I've just got back from a rehearsal for a 'community play' orchestra. I acted in one a few years ago, and there were children in the band. So I found out about it and went along today. Shock horror- they were all adults and professional musicians/teachers. There was me, a grade 5 fourteen year old clutching a flute, while a trombone, double bass, trumpet, clarinet and flute player all turned round.

We had to sight read through all 20 pieces (it's a musical). Most containing 4 or 5 flats , off beats and accidentals galore. Pieces which had parts I couldn't even dream of being able to play.
I managed to play through some pieces... mostly doing it wrong...

Then everyone stopped for coffee. They'd never met each other before, and were all talking about jobs and things. Turned out they were all pros and had played for west end musicals, national orchestras, and now they were teaching in the area.

It was amazing how they could just be given a piece of paper, and turn it into music. They were all really nice, and encouraging. Not sure I'll be going back though... they said I could just join in a few pieces and be there for the experience

It's really inspired me to practice like crazy until I'm as good as them though. I'm looking forward to the day when I'd be able to sight read through a piece of music that well.