MADAM,

I wonder whether your readers were aware of the existence of the Monmouth Concert Orchestra? We are a friendly group who practice fortnightly in Monmouth, on Friday evenings.

The orchestra was founded in 2007 in order to provide an outlet for players of all abilities who otherwise had nowhere to play. Many of the founding members are parents of children who play or played in the north Monmouthshire youth orchestras and wind bands run by Gwent Music Support Service. While the parents waited outside the rehearsal studio to pick up their children, conversations frequently turned to instruments that they used to play and how nice it would be to play again. Following some discussions with Gwent Music Support Service, who provided a musical director and some instruments, the orchestra was formed in the spring of 2007.

The orchestra is now fully established with around 50 players ranging in ability from grade 5 to 8 plus and aged between 18 and 80. We are always keen to welcome new members so if you think it might be for you, please do get in touch!

Our next concert is at St Nicholas Church in Trellech during the afternoon of Saturday 26th November.

We’ll be playing Christmas music, including carols and audience singalongs! Refreshments will be served. The atmosphere is always very special and puts everyone into a Christmassy mood!

This year we will also be playing carols on Saturday 10th December in front of the Punch House in Monmouth, come and play, or sing along!

If readers are interested in knowing more, or would like tickets for our events, they can find more information on our website (www.moncomm.co.uk) or contact Christine Tucker on 01600 860224.

Rachael Wright

(Monmouth Concert Orchestra)