Academy Structure and Options
Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Youth Orchestra – CPYO
Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Youth Wind Orchestra – CYWO
Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Youth Choir – CPYC
Many parents introduce their children to music lessons because of the pleasure that they themselves experienced as part of an ensemble group - whether it was playing duets with family members or playing in a rock band, when waists were smaller and dreams larger.
Our County music ensembles provide a wonderful opportunity for further advancement for talented and enthusiastic young musicians. Membership allows them to extend their musical skills and repertoire by working with professional conductors and tutors. Each year there are chances to take part in residential courses, festivals, recordings and concert tours.
Cambridgeshire Music county ensembles have received a welcome throughout the UK and Europe on their many previous tours. In 2008, Cambridge Youth Wind Orchestra took its members to Italy, where over the period of a week they performed three concerts to very appreciative audiences. They also fitted in a visit to Italy's largest theme park, sightseeing in Verona and some beautiful fishing villages.
Applications are warmly invited for our advanced youth ensembles from musicians who have reached Grade 7 or above. We hold annual auditions for prospective members, though applications are welcome at all times, as places may become available throughout the year.
Members join their ensembles for the whole season (September 2009-August 2010) and pay an annual subscription, which can be paid monthly. The annual playing fee for 2009-10 will be £15 per day of activity, which covers all rehearsals and courses, playing days and performances, except for tours, which are separately charged for those taking part.
Members of county ensembles should be playing and performing regularly in their school, college and music centre ensembles. We also welcome back university students and course and concert dates are organised so that they are able to attend even when studying out of the area. Members are expected to attend all scheduled rehearsals and events if joining the ensemble.
Each county ensemble performs at a minimum of two concerts each year in venues like Peterborough or Ely Cathedral or Cambridge University's West Road venue. These involve several days of rehearsal to achieve the exacting standards required by their nationally renowned conductors.
There is an annual Gala Concert at which our County youth ensembles perform together.
To reserve a place and request an audition please complete the online form or call us on 01480 373555.