Orchestra to perform anniversary concert

AN AMATEUR orchestra will perform a special concert this May to celebrate its 60th anniversary.

Formed in 1964, Paisley Sinfonia is preparing for a special concert in the newly refurbished Paisley Town Hall to celebrate the milestone.

The performance will feature music from some major classical and romantic composers to modern- day works, including new material written by orchestra members.

Taking place on Sunday, May 5, the concert will debut a three- dance piece called Trending, written by the orchestra’s 1st oboist Kester Clark.

Guests can also enjoy Giuseppe Verdi’s Overture to La Forza del Destino, Georges Bizet’s Carmen Suites No 1 and 2, and Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No 5 in E minor, Op 64.

Following the concert, a civic reception for the members and a few invited guests will be hosted by Provost Lorraine Cameron on behalf of Renfrewshire Council.

The orchestra perform two concerts each year, this will be the first of this year and a later concert will follow in the autumn.

The orchestra celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2014 and embarked on a short trip to Germany, however this year the group will keep things low- key with a special dinner organised for musicians to relax and celebrate a week after the concert.

Alan Hutchinson, president of the Paisley Sinfonia, said: “Come along to see and hear a bunch of enthusiastic musicians playing pieces of music which will be very recognisable.

“We are delighted to be the world premiere of the piece by Kester Clark. It should be a very enjoyable evening.

“I joined Paisley Sinfonia when I retired following a 43- year gap from playing my instrument. When I retired, I took it up again and after a year or so of taking lessons I joined the orchestra for fun. It’s a great way to spend the afternoon.”