Ashford Sinfonia

Tomorrow we rehearse under the baton of Tim Bushnell, who has kindly agreed to fill in while our newly selected full time conductor attends a course and is unable to join us. Tim is well known to the orchestra as a brass player, but previously took over at zero notice when Gill had Covid. This will continue over the next three rehearsals, either side of half term.

We are seeking a new conductor starting from this September. Our lovely conductor of the last several years has had to ask to be relieved due to pressure of work, and so far we have drawn a blank in trying to find someone to take her place. So if you know of anyone who might be able to fill this fun rôle, please do make contact through the contact page. The job involves leading us in rehearsals every Monday evening during school term time, and conducting a concert in each term. In addition some help and guidance in finding suitable arrangements is required. The post is paid – for details please contact Roger, our chairman.

This year’s AGM and social evening was held on 17th July, at the usual venue near Charing. The weather was kind, and there was a good turn out, though a few people were unable to make it because an incident on the M20 closed the road.

We had sadly to say farewell to our conductor, who has reluctantly had to leave because of work commitments, and we wish her all the best for the future. Our treasurer has retired from the committee after 14 years for which we gave her our grateful thanks, and two other committee members have retired from their posts. All posts were filled at the meeting, except for that of conductor, which sets us a significant challenge.

Dates were set for the start of each term, and for half term breaks, but dates for concerts cannot be set until we know our new conductor!

A brilliant selection of food was provided by the members, and a pleasant evening enjoyed by all.

Just a quick note to inform members that our concert raised £300 for our chosen charity, Make Lunch. Thank you to the audience and players for their generosity. I think the concert went very well, and was enjoyed by our friends and families – and indeed ourselves!