After only two rehearsals, Stand Sure Orchestra & Choirs(SSOCs), led by local musician Chris J Anderson, are well established and busy preparing for the first two concerts – Mozart Requiem, on Saturday November 13, St John’s Church, Pewsey and the Christmas Concert on December 19.
Chris told Marlborough.news, “We’ve got off to a flying start and had a wonderful response and feedback. We are still welcoming members in all groups (Orchestra, Choir and Youth) – it’s never too late to join. We are looking for strings, brass and male voices in particular – but all musicians and voices are welcome.
I am thrilled to announce that thanks to the generosity of someone who has been following all the recent posts about SSOCs we can now offer a termly bursary to one person who would like to join but cannot afford to do so. Please send a private message on Facebook or email if you would like to apply.”
For many members the opportunity to make music with others after the Covid lockdowns has been much appreciated. One orchestra member commented, “I hadn’t realised how much I was missing music until today.”
Lucy Ward, flute player, said, “I’ve not played flute in a few years but was made to feel really welcome with this new orchestra. If anyone would like to get back into playing again I can highly recommend joining, and Chris Anderson the MD is lovely. Relaxed atmosphere, you can still join with any instrument as long as you’re grade 5 or above, lovely people and feeling very refreshed to get back to an old hobby that has now kept me smiling for the rest of the day.”
A parent of a member of the Youth Choir commented, “We had the most amazing first day today. Thank you for creating such a welcoming and inclusive environment that promotes culture, confidence, teamwork, expression (and above all fun) for the children in this area.”
Chris said, “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.”
Rehearsals take place every Sunday in Pewsey Scout Hut, 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).
For more information visit the SSOC Facebook page, the website here or email info@standsureorchestra.co.uk
Meadow making at Marlborough Common’s Community Orchard
