Is there a minimum playing standard?

We don’t state a playing standard as such but you will need to be confident with your instrument and comfortable sight reading (though you can practice in advance – see below). You should also have experience of following a conductor. To get the most from the day we recommend you are at least Grade 5 standard (strings) or Grade 6 (wind and brass). However, all abilities are welcome – let us know when you apply if you are a beginner and we will advise you accordingly.

 

Is there a minimum age?

Our Playdays are intended for adults. Under 16s are permitted to attend but must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times.

​

How will I know if my Playday application is successful?

You will receive an email notification either way. We aim to get back to you promptly but please allow up to 48 hours. If you have not received a response within this time please contact us (remember to check your Spam/Junk folder). If we cannot offer you a place you may choose to be added to a waiting list. If a place becomes available you will be notified. Unless a Playday is particularly oversubscribed, string players will generally always be accepted.

 

Do I need to bring a music stand?

Yes please – music stands are not provided. String players are encouraged to share a desk where possible.

​

Can I park in the Community Centre or St Mark's Church?

We are sorry but there is no parking available in the grounds of the PHCA (Community Centre). However, on Saturdays parking is free and easy on surrounding roads such as Fitzroy Road (PHCA) or Princess Road (St Mark's Church). The nearest tube is Chalk Farm (10 min walk) or Camden Town (13 min walk). The 274 bus stops outside St Mark's Church from which both venues can be reached easily on foot.

 

Is lunch provided?

Lunch is not provided, but tea and snacks are. Bring your own packed lunch, or you can make use of the local cafes, restaurants and newsagents on nearby Regent’s Park Road. Fridges, kettles and a microwave are available for use in the small kitchens of both venues.

 

Is the music provided in advance?

Music is hired from a library, so we aren’t able to send out physical copies of the music, but you can view or print your own from the International Music Score Library Project (IMSLP) website – see below for more details.

 

Can I practise in advance?

Absolutely! We encourage this. The music we play is nearly always in the public domain and therefore can be found on the IMSLP website. See the direct links listed under each Playday page. Note as there are various editions of the music from different publishers, wind and brass musicians playing a transposing instrument (clarinet, trumpet, horn) will be advised on which version to refer to if your Playday application is successful.

 

Can I bring audience members?

You may bring guests to sit and listen to our informal playthrough held at 4pm (St Mark's Church) or 5pm (PHCA). Remember we don’t offer a formal performance as such and your guests should be made aware of this. Note audience space is limited at the Community Centre, but there is plenty of seating available in the church.

 

What if I need to cancel or am late?

Please let us know if you need to cancel and at your earliest opportunity – this particularly applies to wind and brass players so we can offer your seat to someone on the waiting list. If you cancel before 48 hours of the Playday you may be entitled to a full refund if we are successful in re-assigning your seat. If your seat cannot be reassigned no refund is due. We are sorry we are not able to offer refunds for any no-shows on the day or cancellations with less than 48 hours notice.

 

If you are running late please wait for a suitable break in the rehearsal before you take your place, to avoid distracting other players.

​

Can I just turn up on the day?

It is imperative you book in for the Playday in advance. This is to ensure that there is space for you, that there is an appropriate balance of instruments, and that there is enough music for everyone.

​

For further information please see our full Terms & Conditions.