THE Isle of Man Wind Orchestra is marking 10
years in existence with a gala concert at the weekend.
The 40-strong orchestra will celebrate the
anniversary with a Celtic Celebration at Ballakermeen High School's
Studio Theatre on Saturday, June 30, starting at 7.30pm.
Founded in 1997, the orchestra comes under the
baton of its musical director, Paul Dunderdale, a former music
teacher at Castle Rushen High School and Ramsey Grammar School, who
both composes and arranges music.
His three-movement suite for the orchestra, 'Manannan',
will be premiered at the concert.
Orchestra chairman Joanna Drysdale said: 'There
are a lot of brass bands in the Island but few chances for woodwind
players and we aim to give musicians of all ages an opportunity to
play. Our membership spans all ages, from those still at school to
the retired.
'We play classical music, music from films and
musicals, a wind band repertoire and light pieces.
'Our philosophy is to play music that is
challenging to the highest standard we can, whilst maintaining an
inclusive approach. We welcome anyone who wants to join in.'
The Isle of Man Wind Orchestra meets at Marown
School every Thursday during term-time, with rehearsals starting at
7.45pm.
It holds Arts Council-sponsored workshop
weekends, performing exciting new music under guest conductors and
ending with informal concerts. It has undertaken tours to Prague in
2002 and Holland in 2005, playing in halls, churches and bandstands
and having an enjoyable time. It participates in the National
Concert Band Festival in the UK and has twice come home from the
national finals with a prestigious silver award. It holds concerts
all over the Island and takes bookings for events.
