Enjoy the Chrimbo break – see you all on Tuesday 6th January 2026!

Miles

Clare has asked me to share the following ‘reflection’ on the concert – thank you Clare, it’s a kind and thoughtful piece.

Dear All

Sorry it has taken a few days to write to you since the concert, but it has actually given me more time to reflect on just how good it was!  When I think that we played to a sell out audience, with a really popular and enjoyable programme, to a very high standard, I am just so proud to be a member of the orchestra.  For me, it was just brilliant!  Thank you.

Every section of the orchestra was given a chance to shine in the Pictures at an Exhibition.  The different nuances of sound and effect, the portrayal of different characters in the music, and real attention to detail, meant that for me, the orchestra played this to a very high standard.  The final climax at the Great Gate of Kiev was absolutely magnificent.  I cannot mention everyone, but I would like to mention just a few individual moments.  The fiendishly difficult solos from Myles and Tony, the quirky bassoon solos from Lisa, Trevor’s euphonium solo, some excellent double bass playing throughout, Sarah’s sax solo in the Old Castle, the brass ensemble in the Catacombs, the depth and comedy provided by Laura on the bass clarinet, the cellos with a rich and confident sound, providing real depth, the precision and excitement of the percussion.  Fantastic!  Thank you to all the ‘extras’ who played in this performance – you make such a difference and we are so grateful to you and your expertise and support of the orchestra.

The Vaughn Williams was delightful, with lovely wind solos.  Special mention here to Sophie and Caroline, and of course the strings.  These were lovely, exciting pieces for everyone to enjoy, with great folk tunes.

We are lucky to have a really strong string section, with some excellent players.  This really showed in the Brahms Hungarian Dances, which were exciting and characterful, with a rich string sound.  The Dvorak, especially number 2, was also the strings’ chance to shine.  These were performances to be proud of.

All this wouldn’t be possible without Arturo.  Thank you so much for the tremendous hard work, time, and effort you give to the orchestra.  The high standard of the orchestra is a reflection of this.  You are always fantastic to work with.  The orchestra is very lucky to have you as our conductor.  Thank you so much.

Thank you to Miles and Viv.  You do so much for the orchestra, most of which is behind the scenes, and as a result, the orchestra is going from strength to strength.  You are great to work with, and make a fantastic contribution to the orchestra’s management and direction.  Thank you so very, very much.

Thank you to Trevor and Katie, whose publicity efforts resulted in a sell out concert! And to Josh for the poster and programme design, and the hosting of the orchestra website.

Thank you to Merrill who works tirelessly to source and organise the orchestra’s music, obtaining the best price.  This is a time consuming job, thank you so much!

Thank you to other members of the committee, Caroline for looking after the orchestral finances, and to Helen and Judith for their individual roles.  Apologies if I have missed anyone.

Thank you also to those who do the refreshments at the concert. You are very much appreciated.

I would like to say well done and thank you to everyone involved in the Concert. It was a fantastic evening.  I hope that you all have a lovely Christmas, and I very much look forward to seeing you in the New Year!

With my very best wishes

Clare