Get involved at South East Derbyshire Music Centre
Music-making ensembles and groups for young musicians from beginner to advanced abilities, based in Kirk Hallam, near Ilkeston
South East Derbyshire Music Centre (SEDMC) provides inspiring musical experiences through rehearsals, concerts, workshops, and tours, creating a supportive space where young people can build confidence, skills, and friendships.
Run by experienced musicians, our programs foster rapid musical progress, creativity, and well-being. As a charity, we ensure affordable access with subsidies and free membership for those on Free School Meals, so every child can experience the transformative power of music.
Get in touch or give us a try
WMC is based at the Lakeside Centre at Kirk Hallam Community Academy (map), with its groups happening there on Saturday morning. Take a look at the groups below for more information.
New members are welcome to try at any time – simply get in touch with us for more information or to arrange a visit, we'd be happy to welcome you!
Groups and ensembles
Any musical ability is welcomed at South East Derbyshire Music Centre (SEDMC), with groups for total beginners up to an advanced standard.
- Choose which progression route to view:
BeatRoots – musical introduction for our youngest learners ages 4+
Foundations – Developing Ensemble Musicians - for those at the beginning of their musical journey (Traditional grades beginner-2)
Progression – Developing Independence, musicians with strong foundations ready for the next challenge (Traditional grades 2-4)
Youth – Advanced musical leaders, confident, competent and sensitive musicians (Traditional grades 4+)
- Choirs for all ages
BeatRoots
- BeatRoots
Rhe 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
- Foundations String Orchestra – Saturday mornings
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 Wind Band – Saturday mornings
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 – Saturday mornings
A supportive introduction to full orchestral playing, helping musicians develop core musical skills, confidence and teamwork while enjoying the sound of a full orchestra.
- Foundations Guitar and Ukulele Ensemble – Saturday mornings
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.
Progession
- Progression String Orchestra – Saturday mornings
For string players ready for more challenge and depth. Members develop stronger ensemble playing, explore expressive music, and grow in confidence and skill.
- Progression Wind Band – Saturday mornings
This exciting band helps players refine technique and play more challenging, dynamic music. A key stepping stone to youth ensembles.
- Progression Orchestra – Saturday mornings
A lively full orchestra for developing musicians, building technical skill, musical independence and ensemble awareness through increasingly challenging repertoire.
- Band Lab – Saturday mornings
A space for creative young musicians to explore varied contemporary music styles. Focuses on group performance, improvisation, and session skills in guitar playing, bass and percussion.
Youth
- Youth String Orchestra – Saturday mornings
A vibrant ensemble for advanced string players, tackling expressive and challenging repertoire. Perfect for refining musicality and ensemble awareness.
- Youth Wind Band – Saturday mornings
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.
- Youth Orchestra – Saturday mornings
An inspiring full orchestral experience. Youth Orchestra players rehearse diverse repertoire, develop discipline and ensemble cohesion, and perform major concerts throughout the year.
- Street Band – Saturday mornings
A high-energy, contemporary band specialising in funk, pop, and jazz. With a rhythm section to drive the groove, it’s a bold and exciting group for expressive players.
- Woodwind Choir – Saturday mornings
This chamber-style group explores the rich and delicate textures of woodwind music, focusing on blend, balance, and articulation through ambitious repertoire.
- Band Lab – Saturday mornings
A space for creative young musicians to explore varied contemporary music styles. Focuses on group performance, improvisation, and session skills in guitar playing, bass and percussion.
Choirs for all ages
- Vocalise – Saturday mornings
A joyful choir for younger voices up to age 14, exploring a wide mix of music styles. Vocalise encourages vocal growth, confidence, and the joy of singing together.
- Saturday Singers – Saturday mornings
A friendly, expressive vocal group for singers aged 14+ who love harmonies, teamwork, and a wide-ranging repertoire. No experience needed, just enthusiasm!