www.codatw.co.uk

'CODA was founded by Arthur Boyd (who had run his first music club when at school) and its origins date back to 1982 when he had the idea of chamber recitals to support young and up-coming professional musicians by providing a venue for them to perform. Originally recitals were presented in Arthur’s home but, as interest grew, CODA moved to larger (but still intimate) venues ... At CODA we pride ourselves on our reputation as a welcoming and friendly organisation with a distinctive personal touch. All those attending recitals have the opportunity to meet and chat to the artists over refreshments after the performance.'

www.thefrms.co.uk/affprogs/goudhrst.htm

Typically about half a dozen evening meetings, September to May.

www.englishcamerata.org.uk

'Our Music Summer School is distinguished by and is unique for the very high number of hours of coaching ( 9.00am - 6.30pm and beyond) afforded by an exceptional teaching commitment from internationally renowned artists. We aim to assemble a limited number of participants at any one time to keep the atmosphere intimate whilst optimising the make-up and coaching of the ensembles. This modest number of participants allows us all to re-create, in our modern frenetic time, the timelessness and sociability of the "salon" with its semi-private music-making.' Held Mid July.

www.mayfieldfestival.co.uk

‘An English Arts Festival which is primarily devoted to classical music. It is a biennial event taking place in May [2018] and is centred in the ancient and beautiful village of Mayfield in East Sussex, just south of the Spa Town of Royal Tunbridge Wells.’ The Tunbridge Wells International Young Concert Artists Competition is ‘a prestigious competition held every two years in conjunction with the Mayfield Festival’.

www.tmc.org.uk

‘Presents a season of concerts, by world-class artists each year between October and May in Tonbridge, Kent. Over the years, audiences have enjoyed performances of the highest artistic standards by internationally renowned musicians and have also had the opportunity of hearing young award-winning performers at the outset of their careers. TMC also arranges occasional pre-concert talks and masterclasses.’

www.twjazzclub.co.uk

‘We were formed in 1984 to promote local interest in jazz in all its forms. We arrange nine or more concerts per year in Tunbridge Wells ... through a season which runs from each September to December then from February to June.’

www.wealdenguitarsociety.org.uk

‘Welcomes Classical Guitarists of all standards to come and play or listen at our monthly meetings held in Frant (Near Tunbridge Wells) ... Its aim is to promote the classical guitar by encouraging members and their guests to play at our meetings. In addition we organise occasional concerts by visiting professional guitarists. Meetings are held each month (except August) and typically consist of a dozen or so acts where members play one or two pieces either solo or as a duet, trio or ensemble. There is no minimum standard and if you would like the opportunity to play, perhaps for the first time, in front of like-minded guitarists please come along. If you prefer just to come and listen you will be equally welcome.’

grosvenororchestra.blogspot.co.uk

'We study, rehearse and perform all kinds of orchestral music in a relaxed and informal atmosphere. Our conductor is an experienced performer and ensemble coach. We give occasional concerts, for which admission is normally free. At these events we support a nominated charity by inviting our listeners to make a donation. A guest speaker gives a brief talk to raise awareness of the charity’s activities. Membership is open to all ages, and there are no auditions, though a standard of at least Grade 5 ABRSM is recommended. (Numbers may be limited in some sections in order to maintain a good orchestral balance.)

www.matchboxopera.net

‘Small-scale fully-staged operas, in English ... in and around Tunbridge Wells. We take pride in producing professional standard performances with a cast that consists mainly of amateurs. The company is unique in offering opportunities to good amateur singers, both as chorus members and in principal roles. It is committed to nurturing promising singers, whatever their prior experience. Several of our members have started in the chorus and progressed to solo roles. Others simply enjoy the camaraderie of the chorus. Rehearsals are fun and the environment is supportive ... Why not come and give us a try? You don’t have to be a Callas or Domingo in the making. The only requirements are a good voice, musicality, commitment and enthusiasm. Experience will come. Confidence will grow.’

www.penshurstchoralsociety.co.uk

‘Formed in 1963 by the Rector and Doctor of the village who considered that regular singing might help to empty the Doctor’s surgery and encourage members to sing in church! ... From originally having a few members and rehearsing in Penshurst Church, the Society has grown to about 60 members ... The Society performs a wide range of music, including items from the standard choral repertoire, with occasionally more modern and demanding works. Concerts, usually two each year, also regularly feature an orchestral item with occasionally a concerto. The Choral Society also performs an annual Carols by Candlelight and enjoys singing at the local Christmas Farmers Market at Penshurst Place!’

www.rtwcs.org.uk

’RTWCS is a vibrant community of people from all walks of life who share a passion for classical, mixed voice choral singing. We welcome everyone that shares our love of singing and who wishes to listen to, learn about or perform beautiful live music. Our aim is to engage and inspire both members and audiences alike through high quality public performances. As a self-governing society, we enjoy the support of our own orchestra, and the freedom to achieve our aims through evolution, adaptation and innovation.‘

rtwso.org

‘The orchestra is made up from a core group of gifted, local musicians, who play alongside a number of professional players. It aims to provide orchestral programmes of excellent quality in the context of a diverse musical season, and the on-stage standards are consistently high. Among UK orchestras, the RTWSO is a true all-rounder that attracts many internationally famous soloists.’