The Isle of Man Wind Orchestra (IoMWO) is inviting musicians to join as it prepares to begin a new year of rehearsals.

Returning after its summer break on Thursday, September 3, the community orchestra will be back with its first rehearsal taking place from 7.30pm to 9.30pm at Marown Primary School.

They meet on Thursday evenings during term time and perform around six concerts each year, including appearances on Tynwald Day and as part of the Cathedral concert series.

The orchestra also holds an annual wind weekend, working with a leading guest conductor.

Conductor John Kinley said the group was keen to hear from musicians interested in joining.

He said: 'We are always looking for new members to boost our numbers and we hope musicians will come along and have a go at that first session.'

Players of all wind, brass and percussion instruments are welcome, with no formal musical qualifications required.

Mr Kinley said: ‘No formal qualifications are required but it’s a good idea to be grade three standard or higher in music exams.’

He said the orchestra offered a relaxed and supportive environment for musicians returning to their instruments.

IoMWO performs a wide repertoire including popular, film and television and classical music, with sheet music provided for members.

Musicians who do not currently have an instrument may also be able to borrow one while they settle into the orchestra.

Mr Kinley described the first rehearsal as a 'come and have a go event', encouraging people to attend without feeling committed to joining.

Membership is free for the first term and for those in full-time education. After the first term, membership costs £25 per term or £60 for the year for those not in education.

Anyone interested in joining, or who would like to speak to someone before attending a rehearsal, can contact Bev Quine by emailing [email protected] or through the orchestra's Facebook page.