5th - 6th April 2025
Festival Hall, Alderley Edge
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A full range of saxophones, played by people from all walks of life, supporting and encouraging each other … joining together through love of music and the instrument.
The Saxophone Orchestra Manchester (SOM) Weekend is led by educator and professional saxophonist, Saira Clegg. This course aims to provide amateur saxophonists with a chance to improve and develop their ensemble skills. During the weekend there will be concentrated rehearsals as an orchestra, working together on a programme for a final concert at the Festival Hall, Alderley Edge on the Sunday evening. There will also be a smaller focused ensembles available to stretch the more advanced players. The Orchestra is suitable for ages 18+. A suggested minimum standard is around grade 3 (grade 5 for Soprano players) and an ability to read music. The Orchestra is made up of Soprano, Alto, Tenor, Baritone, Bass Saxophones and Percussion. There are some more accessible parts for less experienced players (Alto, Tenor and Baritone) as well as harder parts to challenge the most advanced. We are also supported by a number of students from the Royal Northern College of Music, some of whom will lead sectional rehearsals during the weekendTotal cost = £180
(a range of light refreshments, including cake, on both days)
Repertoire:
We will play a wide range of music that has almost exclusively been arranged or composed for the weekend. An original composition has been commissioned for the weekend
All music packs will be sent out in January 2025, so that you have plenty of time to learn your parts before coming together as an ensemble.
Feel free to contact us if you have any questions that you want to ask before applying!
See FAQs at the very bottom of this page
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What some of our members have said:
““A group of saxophone players with different abilities and backgrounds came together for the first time on Saturday morning and with the expert guidance of Saira and Adam, by the following day, put on a concert worthy of an accomplished orchestra.”
— Farouk (Buxton)
“The Saxophone Orchestra Manchester gave me the opportunity to develop my basic skills to a new level. It’s more than just a group of musicians - it’s a community who support each other through music and you’ll be made very welcome at both our musical and social events.”
— Andy (Worsley)
“SOM gave me the chance to play with other saxophonists and in front of an audience. It grew my confidence considerably and I had an absolute blast!”
— Emma (Bramhall)
Am I good enough?
As long as you can read music and are willing to do your best you will be fine. We recommend a minimum standard of grade 3 (grade 5 for Soprano players)
How many of you are there?
Around 60. There will be at least 5 other people on your part (unless you are a Soprano or Bass player)
Am I too old / too young?
As long as you are able to play the saxophone and can concentrate for the rehearsal, you are fine. At our last weekend the age of the players ranged from 18 - 87.
What should I do if I can’t play everything?
Just do your best and put in as many notes as you can. Remember you are playing as part of a team and together you will be able to cover the part. We also have a small group of RNCM students who will support us during the weekend.
What do I need to bring on the day?
You will need your saxophone and all it’s relevant bits (mouthpiece, reeds etc). You should also bring a water bottle, music stand and your music. If you wish to have a cup of tea / coffee, you may wish to bring your own mug. Some members also bring cakes that are shared out during the break. Feel free to bring one too.
Will I be able to practice the music beforehand?
Attendees will all be sent the repertoire for the weekend several months in advance. This should give all players plenty of time to learn their parts before we meet. It is vital that you look at your music ahead of the weekend as the limited rehearsals that we have should be for moulding a blended, ensemble sound. You do not have time on the weekend to learn the music from fresh.
Do I have to audition / play solos?
No. There are no auditions. Some of our pieces may contain a short solo part but there is no pressure to play these if you’re not comfortable. Solos are allocated during the weekend, normally by the sections themselves.
What part will I play?
We try to get a good even spread of players and abilities on all saxophone parts. That being said, some of the music arrangements we play also have some simplified parts that cater to all abilities. When you apply you are able to request a particular part. Please note that we do need leaders on all parts including Soprano 2, Alto 2, Tenor 2 and Baritone 2!
What kind of music do you play?
We try to play a good mix of classical, popular, film and jazz. There should be something for everyone!
I have additional needs. How can you support me?
Both Saira and the assistant conductor, Adam, are fully qualified teachers and are very experienced in supporting a range of additional needs. If you feel we may need to know about any needs you have, e.g dyslexia, visual impairment etc, please mention them on your application form or speak to Saira or Adam during the weekend course. We are an inclusive ensemble and will try to ensure that anyone can join in.
Is there parking?
There is a small car park at the Festival Hall. It is not big enough for everyone, but you can always drop off your things and then park the car in local car parks or on the streets around the Hall.
Will I know anyone?
If you don’t, you will by the end of the weekend!! If you are a bit nervous then make sure you sign up for the Friday night social meal. Normally around a third of the group come and it’s a great chance to get to meet people before the weekend starts properly on the Saturday. On a serious note, we are a friendly bunch.
Do I need to be from Manchester?
No. Most of us do come from the Greater Manchester area, but we also have members who travel from all over the UK to play at the weekend. We have also had people travel from the EU as well!