West Lothian Council Area Bands & Ensembles Programme

Your child is eligible to join one of the many Area Ensembles that are part of West Lothian Council's Instrumental Music Service Programme.

The Area Ensemble programme will give your child the opportunity to meet and experience playing with other young musicians from all over West Lothian.  As they progress, they will have opportunities to perform a broad range of music, often with professional musicians, at prestigious venues both locally and around the world.  Area Ensembles are open to any young person who lives in West Lothian and plays an instrument to the required standard for the ensemble.

The ensembles rehearse on a weekly basis during Term 1 and Term 2.  Please contact IMS@westlothian.gov.uk (opens new window) for the Area Bands & Ensembles application form link.

Area Ensemble Rehearsal Dates 2025-26 (PDF, 34 KB)(opens new window)

Rehearsals

• West Lothian Schools Big Band  -  (selected weekend rehearsals)
• West Lothian Schools Brass Band  -  Tuesdays, 6-8pm at St Margaret's Academy
• West Lothian Schools Pipe Band  -  Thursdays, 4-6pm & Friday 1-4pm at Deans Community High School
• West Lothian Schools String Ensemble  -  (selected Sunday rehearsals TBA)
• West Lothian Schools Wind Ensemble  -  Wednesdays, 6-8pm at St Margaret's Academy
• West Lothian Schools Concert Band - Wednesdays, 6-8pm at St Margaret's Academy

The young musicians in these ensembles have the opportunity to perform to the highest musical standards, at different events and venues throughout the year

Please ask your child to talk with their instrumental instructor who will advise them on the most appropriate group.