COMA Music library

Over 1,000 pieces of contemporary music playable by amateurs

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The COMA Music Library is a unique resource, housing over 1,000 pieces of contemporary music playable by amateurs. Each piece in the Music Library has been read by members of our Music Panel . The Library contains the following:

Within these broad classifications are more specific categories which will enable you to search the Music Library database for the particular type or types of music that you are wanting to find.

COMA's Music Library is based in the organisation's London office. Currently, music is only available for hire by COMA's own ensembles, but others are welcome to browse through the music that is available. Please contact us if you wish to make an appointment to come and visit our library.

What does COMA mean by 'contemporary music' ?

For COMA, 'contemporary' means music which is exploratory and artistically challenging, as well as musically strong enough to satisfy the needs of both performers and audiences.

What does COMA mean by 'amateur' ?

'Amateur', for COMA, means musicians who are interested in performing and creating new music. COMA ensembles, and, indeed, many other amateur ensembles, will consist of players/singers of a range of technical abilities and notational literacy.

Levels of ability

All the pieces in the library are graded as follows:

Difficult

Suitable for players with extensive experience of ensemble playing. The technical standard will be at least Grade VII-VIII and will require advanced skills in rhythm and intonation. These pieces may contain complex metre and tempo changes, and/or use sustained passages of extended instrumental range.

Moderate

Suitable for players with less experience of ensemble playing. Generally, these pieces will utilise a narrower pitch range, contain fewer rhythmic complexities, and demand a less advanced instrumental technique.

Easy

Suitable for musicians with a little experience of ensemble playing and limited technical ability.

Flexible

Extremely flexible: musicians may interpret according to their own abilities, e.g. graphic scores, text pieces, works involving unconventional instruments.