Playing in the Wind Orchestra
So you’re a musician, and you’re wondering whether to join the Isle of Man Wind Orchestra ...
This page aims to give you a basic overview of the practical aspects of the orchestra, hopefully to encourage you to visit us ... and then join in !
Instruments
Essentially, our ranks include brass and woodwind instruments, plus an extended percussion section. Whilst not an exhaustive list, you can expect to find ...
Piccolos, Flutes, Clarinets, Saxophones (all types), Oboes and Bassoons ....
Trumpets, Cornets, Trombones, Horns, Tubas, Flugelhorns, Euphoniums ....
Various drums, a Xylophone / Glockenspiel ....
If you don’t see your instrument listed here, then please feel free to ask
Playing standard
We aim to play to a good standard, and to make the most of the abilities of the musicians in the orchestra. That said, we don’t apply any specific criteria to new players. As a rule of thumb, if you can read music and play in tune, you’ll fit in nicely.
Costs
As the band generates a significant portion of it’s income through performances, and is supported by various organisations on the island, we’re able to keep our costs to a reasonable level.
Currently, a year’s membership is £40 for adults, and there’s no charge for those who are in full time education or at university !
The Music
We play a wide variety of music, from classical pieces to modern light material, visiting popular show themes, celtic and ethnic tunes and even a few Christmas Carols along the way. Generally, we currently aim for a maximum playing standard of grade 5, and we can usually find easier parts where appropriate. All necessary sheet music is provided within our membership fee.
Where, when, how ...
Our regular rehearsal sessions are held on Thursday evenings during term time, starting
at 7:45, at the Marown School, Glen Vine (downhill from the traffic lights). There’s
no formal joining procedure, so why not come down and see us in practice -