Beginner Wind Band
This group consists of pupils playing brass, wind and percussion instruments. The ensemble caters for those who can play five notes to those who are about to sit their Grade 1 examination. Entrance is by invitation from their teacher upon reaching the required standard.
Junior Wind Band
This is the first group within the Music Centre to comprise of both wind and brass instruments and is now firmly established. It caters for children from Grade 1 and plays a variety of music ranging from musicals to film music.
Senior Wind Band
The Senior Wind Band presently caters for our higher ability wind players from Grade 4 upwards. They perform a wide selection of music, including film, classical, jazz and musicals. The pupils that play in this ensemble are also invited to attend the Wakefield Youth Symphonic Wind Band.
Saxophone Ensemble
The Saxophone Ensemble at Outwood was established in September 2008, under the leadership of Paul Machon. The aim is to get all the different types of saxophone playing together as an ensemble, something the Music Centre has never had. The group performs different styles of music, from classical to rock, from pop to jazz. It gave its first performance at the 2008 Christmas concert (to rave reviews!!) The standard is Grade 3 and above and anyone of this standard is free to come and join. We rehearse every Saturday 10.00 until 10.50, in the "little room on the left"!
Beginner Strings
This ensemble is for pupils that are absolute beginners and can play open strings. On leaving this ensemble they will be able to play simple scales and melodies, both by plucking and using the bow. Entrance is by invitation from their teacher upon reaching the required standard.
Junior Strings
The standard of this group ranges from Pre-Grade 1 to Grade 1. Pieces are selected to encourage work on all strings, and to encourage a wide dynamic range with a confident use of the bow.
Intermediate Strings
This group is aimed for students that are Grade 1 upwards. The pieces are more challenging, providing a wider selection of music ranging from classical to film music. This is our most established string ensemble and has recently performed in the Wakefield Opera House as a part of the Music Matters Concerts.
Beginner Guitar Group
This group is for pupils that are complete beginners. Pupils learn the correct posture and position through to playing simple tunes on treble string and open bass notes. Entrance is by invitation by their teacher. Alternatively if guitar is not a discipline offered in school you can contact Wakefield Music Services and they will advise you if any places are available and how to gain access to the group.
Junior Guitar Group
The standard of this group ranges from Pre-Grade One to Grade Three standard. Pieces are selected to improve pupils’ technical and performance skills.
Senior Guitar Group
The Senior Guitar Group caters for our higher ability guitar players from Grade Three and above. They perform a wide selection of music including, film, folk, classical and popular styles. This group have performed in conjunction with the Senior Strings in recent Music Centre Concerts and are set to go from strength to strength.
