Talented young musicians take to centre stage

YOUNG musicians from across the county will be taking centre stage – in spite of Government cut backs which could threaten the group’s future.
Soloist Kieran CarterSoloist Kieran Carter
Soloist Kieran Carter

Talented performers from the West Sussex County Youth Orchestra, led by 16-year-old Florence Chapman, of East Preston, will be hosting its next recital at the Worthing Assembly Hall, on Saturday (April 13).

The cash raised from ticket sales will be used to support the organisation, made up of musicians aged nine to 19, to purchase new instruments.

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It follows in the wake of wide-spread budget cut backs to arts education.

The concert, entitled Saturday Night at the Movies, will see a range of well known big screen numbers – all picked by the young people – performed during the show.

Expect dramatic tunes from the likes of Ridley Scott’s Roman epic, Gladiator, to more upbeat renditions from 1970’s smash hit Grease.

There will also be a range of solo from the band’s top young musicians.

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Kieran Carter, 18, of Horsham, will be performing Camille Saint-Saëns’ First Cello Concerto and principal oboist, Jonathan Packham, also 18, will play Gabriel’s Oboe, from the film The Mission.

David Bennet, musical director of the orchestra said: “Many people have asked why we chose to dedicate the concert to film music and it’s simply because I wanted to give the orchestra an opportunity to decide on the entire repertoire.

“The group are a creative bunch and have lots of ideas so, on this occasion, I left it to them to choose. I think they have created a concert that appeals to everyone.”

Orchestra leader Florence, said: “We perform concerts every term. Sometimes the repertoire is decided for us, although we often get asked for our own input. On this occasion David wanted us to shape the running order, which we have. We are very excited about sharing both our passion for music and culture through our love of films.”

The display starts at 7pm. Adult tickets are £7 and concessions £3.

Both are available at 01903 206206.

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