As well as perennial favourite, Dvorak’s New World symphony, Westmorland Orchestra are delighted to be premiering a work by Fredrik Holm – “Equilibrium” – in memory of Jonty Somervell(pictured) who was a lifelong member of the orchestra. The orchestra will also be playing Berlioz’ Roman Carnival Overture and will be joined on stage by Ellena Newton for Rimsky Korsakov’s trombone concerto.
Jonty Somervell was a member of Westmorland Orchestra for 65 years; he was well known around Kendal as a musician, hockey player and as a member of the local “K Shoes” family. Westmorland Orchestra decided to use a legacy from Mr Somervell to commission Mr Holm, conductor of the Westmorland Youth Orchestra, to compose a new piece of music. “Equilibrium” includes a movement with the focus on the viola, the instrument Jonty Somervell played.
Rimsky-Korsakov’s trombone concerto provides an opportunity to hear Ellena Newton, the principal trombone player of the world famous Brighouse and Rastrick Band perform.
Ellena said: ‘’I am extremely exited to be performing this concerto with the Westmorland Orchestra, under the direction of Richard Howarth. It feels wonderful to get this opportunity after the concert was cancelled in May 2020 and I feel very lucky to be able to perform live music once again,” she said. Ellena Newton’s credentials include being a finalist in both the BBC Young Musician of the Year in 2014 and Radio 2 Young Brass Player of the Year in 2017.
Georgina Perkins, Chair of Westmorland Orchestra is looking forward to bringing live orchestral music to Kendal once again: ”As well as the instantly recognisable theme from the Hovis bread advertisement, Dvorak’s New World symphony is a thrilling piece of music that will have concert goers humming tunes on their way out!” she said. “I am confident that this music can be enjoyed by all and hope that the free tickets for younger people will encourage people to come to the concert whether or not they regularly listen to classical music.”
The Westmorland Orchestra is conducted by Richard Howarth and led by Pamela Redman. It draws its players from across Cumbria and North Lancashire.The concert is at 7.30 pm, Saturday 26th March 2022 at the Westmorland Hall, Kendal Leisure Centre. Tickets are £12.00 or free for under 19s and full time students and are available from www.TicketSource.co.uk/wes, by phoning 01539 896299 or on the door.
Further information may found at www.WestmorlandOrchestra.org.uk
