THERE is so much to do for young people in the Crediton area.

CREDITON Youth Orchestra is a vibrant ensemble for young people in Crediton.

The orchestra consists of about 55 young musicians, aged six to 18, from the Crediton area and beyond and brings together those from remote communities as well as those in the centre of town.

CYO also offers smaller ensemble playing, including two saxophone ensembles, a clarinet ensemble, a flute ensemble, string orchestra, brass group and jazz combo.

It is supported by DTMEH which provide funding and instruments for Orchestra projects.

It plays music of all styles, rock, pop, jazz, film and TV and classical to name but a few and all instruments and abilities are catered for.

The Orchestra performs in the community, notably at Crediton Arts Alive, Share in the Square, The Mix Festival or Devon County Show.

It also takes part in exciting collaborations with other musical organisations such as The Exeter College Music Academy, The Ad Hoc Singers and The Turning Tides Project. 

CYO and CYO ensembles all take place weekly on Wednesdays during term time from 4.15pm - 6.45pm at Crediton Congregational Church.

It also runs extensive outreach projects which promote the playing of orchestral instruments and make music tuition accessible.

It is currently running two Big Play Ensembles in which young people are provided with an instrument and a weekly lesson/ensemble session to kickstart their instrumental playing journey. 

Big Play wind/brass sessions are weekly during term time at Hayward’s School from 3.35pm to 4.15pm and Big Play string sessions are on Wednesdays from 4pm to 4.40pm at Crediton Congregational Church.

It also offers three Elastic Bands in Cheriton Fitzpaine, Sandford and Thorverton for musicians aged 6-11 who want to start playing in a band from a beginner level.

Anyone interested in joining any of our ensembles (no auditions necessary and all instruments welcome!) should contact Alison Golby on: [email protected] for more information.