Great Bowden Recital Trust Orchestra
On Sunday 24 September the Great Bowden Recital Trust Orchestra rounds off a series of Sunday afternoon short concerts in St. Peters, Church Langton. A spot of informal music making by local amateurs can be enjoyed along with refreshments. Seats can be reserved in advance (for catering purposes) by contacting r.folwell@btinternet.com or 01858 545 160.
Many may not have heard of Great Bowden Recital Trust despite it being a locally based charity. It provides “music development, appreciation and participation” for all. So, a bit of further explanation.
The Orchestra
The orchestra began as a very mixed chamber ensemble and steadily grew under the directorship of founder Kate Cartwright and then under local clarinet teacher Christine Taylor.
The current conductor is local cello teacher Anne Mee who persevered with us during lockdown Zoom rehearsals. Finally, earlier this year, she led us in a creditable performance of our first full symphony – Beethoven’s 1st.
The orchestra in particular needs more players. This will ensure a more balanced ensemble and provide a more satisfying experience for all of its members. A minimum standard of around grade 4 is suggested.
Many of our members have only begun playing an orchestral instrument as adults. Others have returned to the instruments they learned at school, having had years or even decades off for jobs and raising families.
We are a friendly group who meet on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month during school terms. Meetings are held at Meadowdale Primary School in Market Harborough, 7.45-9.15pm.
We would love to have more string players, especially violas, cellos and basses. All the woodwind and brass sections could also take at least one extra player. So if you have an instrument hiding away somewhere, why not think about giving us a try? Our age range is vast; teenagers through to retirement plus. All ages welcome
The choirs and carnival drums
The charity also runs a thriving adult and youth choirs, a successful flute choir and GBRT carnival drums. There is the GBRT junior x-factor competition. In addition, there is the possibility of grants available to help young people in school years 4-13 fund their musical journey. There are no auditions for any of the groups and the aim is to be as inclusive as possible.
Register your interest for GBRT on their website, www.gbrecitaltrust.co.uk where further information can also be found.
Karen Goss
Voluntary Drivers Urgently Needed
