Playing Old Music, Making New Friends: Early Music for Amateur Musicians
A resource-packed guide for adult amateurs who want to dive into early music and find their playing community
After trying out a Baroque bow, or maybe a set of gut strings, you might be eager to join your first early music ensemble, but don’t know where to begin.
I stumbled into my local Baroque orchestra by chance. At the time, I was just looking for a community group that welcomed intermediate players and I came across a YouTube video of a local early music ensemble’s concert and thought, “I could be playing with that orchestra.” I reached out to the director, learned that rehearsals started in two weeks, and promptly ordered a budget Baroque bow and a set of Pirastro Chorda strings. Joining the baroque orchestra has been an incredibly rewarding experience.
Playing in an early music group is a fulfilling way to explore HIP style and meet other enthusiasts. Amateur-friendly ensembles often include guidance on Baroque technique and interpretation, and your fellow players just might become your chamber music partners and friends. During my time playing with the orchestra, I’ve played a wide range of Baroque repertoire, discovered how different bowing styles suit different national styles, joined smaller chamber groups, and played along side both professional and amateur soloists.
While community Baroque groups aren’t as widespread as modern community orchestras, there are many amateur-friendly opportunities across North America (and beyond) if you know where to look.
How to Find Amateur and Community Baroque Ensembles
Even if your region doesn’t have a dedicated Baroque ensemble, there are still ways to find early music opportunities:
- Check with local chamber music societies or community music schools. These often host string groups or mixed ensembles open to adult learners.
- Explore community and university orchestras. Some university early music ensembles accept community members by audition.
- Join relevant associations
- Early Music America (EMA) maintains directories of ensembles, events, and workshops.
- Associated Chamber Music Players (ACMP) offers a free directory of musicians, plus listings of workshops and events worldwide.
- Search Facebook and Meetup groups. Look for groups like “Early Music [Your City]” or “Chamber Music Meetup [Your Region]” to connect locally.
U.S.-Based Amateur Baroque Ensembles
Below are a few ensembles that welcome amateur Baroque musicians:
- Berkeley Baroque Strings
- Los Angeles Baroque
- Trillium Baroque (Portland, OR)
- Bitterroot Baroque (Montana)
Tip: Don’t hesitate to reach out to directors or members even if you aren’t sure that you are ready to join. Some groups may even let you sit in on a rehearsal before joining.
Early Music Workshops
If you’re looking to immerse yourself in Baroque style and technique, or can’t find a local group, workshops are a great way to learn, travel, and connect with others.
Workshops typically include ensemble coaching, technique classes, and sometimes masterclasses with renowned early music specialists. Many focus on specific composers, regions, or styles (like the French Baroque or playing Mozart and Haydn in a period style), offering in-depth learning in a short time.
Notable Amateur-Friendly Workshops
Offers Baroque strings, classical strings, Renaissance, and recorder tracks.
A longstanding early music workshop in the U.S., with sessions for beginners to advanced players.
- Mountain Collegium (North Carolina)
Friendly and eclectic, with offerings for strings, recorders, gambas, and folk traditions.
- Atlanta Early Music Alliance Workshops
Occasional workshops and play days in the Southeast.
For viol players of all levels. Includes lectures, consorts, and social playing.
More workshops and festivals can be found via the EMA calendar and the ACMP workshop directory
Early Music Festivals
While festivals are generally performance-oriented, many include workshops, play-ins, or instrument exhibitions. Even as an audience member, attending a festival is a wonderful way to immerse yourself in early music and connect with other musicians and makers.
U.S.-Based Festivals
Combines concerts, workshops, and community events.
- Boston Early Music Festival (BEMF)]
Internationally renowned festival. It’s concert-heavy, but includes masterclasses and a large instrument exhibition.
Focused on both performance and public engagement.
- Twin Cities Early Music Festival (Minnesota)
Offers educational programming, outreach, and community concerts.
Online Communities and Platforms
Don’t overlook the thriving online community of early music enthusiasts where you can connect, ask questions, and stay inspired.
Facebook Groups
- Baroque Violin
- Regional early music or chamber music groups
Other Platforms
- Discord – Some early music groups are emerging; search via Discord or check listings on Reddit.
- YouTube & Instagram – Follow Baroque violinists and educators like Amandine Beyer, Rachel Podger, Rachell Ellen Wong, or Voices of Music.
Final Thoughts
There are more opportunities than you might expect for amateur string players interested in historically informed performance. Whether you’re exploring locally or virtually, the early music world is full of passionate people eager to share their knowledge and music.
I just wrapped up a season with my local Baroque orchestra, and it might have been our best concert yet. The chance to grow alongside a group of fellow enthusiasts has deepened my playing in ways I never expected.
💬I’d love to hear from you
Have a favorite early music ensemble, workshop, or online space to recommend? Leave a comment and share it! The more we can spotlight these opportunities, the easier it becomes for others to find community locally and online.
