Being a part of WOS...
The Westbourne Orchestral Society has been around since 1930, where we have been meeting together to make music and perform to audiences since. We play music across all genres, from the well-known classics, familiar contemporary pieces and some more obscure yet fabulous music from around the world.
Our small and friendly society of around 50 playing members are of all ages, abilities and instruments – some have been with us for over 40 years! One thing that is true for all our members is that the music and friendships of the WOS is an important part of all our lives.
Our conductor is Lee Marchant, who expertly (and humorously!) guides us through rehearsals, and our leader is the highly talented and kind Stefan Defilet – they both perform and teach professionally and WOS is very fortunate to have such strong talents to guide our music making.
As well as enjoying making music together and delighting our audiences at our concerts, some of us also like to tantalise our tastebuds by going for a nice cold one at nearby Circo Lounge in Westbourne after rehearsal! :)
For any more information, please feel free to Contact Us.
We would love to hear from...
We would love to hear from anyone who:
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Plays an orchestral instrument
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Can play to an adequate standard (roughly Grade 4 upwards)
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May have some experience of playing in a group (though not essential)
We would be particularly keen to welcome welcome the players of: all strings; French horn; trombone; and trumpet.
Some positions are subject to an informal audition/trial period, just to ensure you would be comfortable playing with us and a good fit within the society (don't panic!).
Our 2022/23 Season Repertoire
To please both our audiences and members, we have arranged for a mixed, challenging and exciting programme of music for our concerts this year, which will include:
Borodin – Prince Igor Overture
Brahms – Variations on a Theme by Haydn (St Anthony Chorale)
Dvorak – Symphony No. 9 'The New World'
Prokofiev – Romeo and Juliet
Mahler – Symphony No. 1
Berlioz – Roman Carnival Overture
Brahms – Piano Quartet No. 1
For a breakdown of our concerts, see the Concert Calendar page
Subscription
The cost of WOS Membership Subscription is as follows:
Regular Membership:
£120 /year or £40 /term
Student Membership:
£60 /year or £20 /term
The membership cycle is in line with the academic/school year, starting in September. This is when annual subs payments are invoiced. To make membership for accessible for those suffering hardship, arrangements can be made – simply speak with one of our friendly committee members.
Join WOS
Register your interest here and we will reach out to you with more information.