Bruckner’s fifth symphony is a huge work, both beautiful and challenging in equal measure and for one member of the Bedfordshire Orchestral Society (BOS), David Mercer, it is his favourite piece of music.
David, a member of BOS and an unfailing supporter of music in Bedfordshire, had the ambitious idea two years ago to bring over 70 musicians to play this wonderful work.
He wanted to include many past members of the County Youth Orchestras as well as local musicians, many in the Bedfordshire Orchestral Society, together as the Bedfordshire Music Trust Orchestra. He then accomplished the huge feat of making the project happen, brilliantly organising every last detail.
Over one weekend in the Corn Exchange at the beginning of September, the performance delighted and moved the audience, some to tears, and raised money for the Bedfordshire Music Trust.
With two major works: Bruckner’s Fifth Symphony and Mozart’s Clarinet Concerto played by a stunning soloist on the viola, Tim Ridout, the programme really was a rare treat.
Andrew Manze, originally from Bedford, is now a conductor on the international stage and it’s not an overstatement to say that he astounded orchestra and audience alike.
Andrew came through the Bedfordshire County Youth Orchestras and was fondly welcomed back by many. For those of us playing in the orchestra, Andrew’s clear, calm and positive demeanour brought out the best in us.
In rehearsals, he moulded us quickly and expertly, always with a smile, with interesting stories and precise feedback.
During the performance, he brought us along with him in the music with a smile, a little movement here and there, with no hint of stress and he seemed to create a sense of having all the time we needed.
We knew the challenging programme would work with him, because it was never about him or us.
Just the music.
Thank you, David.
by Ann Collins, Social Media Volunteer for the Bedfordshire Orchestral Society
