Thames Vale Youth Orchestra (TVYO)

TVYO is a well-established youth orchestra for talented young musicians. It is based in Abingdon and integrates pupils from many schools in the Oxfordshire and Berkshire areas, including those who are homeschooled. Rehearsals take place at Larkmead School, Abingdon on Mondays from 6.15 pm to 8.15 pm during term time from September until May. Concerts take place twice a year. Venues in the recent past include, The Amey Theatre, Radley Silk Hall, St Helen’s Church, St Andrew’s Church and the Sheldonian Theatre. As part of the TVYO experience, sectional rehearsals are held regularly with specialist tutors. To become part of this great orchestra you need to play to Grade 6 standard or above and undertake a short audition.

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Thames Vale Intermediate Orchestra (TVIO)

TVIO is an exciting new venture which we hope will give younger musicians a chance to experience orchestral playing and hopefully to graduate to the TVYO eventually.  You can download a promotional flyer here. Rehearsals for TVIO take place at Larkmead School, Abingdon on Mondays from 6.15 pm to 7.45 pm.  No auditions are necessary, just an enthusiasm for music and love of playing your instrument with others.  TVIO does not usually feature sectional rehearsals but there is plenty of advice available, along with opportunities to listen to the TVYO rehearsing in the other rooms. Applications are invited from young musicians aged from around 8 - 15 years who are currently playing at Grades 3 to 5+ standard. You are welcome to contact the Admissions Secretary, even if your child has yet to reach the minimum grade requirements, as we may be able to signpost you to an alternative beginner orchestra, or to an instrumental teacher who can help them to start their musical journey.​

 

Safeguarding

The Thames Vale Youth Orchestra Trust is committed to providing a safe environment in which its players can rehearse, perform and socialise confidently.  As an organisation we are also committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all the young people for whom we provide a service.  Details of our safeguarding policy can be downloaded here. It is also available, along with other relevant policies, in the 'Management and governance' section of this website.

We are always delighted to welcome new members from the local area - joining a youth orchestra is a great way to broaden your musical knowledge, improve your performance skills, and make new friends. If you are interested in becoming a member of either TVYO or TVIO, please read the more detailed information on the ‘Join us’ pages, complete the application form and return it to our Admissions Secretary.