contemporary music making for amateurs
phone +44 (0)20 7403 3781- Regional ensembles
- Composition
Ensembles
- Regional ensembles
Contemporary (classical) music ensembles spread out right across the UK. Each regional ensemble has a varied programme of activities based on performing new works by established and emerging composers, as well as works created by members of the ensemble.
Many perform at key local events.
COMA London, for example, regularly
appears at the Spitalfields Festival. Ensembles are self-governing and
managed by members of the ensemble through a committee.
To join your regional ensemble email or phone the contact person listed on each regional page - or simply go along to the next rehearsal.
- National ensemble
COMA has a National Ensemble that is brought together as required to take part in events such as appearances at major festivals, including the Huddersfield Contemporary Music Festival, Bath International Festival, Oxford Contemporary Music Festival and Brighton Festival. COMA National has also performed at Cite de la Musique (Paris) and at Manchester New Music Days in 1997.
Composition
- Composer Groups
Some regional COMA ensembles also have Composer Groups associated with them. Works created by members of the Composer Group can be tried out and developed in association with the ensemble, and many have received a public performance as a result. Please follow the link to your nearest regional COMA ensemble for details.
- Call for Pieces
COMA has on-going Calls for Pieces. Those works submitted will automatically be assessed by our Music Panel for possible inclusion in our Music Library. Selected works will be promoted on this website. All COMA Calls for Pieces are open to composers of any age. - Open Score
In September 2003 COMA established a major project to train composers at all levels of experience to write music that is artistically challenging yet technically accessible to amateur musicians. Entitled Open Score this initiative is already dramatically increasing the amount of quality repertoire available to amateurs. - COMA Contemporary Music Summer School Festival
This annual event held at the end of July offers a variety of composition courses suitable for experienced composers as well as those who are new to composition. Tutors include some of the most distinguished and exciting composers in the UK. The Summer School also includes a Call for Pieces for workshops and performance by a resident professional ensemble.