Since it was founded in 2007, Monmouth Concert Orchestra has gone from strength to strength. An amateur orchestra based in Monmouth, it comprises around 50 players from across Monmouthshire, Powys, Herefordshire and Gloucestershire.
Led by its inspirational musical director, David J Davies, its original aim was to bring together adults (aged 18-80+!) some of whom may not have played their instrument for some years, but who wish to dust it off and rekindle the pleasure, perhaps last experienced at school, of playing in an orchestra. The orchestra now plays to packed town halls, churches, festivals and even to Christmas shoppers in the high street.
Aiming to play the sort of music that audiences want to hear, its repertoire tends towards show tunes, marches, dances and popular classics. By popular demand, concerts also include a much loved audience sing-along, usually to a medley of music from the likes of ‘The Sound of Music’, or ‘West Side Story’, together with informative and amusing commentary from its musical director.
The orchestra is always interested in welcoming new players, but particularly violin, viola, cello, double bass, French horn and tuba players. Rehearsals take place every other Friday evening during term time at Monmouth Comprehensive School. Rehearsals are fun and relaxed with a friendly tea break, and sometimes even a trip to the pub afterwards!
Forthcoming appearances:
- 2014 Autumn concert: Llangynidr Village Hall, Sunday 23 November
- 2014 Christmas carols: Agincourt Square, Monmouth, Saturday 6 December
- 2015 Spring concert: Abergavenny Borough Theatre, Saturday 11 April.
For tickets, or to enquire about joining the orchestra, please contact christine.g.j.tucker@btinternet.com. Alternatively, see the orchestra’s website at www.moncomm.co.uk, or follow it on Facebook or Twitter (@monmouthorch)
