Since 2019, we’ve held an annual Family Music Day. Its aim is to bring together players of all ages and abilities to learn and perform a new piece in a day. Since the first event, word has spread and more people have joined in – more than 160 players took part in 2025!

There’s a different theme every year (with optional fancy dress), and the music is arranged in more than 50 parts to suit any level and any instrument, from beginners to Grade 6 and above. The day is split into sectional rehearsals led by OOE players, with additional volunteers on hand to provide support for less confident players.

For many of the youngest players, Family Music Day is their first experience of playing in a group. And for musicians who’ve had classical training it’s a great opportunity to play with a rock rhythm section.

If you’d like to join us for our next Family Music Day, get in touch through our contact form. To get a flavour of what it’s like, watch our video of 2025’s ‘Fighting Crime’ day.