Benedetti set to make Big Noise at celebration

MUSIC: Superstar violinist to play at 125th anniversary of city’s symphony orchestra

Scottish superstar violinist Nicola Benedetti will help members of Dundee Symphony Orchestra celebrate their 125th anniversary this week.

The renowned musician will lead a concert on Wednesday to raise funds for children’s charity Big Noise Douglas and Tenovus medical research charity.

Big Noise Douglas was set up in Dundee last year by Optimistic Sound and Sistema Scotland to help young people in deprived areas through music.

More than 30 children from Claypotts Castle and St Pius Primary School will take part in the show at the Caird Hall.

Ms Benedetti said: “I am delighted to be a part of the birthday celebrations of the Dundee Symphony Orchestra – 125 years is a great achievement.

“I am proud to be patron of the Dundee Symphony Orchestra and Big Sister to the children of Big Noise.”

Donald Gordon, Dundee Symphony Orchestra fundraising manager, said: “On the occasion of the orchestra’s 125th anniversary, we were keen to invite our patron, Nicola Benedetti to play a concerto.

“At the same time, we wanted to recognise her important work, both nationally and locally for Sistema Scotland and in particular for the support given to Big Noise Douglas.

Chris van der Kuyl, Optimistic Sound chairman, said the show would feature “a phenomenal combination of community spirit and word-class talent”.

Tickets are available from the Dundee Box Office, priced £12.