How the Society Works
KDCMS’ object, as declared in its constitution, is to encourage the practice and performance of chamber music by its members, whether at home or at concerts. It is a testament to the success of the society that many of those who have joined KDCMS have remained members for many years, some for over 50 years. On joining, you will receive a directory which is updated annually and which lists the members, their contact details, and the instruments they play. The directory also includes the calendar of KDCMS events.
Our monthly concerts provide a regular opportunity for members to offer pieces to perform. They are usually held on the third Monday of each month at 8.00 p.m. at the New Malden Methodist church, but occasionally elsewhere in the Kingston area. Whilst the concerts are private, guests are welcome to attend at the invitation of a member for a fee of £3. These concerts regularly include infrequently-played pieces, alongside the more familiar. A recent concert, for example, included pieces for 6 flutes, a Bach sonata for viola de gamba and harpsichord, pieces for irish harp and guitar, a Glazunov string quintet, and a Viviani trumpet sonata.
Our committee members take turns to organise the programme for each concert, which is then sent out in advance to all members. The concerts attract average audiences of around 70 members and guests, and take place in a friendly atmosphere.
The concerts are also occasions when members, whether performing or not, can socialise over tea or coffee, and meet other members. You will find amongst the membership a deep repository of knowledge, experience and information about music, musicians, instruments or instrumental technique.
No one is expected to perform, and there is no compulsion to do so. The concerts are only the tip of the music-making iceberg and most playing takes place in members’ homes.
Twice a year KDCMS organises musical get-togethers (known as the Spring Outing and the Summer Outing) at which up to 80 members can meet for a day at a hired venue, to play ensembles in 5 organised sessions. New members might find these occasions an ideal opportunity to meet, and play with, other members, and often to be introduced to an unfamiliar music repertoire.
The Society also organises biennial workshops under the tutelage of a recognised professional musician.
Our monthly concerts provide a regular opportunity for members to offer pieces to perform. They are usually held on the third Monday of each month at 8.00 p.m. at the New Malden Methodist church, but occasionally elsewhere in the Kingston area. Whilst the concerts are private, guests are welcome to attend at the invitation of a member for a fee of £3. These concerts regularly include infrequently-played pieces, alongside the more familiar. A recent concert, for example, included pieces for 6 flutes, a Bach sonata for viola de gamba and harpsichord, pieces for irish harp and guitar, a Glazunov string quintet, and a Viviani trumpet sonata.
Our committee members take turns to organise the programme for each concert, which is then sent out in advance to all members. The concerts attract average audiences of around 70 members and guests, and take place in a friendly atmosphere.
The concerts are also occasions when members, whether performing or not, can socialise over tea or coffee, and meet other members. You will find amongst the membership a deep repository of knowledge, experience and information about music, musicians, instruments or instrumental technique.
No one is expected to perform, and there is no compulsion to do so. The concerts are only the tip of the music-making iceberg and most playing takes place in members’ homes.
Twice a year KDCMS organises musical get-togethers (known as the Spring Outing and the Summer Outing) at which up to 80 members can meet for a day at a hired venue, to play ensembles in 5 organised sessions. New members might find these occasions an ideal opportunity to meet, and play with, other members, and often to be introduced to an unfamiliar music repertoire.
The Society also organises biennial workshops under the tutelage of a recognised professional musician.
KDCMS Summer Outing
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Coaching a string quartet at a KDCMS workshop
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