There are currently 4 Full Wind Ensembles run by the Music Centre and two specialist ensembles
The Bands are graded to suit the ability of the players and make regular performances. All bands are staffed by experienced professional musicians and considerate training and advice is always at hand.
Bolton Training Wind Ensemble is an ensemble for beginner wind brass and percussion players which takes place in two separate venues in Bolton:
The ensemble is for anyone from the very beginner to about Grade 2 standard. The majority of the pupils are between Years 5 & 9.
Bolton Training Wind Ensemble plays a variety of music from films (Harry Potter), pop music and traditional styles which are both educational and fun, focusing on ensemble skills.
Playing as an ensemble cannot always be covered in an instrumental lesson and some pupils may not have the opportunity to play in a school ensemble. Learning to play in an ensemble means you may then be able to progress to play in some of the other exciting ensembles at the Music Centre. The atmosphere in Training Wind Ensemble is relaxed and fun. Play what you can, when you can and as you learn more in your lessons you can use your new skills in the ensemble. The Musical Director is Emma Cunliffe
BOLTON JUNIOR CONCERT BAND
This group caters for players of grade 2 -4 standard and aged between 8 and 14 years. All woodwind, brass and percussion players are welcome.
The bands' repertoire includes a variety of musical styles from pop songs, traditional pieces, film music and numbers composed by members of staff. The Musical Director is Emma Cunliffe
BOLTON INTERMEDIATE CONCERT BAND
This group plays more challenging music and prepares players for the standards required by the senior ensemble, whilst retaining the sense of fun that is common throughout the lower bands.
The Musical Director is Martin Kay.
BOLTON YOUTH CONCERT BAND
This is the top ensemble of the Wind Bands and most of the players have worked their way through the lower bands to this one. in recent years the Youth Concert Band were awarded Gold in the BASBWE regional heats and were HIGHLY COMMENDED at the National Music for Youth festival. The band is conducted by Maxine Kay
BOLTON YOUTH FLUTE CHOIR
A small group of senior flautists who perform a wide range of pieces.
The group is conducted by Maxine Kay
BOLTON YOUTH CLARINET CHOIR
A small group of senior clarinettists who perform a wide range of pieces.
