braughingsing.com

‘A community choir based in Braughing in Hertfordshire ... The choir sings music in a variety of styles and is open to all ages and abilities. There are no auditions and you do not need to be able to read music. The only requirement is plenty of enthusiasm!  Braughing Sing members are encouraged to attend regularly so that the choir can progress together and reach a good standard for performances. However the main aim is to have fun and enjoy ourselves getting to know new music and improving our sound.‘

www.chapelmalevoicechoir.co.uk

‘Chapel en le Frith Male Voice Choir was formed by servicemen returning from The Great War. This year [2018] we celebrate our centenary and as part of those celebrations we are looking for new recruits to come and join us. We will be giving a series of special concerts featuring music and stories from the WW1 period. Come and join us now and you could be part of those momentous evenings. There are no special requirements, no auditions, no need to read music, just a willingness to sing. All you have to do is volunteer!’

www.musiciansfromchaffey.com

Promotion of a small group of ensembles, duos and soloists who all ‘have proven records as first rate musicians with a total commitment to the art of music‘.

romseyyouthchoir.org.uk

‘RYC consists of three choir groups: * Romsey Youth Choir –  for young people aged 11 to 18; * Romsey Youth Chamber Choir – for older more experienced members; * Romsey Youth Children’s Choir – for children in school years 4-6. All are non-audition choirs. RYC has a membership of around 100 singers ... Each year the choirs perform in around 15 concerts or festivals ... However, the home venue for the choir is Romsey Abbey where we have our Christmas and summer concerts as well as taking part in other local joint concerts for the community.‘

www.thesundayboys.com

‘Manchester’s male voice singing sensation ... We describe ourselves as an inclusive choir - while many of our members would identify as gay, we want male voices of any sexual orientation or gender identity to come and join us. We are laid back and work to ensure our rehearsals are both relaxed and that we all see an improvement in what we do each week. Our rehearsals are challenging, but that doesn't mean you have to read music. If you are prepared to work hard and learn you will find over a few months you will gain the benefits from being involved and committed.’

holytrinitygosport.co.uk

Host a regular series of concerts and recitals: ‘The church’s greatest treasure is the Handel organ. From 1718-1720, Handel was director of music to James Brydges, Duke of Chandos, and commissioned the building of this organ for the Duke’s new house on the Canons estate at Edgware, Middlesex. The builders, Abraham Jordan and his son, were the first to enclose the pipes of the swell organ in a wooden box with a sliding shutter in its front which could be opened and closed by means of a pedal, regulating the volume of sound produced ... Although it has since undergone extensive restoration, four of the stops on the great organ and five on the choir organ are original Jordan work’.

www.toccataladieschoir.co.uk

‘Toccata Ladies Choir has been an active part of the West Lothian culture scene since 1978 ... The choir consists of almost 50 members of all ages and musical abilities, brought together by their love and passion for singing and performing ... Their extensive repertoire covers a broad spectrum, encompassing classical and jazz as well as pop and musical theatre. They perform accompanied pieces and a cappella with equal skill and have enjoyed singing in Latin, Gaelic, Russian, French, German and Zulu as well as English.’

www.escafeldchorale.org.uk

‘We are a mixed choir of around 70 members and have been an established part of the Sheffield music scene since 1969. We sing a wide range of music from the choral repertoire, and are equally at home with full-scale requiem masses and unaccompanied part songs ... We have occasional vacancies in all sections and a friendly welcome is extended to new members. We don't ask you to undergo a scary audition but we aim for high musical standards and do expect a certain level of musical ability. There is a short probationary period of around two months.‘

canterburyguitarsociety.wordpress.com

‘Meets monthly from September to July ... We welcome (classical) players of all standards; our evenings are informal where members play solos, duets and other ensemble combinations ... There is no requirement to play a particular repertoire or standard, and some people simply come to watch ... Twice a year, we have public professional concerts of a very high standard and a growing reputation locally ... Most of our concerts have been oversubscribed ... We have gradually built up a reputation and are having to turn down world class performers.’

apollo5.co.uk

‘The British a cappella ensemble Apollo5 has been praised for its engaging and entertaining performances. With a repertoire ranging from retro jazz, pop and classical arrangements to Christmas a cappella, they are adept performers on the concert platform, at festivals, private parties and corporate events ... Apollo5 is part of the VCM Foundation, and is involved in its innovative education programme aiming to inspire creativity through music.’

www.darlingtonoperaticsociety.org.uk

‘The Society has performed twice a year since 1958 at the beautiful 900 seater Darlington Civic Theatre, re-opening as the 1000 seat Darlington Hippodrome in 2017 following a multi-million pound restoration. We are an “amateur” theatre company but our production values and approach to all aspects of the business are totally professional. We have a national reputation for producing large scale, lavish productions that run for 10 nights. We always welcome new members who are 16 years and over who have bags of enthusiasm and talent - we hold two sets of new member auditions each year (generally April and November).’

www.creativeroyston.org

‘Creative Royston is a group of volunteers in Royston, Hertfordshire (UK) whose aim is to celebrate and encourage local creativity all year round and give locals the opportunity to experience both professional and amateur work first-hand. Its main focus is Royston Arts Festival which covers art, craft, music, dance, drama, new writing and a whole lot more. Typically, the festival features about fifty events, including performances, exhibitions and workshops. Many of these are run independently by local clubs and societies.’ Festival held Late September.

www.opms.org.uk

‘One of England's best and most exciting chamber choirs. From the “city of dreaming spires”, home of some of the finest choirs in the world, OPMS is in fine company, and we are an integral part of the superb music making that goes on in the town. Since its formation in 1977 ... it has performed hundreds of concerts of music from all periods and of every style. The choir's Christmas concerts are an Oxford tradition, while its large-scale concerts with orchestra in the historic Sheldonian Theatre and elsewhere never fail to attract the best of reviews. At other, smaller, concerts the choir presents a varied programme of music, including many first and second performances and items rarely heard, alongside choral favourites.’

marketharboroughorchestra.webnode.com

‘We are an amateur orchestra based in Market Harborough. We perform several times a year, playing a broad range of classical music ...The Orchestra is always keen to hear from musicians interested in playing with us ... Hope to see you soon!‘

douglastownband.org.im

‘Douglas Town Band was formed in 1887 making it the longest running brass band on the Isle of Man ... We are a community brass band and are proud of our heritage and can often be seen performing at various events and venues around the Island. The Band also represent Douglas Borough Council at various civic events throughout the year ... We welcome new or returning members to all of our bands. We are currently recruiting for our Youth and Training Bands. If you or a child are interested in learning a brass instrument or percussion please get in touch, and let yours or your child's musical journey begin with us at Douglas Town Band.’

www.fantasiaorchestra.com

Formed 2016: ‘A group of elite London-based young musicians ... The orchestra is made up of musicians from conservatoires and universities across the country. At its inception, the players were drawn from London’s junior conservatoire departments, and the orchestra continues to grow from that beginning. Fantasia Orchestra presents regular concerts in London, performing an eclectic range of music ... some of the highest level of music-making by young people in the country. Our exciting seasons of concerts and projects allows us to perform a huge range of repertoire, and champion new music as well as the Western canon. Alongside our programme of concerts, we do outreach work with primary schools to foster a passion for music-making from an early age.’

www.stgeorgeshanoversquare.org

‘St George's is the parish church of Mayfair. Splendidly refurbished in 2010 it was built between 1721-1724 to the designs of John James, as one of the Fifty Churches projected by Queen Anne's Act of 1711 ... George Frederick Handel was a regular worshipper at St George's, which is home to the annual London Handel Festival. We have a reputation for dignified and traditional formal worship based on the Book of Common Prayer, magnificent music provided by our fine professional choir, and thoughtful preaching.’ In addition, the Church has a regular programme of concerts and recitals, including the Mayfair Organ Concerts series, which is shared between St George’s and Grosvenor Chapel.

www.wlpta.org.uk

Founded 2003: ‘The purpose of the WLPF is to promote the study, development, appreciation and enjoyment of pianoforte performances and skills. Our annual festival aims to encourage all aspects of piano playing from the very beginners to the more advanced, and any money raised will be reimbursed to the Festival, and provide bursaries or scholarships to help further the careers of young pianists’. Held During November.

www.starshine.co.uk

‘Musicals and songs to teach, motivate and inspire your children - something for everyone! ... Whether you’re looking for something really memorable for children to sing at Easter, Harvest or Christmas, an adorable nativity play, a ready-to-go primary school assembly, music with literacy/curriculum links or a stunning leavers’ show… we hope you’ll find plenty to choose from here!‘

www.rhinegold.co.uk/rhinegold-publishing/magazines/opera-now/

‘The world's leading opera magazine and provides a unique and all-encompassing perspective on the international opera scene through its lively and colourful mix of news, reviews, interviews, travel articles and commentary ... Read about new productions, festivals, performance previews and world premieres, plus reviews of all the latest opera CDs, DVDs, books, websites and films. Opera Now is the global platform for opera, reaching out to opera lovers worldwide, but also into the heart of the industry from the grassroots to the glamorous.‘

www.cameratasingers.net

‘A four-part mixed choir. We give three main concerts a year in and around Kettering, drawing on mainstream choral works for our autumn and spring programmes but employing a lighter approach in the summer ... If you would like to join Camerata Singers, you are welcome to come to several rehearsals to see if this is the choir for you ... We don’t hold auditions, but most of us read music at least a little.’

www.ymtcacademy.com/academies

‘Provides Musical Theatre shows, workshops and events for 6-25 year olds ... Many of our performers have gone on to work in film, television and in theatre accross the country and on the West End. We guarentee all students will have the opportunity to perform in two shows a year. We offer trips and experiences worldwide including dancing on London's West End, performing at the Royal Albert Hall and global performing arts trips. Our classess are friendly, welcoming and a brilliant blend of humour, professionalism and talent.’ Academies take place in Bridgwater and other locations in Somerset.

www.organfax.co.uk/clubs/southyorkshire/

’We have our concerts on Tuesdays fortnightly @ 7-30 pm, preceded by a tea dance (2pm-4pm) ... In the early days we were a very bouytant club and had a membership of over a hundred but ... we have found, as many other clubs have, a dramatic decline in concert attendances. Early on in 2008 we were on the verge of calling it a day but, through our hard working committee running fund raising events to cover concert losses, we were able to muddle through. There efforts were rewarded as in the later part of the year we noticed an increase in audience numbers ...’

robinireland.co.uk

play.google.com/store

Portal providing access to details of the full range of streaming and other music services offered by Google.

www.cantoriongogleddcymru.co.uk

‘Singers are drawn from a wide geographical area, covering mainly North Wales, and many travel over 100 miles to attend rehearsals held twice each month at Betws y Coed. It was in February 1993 that the choir gave their first concert performance. Since then there have been several prestigious engagements and tours. The choir continues to expand its repertoire of traditional Welsh and English male choral music as well as introducing other pieces, often arranged by its founder conductor.’

www.stbrides.com/music/index.php

‘Music plays an enormous and vital role in the life of St Bride's. Central to this is the work of our professional choir of 12 adult singers, which sings at morning and evening services every Sunday throughout the year and also provides an enormous variety of music for weddings, funerals, memorial services and carol services ... Although liturgical music remains at the heart of what we do, there are numerous musical events apart from the regular choral services ... Lunchtime concerts take place on Tuesdays and Fridays, often given by students and young professionals, which are well attended. The church is also frequently hired for other musical events ... The effect of all music in the church can sometimes be overwhelming because of the acoustics (described by Gordon Reynolds, a previous Director of Music, as "perilously lively!"), but the enthusiastic response from many first-time visitors demonstrates that listening to music in St Bride's is a very special experience which we hope to extend to even more people in the years to come.‘

dovercommunityyouthchoir.btck.co.uk

Formed 2011. The Choir’s founder, Charles Spanner, ‘recognised that in the modern curriculum there is a lack of regular music activity for children, and so he created the Dover Community Youth Choir as a way of fulfilling a local need ... Singing is the most exacting exercise that the human body can do ... The choir are physically exercised and mentally exercised, especially when faced with new venues and audiences ... Members have raised self-esteem and confidence; they make new friends and have a sense of belonging to the community’.

www.barnetband.org

‘One of Barnet’s oldest musical organisations. During the summer, we play at fetes, community events, and bandstands, while Christmas sees us participating at Barnet’s Christmas Fair in The Spires shopping centre. We also give concerts for local charities, and over the years have been privileged to help many worthy causes. Barnet Band is a not-for-profit organisation run by its members. As a community wind band, we accept new members without audition and we don’t ask for grades. We aim for rehearsals to be fun and sociable occasions. There’s always a teabreak. If that sounds what you’re looking for, please come along and try us out. You will find us very friendly and be made extremely welcome.’

www.chordiality.com/about.html

Formed 1993: ‘A forty-strong, mixed voice choir, based in Bradford, West Yorkshire ... Primarily, we are a friendly group from a variety of backgrounds who enjoy singing together and socialising both in rehearsals and in performance. Our “mission” is to share our enjoyment of choral music and to widen people’s perception of choral singing in all its glorious variety. Through the leadership of our musical director, we have sought to challenge our singing experience and we now have an extensive repertoire ranging from full works to pieces lasting little over a minute. Each concert we give incorporates something for all tastes – sacred and secular, ancient and modern, serious and not so serious, popular and classical favourites - and all types in between ! We also have some accomplished soloists to help ring the changes’.

romseychambermusic.com

A relatively new Annual Festival held Late April: ‘A 4-day celebration of chamber music in Hampshire ... We are registering as a charity and ran our first festival in April 2018 and are launching the 2019 festival with a concert on 12th October 2018’. 

www.mabeladieschoir.org

‘Has been a feature in the Cornish musical landscape since 1931 and has long been one of Cornwall’s premier choral groups. Hailing from places as far afield as Truro and Coverack and ranging in age from thirty-something to eighty-something they unite once a week in Penryn to indulge and nurture their love of singing. The women of Mabe Ladies Choir take their music making very seriously, constantly striving to achieve the highest artistic and technical standards. That said, they do spend an inordinate amount of time laughing! Whether it’s in the rehearsal room or the concert hall the emphasis is on fun & enjoyment, for choir and audience alike.’

www.swanseafestival.org

‘Back in 1948, as a nation struggled to overcome the ravages of war, some of Britain’s more visionary towns and cities had the same idea: to launch an annual festival of the arts. Swansea was one of them. Formerly known as the Swansea Festival of Music and the Arts, Swansea International Festival is now one of the major festival events in Wales. It is well established and respected, with a loyal core audience. It also has a clear purpose: a formal, annual opportunity to celebrate the town and its people, bringing the best of the world to Swansea and sharing the best of Swansea with the world.’ Held Late September.

www.lintonjazz.co.uk

‘Based in Linton, Cambridgeshire. We love playing popular tunes for charity.  We hope you enjoy our music or come and join us.  We’d love to hear from you ... Linton Jazz was established in 1999 and has grown from strength to strength every since. We started the band with just a handful of youngsters, little suspecting that ... we would be still be going strong with around 30 regular players and quite a reputation locally. A few of our members have been there since the beginning, but our focus on including young people, a central part of our ethos, means that there is a lot of turnover as members grow up and move on to college and University. The most important ingredient of success for us has not been the quality of the playing, though we certainly do our best, but to have fun.’

www.essexyeomanryband.org.uk

‘Making music for more than 200 years ... one of the oldest military bands in the country. The band has a huge repertoire of military, classical and light music and gives regular public concerts throughout the year. You can book the band for private engagements and we can help you support a charity event too. We're proud to welcome musicians of a reasonable playing standard ages 16 to 80 – come along and try us out! ... Joining the Essex Yeomanry represents a considerable investment on our part. Each uniform costs us £500 and we often have to alter clothing to fit new members. We try to avoid the pressure of formal auditions and you are welcome to join us for rehearsals although not necessarily to perform in concerts. Once you have demonstrated a commitment to us and we feel that you would be a valued member of the band, you will be formally invited to join.‘

www.glasgowpolicepipeband.com

‘Glasgow Police Pipe Band (formerly Strathclyde Police Pipe Band) are a competitive grade one pipe band based in Glasgow, Scotland ... The Band have been crowned World Pipe Band Champions on 21 occasions since their birth in 1883 ... The band consists of a mix of serving police officers and civilian members. This balance maintains the strong links to the band’s history, as well as allowing the best of civilian piping and drumming talent to realise their ambitions of playing in one of the world’s great bands.’

hamptonsingers.org

‘Established in 1980, we are a mixed choir of about 40 people from Hampton-in-Arden, Knowle, Solihull and surrounding areas ... Our rehearsal programme includes “training evenings” led by our vocal coach ... We usually perform two concerts a year, plus our traditional Christmas Concert. We like to make one of our concerts an orchestral one when we work with professional soloists.’

www.cirencesterphil.co.uk

‘A friendly, versatile orchestra based in Cirencester, Gloucestershire. We perform two concerts per year in the Cotswold area from a varied repertoire ... We rehearse for about 8 weeks prior to a concert ... We extend a warm welcome to new members. All instruments are welcome to apply as we can add to the waiting list for future opportunities.’

www.cambridgemusicfestival.co.uk

Founded 1991: ‘The Festival now takes place each November and aims to present classical music in bold, imaginative and inspiring ways. In a city that is positively awash with concerts, the Festival aims to present a carefully chosen programme of world-class artists — whether well known figures or rising stars — who would not otherwise visit the city’.

www.theeghamband.btck.co.uk

‘A friendly brass band based in Egham with a history stretching back to over 100 years. We have strong links with the local community and annually take part in the St George's Day and Remembrance Day Parades and Services, plus appear at local carnivals and events. We also give regular concerts ... The band has a strong youth policy with a 20 strong Youth Band of children between 10 and 16. Formed in September 2010 the band has been a great success performing both with the senior band and giving concerts on their own. A new Training Band for children from Year 4 of primary school age and with some very basic musical knowledge commenced in Spring 2016.‘

www.warwickartscentre.co.uk

‘We’re one of the largest multi-artform venues in the UK. We deliver a high quality, engaging, diverse programme of cinema, performing and visual arts, presented in world-class venues and spaces at the heart of the University of Warwick campus. Since we opened in 1974, we’ve been a distinctive and special place, an important resource for the arts and for audiences in the region and a significant force in national and international arts networks.’

www.maidstonemusicfestival.org.uk

‘An adjudicative music festival, open to amateur performers of all ages and levels of ability. It provides opportunities to perform individually to an audience, and to receive educative adjudication from highly qualified musicians. All entrants are awarded a certificate, classified according to merit, and a personal written appraisal of their performance. Maidstone Music Festival also provides exclusive opportunities to qualify for entry into the Maidstone Young Musician of the Year competition, which is organized by Maidstone Dawn Patrol Rotary Club.’ Held Late November.

www.standrewsvoices.com

‘Scotland’s only festival dedicated to the voice and vocal music. Set in the beautiful town of St Andrews, each October we present a varied programme of events showcasing the versatility and beauty of the human voice in an amazingly broad spectrum of genres including opera, cabaret, lieder, folk, spoken word, choral, a cappella, early music, new music and more ... The festival runs during the day and night and includes family concerts, opportunities to sing-a-long and get involved, as well as free events to enjoy while relaxing with a drink. Come along and discover something new!’ Held Late October.

www.radlettchoral.org

‘We are a friendly, mixed voice choir with a repertoire covering  traditional choral works, opera choruses, and modern compositions.  Singers with previous chorus experience and those with no experience at all are equally welcome.  Being able to sight read music is not essential.  Anyone interested is welcome to come along and join us, and give us a try ... Membership offers: * The chance to sing major choral works; * Three or four concerts a year, two with professional soloists and orchestra; * Singing workshops; * Joint concerts with local and foreign choirs; * Programme of non-singing social activities.’

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/leith-hill-place/

’An atmospheric house with panoramic views across the Surrey countryside, Leith Hill Place was the childhood home of one of England's greatest composers, Ralph Vaughan Williams, who gave it to the National Trust in 1945. His grandparents, Josiah Wedgwood III and Caroline (née Darwin) moved here in 1847 and his great uncle, the famous naturalist Charles Darwin, conducted experiments in the grounds ... Feel inspired as you walk around a place that has been the setting for so much creativity, whilst taking in lovely views, listening to the music and relaxing with a cup of tea.’

www.musicportfestival.com

‘There's a potent sense of voyage and discovery about the Musicport Festival, which sets sail from Whitby every October. Indeed, you'd be forgiven for thinking that the Pavilion, with its tall windows and invigorating view of the North Sea, had unmoored itself from the West Pier in search of a world of diverse rhythms, melodies, food, dances and poems. In truth, the festival, complete with its six stages and impressive line-up of global performers, needn't go anywhere. Every autumn, the delightful northern seaside town of Whitby provides the only destination for which you'd need to steer to sample an exciting variety of world-class world acts.‘ Held Mid October.

www.organfax.co.uk/clubs/sheppey/

Founded 1984: ‘The very high standard of entertainment that has been offered over the years at a reasonable cost to both members and guests has seen both attendance at the concerts and the club membership remain at a very high number. Members and guests travel to the island from many areas throughout the county, on some occasions even from other parts of the country, to attend the concert evenings‘.

www.brueboys.org.uk

‘Formed in January 2007 ... Based in the village of Baltonsborough near Glastonbury ... Our aims: * First and foremost .... to make music; * Secondly .... to benefit our community by providing entertainment and by raising money to support good causes; * And finally .... to benefit the members through companionship and the sense of well being that comes from singing and helping others ... Why the Brue Boys? Because the River Brue winds its way through the villages and towns where the Brue Boys live.’

www.ehrss.org.uk

‘EHRSS was founded in 1881 ...  by a group of people who wanted to foster the playing of traditional Scottish music ... and was the first of the strathspey and reel societies to be established ... To give us a reason to practise and to promote Scottish fiddle music, we have at least two concerts each session, one close to St Andrew's Night in November and our Annual Concert in March ... The EHRSS now has a Junior Section.’

www.penkhullfestival.com

‘Established in 1966, Penkhull Festival is an innovative annual event which takes place in Stoke-on-Trent each September ... The Festival’s home is the historic Domesday village of Penkhull, surrounded by the rolling countryside of the Staffordshire moorlands.’ Held Late September.

www.codymusical.co.uk

‘We are the premier musical theatre company providing high quality amateur productions for the Rushmoor and surrounding area. Our diverse range of award winning productions include some of the best and newest releases available for groups to perform ... We rehearse throughout the year ... and stage two major musical productions annually in late March and September.’

www.brizesingers.org.uk

‘Founded in 1969, originally under the name of the RAF Brize Norton Singers ... The membership initially was comprised of Royal Air Force personnel and their wives, but quickly branched out to include civilians from the local community ... In December 2003 the RAF Brize Norton Singers reluctantly decided to leave the umbrella of the RAF and changed their name to the Brize Singers ... The Singers are always happy to receive requests to perform in venues in Witney and the surrounding area, particularly to help with fundraising ... They also perform a number of their own concerts during the year, including a couple at Christmas and their annual concert in September each year.’

www.beckenhamconcertband.com

Founded 1977: ‘Over the years the band has continued to grow and now draws from a regular membership of over forty musicians.The Band averages around eight concerts per year, many of these performances, both indoor and outdoor, are in aid of local charities ... We are always on the look out for new players of at least grade 6 standard or above to strengthen the Band, although we are always happy to talk to players who need some band experience to bring themselves up to this standard ... There is also scope for solo work with the band and we have a number of small break out groups including a brass quintet, flute ensemble and a mixed wind ensemble who perform at some of our concerts’.

www.folkradio.co.uk

‘Folk Radio UK (also known as FRUK) is an online Folk Music Magazine offering album reviews, news, interviews and special features covering Folk and Roots music. Based in the UK, it was founded in 2004 ... With over 40,000 followers on Twitter & Facebook Folk Radio UK is the most popular UK-based Folk Music website.’

www.tonphil.org.uk

‘Formed in 1946, the Tonbridge Philharmonic Society is a vibrant part of musical life in the West Kent area. Comprising of a friendly mixed voice choir and orchestra, the Society works hard to provide exceptional performances ... We perform up to five concerts each season, two are orchestral, plus a Charity Carol concert ... If you enjoy singing, are enthusiastic about making music, and are able to practice between rehearsals, come and try us out ... If you are interested in joining the orchestra please contact the orchestral chairperson to arrange to come to one of our rehearsals.’

www.drama-musica.com

www.newmusicscotland.co.uk

‘New Music Scotland is a network of artists, ensembles, orchestras, composers, creators, music educators, sound artists, musicians, producers, promoters and anyone who believes in the importance and value of creating new music in Scotland. We are a cooperative that exists to connect, enable and support makers of innovative and experimental new music and our members help drive how we do that. We believe that new music comes from many different cultural traditions and musical practices; what brings us all together is our passion for and belief in the intrinsic value of new music creation for individuals and society as a whole.’

www.theatreroyal.com

‘The range of work presented and produced on the The Lyric stage is incredibly extensive and includes major touring drama and musical productions by producers and theatre companies ... as well as welcoming leading opera and dance companies to the South West ... The Theatre Royal Plymouth also produces its own drama and musical productions, often with commercial or subsidised partners and many tour nationally or transfer to the West End.‘

foundlingmuseum.org.uk

‘The Foundling Museum explores the history of the Foundling Hospital, the UK’s first children’s charity and first public art gallery. We aim to inspire adults and children to make a positive contribution to society, by celebrating the power of individuals and the arts to change lives ... Whether you're looking for unique things to do in London this weekend, or activities for children, there's always something on at the Foundling Museum. From special exhibitions, free displays and activities for families, to concerts and talks.’

www.portlethen-pipeband.com

‘World Championship successful band ... Formed in 1980, with humble beginnings, the town band performed at local events in and around Aberdeenshire. Today ... the Band is one of the city’s most progressive and fastest rising in the region ... We boast over 40 members and practice in Aberdeen city centre. The Band actively compete at minor and major contests and enjoy a well balanced competing and social life.’

affinitychoir.com

Founded 2012 in Cardiff: ‘We perform a variety of musical genres from West End hits, through to classical, and pop! ... We are a non-auditioning, non-religious community based choir, open to all women over the age of 18. We're a community choir with high standards. We love performing to the best of our abilities. It’s who we are, and we're proud of it ... All we ask is that you have a passion for singing and that you want to join our fabulous female choir! We have a mix of experienced choir members and also those who have never sung in a choir before’.

www.coleshilltownband.org.uk

Formed 1902: ‘The Band, now consisting of Senior, Youth and Beginner's with over 100 members, performs many engagements each year in the area with the quality of the music and entertainment provided being highly commended ... It has struggled and survived through two world wars and has seen many musical directors, and even more players come and go’.

occamsingers.co.uk

‘A chamber choir based in Guildford that enjoys a reputation for high-calibre music making which reflects our love of choral singing, music and friendship ... We are pleased to sing from a wide repertoire, including unaccompanied fifteenth century church music and madrigals, familiar choral works and twenty-first century pieces. Our annual season includes full-scale concerts with professional orchestras as well as smaller-scale performances, sometimes a capella ... We are delighted to welcome new members ... Rehearsal time is very concentrated in 6 or 7 practices plus the concert day, so singers should attend all rehearsals and be prepared to put in additional time at home for note learning.‘

bccs.bristol.sch.uk

‘Bristol Cathedral Choir School has an ethos reflecting the Christian faith and with Music as its specialism. It aspires to be a learning community where all achieve their full potential in a supportive and tolerant environment, so that they can contribute fully to the society in which they live ... As Bristol’s oldest school, we are proud of our long traditions; this includes providing the choristers for the Cathedral Choir. The music specialism provides an exceptional range of opportunities. Our choirs and ensembles have established a national reputation across a range of genres, from gospel to classical orchestral works. Outstanding student engagement and leadership, in and out of the classroom, is the driving force behind our community.’

www.studio-music.co.uk

‘Established in 1957, primarily as a publisher and distributor of Brass Band music. Over the years we have invested in other areas of publishing, particularly Concert Band and Instrumental music. Our catalogues include works from many of the world’s top composers. Our Band and Instrumental catalogues also include several thousand popular copyrights, as a result of our close relations with several major publishers: Warner-Chappell, EMI & Music Sales, to mention just a few. We now have an enviable reputation as, probably, the premiere source of printed Band and Orchestral music in the UK.’

www.culturlann.org

‘Cultúrlann Uí Chanáin is an award-winning Irish language, arts and cultural centre in Derry City ... Alongside a year-round programme of arts activity and performances, the organization has delivered several large-scale festivals ... and continues to produce a challenging and diverse programme to cater for all ages and communities.’

www.manchesterfolkfestival.org.uk

‘An urban folk festival that takes place every autumn ... Our festival is friendly, inclusive and mostly about enjoying great music. We put a spotlight on English folk. Our aim is to profile the incredible range of great music that is described as folk and bring you the best of the current scene. The whole festival takes places in one area of the city over one weekend. With indoor gigs (no mud!), creative workshops and a festival hub where you can catch your breath and catch up with friends, we want to create the feel of a greenfield festival in the vibrant heart of the city. There will be music, singing, dancing, and merry-making.’ Held Mid October.

www.lennoxberkeley.org.uk

‘Sir Lennox Berkeley was a seminal figure in twentieth-century English music, as both composer and teacher ... We exist to encourage performance, study, recording and broadcast of his work.  In recent years his rich repertoire has become more prominent than at any time since his death ... CDs produced by internationally-acclaimed record labels cover the full range of Berkeley’s output: symphonies, operas and ballets, chamber and instrumental music, songs, choral music and liturgical settings.’

childrensconcerts.org.uk

’Children’s Concerts is a charity which aims to give thousands of primary-aged school children the opportunity to hear what a classical orchestra can do “live”. For many children this will be the first time they hear and see a great group of musicians playing compositions by some of the world’s greatest composers, both old and new, in a concert hall.‘

www.enticottmusicmanagement.com

Formed in 2014: ‘Ours is a world of relationships – a manager’s relationship with an artist is built on mutual respect, trust and integrity – as are relationships with ones colleagues.  However much new technologies and commercial realities change aspects of what we do and how we work, they will never replace these personal relationships and connections that are so critical in our field. It is with this in mind that I have set up Enticott Music Management.  EMM will provide personal and bespoke management to the artists and clients we represent and support’.

brentwoodchoral.wordpress.com

‘BCS as the name suggests, specialises in choral music interspersed with lighter programmes. The choir produces both a Winter and Summer concert and together with other local choirs, participates in more formal concerts two or three times a year ... Ours is a group that makes all newcomers welcome and involves them in our activities. Being able to read music is an advantage but it is possible with some practice, to pick up the basics as we proceed. What we do ask is that our members share our enthusiasm for singing, attend as many rehearsals as possible and do some preparation between meetings.‘

www.organfax.co.uk/clubs/verwood/

Formerly used the Verwood Memorial Hall but has given monthly concerts in the Verwood HUB since its opening in 2007: ‘With the larger venue concerts are now open to the general public - there's always space! The Society prides itself on being a “Happy Society” that draws its strength by working together as a friendly Committee - a point that has been noted and commented upon many times by visiting artistes.’

www.musicatstow.co.uk

‘Music at Stow comprises an exciting and eclectic series of musical events staged throughout the year, climaxing in the Music at Stow Festival at the end of each October.’

youtube.com

‘YouTube is a music and video platform where users can watch professional music videos, concert footage, and user-generated videos, as well as upload video content. Subscribe to YouTube Premium and enjoy all of this with no advertisements plus offline listening, background play, and access to the YouTube Originals channel featuring original series, movies, and documentaries.‘ [Music Matters]

haltonvoluntaryband.com

‘Military/concert band based at RAF Halton near Aylesbury ... Its members come from all walks of life, including the Armed Forces and the Civil Service. The majority of the band are local civilians who travel from a wide area to meet every Tuesday evening ... The band performs at many different types of function each year, from official parades, air shows and concerts, to church services, formal dinners and receptions. The band is often to be seen during the summer months at bandstands around the country, especially in London and on the south coast.’

www.colchesteroperaticsociety.co.uk

‘Colchester Operatic Society, COS, and its younger members (who form Colchester Operatic Second Edition, more popularly known as CO2) perform a selection of shows and concerts each year, at various locations throughout Colchester ... From our “amateur” beginnings in 1924, COS and CO2 now receive rave reviews from regional and national press and continue to enjoy a sterling reputation for being one of the region’s most loved operatic societies.‘

www.bristolmvc.org.uk

‘Originally founded in 1968 and is now one of the largest male voice choirs in the West Country with around seventy members drawn from across Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire ... They have performed in concert halls, churches, weddings and private functions, ranging from Eastern Europe, the Carnegie Hall, New York, to the Eden Project in Cornwall and Bristol’s churches and cathedrals. They sing traditional male voice favourites, songs from modern musicals, pop classics, spirituals and classical items, and they perform not only in English but also in other European languages.’

www.tarantara.org.uk

‘An auditioned mixed choir comprising over 60 enthusiastic members whose aim is to enjoy themselves singing and performing to the highest standard.  The choir was formed in 2003 ... Tarantara is regularly invited to perform at venues across Warwickshire, Worcestershire and Gloucestershire, and have also performed in Wales, Cornwall, Yorkshire and Tyne and Wear ...  The choir's performances have raised well over £100,000 helping charities and communities raise money for good causes.’

www.rhinegold.co.uk/rhinegold-publishing/magazines/classical-music/

‘Classical Music is the authoritative voice of the classical music profession, offering a behind-the-scenes approach to a fast changing industry. Encounter the biggest movers and shakers in the business and read their expert views on the latest news and developments, as they happen.’

sound-world.org

‘Sound World is a newly formed charity [2018] running concert series, education projects, a commissioning programme and outreach schemes. Our maxim – Great music for everyone – reflects our commitment to the highest artistic and educational standards and also our determination to take live classical music and the best contemporary repertoire to new, diverse audiences. Our concerts will aim to put the best regional performers and composers together with those of national and international renown, creating programmes with a strong local identity and an ambitious outlook. All concerts will feature educational elements, such as talks or Q&A sessions with composers and performers, and for many we will run parallel, themed outreach projects.’

www.gsm.cam.ac.uk/church/music-2/

‘Music is a central part of our life here at Great St Mary's. We hold a commitment to the highest standards we can achieve and also seek to include all who want to participate — we pride ourselves on our open and welcoming atmosphere. Great St. Mary’s has a dual role as a Parish church, and church to the University of Cambridge.  As such, it has always attracted musicians of the highest calibre. Our majestic and beautiful sanctuary is one of few to boast two fine pipe organs, which are often used together for special services. We are blessed to have five choirs, an orchestra, the Michaelhouse Chorale, and recitals throughout the year ... The Academy of Great St. Mary’s embraces a wide range of musical activities taking place at the church. This includes orchestral and choral concerts, organ recitals, workshops, “come and sing” and other music education activities.‘

chichesterso.co.uk

‘The Chichester Symphony Orchestra has been part of the musical life of Chichester for many years.  As a highly regarded amateur orchestra, we aim to provide exciting and memorable concerts for the community and surrounding areas. We are an amateur orchestra and normally give four concerts a year at venues in Chichester, including Chichester Cathedral. Our summer concert usually forms part of the Festival of Chichester.’

www.eani.org.uk/parents-young-people/music-service/

‘The EA Music Service offers access to the world of music making, providing potentially life changing musical experiences that are relevant and engaging. Focusing on: * Access; * Progression; * Skills; * Diversity. The EA Music Service provides tuition in 72% of all schools in Northern Ireland.’ The Music Service has Offices in: Antrim; Belfast; Dundonald; Omagh; Portadown.

www.mattandphreds.com

‘Matt & Phred's is a long established live music venue, situated in Manchester's trendy Northern Quarter ... Most notably known for showcasing the best in local and international Jazz, Matt & Phred's offers much, much more. We still have live music gigs 6 nights a week, encompassing the likes of Jazz, Folk, Gypsy, Electro, Salsa, Swing, World and even a little bit of Ska.’

deesidesilverband.moonfruit.com

‘A friendly, community based brass band. We have two bands: Our senior band which consists of experienced players and more advanced learners; Our training band which consists of new learners of all ages, who are all learning new and exciting brass instruments!’

www.chesterladieschoir.co.uk

‘We are a group of about 40 ladies of all ages who love to sing! We have been established as a choir since 1955 ... We have members from across Cheshire, Wirral and North Wales. We meet ... to sing a wide range of music from classical pieces to modern pop and jazz for our own concerts and other community and charity events.’

alythpipeband.org.uk

‘Alyth & District Pipe Band started up in 2006 when a group of enthusiastic people got together and got it going. Since then the Band has gone from strength to strength and always has a busy diary ... The Band has around 16 Playing Members, normally made up of 8 Pipers and 8 Drummers ... Just contact us if you want any information!’

www.exurbe.org

‘A chamber choir which draws its members from across the West Midlands, predominantly from Birmingham, Solihull, Knowle, Hampton-in-Arden, Bromsgrove and Stourbridge. It was formed in 1995 when a group of friends from the City of Birmingham Symphony Chorus got together to give a charity performance of the Fauré Requiem under Simon Halsey, the CBSC Chorus Director ... The choir numbers around 20 singers comprising the usual four, mixed voice parts. We perform a wide range of music, usually presenting three concerts each year at various venues across the region.’

www.anterosfoundation.com

‘A charity for education and the promotion of the arts in Norfolk ... We have two gallery spaces, each with a different exhibition at any one time. The exhibitions change every two weeks, so there is always something new to see. Upstairs in the music room, we have a busy programme of music featuring artists from the UK and abroad who vary in style from Classical Piano to Jazz and Folk.‘

www.stroudfolkfestival.co.uk

‘Music and Song sessions, morris dancing and more ... Most events in the Stroud Folk Weekend are free – please give generously when you see the collection buckets.‘ Held Late September.

www.southendmusicfestival.co.uk

‘An annual competitive festival of music and drama, founded in 1911. The Festival runs every day for a fortnight in November, and has classes for all ages and abilities in the following sections: * Singing; * Piano; * Woodwind & Brass; * Strings; * Speech & Drama.’

www.cosb.co.uk

‘Oxford’s oldest brass band with a history that dates back to the 1840s. We have three active bands from absolute beginners to our senior band which welcomes experienced players and competes in the National Brass Band Championships ... COSB has been training and encouraging new and improving musicians for over 100 years.  We welcome all ages and all abilities. We also offer free instrument loan and subsidised music lessons. If you live in or near Oxford, or perhaps are coming to University in the new term, and are looking for somewhere to play, get in touch, we’d love to see you ... The Band has a busy schedule performing at local events around Oxfordshire.’

thekentones.org

‘A male singing group singing acapella music in the Barbershop style ... Singing Barbershop harmony is about fellowship, fun and making music that makes you feel alive! It is a form of singing that is enjoyable, exciting, stimulating and totally fulfilling. If you already are an experienced singer, this may be that “something different” that you are looking for. If you are a newcomer you may be like many men who would love to sing and harmonise with a good bunch of blokes, but just never got round to it, or are too self-conscious to give it a go. The simple fact is that just about everyone can sing. We can help you discover your voice and gain confidence.’

www.culturehealthandwellbeing.org.uk

‘A new national organisation [2018] representing everyone who believes that cultural engagement and participation can transform our health and wellbeing ... This new Alliance brings together the National Alliance for Arts, Health and Wellbeing and the National Alliance for Museums, Health and Wellbeing and involves over 50 leading organisations. We aim to bring about a step change in policy and delivery, and will focus on a strong regional infrastructure to support development and progress in the field.‘

www.apple.com/music/

‘Listen to over 45 million songs, ad-free with zero commercials. Plus get unlimited downloads to your library, and listen anywhere without Wi-Fi or using data. There’s no commitment, you can cancel anytime.’

www.eastsussexbachchoir.org

‘We aim to benefit our members and the wider community through the performance of baroque repertoire to a high standard ... The ESBC is based in Lewes, the ancient county town of East Sussex. Lewes is a hive of cultural activity and the ESBC is part of this cultural landscape, contributing through the engagement and commitment of its singers and by giving audiences the opportunity to hear both well-known works and some less well-known works that may deserve to be better known.’

www.thecornhall.co.uk/whats-on/

‘An impressive Grade II listed building which was originally built as a corn exchange. The Corn Hall is now a thriving arts venue offering a wide range of quality entertainment ... It was as recent as 1998 that the Corn Hall ceased to trade as a corn market, one of the last in the country, but there have always been other activities in the Hall. Victorian times saw bazaars and choral concerts while the Waveney Room was used as registry office, magistrate’s court and later as Council Chamber, and everything from boxing to discos kept the Hall alive in the 20th century.‘

www.organfax.co.uk/clubs/withernsea/

‘Withernsea is a small seaside town 20 miles east of Hull ... With the exception of January, a concert is held monthly, concerts normally begin at 7.45 ... As with most clubs it began with a group of dedicated “organ buffs”. Back then in 1974 the organ was at the height of its popularity, there were organ/music shops in most towns, a time which many remember with nostalgia, most shops held “demonstration” evenings and the top players could be seen and heard.‘

www.priston.org.uk/festival/

‘Formed as a charitable society by a group of local people in 2008. The aim was to create an annual community festival which would allow us to celebrate local music and artistic talent - hence our slogan "Live 'N' Local"! Many of the acts who perform are from the nearby cities of Bristol and Bath – both renowned for their music scenes. We also stage a smaller number of nationally-renowned acts from further afield We aim to stage an event which has a broad range of music. Previous festivals have included folk, jazz, blues, rock, world, reggae, choral and classical music. We also provide singing and dancing workshops, film, and literary events as well as children's art activities.’ Held Mid September.

cumbriamusichub.com/play-together/

‘One of the most important opportunities for young musicians is to meet together and play together. As well as being an opportunity to have fun and make friends, it is also key to improving as a musician and developing wider skills like team-work, respect and concentration. That’s why one of our main Hub aims is to create and support Music Centres and other groups right across Cumbria. From Barrow to Carlisle we offer regular opportunities for young musicians – whatever your instrument or interest.’