MEDICS and neighbours Richard Bishop and James Weitz will tell you that music is not only good for the soul, but for the mind and body too.
The two friends are launching a new orchestra in the town, and Wokingham Philharmonic Orchestra has already caught the eye, or perhaps the musical ear, of a number of borough musicians keen to join them.
“We’re delighted that already 52 people have said they would like to join the orchestra,” said GP and conductor Richard..
“We had hoped for around 30 replies, but the response has been astonishing,” he added.
With a number of notable music groups already in the area, why did Richard, and James, a cello-playing paediatrician, decide to start another orchestra?
“True, there are others,” Richard admitted, “but nothing yet with Wokingham in its name.”
Wokingham Philharmonic Orchestra promises to put this right.
“You can never have too much music,” Richard said.
“Music is good for you – there’s lots of evidence that it improves mental health.
“It’s a way to socialise, and a great brain workout.”
Both medics’ families are musical, and they all enjoy performing for fun.
“At Christmas we all play instruments together, including the children,” he said.
While James is looking forward to playing his cello, Richard is keen to pick up the baton.
“I enjoy conducting,” he said, “and music has always been a big part of my life,” he said.
“We’re hoping to boost Wokingham’s creative arts scene, and the response we’ve had certainly shows there’s lots of enthusiasm for it out there.”
Wokingham Philharmonic Orchestra’s first programme of music will include Beethoven’s Third Symphony, and Rossini’s Overture to The Barber of Seville.
“We’re starting off gently,” Richard explained, “and we’ll build up.”
Richard and James are not turning anyone away at this stage, and would love to hear from even more musicians, especially string players, viola in particular.
All musicians need to be able to play at grade 7 level or higher, and any 16 or 17 year olds wishing to join must be accompanied by an adult.
The orchestra will perform two or three concerts each year.
Rehearsals will take place at The Bradbury Centre on Wednesday evenings during term times, with the first taking place on Wednesday, September 10.
For information, visit: wokinghamphilharmonic.orgor email: WokinghamPhilharmonic@gmail.com
