Sounds Folkestone Youth Strings

Part of the Sacconi Quartet's Folkestone Residency Programme

Who can join:

Sounds Folkestone Youth Strings is a string orchestra based in Folkestone, for young string players of school age living in Shepway and East Kent and learning the Violin, Viola, Cello and Double Bass! The current age range is 8-15, but of course younger and older students are welcomed. We aim to give at least 3 concerts a year and take part in local artistic opportunities when suitable. For example, in December 2023, we were invited to take part in the Folkestone’s Living Advent Calendar!

From September 2024, we will be welcoming young players learning the flute. Flautists wishing to join the orchestra must be grade 3 standard and above.

Which standard do you need to be to play in SFYS:

We welcome players of all abilities, from absolute beginners who have been learning for at least one term to more advanced players. Absolute beginners should be able to read open strings. There is no need to audition so please come along! The current range of standards goes from absolute beginner to grade 7.

What we play:

The repertoire is carefully chosen to suit all abilities and tailored to the group. The repertoire covers a broad range of pieces, from classical, well-known pieces to more popular music from the shows and films.

Becoming a member of Sounds Folkestone Youth Strings is a fun and exciting opportunity to play with other young local musicians, make new friends and learn new skills. Playing in an orchestra has so many musical and social benefits. It is the best way of putting into practice all the skills you learn with your teacher in your instrumental lessons.

Where and when we rehearse:

We meet every Tuesday during term time from 4.30pm till 5.30pm at Folkestone Baptist Church,  Hill Road Folkestone, CT19 6LY

Please arrive at 4.15pm for tuning and a 4.30pm start.

What you need to bring with you to rehearsals:

Other than your instrument, you only need to bring a drink/snacks if needed. Music and music stands are provided. Parents/guardians are welcome to stay and wait during the rehearsal.

If your child doesn’t have easy access to a stringed instrument then please get in touch, we may be able to help!

Who takes the rehearsals

Local violinist and leader of Folkestone Symphony Orchestra Floriane Peycelon leads the weekly sessions. She has over 25 years of experience working with children and is DBS checked.

If you have any questions relating to the Sounds Folkestone Youth Strings or you have a child that wishes to join the orchestra, please email either:

flopeycelon@gmail.com (Floriane Peycelon – Music Director)

or

matt@soundsfolkestone.co.uk (Matt Shipton – Project Manager)

Subscription rates for 2024-25

There is a fee for being part of the orchestra, but you can try the first session out for free!

The fee works out as £6 per rehearsal for each child to play in FYS.

The current membership is as follows:

Child membership £198 for the year, or

£66.00 per term – due in Sept, Jan & April, or

£16.50 per month – but only if paid by monthly standing order

Email Matt Shipton to discuss any payments due. If anyone wishes to use a different payment method, just get in touch with Matt to let him know what would work best for you.

Bank: Nat West, Sort Code: 60-04-27, AC No: 9289 2019, AC Name: Sacconi Development Trust

We hope you will be in a position to contribute and that the fee will not prevent your child from being part of the FYS orchestra. If you have any problem with the introduction of the fee, please email Matt and we will do our best to support you.