At the heart of English folk
The group and tutors are really friendly and supportive. My confidence as a performer has increased dramatically since joining this awesome band! I couldn't recommend it more." - Olivia
Set up by EFDSS in 2013, the London Youth Folk Ensemble is a group of committed young musicians with a passion for playing and performing folk music.
Meeting regularly at Cecil Sharp House, the Ensemble works with professional folk musicians to create and perform folk music from Britain and beyond.
LYFE members play as a whole ensemble, exploring and arranging traditional folk repertoire; develop their performance style and presentation; work in small groups on their own material; develop skills in playing music for dancing; and learn about the history and culture of folk music.
The Ensemble 2018-19 is led by folk musician Emily Askew with Ruairi Glasheen.
9 September 2018, 2-5pm at Cecil Sharp House
A free informal open audition, and an opportunity to find out more about the Ensemble and whether it is right for you. Everyone wishing to apply for LYFE 2018/19 (whether or not you have been a member in previous years) is required to sign up to the Sampler Session.
Please note that the sign up for the Sampler Session is via a secure online Google form.
Sign up for the free Sampler Session here
Following the Sampler Session, successful musicians interested in joining the Ensemble will be able to book onto the London Youth Folk Ensemble 2018/19 season. Please note that becoming a member is an annual commitment for which there is a fee.
For more information contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. | 020 7241 8953
Autumn term: 23 Sept | 7, 21 Oct | 4, 25 Nov | 9 Dec
Spring term: 20 Jan | 3, 17 Feb | 3, 17 March
Summer term: 28 April | 19 May | 9, 23 June | 6 July
Annual fee: £240 | £180 concessions (advance booking required)
Welcoming young musicians who want to create and perform amazing folk music together! The Ensemble meets regularly from September to July, led by Emily Askew and Ruari Glasheen, and performs at exciting events across London and beyond, including LSO St Luke’s and Folk by the Oak Festival in Hatfield. Open for improver to advanced level musicians of any instrument.
London Youth Folk Ensemble is an annual commitment.
Musicians interested in joining the Ensemble are required to sign up to the free Sampler Session above.
Do you know about our Get Your Folk On! holiday courses for 12–19 year olds?
Find out more