We have just started rehearsing the programme for our Gala Concert in the Villa Marina on Sunday 22nd November at 2.30pm, which will be conducted by Nigel Harrison.

The first piece in the concert will be Smetana’s tone poem Vltava, which tells the story of the journey of the river Vltava in the Czech Republic for 270 miles from its beginnings as a trickling stream to its outflow into the river Elbe just north of Prague. It’s a wonderfully evocative piece.

Although it isn’t called a concerto, Max Bruch’s Scottish Fantasy for violin and orchestra is a concerto in all but name. Bruch makes use of various Scottish folk tunes in the piece. It is full of lovely melodies, but is a virtuoso show-piece for the violin. Our soloist Juliet Tranter will amaze us with her virtuosity in the cascading arpeggio passages and double stopped chords. 

The chosen symphony is Symphony no.4 by Brahms - exciting and challenging, this will test the stamina of our players! It features lovely melodies and lots of drama. Hopefully this should prove popular with orchestra and audience alike. To help us get to know the piece Stephen Threlfall will be coming over in September for a workshop weekend. Our fears should melt away!

Tickets will go on sale on 5th October. Make sure you put the date in your diaries now, so you don’t miss it! Look out for updates on our website and Facebook page.