Open Rehearsal 2009

Local youngsters urged to tune up, turn up and try out

Fresh from their end of year Gala concert performed to an audience of more than 300 people, the Colne Valley Youth Orchestra is inviting young musicians from across Essex and Suffolk to come along and try out at a special Open Rehearsal for current and prospective new members.

The Orchestra is inviting all young musicians to come along on Sunday September 20 to the Sixth Form College Colchester to try out with the orchestra. For players of Grade 5 standard and above, the Main orchestra will be rehearsing from 10am-4pm with a pizza lunch provided. For younger and less experienced players Grade 2-5, the Training orchestra will rehearse between 2-4pm. No one is expected to audition, simply turn up and see if they enjoy it.

Both orchestras perform a range of concerts throughout the year and older members get to go on a residential weekend, on a tour abroad and perform at this year's Oyster Feast among other concerts. Members come from across Essex and Suffolk for monthly rehearsals.

Musical Director Nigel Hildreth, who set up the orchestra nearly 30 years ago said: "The orchestra has grown in size and reputation over the years but we always need fresh young talent to come and join us as older members move off to university. Our orchestra is open to all - there are no auditions - and our aim is to make music while having fun."

Nigel has also been able to set up a special fund to help young musicians in the area who might not be able to afford to join the orchestra or attend residential weekends or tours. He said: "We don't want anyone to think they can't afford to be part of the orchestra because we do have money available to help musicians from less well-off backgrounds." Anyone who would like to talk to Nigel about the support on offer can speak to him in confidence on 01206 500733.

17 year-old Alice Brighty who has been in the orchestra since the age of 7 and is now its co-leader, added: "Anyone out there who plays an instrument should join an orchestra - it's such fun and you make so many good friends. Why play your violin or flute in your bedroom on your own when you can play with 40 or 50 other musicians, make a great sound, improve your playing and have great fun at the same time."

Anyone who is interested in joining the orchestra can turn up to the Open Rehearsal on September 20 or check out the website at www.cvyo.net for more information.