams (grades 1 to 8) that will help you to choose a suitable group. If not, don’t worry – we will advise you. It helps if you can read music for your instrument but don’t worry if you can’t – you will get plenty of help. You do not need any previous experience of playing in an ensemble or orchestra.
Why should I join?
Have you ever played your instrument as part of a band or orchestra, with other players? If you have, you will know that this is a much more exciting way to make music than playing on your own or just with your teacher. You work together with other young musicians to produce music which is richer and more complex than is possible with a solo instrument. Your part may be quite easy to play but it makes an essential contribution to the overall sound of the ensemble – you will be surprised what beautiful music you can be part of! You also learn new musical skills. To play in an ensemble you need to watch the conductor; co-operate with others; keep together; keep in tune; listen to other players; and learn to play parts instead of just tunes. At first this is difficult but you will learn quickly and each ensemble is lead by an experienced musician who will give you all the help you need. You will find that your music reading improves and you become an expert sight-reader. At Music Centre you can join two different ensembles playing different kinds of music or different combinations of instruments. As well as learning and rehearsing on Friday evenings after school there is a concert each term where each ensemble gets a chance to show what it has learned by playing to a large audience in a public performance. And most importantly… you enjoy yourself! You meet lots of other young musicians from all over Torbay and South Devon, make music together, make new friends, and have a good time.
Where can I find more information?
Details of where we meet, how to get there, dates, times, concerts and fees are on the information page.
The ensembles page gives more details about the ensembles you could join.
If you need more information or would like to talk to someone about whether Music centre is suitable for you, please contact us.
How can I join?
- Contact us by email, phone or letter. Let us know your name and address and a phone number or email address where we can contact you. Tell us what instrument you play and what kinds of music you like. We can answer any questions you have and provide any information you want.
- Turn up at Music Centre on a Friday evening, with your instrument. The information page tells you where and when we meet, how to get there and which days Music Centre happens. Please report to the information desk on arrival so you can be directed to a suitable ensemble.
- If you decide to join us, your parent (or you if you are 18 or over) will need to complete and sign a registration form. You can download the registration form here. The form gives details of the fees to be paid. Please also download and complete the gift aid declaration form – this will allow us to reclaim the tax on your subscription at no cost to you. Please also consider becoming a Friend of Devon Youth Music – South.