Over 40 members of the Thurrock Youth Orchestra have just returned from a successful 5 day musical tour of Europe. The tour began in Valkenburg, Holland where they were based for the duration of the stay.
On the tuesday morning, the Orchestra visited the Velvet Caves and Castle in Valkenburg before setting up for an afternoon concert at the town’s bandstand. The café culture in the town meant that the bars and cafes surrounding the bandstand provided a ready-made and appreciative audience.
Wednesday morning saw the group travelling to Maastricht for a river cruise and some shopping and then travelling on to Aachen in Germany where they gave their second concert at the Kurpark-Terrassen café to an audience of over 100 people.
On Thursday, the fantastic weather that had added to the success and enjoyment of the previous out-door concerts suddenly broke with heavy rain throughout the morning. The group travelled to Belgium where it gave its final concert at the Bobbejaanland theme park to a select audience. The group then had the rest of the day at their leisure in the theme park. The final evening was spent at the Valkenburg bowling alley relaxing before the trip home.
Head of Thurrock Music Services, Mr. Richard Brittain praised the Orchestra not only for their high standard of performance at all three concerts but their exemplary behaviour and efficient teamwork. The hotel owner also complimented the group on their behaviour and the tour organiser was amazed at how quickly the group organised itself for the performances. A tour for 2010 is already being planned.
Thurrock Music Services is always keen to hear from students wishing to join the orchestra. Students must be 18 years or younger and of a minimum standard of Grade 3. Membership of the orchestra is granted after an informal audition. Should anyone be interested in joining the orchestra they should contact Thurrock Music Services on 01375 413680.
