What is York Light Orchestra?
York Light Orchestra is an amateur orchestra originally founded in
October 1947 with an aim to allow local musicians to play together and hold
concerts around the local region. We have a large programme of music to
suit all tastes.
October 1947 with an aim to allow local musicians to play together and hold
concerts around the local region. We have a large programme of music to
suit all tastes.
Where and when does YLO meet?
The orchestra meets every Thursday night (usually in school term time only)
at Acomb Methodist Church, Front St, Acomb, York YO24 3BX. Rehearsals
commence at 7:30pm but we request that members have arrived by at least
7:15pm to help set out the chairs, put up the music stands and set out the
music.
at Acomb Methodist Church, Front St, Acomb, York YO24 3BX. Rehearsals
commence at 7:30pm but we request that members have arrived by at least
7:15pm to help set out the chairs, put up the music stands and set out the
music.
Is there parking available at Acomb Methodist Church?
Yes – there is parking at the church and on street parking around the church. We are also allowed to park at Gale Farm Surgery, located at 109- 119 Front St, Acomb, York YO24 3BU.
Do I need to bring my own music stand?
No. Music stands are provided so there's no need to lug a music stand around!.
Do I need to provide my own music?
No! Music is provided as part of our extensive repertoire.
Can I take the music home to practise?
We encourage our members to practise their parts at home but would prefer
that you ask a member of the committee for a rehearsal part or take a photo
of your music to print out at home rather than taking original parts away with
you as we have lost parts before that can be difficult or expensive to
replace.
that you ask a member of the committee for a rehearsal part or take a photo
of your music to print out at home rather than taking original parts away with
you as we have lost parts before that can be difficult or expensive to
replace.
What standard do I need to be to join?
Ideally we recruit players that are around Grade 5 - 8. It doesn’t matter if
you’re a bit rusty as we find that after a few rehearsals players soon
improve! The orchestra aims to play a mix of challenging and less-
demanding music to a high standard, so it's not suitable for absolute
beginners. But if you not sure as to whether you are up to the grade, we can
invite you to come along on a trial basis for 4 to 5 rehearsals to see whether
it’s right for you.
you’re a bit rusty as we find that after a few rehearsals players soon
improve! The orchestra aims to play a mix of challenging and less-
demanding music to a high standard, so it's not suitable for absolute
beginners. But if you not sure as to whether you are up to the grade, we can
invite you to come along on a trial basis for 4 to 5 rehearsals to see whether
it’s right for you.
Do I need to audition?
No. There are no formal auditions to join, and your only commitment is to attend as many of the rehearsals as possible, support our concerts and enjoy yourself.
Can I join if I play a non-standard orchestral instrument?
We welcome players on some non-standard orchestral instruments (e.g. drum-kit and saxophone) as some parts are written for non-standard instruments but regret we are unable to accept others, such as guitar or ukulele. If are you are unsure, then please contact the secretary directly by email - see here for details.
What are your age requirements?
We welcome all ages but please note that anyone under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
What are the commitment requirements?
We hope that you will be able to attend most rehearsals but understand that people have work and childcare commitments. If you cannot commit to weekly rehearsals or if you know you will be late or can only attend on alternate weeks then we would prefer it if you could let us know so we can choose appropriate music for the players that are able to commit. We may also move players around within the sections to accommodate those who can commit to weekly rehearsals. We do expect players to attend all the rehearsals in the run-up to a concert.
How often do you perform concerts?
We perform anything from three to six concerts per year for local charities and community groups in York and the surrounding areas. Most of our concerts are held on Thursday nights but we sometimes perform on Saturdays or Sundays. Our evening concerts usually start at 7.30pm (unless otherwise stated) and we request that members arrive by 7.00pm at the latest, to help set up.
What is your concert dress?
Concert dress is black and white. For women, we request that a smart white blouse and black skirt with black tights or black trousers is worn, with black jackets optional. Alternatively, a smart black dress may be worn. For the men, we request that black trousers and jacket, with a white shirt and black bow tie is worn. Smart black shoes for all. For bigger concerts we may allow women to wear colourful dresses and men to wear black shirts as an optional alternative to the standard concert dress (or festive outfits at Christmas!) but please check if you are unsure.
How much does it cost?
Subscription fees are £50.00 per year and can be paid annually every September (the start of our year) or £20.00 in September and January and £10 in April. If you start part way through a year this will be reduced pro rata. However, new starters can try us out for FREE! We are welcoming new players this season without any obligation to pay until you decide you want to join us!
What music do you play?
We play a mix of film music, pop music, music from the shows, lightinstrumental music, waltzes, marches and overtures. We have an extensive library of music ranging from traditional to modern pieces. We are always open to ideas for different or modern pieces. If you have any requests for music then please let us know and we can consider buying or renting new pieces. If you would like to view a copy of the YLO library catalogue you will find it online within the confidential members’ page of the website or we can email a copy to you.
What is ‘light music’?
‘Light music’ is usually defined as a less-serious form of Western classical music, typically shorter orchestral pieces and suites designed to appeal to a wider audience than longer, classical pieces. YLO is a rare organisation being one of only a few 'Light Orchestras' still existing today and joined the Light Music Society in October 2005 to aid in the promotion and preservation of this unique type of orchestra. However, we do not limit ourselves to just playing light music and have extended the definition to include contemporary film music and pop music – the light music of today.
Do you have ‘open rehearsals’?
We aim to hold an ‘Open Rehearsal and Social’ at least once per term. All musicians are welcome to come along and play with us, and you can bring your family members along to watch too! So, if you haven’t played for a while, if you play with other groups, if you would like to use your musical talent to support local charities, or even if you just fancy a fun musical night out, then come along and meet us! There is no obligation to join or pay a fee – and there will be cake!
Do you have soloists?
We are happy to discuss any players wanting to play a solo in a concert or as part of a smaller ensemble. In recent years the orchestra has accompanied trombone and soprano soloists.
