An ambitious new musical project to create an orchestra, an adult choir and a youth choir in North East Wiltshire is being launched on September 5. Stand Sure Orchestra & Choirs(SSOCs) are being led by local musician Chris J Anderson and will rehearse every Sunday in Pewsey.
Chris, who has a wealth of experience in teaching, as a musical director, arranger and as a performer in many different groups and orchestras, told Marlborough.news, “Finally, after nearly 30 years I’m hoping to fulfil my dream of running my own orchestra and choirs. I’m super excited and enthusiastic. I’ve been planning and preparing since February and now it’s happening! We have already booked venues for our first year of concerts and know what we’re doing for at least the first two years!
Whatever you play, we can find a space for you! There is no audition requirement to join – but if you want to be considered for a solo you will need to audition. There is no age restriction on joining the orchestra, nor is there an age limit. All we ask is that you’re at least a grade 5 or 6 standard (or equivalent) on your instrument.
Singers need to be between 8 & 18 years old to join our youth choir, but anyone over the age of 16 can join the adult choir. Again, there is no audition requirement to join but you will need to audition if you want to be considered for a solo. The music we sing won’t just be confined to pop. You will experience every genre and style and what it’s like to sing in a group.”
The name Stand Sure was chosen as it is the motto of the Scottish Anderson clan from which Chris can claim ancestry.
Stand Sure is looking for musicians who play the following : Flute – Piccolo – Oboe – Clarinet – Saxophone – Bassoon – French Horn – Trumpet – Trombone – Tuba – Drums – Percussion – Guitar – Bass – Violin – Viola – Cello – Double Bass – Piano/Keyboards. However, this list is not exhaustive.
“I do not want to turn anyone away. If necessary, I will transcribe the music to ensure a balance of tones. It’s all about everyone coming along, enjoying the process and sharing their enthusiasm for making music together. I’m hoping that my encompassing and encouraging attitude will bring rewards,” commented Chris.
Local musician and Pewsey Parish Clerk, Ali Kent, has been appointed orchestra manager. “I’ve been aware of Chris’s dream to start his own ensembles for some time, especially during lockdown periods when the only things any of us musicians could do was talk and not play. Being asked to help him with his new ventures is a real honour and something that I’m really enjoying. I’ve always felt there is a lack of groups in this area of the county, particularly as it’s rural. SSOCs are going to be something new and vibrant for us all.”
All meetings will take place at Pewsey Scout Hut on Sundays starting on September 5. Orchestra – 11:00 – 13:00, Choir – 13:00 – 15:00, Youth Choir – 15:00 – 17:00
Membership is £60 per term payable at the first session. This covers all costs including music and venue hire. Typically, a term is 12 weeks plus a break at half term. That works out as £5 per session (£2.50 per hour). The first concert will be on November 13 at St John’s Church, Pewsey and will feature Mozart’s Requiem. The Christmas concert will be on Dec 19 in Pewsey’s Bouverie Hall.
For more information and to register your interest please email info@standsureorchestra.co.uk or visit Facebook @standsureorchestra
Pewsey & The Vale achieve Walkers are Welcome accreditation
