The orchestra's Leader is Sarah Noble, (left) with Vivienne Heller as Deputy Leader. It has a clear identity as a chamber orchestra, with limited wind and brass forces. Although we do not normally tackle works requiring large brass and wind sections, this does not restrict our repertoire solely to the classical and early romantic eras of Mozart, Haydn and their contemporaries. We have perfomed confidently Beethoven, Brahms, Schumann and Schubert symphonies in recent years. We aim, also, to provide opportunities for promising young professional soloists to perform with the orchestra such pieces as Pierne's harp concerto, 20th century works such as Malcolm Arnold's Trumpet concerto, Richard Strauss' No.1 horn concerto and Ravels "Tizgane". In March 2009, we took part in the Haydnthon, performing 4 symphonies in Turner Simms Hall, Southampton, as our contribution to the BBC Children in Need charity appeal.During the winter of 2006/2007, we gave two much acclaimed performances of John Rutter's splendid Magnificat with Larkhill Choral Society. This has a technically brilliant, challenging, and very modern full orchestral accompaniment, and a soprano solo. We intend to perform major choral works again, as opportunities occur.
Gregg continued to develop the orchestra's skills with this type of steady innovation, and build a solid base of repertoire that can be recalled and repeated as occasion demands. After a renowned performance in January 2008 that included German's triumphant Welsh Rhapsody, and Brahms' 2nd Symphony, Gregg married the orchestra's Leader, Yvette Chalkley, announced his resignatation, and has carried her off back to his native Wales. A very happy end to his highly succesful three year appointment. Gregg was succeeded by Craig Lawton, who studied under Robin Browning, and who has made a great success of his first year's programmes.
Rev.Date: 29/03/09