‘From The Top’ All-Comers Orchestra, which began in January, is already proving to be the local group to join for orchestral players, from grade three upwards, who want to make music in a fun, welcoming and creative environment.

Run by Pat Dowling and Shelley Prior, both experienced musicians and teachers, it is genuinely ‘all-comers’ with no auditions, no limit to players per section and a ‘no ceiling’ attitude to achievement! The orchestra currently has a repertoire of music by Mancini, J.S. Bach, Josh Groban Hits and Offenbach in addition to Jazz and Scottish Folk Songs.

The orchestra provides an opportunity to perform with musicians of all ages, some of whom play in other groups and some who have not played for a long time, but have taken the chance to use their skills again. Clarinettist, Kate Wright, joined in January, more than forty years after she last played regularly. She says: “I really look forward to the weekly rehearsals. We take the music seriously, but there’s a relaxed atmosphere and nobody minds mistakes. I’m so glad I joined!”

The orchestra rehearses on Thursday evenings during school term time in Farrington Gurney Memorial Hall. Rehearsals run from 7.45 p.m. to 9.15 p.m. with a ‘set-up’ time from 7.30 p.m. Our first concert is planned for Thursday, July 6th.

The first session is free and you can be assured of a warm welcome and delicious refreshment at half-time!

For details, email: perform [email protected]