The Taunton Orchestra played a concert inspired by the Museum of the Moon
On Sunday evening (March 27), visitors flocked in their hundreds through Taunton Minster, seeing Luke Jerram’s lunar installation and listening to a concert by musicians from the Taunton-based Southern Sinfonia Orchestra.
Sheila Read, Chair of the Orchestra’s Board of Directors, said, “It was a wonderful opportunity to showcase the talent and versatility of our professional musicians and introduce Southern Sinfonia to so many audience members. The support for the concert has been tremendous.
A photo from the concert
Music Director Simon Chalk has put together a program of moon-themed music for violin, piano and organ, ranging from the Moonlight Sonata to the ever-popular Moon River, and catering to many tastes.
He said: “The concert was unique in that people were encouraged to walk around while we played.
“Having two different genres of art exhibited together – sculpture and music – and in such a beautiful setting, was an immersive experience for those who came, and for us as musicians – we were ‘over the moon’ to the answer.”
Ed Jenkins, Professional Musician and Board Member of Southern Sinfonia, added: “As Director of Music at Queen’s, I am passionate about introducing young people to the arts and music in particular.
“It was particularly gratifying to see so many young people gathered around the violinist and the piano, showing interest in seeing us play in such an unusual setting.
“In fact, one young man was so inspired that he asked if he could sit down at the piano and join us. We were impressed by his talent – and clearly the audience was too.
Anyone wishing to find out more about Southern Sinfonia or join its mailing list can email info@southernsinfonia.co.uk or visit the website https://southernsinfonia.org.uk