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
Do you know a London-based dedicated young musician in need of a bursary?
Please nominate them to join the London Youth Folk Ensemble.
Deadline for nominations extended to 9.30am, Tuesday 22 September.
All London Youth Folk Ensemble sessions will take place ONLINE until at least the end of October. From November onwards we are working towards holding all sessions with young people ‘in person’ at Cecil Sharp House, if possible and safe to do so.
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 Bronze or Silver 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.
FREE Sampler Session: Sunday 20 September 2020, 2–5pm
This event is free but advance booking required.
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
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.
How to get the best from joining London Youth Folk Ensemble should sessions need to take place online
Due to Covid-19 related restrictions, if all or part of this course is not able to take place at Cecil Sharp House, it will take place online instead. Sessions will predominantly be run using Zoom with some additional material shared via sound and video files. You do not need a Zoom account to join the course and will be able to access the sessions via your browser and our web links. A free basic Zoom account will, however, get you access to additional sound settings, which could be helpful if not essential.
For the best possible experience you will need a computer with a webcam, microphone and ear/headphones. You will also need a stable home Internet connection or 4G-mobile connection (Note that using a mobile internet connection can be costly, check your mobile phone tariffs before choosing this option). You can also use the Zoom app on a tablet or even a mobile phone; however, a larger screen will give you a better overall experience.
Terms and conditions and Policies
