These are an important part of the Instrumental Music Provision which is designed to enhance the musical, social, intellectual and emotional aspects of our pupils’ development.

This is achieved through a carefully constructed programme of rehearsals and residential courses which culminate in a series of concerts.

For pupils of Primary School age we offer a short intensive rehearsal weekend at Bishopbriggs Academy. This is open to any pupil who has reached a standard which would enable them to play elementary orchestral music.  On the Sunday afternoon there is a short informal concert of the music they have studied.  The orchestra can have around 100 members.

When pupils have reached Secondary School age we provide two Orchestras for those who play Stringed instruments and two Wind Bands for all Woodwind, Brass and Percussion players.  One of each type of group is designed as a training ground to which entry is open.  The other is of a much higher standard and requires an audition (ABRSM Grade 4) before a place is offered.

These groups undertake a series of Sunday rehearsals between October and March and include a intensive non-residential weekend in their schedule.  There is a concert in March, for all these groups held at the new RSNO Centre. Between 250 and 300 pupils take part in these groups.

The two senior groups produce the players required for the Secondary Schools Orchestra which is the most advanced level of all.  Entry to this is also by competitive audition.

In addition to this, the Secondary Schools Orchestra joins with the Primary Schools Choir to perform the Annual Christmas Concert in The Royal Concert Hall, Glasgow.  There are 250 members in the choir which is drawn from 32 primary schools.

In June 2025, the Senior Orchestra will be undertaking its first ever International Concert Tour to Belgium

We also offer secondary school pupils the opportunity to play in the East Dunbartonshire Schools Jazz Orchestra which meets weekly until March when they perform in public.

For more advanced Percussion players, the Percussion Ensemble meets for a residential weekend in early March which is by invitation.