Special concert

AN amateur orchestra will stage a special concert next month to celebrate its diamond jubilee.

Formed in 1964 as St James Orchestra but now known as Paisley Sinfonia, the group has rehearsed and performed in Renfrewshire for 60 years.

It is to mark the milestone by entertaining an audience in the newly-refurbished Paisley Town Hall on Sunday, May 5.

Alan Hutchinson, president of Paisley Sinfonia, said: “For more than 50 years we were based in St James Church, until it closed in 2016.

“Since then we have rehearsed on Sundays during spring and autumn in Paisley North Church – formerly Wallneuk North – and in 2018 we changed our name to Paisley Sinfonia to reflect our status as Paisley’s original and only symphony orchestra.

“Our members are entirely amateur music enthusiasts, although we invite some guest players to participate in our concerts when necessary. We normally give two concerts each year.”

The anniversary performance on May 5 will feature everything from major classical works by the likes of Giuseppe Verdi, Georges Bizet and Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky to modern-day music, including new material written by orchestra members.

Afterwards, a civic reception will be hosted by Provost Lorraine Cameron on behalf of Renfrewshire Council.

Mr Hutchinson added: “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.”

For more information about the orchestra, visit www.paisleysinfonia.org.uk.