Amateur orchestra sounds hit the right note
The orchestra is open to anyone who can read music and play a musical instrument.
THE annual British Cultural and Heritage Association (Bcha) amateur orchestra performance took place at Penzance’s Nkulisa Conference Centre on Sunday.
The 2018 concert started, as always, with an inspired rendition of the South African National Anthem. The audience was then swept away by the sounds of Strauss’ ‘Radetsky March’, Anderson’s ‘Syncopated Clock’ and Coates’ ‘Sleepy Lagoon’, among others.The event sponsored by Corobrik gives all amateur performers the chance to display their musical prowess to an audience. Wife of renowned conductor, Richard Cock led the amateur orchestra with her baton for the first time.
“This was another incredible performance by people with a passion for music. Corobrik is committed to supporting such cultural events, particularly one that gives amateur artists the opportunity to show the rest of the world a unique talent. This year showcased such a varied musical genre, from classic to contemporary, and I feel there was something that resonated with every audience member,” said Corobrik’s Commercial Director, Musa Shangase.
The BCHA 1820s amateur orchestra is open to anyone who can read music and play a musical instrument, with the keen desire to play for an audience. Once the musicians have been registered, they are sent the music which they practice in their own time, with only one rehearsal prior to the concert on the day. Playing in the orchestra for near a decade, Sue Hickman said she relished the chance to play her flute in such an exciting environment.
The event brings together anywhere between 60 and 100 people from all backgrounds and of all ages, with the youngest musician 10-year-old Ciara Butt, and the oldest 84-year-old Jennifer Sugden. This year also featured accompaniment from Bryan Clark’s Caribbean Connection Steel Drum Band, as well as The Westville Girls’ High School Marimba Band.
