Worcester Classical Guitar Society

WORCESTER CLASSICAL GUITAR SOCIETY (WCGS)

The Society's aims are to promote the classical guitar in our region, through ensemble playing in our Guitar Orchestra, development of skills in the Youth Guitar Orchestra and arranging professional concerts


GUITAR ORCHESTRA

Performing in the orchestra certainly helps to develop a person's musical skills and sight reading ability. It is a different discipline from solo playing, it gives the opportunity to perform at public concerts as part of an ensemble - how many of we amateur guitarists would have the opportunity to do this as a solo performer? It gives the opportunity of meeting like minded people and gives a great deal of encouragement to continue developing as a guitarist and musician.

Most members of the orchestra currently play standard classical guitars. However we have now added a contrabass and a couple of requintos to add a little more colour to the sound of the orchestra.

Normally we play music arranged in four parts, with three or four guitars playing each part. This gives a good solid sound and the parts are of varying levels of difficulty, giving an opportunity for all skill (and confidence) levels to take part.

SOLOS AND ENSEMBLES

Our monthly rehearsals focus on the pieces we intend to play at our annual concert, usually in November. However, solo and smaller ensembles are also encouraged. We have a long standing quartet - the Worcester Guitar Quartet - that plays at all of our concerts. Duos have also been formed and featured in those concerts.

Our "own" concerts invariably include solo performances from one or more of our members, giving more freedom of expression to those who would like to showcase their own talent, or simply share the music they love to play.

Our rehearsals frequently involve a theme, where individuals are encouraged to perform solo or ensemble works as they choose. We have even chosen just one piece of music and been treated to varying performances and interpretations.

PROFESSIONAL CONCERTS

From time to time we organise concerts from professional guitarists. We intend to continue to do this, please refer to this site occasionally to look for details of forthcoming events - or join our mailing list to get advance notice.

MEMBERSHIP

The requirements for membership are simply a nylon strung guitar, a footstool and music stand. Members do need to be able to read music. Classical guitarists are not renowned for their sight reading ability and ample time between rehearsals is given to practise and develop each piece.

New members are always welcome, come along and join in, or just listen, as you feel comfortable. Our Secretary Ken Murray can provide any further information that you need.

 Meetings Schedule below

Meetings for 2025

Revised Meetings & Rehearsals

All meetings are held in the Church Hall (Magdalen Hall) of St George’s Church, St George’s Square, Barbourne, Worcester WR1 1HX.
Meetings start at 6:30 pm on a Sunday evening and go on to 8:30/9:00 pm.  Normally we have a break for tea and biscuits halfway through.   
We are currently developing the music that will feature in our 2025 Concerts.  Two this year, one Saturday afternoon concert in St. George’s Hall and one Friday evening concert in Salwarpe Village Hall. During rehearsals we always make time for some solo and/or ensemble playing.  Good practice for playing in public.