Last week was sectionals week and the first violins were looking to work on our ricochet technique as Rossini’s William Tell Overture demands some fine rhythmic control. The cellos were having bit of a debate too about the bowing beforehand, so were looking forward to mastering the technique.
Want to go from being a ricochet rookie to an old hand? Here are some tips:
Whether you’re bitten by the love-bug or reaching for the bucket, there’s no denying that Valentine’s Day is a great excuse to dig out some beautiful music.
So when we asked our players what music puts them in the mood for love, what conjures up the essence of romance for them, they came up with some gorgeous pieces which would melt even the hardest of hearts. So curl up with that special person or, if Valentine’s Day leaves you cold, put your feet up, plug in your headphones and enjoy the music.
Lots of love from Brunel Sinfonia xx
Mark Gateshill talks about the symphony we're working on in preparation for our concert on 19th March.
The thing that always strikes me about Shostakovich’s final symphony is how unsettling it is, despite the fact the composer was looking to create an uplifting piece. Though beautiful, it’s evidently the work of an already sick man facing the end of his life.
Last November, we had the pleasure of accompanying Marina Martins, a prize winning young cellist who started playing aged 3! She currently studies with Richard May at Wells Cathedral Specialist Music School and has performed internationally at music festivals. Here's what she had to say about playing with us:
A new score has landed! My 2014/15 season finished on a high with a performance of Brahms Symphony no.3 at the Frome Festival, one of my favourite gigs of the year. When my weighty copy of Rachmaninov's 'Symphonic Dances' is handed to me, it’s my cue to get cracking on the new season which kicks off with Brunel Sinfonia in November. I love turning the pages on a new, unfamiliar piece, it opens the door on an exciting unknown musical world.
Our Autumn concert on Saturday 19 th October, 7:30pm at Redland Hall is a bohemian extravaganza featuring music by Dvořák, Janáček and Kodály.
Whether you are interested in joining the orchestra, or are looking for more information about upcoming concerts, we have a number of ways to get in contact with us. Please use the links below to access our contact form and our social media accounts.
