March Concert

Come to our next concert on Saturday 15 March at St Leonards Church, Shoreditch.Download flyer

ELLSO (the East London Late Starters' Orchestra) is a teaching string orchestra for all abilities, where we play in a friendly and supportive atmosphere.

The orchestra was founded by people who couldn't play a stringed instrument, but who wanted to learn - and our philosophy is simply 'come along and have a go'.

ELLSO was formed in 1982, and since then several hundred people have passed through our ranks.

The core element of ELLSO is our Saturday morning session, where we have classes in instrumental technique and general musicianship, and the chance for everyone to play together in full string orchestra.

We welcome players of all abilities. You may have learned a stringed instrument as a child, or you may be taking lessons and would like to play with others - or you may be an absolute beginner! The only qualifications you need to join us are enthusiasm and the willingness to have a go - many of us started as absolute beginners and we know what it feels like to be a Late Starter.

Whatever your playing ability, why not give us a try? You don't even have to own an instrument! Contact our membership secretary (see Contact details) to arrange a visit.

You don't have to commit to coming for a full term. You can pay £10 for a single trial Saturday morning session. If you like it, come back for more! See Cost for a full breakdown of what it will cost you to join ELLSO.

Read more about us in this article from The Saturday Times Magazine.

If you're interested, see Contact details for details of how to get in touch with us.

VIOLA PLAYERS

We are particularly short of viola players at all levels. If you play the viola, or would like to learn this fine instrument, ELLSO would be very glad to hear from you.

BEGINNERS

We prefer to admit complete beginners only at the start of our year in September, so that they can take full advantage of the tuition we provide. More experienced players are welcome to join at any time.