Ilkley Rock and Pop Ensemble

I am thrilled to introduce The Ilkley Rock and Pop Ensemble, a new weekly community music group dedicated to bringing together local amateur rock and pop musicians.

Looking for.... Guitarists (acoustic or electric), Ukulele players, Keyboard players. Must provide own instruments. No music reading skills required. Singing encouraged but by no means compulsory!

What is The Ilkley Rock and Pop Ensemble?

For over 20 years I have taught music in a number of settings, be it one-to-one, small and large groups, have taught and mentored local ensembles and even led my own pop/rock band of original material around the world. My work recently has almost exclusively involved one-to-one tuition from my home, teaching guitar, keyboard, ukulele, bass plus music theory and music production.

Students are currently travelling from Ben Rhydding, Ilkley, Addingham, Menston, Burley in Wharfedale, Otley, Keighley, Skipton, Guiseley, Bolton Abbey, Bradford, Leeds City Centre plus in various countries online.

In the last 6 years of being based in Ilkley, I've lost count of the number of times pupils have asked me about opportunities to play with other musicians. My philosophy has always been that the best way to improve and grow as a player is to play with other people.

So I've finally got round to creating my latest project - The Ilkley Rock and Pop Ensemble - a community rock and pop band designed to give everyone an opportunity to play in a group setting.

When, Where and How?

• When: Fridays, 7pm for ten weeks starting 20th September
• Where: All Saints Church, Church Street, Ilkley, LS29 9DS

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• Price: First session free for everyone! If you decide to go ahead it will then be £99 for the ten week course.

The sessions are designed to be inclusive and fun, focusing on popular rock and pop classics for all generations, and importantly the music is carefully arranged for all musical abilities. While a basic understanding of chord names and diagrams is helpful, no music reading knowhow is necessary. Expect to explore a wide range of music through the decades from the 1950s to the present day in a supportive environment.

5 Key Benefits of Joining a Weekly Music Group

1. Building Friendships and Community Engagement:

Connect with like-minded individuals, make new friends, and become more involved in the local community.

2. Skill Development:

Improve your musical skills through regular practice and learning from others, and gain experience playing in an ensemble, which improves timing and aural skills.

3. Performance Experience:

Enjoy opportunities to perform in front of an audience, boosting your confidence and stage presence.

4. Mental Well-being:

Playing music is a great way to unwind, reduce stress, and enhance your mood, leading to a sense of accomplishment and improved mental health.

5. Enjoyment and Creativity Boost:

Engage in a fun, creative activity that stimulates the mind and allows you to simply enjoy the process of making music in a relaxed environment.

The first session is a completely free drop-in session on Friday 20th September 2024, 7pm until 8.30pm. After which, if you do decide to join the group, membership is priced at £99 for the full 10-week term.

Contact Us:

• Email: b.j.siddall@gmail.com
• Phone / Text / WhatsApp: 07874053640
• Facebook: facebook.com/bensiddallmusictuition
• Instagram: @bensiddallmusic