The group enjoys playing work covering all genres of music, and whatever your standard of instrument playing you are most welcome to join us.
| Leaders | Sheila Email83a; Leon Email83b |
| Day & Time | Friday Weekly 13.15 to 15.45 |
| Dates | Sep 5, 12, 19, 26: Oct 3, 10, 17, 24, 31: Nov 7, 14, 21, 28: Dec 5, 12: Jan 9, 23, 30: Feb 6, 13, 20, 27: Mar 6, 13, 20, 27: Apr 10, 17, 24: May 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: Jun 5, 12, 19, 26 |
| Venue | QE Park Centre Main Hall |
| Status | Active, open to new members |
U3A Ensemble – Spring 2026
A word from our group leader Sheila
I have been a member of the Ensemble Group for over 20 years, firstly as a player and now as conductor. I do really enjoy sorting out the pieces we play, which are from all musical genres. Because we have a somewhat odd combination of instruments taking part, players don't necessarily always play the same part for a particular piece, which is good experience and variety. We are a very friendly, good humoured group, who appreciate that playing music together is good brain exercise and an enjoyable experience.
Recent gigs
Guildford u3a instrumental ensemble, to give us our full name, consists of a friendly group of around 14 people playing a variety of instruments - wind, string and brass. In the past year we have performed two concerts for the residents of Worplesdon view care home. The programme for the concerts has an eclectic mix drawing from the classical, folk and popular music repertoires, ensuring something for all musical tastes of the 60 plus residents. The care home makes us very welcome treat us to a mouthwatering array of cakes and sandwiches, with the residents and staff making very encouraging comments. We were invited back for another concert in February 2026, so we must be appreciated! Practicing in our weekly sessions gives us a focus and real purpose for sharing the music we make and preparing for a concert and has considerably expanded our repertoire. Sheila Kuban our dedicated musical director and conductor keeps us working hard to ensure that we meet her high standards and produce an enjoyable experience for audience and players. Graham (flute) on left
Comments from newer members
I really enjoy playing in the ensemble group. Everyone is friendly and welcoming, even though I don't manage to attend every time. At first, I was so rusty I hardly played anything at all but now I join in and as the music is written in so many parts for all the instruments, I can always find a part I can play. Recently we have played to small audiences in informal settings, which is enjoyable and rewarding. Jan
I’m so pleased I discovered the U3A ensemble. My flute had been hiding at the back of a wardrobe gathering dust for many years and joining the group gave me the impetus needed to start playing again. The group is a relaxed, supportive environment in which to make music and have fun. Amanda (Flute)
I joined the Ensemble in September 2023 to play violin, which I hadn't played for years. The group is very friendly, encouraging and was very tolerant of my poor playing, which has since improved with the practice of playing with the group – much more fun than playing on one’s own. Sometimes we perform small concerts in care homes and elsewhere. Peter (Violin)
U3a Ensemble is a great opportunity to play music with like-minded musicians. Our group leader works hard to find a wide range of music for us to play, which is a lot of fun.
I was new to playing saxophone with others at the point of joining almost 2 years ago and the relaxed and friendly approach has made the whole experience a real pleasure. If you’re looking to play music with others, practise your own musical skills and simply enjoy a relaxed and practical musical experience, then this is the group for you! Veronica