Membership enquiries

We are always delighted to receive enquiries from local musicians who are interested in joining the Orchestra. Given our often ambitious and demanding repertoire, new players are expected to have orchestral experience and to play an instrument to a standard of Grade 7 or above. We don't hold auditions, but new players are encouraged to come to a rehearsal, play with us for a couple of weeks, and then review their position with the section leader.

Please email info@burfordorchestra.org.uk if you are interested in joining us, providing details of your musical playing experience, and we will respond to you.

Strings
We often have vacancies in the string sections. New players are welcome to come along and see how they get on in rehearsals before committing to membership.

Woodwind
Our woodwind section can be oversubscribed, and a higher standard is often expected as the parts can be exposed. Please get in touch and we can let you know about current availability.

Sometimes, an ambitious programme may call for extra forces, or we may seek a temporary deputy to fill a seat, so please let us know if you would be happy for your details to be kept on record.

Brass
Programmes vary according to the number of brass parts available. We'd love to hear from any interested brass players.

Other
Weekly rehearsals usually involve strings, woodwind and brass. Sometimes, we include a soloist or other instruments if the programme requires it.

Percussion rehearsals are mostly limited to the day of the concert unless there are special circumstances. If you are a percussion or harp player interested in playing at our concerts, please get in touch.

Membership
The Orchestra relies on membership subs to fund music and venue hire costs. Subs are £30 per term. The Orchestra operates best when rehearsals are well-attended, but if regular attendance is difficult, please get in touch to discuss the level of commitment you can offer. On concert day, we rehearse during the afternoon with a full run-through of that evening's programme.