Rochdale Youth Orchestra Springtime Spectacular

Back row: Sue Verity, Andrew Stewardson, Joanna Astley, Chris Jolly, Sian Morton, Moet Griffiths, Liz McInnes MP, Keith Swift, Sue Etchells
Front row: Iris Wood, Isabelle Henderson, James Moore

Rochdale Youth Orchestra (RYO) held their annual Springtime Spectacular concert, held at The Riverside, Whitworth, was well attended with the venue providing a relaxed atmosphere for the young musicians.

The programme from the Orchestra, with musical director Sue Verity and leader Sian Morton, included music associated with the countries taking part in the Six Nations Rugby tournament - England, Scotland, Wales, Ireland, France and Italy. By coincidence, the day of the concert was the same day as the rugby finals (21 March).

RYO’s Jazz Ensemble, directed by Chris Jolly, performed classical jazz and other more modern pieces, especially arranged for them by Chris. Grace Morris (vocalist) and Moet Griffiths (violin) featured as soloists.

Special guest performers were Rochdale Youth Choir, with musical director Joanna Astley and pianist Andrew Stewardson.

The choir, who were described as “outstanding”, performed a modern and vibrant selection of pieces from their current repertoire including ‘In Fields Where We Lay’ by B*Witched, in addition to a well-known and very moving song, ‘The Rose’.

The finale, which was performed by all the musicians, concluded the concert.

Rehearsals for the Orchestra begin after Easter on 25 April.

For further details, please contact Sue Verity on 01706 631942 or sueverity@sky.com