Ensembles are an important part of learning to play a musical instrument and are often the most enjoyable and socially rewarding part of the process. The Music Service works towards providing a musical pathway for all its young players for every stage of learning.
What we offer
The Music Service currently offers the following ensembles across the County:
- Aylsham Cluster Ensemble
- Beginner Ensemble Norwich
- Norfolk County Strings
- Norfolk County Symphonic Wind Band
- Norfolk Students’ Concert Band
- Norfolk Students’ Jazz Orchestra
- Wymondham Cluster Ensemble
Information about each Ensemble, including grade level, rehearsal venue, and rehearsal times can be found on each linked Ensemble page or in the Ensembles Information Handbook.
Sistema Norwich Orchestral Programme
We also offer an orchestral programme in conjunction with Sistema. Please find more information here.
Charges
There is a standard charge of £55 per term for an individual membership and £80 per term* for a family membership regardless of the number of ensembles students join. Pupils in receipt of Free School Meals are entitled to a 50% discount on fees, while all Looked After Children can attend Ensembles free of charge. This membership entitles young people to join as many ensembles as they like included in the termly fee. We encourage all students to access the online theory sessions and the Norfolk Show Choir.
Parents/guardians will be billed termly (in October, February, and May).
*pricing for 2024/25
Find out more about our Fee Remission policy >>
Registration
Registration for Ensembles is renewed each academic year.
If you are interested in joining our Ensembles, your child can come along for one session as a trial. Please email music.service@norfolk.gov.uk and include which instruments your child plays and their current level, and we can arrange a session for you. If your child would then like to continue, please register on our online form, which will go live in the summer term.
Ensembles Information Video