Ensembles & Group Activities

York Music Centre, operated by York Music Education CIC, offers an extensive and inclusive programme of music ensembles and group learning activities for children and young people across York. From toddlers discovering rhythm for the first time, to accomplished young musicians ready for orchestral performance, our Music Centre provides a structured and welcoming environment for musical growth.

A single monthly membership gives access to multiple groups. We operate every Saturday and Wednesday during term time from our base at Millthorpe School.

Early Years & First Access

Our beginner and Early Years provision nurtures a love of music through play, movement and group participation:

  • First Steps (ages 3–6) – Music and movement for our youngest learners

  • First Music Makers – Singing, percussion, recorder and ukulele in a creative setting

  • First Keyboards – Group keyboard lessons introducing ensemble skills

  • First Ukuleles – A fun, no-pressure start to strumming and singing

  • First Strings – Pre-Grade 1 strings for children receiving tuition

  • Drum Squad – A friendly percussion group for beginners

  • Recorders – For those with some but limited experience

  • Junior Theory / First Theory – Workbook-based theory support (Grades 1–3)

Junior & Intermediate Ensembles

Aimed at learners who are beginning to develop ensemble confidence (Grade 1–4 level):

  • Junior String Orchestra – String players working at Grade 1+

  • Junior Wind Band – For brass and wind players, Grades 1–4

  • Junior Brass Band – For brass and wind players, Grades 1–4

  • Junior Folkestra – Folk music on any instrument for Grades 1–3

  • Intermediate String Orchestra – For players above Grade 3

  • Intermediate Minster Minstrels – An early music group run with NCEM

  • Guitar Ensemble – Classical guitarists able to read notation

  • Grade-5 Theory – Preparation for ABRSM Grade 5 Theory

Senior Ensembles

Advanced ensembles for more experienced players (typically Grade 5+):

  • Big Band – Jazz, swing and big band repertoire

  • Senior Concert Band – Brass and wind for Grade 5+ musicians

  • Senior Folkestra – Folk ensemble for experienced instrumentalists

  • Senior Minster Minstrels – Early music with opportunities to perform at York Early Music Festival

  • String Quartet – Advanced chamber ensemble (by invitation)

  • York Youth Orchestra – Our flagship group for Grade 6+ musicians

    York Youth Orchestra offers:

    • Sectional coaching

    • Work with international soloists

    • Tours and concerts across York and beyond

    • Creative projects (film, dance, new works)

    • A professional and inclusive musical environment

How to Join

[Join Now] [View Timetable]

If you have any questions, feel free to get in touch via This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

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