The group and tutors are really friendly and supportive. My confidence as a performer has increased dramatically since joining this awesome band! I couldn't recommend it more – Olivia
Welcoming young musicians who want to create and perform amazing folk music together!
The Ensemble meets regularly (currently on six Sundays every term) from September to July, at Cecil Sharp House. It is led by folk musician Emily Askew with Ruairi Glasheen.
Members of the Ensemble explore and arrange traditional folk repertoire from Britain and beyond, develop their performance style and presentation, learn about the history and culture of folk music and perform at exciting events across London and beyond.
The Ensemble is open for improver to advanced level musicians of any instrument. Players of any instruments are welcome. Previous experience of folk music is useful but by no means essential.
Taking part can contribute to an Arts Award Discover, Explore or Bronze Award.
How do I join?
To join the London Youth Folk Ensemble you need to:
- Be 11 to 19 years old (up to up to 24 year olds for deaf and disabled young people)
- Have a good grasp of technique on your instrument and be able to play tunes confidently
- Have some experience of learning and playing tunes by ear
- Have some experience of playing your instrument in a group (eg band, ensemble, orchestra)
- Demonstrate passion for folk music and commitment to the Ensemble
London Youth Folk Ensemble is an annual commitment.
If you are interested in joining London Youth Folk Ensemble come to the Sampler session, the first session of the year. You will meet the tutors, learn some tunes and find out more about the coming year’s plans and events.
The 2020 Sampler Session will take place on Sunday 22 September.
2019–20 dates
Sundays, 2-5pm
Autumn term: 22 Sept (Sampler Session) | 6, 20 Oct | 3, 24 Nov | 8 Dec 2019
Spring term: 19 Jan | 2, 16 Feb | 1, 15, 29 Mar 2020
Summer term: 26 Apr | 10, 24 May | 7, 21 June | 4 July 2020
2020-21 dates
Sundays, 2-5pm
Autumn Term : Sept 20 Sept (Sampler) | 4, 18 Oct | 8, 22 Nov | 6 Dec 2020
Spring Term: Jan 17, 31 | Feb 14, 28 | Mar 14, 28 2021
Summer Term: Apr 18, 25 | May 9, 23 | June 6, 20 | July 3 2021
The London Youth Folk Ensemble Sampler Session will take place on Sunday 20 September, 2 - 5pm
If you are interested in joining the London Youth Folk Ensemble come to the Sampler session, the first session of the year. You will meet the tutors, learn some tunes and find out more about the coming year’s plans and events. This event is free but advance booking required.
2020 Performances
Performances include:
- Camden Music Festival, Cecil Sharp House: Sunday 29 March 2020 - CANCELLED
- Southbank Centre Family Folk Club, Thursday 16 April 2020 - CANCELLED
- The Takeover, Cecil Sharp House: Saturday 4 July 2020 - ONLINE
- Folk by the Oak festival, Hatfield House: Sunday 19 July 2020 - CANCELLED
Fees
Annual fee: £270 | £204 concessions (advance booking required)
We want everyone who is offered a place in the Ensemble to be able to take it up. We are able to offer some financial support – please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. if you will struggle to afford the full fees.
