Merchant Sinfonia
If you saw the fantastic article in last week's Sunday papers, then you'll know exactly what the Merchant Sinfonia is. If you didn't, then read on!
We are the community orchestra founded by the Â鶹Éç SSO 6 months ago, to encourage anyone who plays an orchestral instrument to be part of the orchestral experience. We don't audition (but we do ask that you apply to join) and anyone, from beginners to advanced players, can come along and play under the supportive baton of Louise Martin. This term is pretty special as we're working towards our first ever concert, which will be conducted by the Â鶹Éç SSO's Chief Conductor Ilan Volkov on Sunday 7th December 2008 at City Halls. In addition, guest appearances from Elizabeth Layton (Leader of the Â鶹Éç SSO) and Jeremy Bushell (Â鶹Éç SSO Horn) as soloists, will give the Merchant Sinfonia an experience, that I think I can say, not many amateur orchestras get these days.
Each week members of the Â鶹Éç SSO take sectional rehearsals and encourage everyone to develop their skills and experience of orchestral playing. Last week, Mark O'Keeffe, Principal Trumpet, had the whole brass section breathing in perfect unison and playing exactly in time without him having to move a muscle. His exercise in ensemble awareness nearly made our Louise redundant, such was their new-found ability to listen to each other and think as a team.
And my role.....? Well, last week I got to play the triangle and the week before that, the bass drum. So this particular Learning Manager is a very happy amateur percussionist indeed!
If you'd like to book tickets for our concert on 7th Dec, call the Box Office on 0141 353 8000. If you think you might like to join the Merchant Sinfonia, give me a ring in the Â鶹Éç SSO Office, 0141 552 0909 or e-mail ssolearning@bbc.co.uk
Jennifer Martin
Triangle Player - Merchant Sinfonia and Learning Manager - Â鶹Éç SSO
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