By Jolene Hill
The North Downs Community Orchestra’s (NDCO) summer concert on 26 May was a resounding triumph, with all 530 seats at the Millennium Theatre, Woldingham School, sold.
However, For One Night Only was a bittersweet performance, for it was the last to be led by music director Sara Young, who is stepping down after five years.
From lively tunes to haunting melodies, including music from the James Bond and Pirates of the Caribbean films, as well as a poignant tune from Forrest Gump, the event thrilled and moved the audience in equal measure.
Stravinsky’s Finale from Firebird Suite and Tchaikovsky’s Symphony 5 Finale were among the classical arrangements, while Smooth from Santana and The Who’s Pinball Wizard, featuring guest drummer Marc Fraser, turned the performance to classic rock.
The haunting Theme from Schindler’s List featured a solo from violinist Charlotte Pearse, while Fantasia on Greensleeves showcased the orchestra’s harpist, Margaret Watson, and woodwind section.
Pam Deverill, chair and double bass player, said:
“Sara has been an inspiration and it has been a privilege to have her at our helm, leading our wonderful, enthusiastic musicians to a sell-out theatre concert, a far cry from our humble beginnings in a Scout hall.
NDCO is going through a change, but Sara has given us the tools to face the future with confidence, and one thing we can safely say is that we will always be the fun orchestra.”
Founded in 2016 with just 12 members, the NDCO now has 60. Sara was appointed musical director in July 2019.
She said:
“It has been a pleasure to support our members on their musical journey and see them flourish and evolve. I have immensely enjoyed my years here with these fun and friendly musicians, and I wish them every success for the future.”
NDCO is open to all adult amateur musicians in the North Downs region who play an orchestral instrument.
