Wayward Winds is a lovely ensemble aimed at beginner+ adult woodwind players (other instruments may be incorporated however) who wish to gain confidence in a supportive and friendly environment. We meet every second and fourth Monday evenings of each month and currently still run a pay as you go system. From March 2026 arrival can be from 7pm and we rehearse from 7.15pm – 8.45pm with a small time to chat (and eat cake!) afterwards (optional). Contact Keri through this website if you’d like to join us!

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Wayward Winds 2026 dates (until end of December)* – Autumn – Christmas dates.

(*can be subject to change so do check back occasionally)

Friday 4th September

Friday 18th September

Friday 2nd October

Friday 16th October

Friday 30th October – (finish at 8.30pm but have pre-loved swaps table available until 9pm)

Friday 13th November

Friday 27th November – Recording part of the session (a chance to perform a piece or two we’ve been rehearsing this term) and a chance to pick up any pre-ordered Christmas gifts (info to follow)

Friday 11th December

NO REHEARSAL 25TH DECEMBER (goes without saying :D)

*dates can be subject to change (but plenty of notice will be given if dates are to be cancelled etc) so please check this page for the most up to date rehearsal dates.

Aptly named Wayward Winds, this wind ensemble began in late January 2019 following the obvious need for a group to be established for instrumentalists in the early stages of learning (or in any stage, but perhaps for those seeking a relaxed and encouraging atmosphere in which to improve). Currently the sessions operate as a PAYG system at £8 per session.

So far, almost all of our players are adult woodwind players, and are a motley crew which often includes; flutes, soprano saxophones, alto saxes, tenor saxes, baritone sax, trumpet and bassoon!

The sessions run on alternate Friday evenings of each month (7.00-7.15pm arrival/set up) then 7.15-8.45pm playing time with a 5 minute break midway (with option of free [usually home made] cake and chat 8.45-9pm) at Hilcote Community Centre/Miner’s Welfare (544 New Street, Hilcote, Alfreton, Derbyshire, DE55 5HU), and typical sessions might consist of;

• The first half tends to have the easier pieces in, or are at a more accessible standard (typically around grade 1-2). In the second half we tend to tackle slightly harder repertoire to push ourselves whilst still being mindful of peoples limitations.
• Packs will be given at the start of each half term/term along with a list of pieces we’ll be studying that half term/term. For selected trickier pieces audio demo tracks may be available to listen to (to help prepare). Sheet music can always be accessed via Googledrive too.
• We have cake at the end of the session (optional – for those that need to head off etc that’s fine). It’s also a chance to chat briefly and share hints/tips/the perils of learning an instrument with other like-minded folks.

Already, friendships are being formed, and students are improving as they endeavour to keep going (or get back in if they get lost!). Students who find reading sheet music difficult are encouraged, and help is given (plus they can often get a moment to shine if free styling/improvising comes easier to them). It’s a wonderful group, and one I’m very proud to be on a journey with.

Reviews of Wayward Winds Ensemble from students

“I joined the Wayward Winds Ensemble to improve my confidence and to learn to play in a group. Most ensembles require at least Grade 5, but here there is no joining criteria, and together we learn in a fun environment, with no pressure should you play the odd duff note or twenty…….Keri always makes the sessions enjoyable with her infectious enthusiasm”. Tracey D

“This is the first ensemble I have come across where musicians of literally all levels are equally welcome, and Keri makes sure players of all standards from almost beginners upwards are accommodated without feeling intimidated. We have a lot of fun together and, for those with busy lives, there’s no pressure to turn up to every meeting. Keri goes to a lot of trouble to make sure that everyone gets the right balance of challenge and confidence within a friendly, supportive atmosphere. Excellent value”. Rosemary