9:30 to 11:00 in the Maths Corridor
Director – Archie Batty.

Blast Off is suitable for all woodwind and brass players who have either just started learning or have had lessons for about a year.

​The band plays music tailored to the abilities of the children who turn up and serves as an introduction to playing in an ensemble as well as addressing some of the basic skills of playing a wind instrument.

11:10 to 12:30 in Hi 1
Director – Lucy Brewster

This group is for young string players who are grasping the basics and have been learning for around a year. They learn valuable lessons on how to play as a group and gain ensemble experience to prepare them for the more senior groups.

9:30 to 11:00 in Hi 4
Director – Michael Waterhouse

The Guitar Group has a membership of students with a wide range of experience. The ensemble plays a varied repertoire- some of it arranged specifically for them by their director.

A minimum standard for new members is that grade work should at least be begun.

11:15 to 12:30 in the Maths Corridor
Director – Archie Batty.

The PGs is a band designed for adults who have either never played a wind instrument before or not for a very long time! We have great fun learning the fundamental aspects of playing a wind instrument through music to suit the range of abilities and experience.

Come and give it a try!

9:45 to 10:45 in Mu 2
Director/Conductor – Amanda Crawley

This for anybody from year 4 up to Adult who either already knows that singing is great fun or wants to discover the joys of singing.

Come along and experience Amanda’s expertise and thoroughly enjoyable group for anybody who enjoys singing and wants to improve.

11:00 to 12:30 in Hi 1
Director – Michael Waterhouse.

11:15 to 12:30 in Gg 6
Director – Fiona Mayo.

Chamber Orchestra is a Senior level ensemble which welcomes string and woodwind players who are of a more advanced standard. This ensemble is new and enjoys exploring the large chamber orchestra repertoire from classical to contemporary music.

Entrance to this ensemble is by audition.

9:30 to 12:30 in The Chapel
Director – Stephanie Yaple.

This band is for students who have grasped the basic techniques of a wind or percussion instrument and are ready to attempt music that is a little more challenging.

The repertoire features popular and film themes.

09:30 to 11:00 in Gg 6
Director – Lucy Brewster.

Harrogate Youth Strings is the senior string orchestra at the centre. Members experience a wide variety of the rich string orchestra repertoire.

A full commitment to the band is essential, with regular attendance to rehearsals and concerts.

9:30 to 12:30 in The Main Hall
Director – Emily Ferguson.

09:30 to 12:30 in Mu 4/5
Director – Will Osborn

HYJO is a senior ensemble offering opportunities to those students who wish to explore jazz technique and repertoire. The band plays from a large library of music ranging from traditional big band numbers to more contemporary music.

HYJO regularly perform concerts throughout the year as well as jazz venues and cafes in the area. The ensemble consists of about 20 members, with a keen interest in jazz and rock music. New members need to have some experience of improvisation although this will be taught as part of rehearsals.

Entry to HYJO is by audition.

Caroline Edwards

HMC is very fortunate to have a dedicated specialist percussion staff member assisting across the different ensembles.