
Our Groups
At South East Derbyshire Music Centre (SEDMC), we've a group for everyone, wherever they are on their musical journey. Our groups are split into four levels: BeatRoots, Foundation, Progression and Youth and are āābased on ensemble skills and musicianship, not exam certificates.
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Our aim is to place every young musician in the ensemble where they can learn confidently, contribute positively, and enjoy making music with others. You can learn about each level in the handy tool below.
Find your Group

BeatRoots
Level:
BeatRoots
Time: 10:15 - 11:00
BeatRoots is the perfect introduction to music for our youngest learners. Using games, songs, and movement, children explore rhythm, pitch, and creativity in a joyful, nurturing environment that builds strong musical foundations.

Foundations Wind Band
Level:
Foundations
Time: 9:00-10:00
This ensemble gives young wind and brass players their first taste of playing in a band. Perfect for beginners, it nurtures basic technique, rhythm, and teamwork.

Foundations Orchestra
Level:
Foundations
Time: 10:00 - 10:30
A supportive introduction to full orchestral playing, helping musicians develop core musical skills, confidence and teamwork while enjoying the sound of a full orchestra.

Progression String Orchestra
Level:
Progression
Time: 9:00-10:00
For string players ready for more challenge and depth. Members develop stronger ensemble playing, explore expressive music, and grow in confidence and skill.

Band Lab
Level:
Progression, Youth
Time: 10:00-11:00
A space for creative young musicians to explore varied contemporary music styles. Focuses on group performance, improvisation, and session skills in guiter playing, bass and percussion.

Youth Wind Band
Level:
Youth
Time: 11:15-12:30
A dynamic group for confident woodwind, brass, and percussion players. With music that's bold, challenging, and fun, this band supports musical growth and creates powerful performances together.

Street Band
Level:
Youth
Time: 9:00-10:00
A high-energy, contemporary band specialising in funk, pop, and jazz. With a rhythm section to drive the groove, itās a bold and exciting group for expressive players.

Saturday Singers
Level:
Foundations, Progression, Youth
Time: 9:45-10:45
A friendly, expressive vocal group for older singers who love harmonies, teamwork, and a wide-ranging repertoire. No experience neededājust enthusiasm!

Foundations String Orchestra
Level:
Foundations
Time: 9:00-10:00
A welcoming ensemble for early-stage string players. Members develop ensemble skills, confidence, and musical independence through fun repertoire and a supportive group experience.

Foundations Guitar & Ukulele Ensemble
Level:
Foundations
Time: 9:00-10:00
An enjoyable and accessible group for those learning the basics of strumming, picking, and playing as part of a musical team. Encourages early listening and coordination skills.

Progression Wind Band
Level:
Progression
Time: 10:45-11:45
This exciting band helps players refine technique and play more challenging, dynamic music. A key stepping stone to youth ensembles.

Progression Orchestra
Level:
Progression
Time: 10:00 - 10:30
A lively full orchestra for developing musicians, building technical skill, musical independence and ensemble awareness through increasingly challenging repertoire.

Youth Orchestra
Level:
Youth
Time: 10:00-11:00
Description: An inspiring full orchestral experience. Youth Orchestra players rehearse diverse repertoire, develop discipline and ensemble cohesion, and perform major concerts throughout the year.

Youth String Orchestra
Level:
Youth
Time: 11:15-12:30
A vibrant ensemble for advanced string players, tackling expressive and challenging repertoire. Perfect for refining musicality and ensemble awareness.

Vocalise
Level:
Foundations, Progression, Youth
Time: 11:00 -11:45
A joyful choir for younger voices, exploring a wide mix of music styles. Vocalise encourages vocal growth, confidence, and the joy of singing together.

Woodwind Choir
Level:
Youth
Time: 9:00-10:00
This chamber-style group explores the rich and delicate textures of woodwind music, focusing on blend, balance, and articulation through ambitious repertoire.

Ready for your next step?
We encourage open conversations between staff, members, and families.
If you feel that your child may be ready for a new musical challenge, we would encourageyou to start by getting in touch with the Director of Music to start the conversation abouttheir musical journey and development.
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Our aim is always to place each young musician where they can feel confident, be
challenged appropriately and most importantly; enjoy making music with others!
Ensemble Check-in
āWe encourage members to reflect on their own playing using the Ensemble Check-In. This helps young musicians understand what ensemble skills are, take ownership of their musical journey, and have informed conversations with ensemble directors.
Our Ensemble Check-In is designed to help you think honestly about your playing most of the time, and gets you to think about areas such as:
- technical control of their instrument
- reading music in rehearsals
- keeping steady pulse and rhythm
- listening, blending, and balance
- responding to the conductor
- musical expression and style
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The Ensemble Check-In is not a test. It's part of a wider picture used by ensemble directors.
