Jonathan Taylor, musical director of The Cayman National Orchestra (CNO), has launched an appeal to encourage more musicians to join, announcing an 'Open Rehearsal' for those who may be interested in finding out more.
Since Taylor became musical director in 2017, the ensemble has grown substantially in numbers. In addition to attracting more players, a generous donation has enabled the purchase of a full set of orchestral percussion instruments and provided more professional and advanced music. The orchestra has a wide repertoire and can now guarantee sell outs and an extraordinary concert experience for concert goers.
‘But the orchestra is a very fragile thing,’ said Taylor. ‘The transient nature of the Cayman Islands means that our membership is constantly at risk as emerging Caymanian musical youth talent goes overseas to further their education. We want to encourage our youth orchestra to work hard so that they can reach the standard needed to fill the gaps.’
He went on to say that his ambition is to expand the orchestra to provide the depth of a full symphony orchestra of sixty plus musicians. ‘Whilst awareness of the Cayman National Choir & Orchestra is constantly spreading throughout the community, we're all too often surprised to hear how many people don't even know we exist. There are some excellent musicians hiding in the woodwork who I am sure would enjoy playing with us and be a great asset. We would love to hear from competent string players, including Violin, Viola, Cello and Double Bass, as well as French Horn, Oboe and Bassoon players.’
As part of his appeal Taylor is inviting any musicians who play the above instruments and are interested to come and watch and/or partake in an open rehearsal on September 8th. ‘We hope it will give them a chance to meet me and members of the orchestra, give them a taste of what we do, and a chance to assess their own abilities. And of course, we hope they will bring their instruments.’
The open rehearsal is at 7.30 pm on September 8th at the CNCO rehearsal rooms, the green ‘Kaaboo’ building on West Bay Road next to Grand Pavilion.
If any musicians are interested in attending, please register your attendance by emailing caymanchoirandorchestra@gmail.com with a bit about yourself and what instrument you play.
Find out more at caymanchoirandorchestra.com, on Facebook, Instagram or hear us perform on YouTube
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