Senior Strings/
Brent Youth String Orchestra

Senior Strings / Brent Youth String Orchestra (Violin Grade 5+, Viola/Cello/Double Bass Grade 4+)

Mondays, 7pm - 9pm, Lycee International de Londres, Wembley

The Brent Youth String Orchestra rehearses and performs a broad repertoire of music from classical to film and TV to contemporary and traditional, and much more.

BYSO gives regular concerts and has performed at various venues from Brent Civic Centre to the Royal Albert Hall and Wembley Arena. The orchestra has also taken part in exciting collaborative projects with the English National Ballet, The Royal Philharmonic and BBC Symphony Orchestras. BYSO enjoyed a wonderful concert tour in Provence in 2014 and were due to go on another concert tour to France in the summer of 2020 which was unfortunately postponed due to Covid19.

This string orchestra is a fantastic way to further develop your playing skills in a group environment and to meet other young musicians. Being part of this orchestra is a great way to experience new sounds and a wonderful range of musical styles from all eras and have fun!

Which instruments are included?

Following the format of a traditional string orchestra, Brent Youth String Orchestra includes violins, violas, cellos and double basses.

How do I join?

Click on the link below and complete the form for the ensemble you would like to join. Your details will be passed to the leader of that ensemble and you should hear from them within a week (during term time).

BMS Ensemble APPLICATION FORM

What happens in the audition?

Auditionees will be asked to play a piece that they know well and enjoy playing. They will also be asked to sight-read some unprepared music, which is usually one or two sections from music the orchestra has been working on. We also often invite auditionees to join us for part of a rehearsal so they can experience it for themselves.

How many concerts do you do?

We usually perform at least once a term and also often play at external events such as music festivals.

What does a rehearsal look like?

Our string orchestra rehearsals provide a relaxed and fun environment guided by our experienced string tutors. A typical rehearsal would include warm-ups followed by a mix of ensemble playing and sectionals to develop technique, style and performance skills.

What should I bring to rehearsals?

Your instrument!
Your music
A folder for your music - with your name on
A pencil
A water bottle
A snack for the break

Do you have any rules?

If you attend regularly and punctually, practise your part in between rehearsals and have a positive attitude to learning, this is the orchestra for you!