Our First Collective offers a great first introduction and exposure to many musical genres including Jazz, Folk and Pop, and works on ensemble playing and general musicianship skills. The group performs once per term, and has also released it’s first studio EP! It is tailored for young people aged 11 – 16 who are Grades 1 – 5 on their instrument (including vocalists).
Our group leaders, NYJO Emerging Professional musicians Alex Wardill, Lydia Cochrane, and Tara Wilson, each bring their own diverse interests and experiences to the group.
Throughout the year, the group works on different skills such as learning to play by ear, improvisation, rhythm, ensemble playing. There are some occasions and some instruments for which reading sheet music is sometimes encouraged but this is definitely not a prerequisite for joining. Alex, Lydia and Tara’s diverse skillset allows the group to accommodate different styles of learning and adjusting of musical material to the appropriate level to ensure that everyone feels involved, and everyone is able to progress.
It has been a joy to see the group grow more confident over the last year, and to see them grow closer as friends as well as a band.
Previously, First Collective has been made up of Saxophones, Trumpets, Trombones, Flutes, Singers, Double Basses, Drums and Piano players. We are open to hearing from any and all instruments who would like to take part.
Rehearsals take place every Saturday during term time from 12:00-13:30.
Have a listen to First Collective’s latest EP release, recorded in March 2026!
If you are interested in joining our NYJO Under 18s programme, please get in touch today by emailing [email protected].
