THE SUSSEX SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
Musical Director - MARK ANDREW-JAMES
Totally Unique… An Orchestra formed solely from Sussex people, utilising the wealth of talent in the two counties of Sussex, Mark Andrew-James had this in mind when he founded the Sussex Symphony Orchestra, and has gone on to prove that this was achievable, as the Orchestra went from strength to strength with every performance, becoming unique within the south of England.
The Sussex Symphony Orchestra has been in existence since January 1993 and it is no
false boast to say that since then it has taken the classical music scene in the south by
storm. It has made such an impact in this short space of time, that it has been ranked as
being within the top four Orchestras of it's kind in the country.
The Orchestra is proud to incorporate the name "Sussex", as only people who
either live and/or work within the two counties are invited to play. The Orchestra
provides a perfect medium for both full-time professional musicians and those of the same
standard, but have chosen other professions, to come together and perform to the highest
standards. In the future, the Orchestra will be playing for the National Opera Studio and
also plans are being made to tour extensively.
Each year, the Orchestra performs many times at it's home, Hove Town Hall, and also
many churches and other venues, including outside concerts, and it is increasingly in
demand.
Numerous small ensembles have emerged from within the ranks of the Orchestra, in the shape
of a chamber orchestra, string quartets, wind quartets, and even jazz groups, further
illustrating the expertise and versatility that exists amongst the players.
The Orchestra actively encourages contact from younger musicians to audition, as it
believes that the experience gained from playing alongside professionals is second to
none, and stands them in very good stead for future playing years, indeed many of the
younger members of the SSO have gone on to full-time courses at the London Conservatoires
of Music, all extolling the value to them of having played with the SSO.
The SSO has recently begun a programme to encourage both large and small companies, and
also individuals to become involved with the Orchestra in becoming Patrons or Friends, as
it is believed that many local people will wish to become associated with a local success
story, as an example of what can be achieved "in county".
It is now essential that the success of the Orchestra is expanded upon, and it is seen and
heard in as many places as possible. Involvement with the Orchestra can bring anyone or
any organisation, large or small, unprecedented advantages in many ways, through
sponsorship, promotion at concerts and events both here in Sussex and further afield, and
the Orchestra is pleased to invite enquiries about any ideas that like minded
organisations or individuals may have, to cement the future of the Orchestra and guarantee
more musical pleasure for many people.
The talent and energy of Mark Andrew-James has been transferred to the
SSO, and it has been said that the sky is now the only limit for this exciting Orchestra.
The Orchestra is now artistically firmly established in the area, and will continue the
upward trend of excellence for it's audiences, which are ever increasing in number and
enthusiasm.
The Orchestra has just completed recording a new CD of works by local composer, Paul Carr.
This is available soon on the Claudio label..
Click on the CD cover below to order on-line from Amazon.co.uk!
For more information, please follow this link for the
official SSO Web Site
Up to date information on forthcoming contests is available from the new SSO Official Website!
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page last updated: May 15, 2002 19:45:29
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