Keen to experience the magic of playing in an orchestra with other like-minded students? Then look no further…
Since launching a decade ago, Orchestras for All’s Modulo Programme has connected hundreds of young people and music leaders nationwide – and it’s been pure joy.
The bright initiative supports teachers from maintained schools and music hub leaders to set up and develop a ‘Modulo’, a small ensemble of four to 15 students aged 11-18, before inviting them to team up with other Modulos from across the country and play as one epic orchestra.
But what makes being part of a Modulo so special? Here are just a few reasons why you should consider joining this much-loved, music-making family…
Anyone can join!
While entry to most traditional orchestras requires players to have reached a certain level of musical skill, a ‘Modulo’ ensemble welcomes students of all skill levels and experience.
2. Meet other musicians
You’ll gain access to a wide network of young people participating in other UK-based Modulos, so it’s a great way to make new friends!
3. You can play any instrument
Whether you’re just starting out on the guitar, would love to share your passion for the ukulele or are a dab hand on the drums, all instruments are welcome at Modulo.
4. Play beautiful music
This season, our diverse repertoire has included Alice Mary Smith’s iconic Symphony in A minor, alongside more modern, genre-spanning pieces like ‘Crossfade’, penned by British composer, Jack McNeill. A recent participant said: “Modulo is really interesting – I got to learn new pieces!”
5. Discover new genres
Modulo students don’t just enjoy playing or listening to classical music – here we appreciate all musical genres. From folk and drill, to punk rock (and everything in between), get chatting to your orchestra neighbour and you might just discover music you’d never explored before.
6. Conduct like a pro
Ever fancied trying your hand at conducting? At our regional events, you’ll have the opportunity to stand up in front of your peers, take the lead and experience what it feels like to be a musical maestro on stage!
7. Perform without a crowd
You can experience the joy of playing music with others – without the pressure of a formal concert. One Modulo student said: “We don’t have to perform in front of a lot of people, like a whole audience. It’s a good place!”
8. Improve your mood
Whether you’re having a hard day at school, struggling with a mental health condition or simply in need of an energy boost, listening to music has been scientifically proven to lower your levels of cortisol (also known as the stress hormone), which can help you to cope during tough times.
9. Get creative
Our Modulo Meets aren’t just about performing; there are plenty of creative composition workshops for you to get stuck into, too – all led by professionals in the field. Here you’ll learn about rhythm, instrumentation and adding texture to a melody, how to tell a story through your music, and much more.
10. Express yourself!
Often, music can say what words can’t – bust out that bold personality of yours in the brass, share a playful flutter on the flute, unleash a powerful sound over in percussion or soothe your orchestra friends with a sweet violin melody.
11. We’ll support you throughout
Are you worried about losing your place or getting nervous playing to a new group? That’s completely natural and the chances are, there are other students who feel the same. That’s why during our regional and national meets, we’ll have a team of friendly wellbeing and orchestral tutors on hand to help you every step of the way.
12. Boost your skills
As well as improving your musical ability, joining a Modulo can help you gain valuable new social and communication skills, teach you how to collaborate with others as part of a team and even enhance your memory. What’s not to love?
13. Enjoy yourself!
And finally, in the words of a Modulo student who recently attended our London session: “It’s really fun!”
