Making music with other people
Joining an orchestra can mean having fun, whilst also mastering a skill and building lasting friendships
Emma's testimonial
My name is Emma and I've played the flute on and off since I was a child. Well I stopped playing when I was 16 and took it up again in my early 30s, having reached grade 5 standard. I was inspired to pick it up again after watching Rossini's opera, the Barber of Seville. I basically wanted to be able to master the opera's overture, something I'm still working on. I realised I needed a bit of help to get back to a good standard so I started having flute lessons with a lovely teacher called Rachel. One of my playing goals was also to join a local orchestra, which was spurred on by the loneliness of the COVID-19 pandemic . However, I wanted to feel a bit more confident in my playing ability before I made the leap to playing with other people!
A number of lessons later (and with support from Rachel), I joined Marchwood Prelude Orchestra in December 2022. Marcwhood Prelude had been recommended to me by family friend, Jackie, who plays the saxophone in the orchestra and she has been member for a number of years. Right from the first rehearsal, everyone made me feel really welcome and I felt connected to people through playing.
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In terms of our schedule we practice towards playing a couple of concerts a year. My first concert was called "Around the world in 80 minutes" and we hopped across continents paying songs representing different countries. Our next concert will be held on Sunday 26th November, and it's strictly themed. The concerts bring everyone together, and showcase the talents of our members. Not just in terms of playing ability, but also other elements such as stage design. Angela, our secretary, does a fabulous job of the dressing the concert hall with her artwork.
Nearly a year after joining I have made new friends and I have
enjoyed playing lots of different music generes. I've even become a
committee member. All I'd say is if you're thinking about joining an
orchestra but don't think you can do it, please don't continue to be
held back. With hindsight, I could have joined Prelude sooner but I
don't regret joining.
Playing music with others is a joy.
Visit Marchwood Prelude's website