The London based Learning Orchestra has vacancies for violin, viola and celli.

The main orchestra takes players from Grade 5 standard upwards (without audition, but you'd need to be honest about your playing ability!) and the Intermediate Orchestra accepts players from Grade 3 standard.

I used to be a member. I was there for one term, in Summer 2008.

I decided I wanted an orchestra that was convieniantly located for me and that tackled harder repetoire.

However this orchestra is a great choice for adult restarters who trying to play with others and don't feel confident enough to join the higher level orchestras.

*makes note for the future*

thanks Amanda

By the way Barri that is the one I was telling you met in Marylybone, at least their training orchestra does.

OK...I'm still a country mile off grade 3, but it's in my musical contacts folder now for possible use later on

I wish you didn't post this Amanda as it's tempting

but I already 'struggle' with the one orchestra, but this one is not far from work (the learner's orchestra), I could go after work

oh dear, I shouldn't (I should)

10 hour round trip for me! I don't fancy my chances but I need an orchestra that rehearses in the daytime, not starting during my dinner time and running on till after I am in bed!

That's the orchestra I play with. The main orchestra was looking for Grade 6 when I enquired last year (in contary to what is on their website) but they accepted me as a viola player at Grade 5 standard. I find I can't quite cope with all the repetoire at my standard (but most of it is comfortably within my reach), but they are happy for me to airbow at the back the viola section - which I do to the best of my ability!

I would certainly recommend it as a friendly orchestra and I am very happy there.

Lís