The Orchestra
Founded in 1953, The Canterbury Orchestra is a thriving group of enthusiastic players who regularly tackle major works from the symphonic repertoire. The orchestra meets to practice on Wednesday evenings during term time at The Old Sessions House, Christ Church University, Longport, Canterbury, CT1 1QU (opposite Barton Court school).
The Canterbury Orchestra performs 3 or 4 concerts each year.
Over the past few years, the orchestra has encouraged good young players to join and the membership currently includes a wide range of ages, from school pupils to seasoned musicians who have been playing with the orchestra for over 30 years: a productive blend of youth and experience. The young players form a mobile population, so it follows that there are occasional vacancies, particularly in the brass and string sections, and talented players are always welcome.
Spotlight
Donna Birrell joined the Orchestra late last year and has rapidly become an important contributor to its musical performance through leadership of the Second Violins. She has a long-standing involvement in music, having played the violin and piano since the age of 7. She studied for a BMus degree at Goldsmiths' College, London University and then trained as a primary school teacher. She has remained musically active through her teaching and is now involved in teacher education at Canterbury Christ Church University. As her own children became more independent Donna decided to re-engage with performing and joined the Canterbury Orchestra. She immediately realized quite how much she had missed playing and has thoroughly enjoyed not only the opportunity to play new music but also the company and friendship of her fellow musicians.
Next Concert
Saturday November 27th 2010, 7.30 pm
St Peter's Methodist Church, Canterbury CT1 2BE
Our next concert has a strong French flavour. It begins with the colourful and exciting symphonic poem by the French composer Paul Dukas inspired by Goethe's ballad of the same name, The Sorcerer's Apprentice. This is followed by Suite no.2 of orchestral music from Bizet's Carmen, which was put together after the composer's death by Ernest Guiraud and largely features the famous arias. The final piece is Saint-Saens Symphony no.3, a work written at the height of his creativity, which makes unusual use of piano and organ as part of the orchestral texture. Tickets are £8.50 for adults and only £2.50 for children of school age and students. They are available on the door, from the Secretary on 01227 751196, and online through WeGotTickets by clicking on the button below..
Interested in playing with the Canterbury Orchestra?
Call Nicky Pound, Canterbury Orchestra Manager on 01304 812755 or email us to find out whether we have vacancies.
