As part of the BDRS North East Initiative, Durham Music are organising a double reed play day with support from the BDRS. Information from Durham Music is as follows:

Durham Music and the British Double Reed Society are delighted to host a fantastic play day for all young oboe and bassoon players. This will be a unique opportunity to find out more about these rare and lovely instruments, listen to professional players, play and learn together.

We are thrilled that we will be joined on the day by David Cowdy, (Royal Northern College of Music) as workshop leader, DMS staff and young musical mentors from Durham University.

The play day is fully subsidised for all young musicians who learn or/and play in a music group with Durham Music Service. Other musicians are also very welcome, and we ask for a donation to Durham Music Trust of £10.

We are sure all the young musicians who join us will be inspired and have a great afternoon. We can’t wait to welcome you to our lovely home at Ushaw Historic House Durham. Family and friends are welcome to listen to an informal shared performance at the end of the workshop.

Please sign up to the event below by no later than Friday 16th January 2026, 

Standard: Beginners to Grade 8+

Instruments: Oboe and Bassoon

For more information and to apply visit here: https://www.durhammusic.org.uk/event/double-reed-play-day