Picking up an instrument again after years without playing, or starting from scratch is hard work, but also great fun. Some people are happy to play on their own, but others want to make music with others.

All Blown Out emerged from a one-off morning for instrumentalists in January 2016. At the moment it's a combination of flutes, clarinets and saxophones, but anyone who would like to join in would be welcome.

Several of All Blown Out's members had never played in a group before, while some are experienced players who enjoy playing in a mixed ability group.

The main focus is on developing the skills involved in playing with others – coping with keeping a part that's different from everyone else's, playing together, listening, balancing and blending. Each person's part is written for them, in the hopes that no one is either over-faced or bored. We play in all sorts of different styles.

Occasional performances provide a goal and a chance to share what we've been doing with friends and families.

WHEN:
All Blown Out meets on the first and third Wednesday evenings of the month, from 7 to 9pm at one of the member's houses. There is no charge.