Love playing your instrument but miss making music with others?

GBRT Community Orchestra brings together musicians of all ages and experience levels in a friendly, supportive environment where the enjoyment of music comes first. Whether you're returning to an instrument after years away, looking for a relaxed orchestral experience, or keen to develop your ensemble skills, you'll find a warm welcome.

We’re open to instrumentalists of all ages – the majority of our members are adults but we also welcome under 18s who would like to gain experience of playing in an orchestra. There are no auditions, but so that you can make the most of rehearsals we ask that you can read sheet music confidently.

Our current members have a range of experience so if you’re not sure how you’d fit in, come along and try it for yourself. We currently have space in all sections so if you’ve been thinking about joining an orchestra, now’s your chance!

We rehearse on Tuesday evenings in Great Bowden - see FAQs for more details.

Join the Orchestra

We are always happy to welcome new members. Please use the link below to register for a free taster session.

No auditions or minimum grade - you just need to be able to read sheet music confidently
Friendly and supportive rehearsals
Spaces in all sections
Varied repertoire from Beethoven symphonies to film music and folk songs
Open to all ages
Free taster session

"Playing with other people is better than playing on your own – you can be more confident, hear different sounds and learn from the other members of the orchestra."

FAQs

When and where are rehearsals held?

7.45-9.30pm on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of each month in term time at Great Bowden Village Hall, 40 The Green LE16 7EU. There is a short break in the middle of the rehearsal.

Is the venue accessible?

On street parking is available near to the hall. There is step free access via the side door to the hall (uses a ramp) and an accessible toilet is available. We provide sheet music as standard paper copies but if you need a different format (coloured paper, large print etc) please do let us know.

How much does it cost?

£45 per term (£40 for under-18s) which covers venue hire, Musical Director and music.

Who can join?

Anyone of any age who plays an orchestral instrument. We have spaces in all sections.

Do you offer a taster session?

Yes, we offer the first session as a free trial.

When are membership subs due?

Subs are due on 2nd January for the spring term, 1st May for the summer term and 1st September for the autumn term.

Do I need any musical experience?

We don’t have a minimum grade requirement but you do need to be able to read sheet music confidently to be able to make the most of rehearsals.

Do I need my own instrument?

Yes, please bring your instrument, a music stand and a pencil to rehearsals.

Do I need to audition?

No we don’t hold auditions, just come along!

Rehearsals

Time: 7.45-9.30pm

Day: 2nd and 4th Tuesdays in term time

Venue: Great Bowden Village Hall, 40 The Green, Great Bowden LE16 7EU

Map showing the location of Great Bowden Village Hall

Rehearsal Dates 2026-27

Autumn

15th, 22nd September

13th, 27th October

10th, 24th November

8th December

Spring

26th January

9th, 23rd February

9th March

Summer

13th, 27th April

11th, 25th May

8th, 22nd, 29th June

Musical Director: Anne Mee

Anne is Leicester born and bred and studied music from 6 years old, beginning with the piano, then adding cello and singing in choirs and productions in Leicester. Later, when at the Royal Academy of Music, she played and sang with various orchestras and choirs. She took up conducting as a third study while at the Academy.

After graduating, Anne joined LSMS teaching cello and double bass, and has occasionally conducted the Saturday morning string groups. She also ran a choir for nearly 3 years, and sang and played in a band. She plays with two people from that band still and they celebrate their 30th anniversary this year! She also leads the Bardi and the Knighton chamber orchestra cello sections.

By day Anne works as a cello, piano, violin and guitar teacher in various schools, as well as delivering sessions in spoken word and Art therapy in a couple of other institutions.

GBRT COMMUNITY ORCHESTRA