‘Royal’ musicians forge new links
A COLLECTION of talented musicians are rebranding themselves to highlight their links to Macclesfield.
King Edward Musical Society (KEMS), formed more than 60 years ago, has always been the collective name for a choir, orchestra, concert band and contemporary musical group from the town.
And while KEMS will remain the umbrella organisation name the various groups have been given individual titles. These are Macclesfield Singers, Macclesfield Symphony Orchestra, Macclesfield Concert Band and Macclesfield Contemporary Ensemble.
Moira Taylor, from KEMS, explained: “We are very conscious that the group’s association with Macclesfield has not always been obvious from its name.
“For this reason the decision was made to rebrand to include Macclesfield in each section name to increase visibility in the town and surrounding areas.
“It is very much hoped that this will assist in publicising the society and its connection to the town, encouraging locals to attend concerts or even come and join one or more of the groups.”
KEMS was formed in September 1957 when the King’s School Choir, supplemented by parents, came together with a local company orchestra, Brocklehurst-Whiston, for a performance of
Handel’s Messiah.
Since then it has gone from strength to strength and now boasts nearly
200 members aged from teenagers and upwards, putting on 10 to 12 concerts a year. For it’s first performance since the rebranding Macclesfield Singers and Macclesfield Symphony Orchestra will join forces.
Favourite Music for the Festive Season is on at St Michael’s Church, Macclesfield Market Place, on Saturday, December 14, from 7.30pm.
Tickets are £12 for adults and £2.50 for under 18s and are available at www.kems.org.uk, from Margin Music or by calling 01625 614819.