A new community orchestra has been set up and members want more people to get involved, even if you haven’t played for decades.
The Spalding Encore Orchestra is the latest community idea by resident Zeph Churchill.
Its aim is to get people back playing an instrument they haven’t used in a while, and to join in a community project.
Zeph herself plays the French horn, but hadn’t done so at all for more than 30 years.
After putting out messages on social media she managed to speak to others in a similar situation.
It had been decades since most of them played, one violinist having picked up her instrument for the first time in half a century. And now an orchestra has been formed and members set themselves a goal of practicing simple songs together to play at a concert along with the Spalding Community Choir that Zeph is also involved in.
“I’m sure Spalding must have had an orchestra at some point in the past, but this is the only one as far as we know of,” said Zeph.
“I feel there’s so much value in community music making.
“For instrumentalists there’s nothing between Peterborough and here.
“We’d like to put Spalding back on the map in terms of an orchestra.
“We’re all a bit rusty, but that means we’re all in a similar position and supporting each other.
“If anyone of any age has an instrument they’re welcome to come down. It doesn’t matter how long ago it was.
“Even if they have an instrument but don’t want to play, it would be great if they could lend us it so someone else could use it.”
The orchestra is particularly looking for any bassoon, oboe, double bass and/or viola players.
They rehearse at 7.30pm on Tuesday nights at the Broad Street Methodist Church.
Jo Wheatley is among those that have joined up despite not having played her cello for over 30 years.
“It’s been a bit of a challenge, but absolutely brilliant fun,” Jo said. “There’s a fantastic atmosphere and everyone helps each other out.”
If you’d like to join in you can email [email protected] or ring Zeph on 07817 828181
Sessions are £5. If you can, you’re encouraged to bring your own instrument and music stand.
