tag:portsmouthphilharmonic.org,2005:/blogs/ppo-news-63edfb81-9c03-47cd-a012-496ea9bcf5a4?p=2PPO News2024-03-17T18:58:00+00:00Portsmouth Philharmonicfalsetag:portsmouthphilharmonic.org,2005:Post/73684062024-03-17T18:58:00+00:002024-03-17T18:59:35+00:00Conductor Hugh set for concert swansong<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/239374/6c173dc4499f6123b4fbd947cb680e8dd0a5815d/original/20230527-pp-concert-106.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_l justify_center border_" height="2349" width="4176" /><p>Hugh Carpenter, conductor of the Portsmouth Philharmonic since 2014, is set to lay down his baton after the orchestra's concert on Sunday March 24 in aid of the Portsea Pantry.</p><p>The programme features soloist Catherine Lawlor playing Kabalevsky's Violin Concerto in C Major, along with Butterworth's The Banks of Green Willow and Haydn's ‘Drumroll’ Symphony.</p><p>Proceeds of the concert will go to the Portsea Pantry and Portsmouth South MP Stephen Morgan will be attending the concert.</p><p>The concert starts at 3pm at the Church of the Resurrection, Penryn Avenue, Drayton and tickets, priced £10 for adults, including a complimentary programme courtesy of the orchestra's print partner Bishops, are available on the door or online <a class="no-pjax" href="https://www.skiddle.com/whats-on/Portsmouth/Church-Of-The-Resurrection/Charity-Concert-in-aid-of-the-Portsea-Pantry/37390668/" target="_blank" data-link-type="url">here</a>.</p><p>Orchestra Chair Di Lloyd said: “We are all sad to be seeing Hugh leave the orchestra, but we wish him well. He has been a tremendous servant and in his ten years at the helm the orchestra has progressed significantly.”</p><p> </p>Portsmouth Philharmonictag:portsmouthphilharmonic.org,2005:Post/73468702024-02-06T18:42:35+00:002024-02-06T18:42:35+00:00Orchestra donation scores for Pompey in the Community<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/239374/22e57997013721363aa533d4da241ec2737f9737/original/psi-jb-portsmouth-northampton-town-030224-236.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_l justify_center border_" />The Portsmouth Philharmonic handed over a cheque for £850 to Pompey in the Community at Fratton Park on Saturday, ahead of Pompey’s big match with Northampton.<o:p></o:p></p><p>At its December concert, which celebrated the 125<sup>th</sup> anniversary season of the club, the orchestra premiered the Pompey ‘Overture’, composed by conductor Hugh Carpenter, in the club’s honour. He presented the cheque with Orchestra Chair Di Lloyd to Pompey midfielder Terry Devlin, accompanied by CEO Clare Martin and Jodie Anthony from PitC.<o:p></o:p></p><p>A bumper attendance at the concert of almost 100 raised the amount through ticket sales and a raffle on the day including a signed Pompey shirt.<o:p></o:p></p><p>And for Hugh, it was his first time back at Fratton Park since 1960, when he saw his previous and only other game as a ten-year-old boy.<o:p></o:p></p><p>Di, a season ticket holder at Pompey herself, said: “We were really pleased with the amount we raised and it was a great experience to present the cheque on the pitch. And after Pompey’s 4-1 win, Hugh can come again. He’s clearly a good luck charm.”<o:p></o:p></p><p>Clare Martin, CEO at PitC, added: “<span style="color:black;">We're thrilled to receive this donation from the orchestra. The 125</span><sup>th</sup><span> anniversary concert was amazing and the Pompey overture Hugh composed for the occasion set the seal on a great day."</span><o:p></o:p></p><p><span style="color:black;">The orchestra’s next concert is on Sunday March 24 (3pm) at the Church of the Resurrection in Drayton, and will feature soloist Catherine Lawlor performing Kabalevsky’s Violin Concerto in C Major.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p><span style="color:black;">Tickets are on sale priced £10 for adults - more details of the concert can be found by clicking </span><a class="no-pjax" href="https://portsmouthphilharmonic.org/event/5369648/665107164/portsmouth-philharmonic-charity-concert" data-link-type="url"><span style="color:black;">here</span></a><a data-link-type="url"><span style="color:black;">.</span></a><span style="color:black;"> </span></p><p>The orchestra is supported by <a class="no-pjax" href="https://bishops.co.uk/" target="_blank" data-link-type="url">Bishops Printers</a><span style="color:black;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><div class="video-container size_xl justify_center" style=""><iframe data-video-type="youtube" data-video-id="6gjletzZmqM" data-video-thumb-url="" type="text/html" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6gjletzZmqM?rel=0&wmode=transparent&enablejsapi=1" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe></div><p><span style="color:black;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>Portsmouth Philharmonictag:portsmouthphilharmonic.org,2005:Post/73227732023-12-22T11:30:00+00:002023-12-22T11:40:01+00:00Overture premiere helps raise £800 for Pompey in the Community<p>More than £800 has been raised for Pompey in the Community following the orchestra’s charity concert for the 125<sup>th</sup> anniversary of Portsmouth FC on December 10, which featured the world premiere of the Pompey Overture, especially created to mark the occasion.<o:p></o:p></p><p>Composed by conductor Hugh Carpenter, the overture’s principal melody is jaunty and catchy, with some refrains which will be very familiar to the club’s supporters woven into the mix.<o:p></o:p></p><p>Attended by Pompey Legend Alan Knight MBE, the Lord Mayor of Portsmouth, Tom Coles and Portsmouth North MP Penny Mordaunt, the concert at the Church of the Resurrection, Drayton was attended by around 100 people. A gallery of photos from the concert is available <a class="no-pjax" href="https://portsmouthphilharmonic.org/galleries/1026711/gallery-concert-to-celebrate-125-years-of-portsmouth-fc" target="_blank" data-link-type="url">here</a>.<o:p></o:p></p><p>Orchestra Chair Di Lloyd said: “We were delighted with the amount raised for Pompey in the Community and really pleased that we were given this opportunity by the club to celebrate the 125th anniversary. <o:p></o:p></p><p>“Quite a few of the orchestra members and supporters are also fans of the club and it was great to see Pompey shirts and scarves on display at the concert. Quite a few people have been introduced to the orchestra through this event, which is great for us.”<o:p></o:p></p><p>Colin Farmery, who chairs the club’s 125th anniversary steering committee, added: “One of the remits of the 125<sup>th</sup> anniversary is to reach out to cultural touch points across the region, so we were delighted when Hugh agreed to compose this piece to mark the anniversary. I’m not sure a football club has ever had an overture composed in its honour, so this could well be another Pompey first.”<o:p></o:p></p><p>The orchestra, which is supported by <a class="no-pjax" href="https://bishops.co.uk/" target="_blank" data-link-type="url">Bishops Printers</a>, has raised more than £20,000 for local good causes since it was founded in 2009. Its next concert is at the Church of the Resurrection on Sunday March 24 at 3pm, and will feature soloist Catherine Lawlor playing Kabalevsky’s violin concerto in C Major. Tickets will go on sale in February.<o:p></o:p></p><p><i>Watch Hugh Carpenter explain the inspiration behind the Pompey Overture and its performance by the orchestra, as well as reactions from Alan Knight, Penny Mordaunt, the Lord Mayor and Clare Martin MBE from Pompey in the Community.</i><o:p></o:p></p><div class="video-container size_xl justify_center" style=""><iframe data-video-type="youtube" data-video-id="6gjletzZmqM" data-video-thumb-url="" type="text/html" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6gjletzZmqM?rel=0&wmode=transparent&enablejsapi=1" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe></div><p><o:p></o:p></p><p> </p>Portsmouth Philharmonictag:portsmouthphilharmonic.org,2005:Post/73168152023-12-09T10:39:10+00:002023-12-09T11:13:04+00:00Legend Alan Knight is special guest at charity concert for Pompey in the Community<p>The Portsmouth Philharmonic is looking forward to welcoming you, along with special guest and Pompey legend Alan Knight MBE, to our charity concert on Sunday December 10 at 3pm (when else?) to celebrate 125 years of Portsmouth FC.</p><p>In aid of Pompey in the Community, the concert will also feature the premiere of the ‘Pompey Overture', composed by conductor Hugh Carpenter for the club's anniversary.</p><p>Also on the programme is Mendelssohn's Hebrides Overture, Bizet's L'Arlesienne Suite No 2 and Schubert's fifth symphony.</p><p>Don't forget to bring some change for refreshments at half-time (sorry, the interval) and also for an amazing raffle in aid of PITC which features a first prize of a squad-signed Pompey 125 shirt, donated by Portsmouth FC, a second prize of a copy of the acclaimed club's official 125th anniversary history, donated by our print partner Bishops, and third prize of a copy of the Official History of Pompey Cards & Stickers, signed by Alan Knight.</p><p>Tickets, priced £10 cash for adults (accompanied children go free), will be available on the door at the <a class="no-pjax" href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/LoMaCkQwSLHbzjj17" target="_blank" data-link-type="url"><u>Church of the Resurrection, Drayton</u></a> - get there early is our advice - and can still be reserved at our booking partner <a class="no-pjax" href="https://www.skiddle.com/whats-on/Portsmouth/Church-Of-The-Resurrection/Charity-Concert-in-aid-of-Pompey-in-the-Community/36731275/" target="_blank" data-link-type="url"><u>Skiddle</u></a> (fee applies) until noon on Sunday.</p><p>Click <a class="no-pjax" href="https://www.portsmouthfc.co.uk/news/2023/december/pompey-overture-to-be-played-at-anniversary-concert/" target="_blank" data-link-type="url"><u>here</u></a> to read the story on the event published by Portsmouth FC.</p>Portsmouth Philharmonictag:portsmouthphilharmonic.org,2005:Post/73136382023-12-03T12:35:35+00:002023-12-03T12:35:35+00:00Premiere of 'Pompey Overture' planned at concert to celebrate club's 125th anniversary<p><span style="color:black;"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/239374/6c173dc4499f6123b4fbd947cb680e8dd0a5815d/original/20230527-pp-concert-106.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_l justify_center border_" />The premiere of the 'Pompey Overture' - a short piece of music composed by Hugh Carpenter, conductor of the Portsmouth Philharmonic to commemorate the club's 125<sup>th</sup> anniversary - will take place at the 125<sup>th</sup> anniversary concert for the club on December 10 (3pm).</span></p><p><span style="color:black;">Concert go-ers are also being encourage to wear club shirts or scarves, while ambassador Alan Knight MBE will be attending on behalf of the club and a shirt, signed by this season's squad, will be up for grabs in the raffle at the event.</span></p><p><span style="color:black;">Tickets for the concert at the Church of the Resurrection in Drayton, which is in aid of Pompey in the Community, are selling fast and pre-booking is advised. As well as the special overture, the orchestra will be playing Mendelssohn's Hebrides Overture, Bizet's L'Arlesienne Suite No 2 and Schubert's fifth symphony in Bb Major.</span></p><p><span style="color:black;">Orchestra Chair Di Lloyd, who also plays the 'cello, said: "The 'Pompey Overture' is a catchy and jaunty piece of music with a memorable melody as well as some familiar Pompey fan refrains as well. I've been a fan myself for more than 40 years and I think it captures the spirit of the club perfectly," she said.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p><span style="color:black;">"Many of the orchestra members and supporters are Pompey fans themselves, so it is a huge honour and thrill to be doing this concert to celebrate the club's anniversary. We would love it if audience members came in Pompey shirts and scarves, " she added.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p><span style="color:black;">Colin Farmery, who chairs the club's 125<sup>th</sup> steering committee said: "One of the remits the committee were given was to reach out to the arts community in Portsmouth to help celebrate the club's anniversary, so I was delighted when the orchestra agreed to perform this concert, which will make money for a cause close to the club and every Pompey fan's heart.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p><span style="color:black;">"I'm really looking forward to hearing the 'Pompey Overture'. I've never heard of a professional football club ever having one composed in its honour before, so it could be we are unique."<o:p></o:p></span></p><p><span style="color:black;">Tickets, priced £10, are available from the orchestra's ticket partner Skiddle (<span>booking fee applies)</span> here: </span><a class="no-pjax" href="https://www.skiddle.com/whats-on/Portsmouth/Church-Of-The-Resurrection/Charity-Concert-in-aid-of-Pompey-in-the-Community/36731275/"><span>Charity Concert in aid of Pompey in the Community Tickets | Church Of The Resurrection Portsmouth | Sun 10th December 2023 Lineup (skiddle.com)</span></a><span style="color:black;"> or on the door on the day. Accompanied children are free.</span><span><o:p></o:p></span></p><p><span style="color:black;">More details are available at the orchestra's<span> </span>website </span><a class="no-pjax" href="http://www.portsmouthphilharmonic.org/"><span>www.portsmouthphilharmonic.org</span></a><span style="color:black;"> . Since it was founded in 2009, the orchestra has raised more than £20,000 for local charities.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p><span style="color:black;">The orchestra’s print partner is </span> <a class="no-pjax" href="https://www.bishops.co.uk/">Bishops Printers | Commercial Printers Since 1985</a></p><p><span><o:p></o:p></span></p>Portsmouth Philharmonictag:portsmouthphilharmonic.org,2005:Post/73062632023-11-20T18:44:40+00:002023-11-20T19:33:27+00:00Vacancy: Conductor & Musical Director - Portsmouth Philharmonic Orchestra<p>Following the decision of present conductor Hugh Carpenter to retire in 2024, the Portsmouth Philharmonic Orchestra is looking to appoint a new conductor to start in spring 2024.</p><p>The orchestra was founded by a small group of amateur musicians in 2009. Our aims are to promote<br>musical activities in the Portsmouth area and to regularly perform concerts to raise money for<br>charitable causes. We currently have approximately 40 amateur members who rehearse weekly, and<br>we have guest players we call upon to join us for concerts.</p><p>The distinctive character of the orchestra is its friendliness and openness to all who are enthusiastic<br>about playing music. We meet for rehearsals on Sunday evenings from 7-9pm in term time and<br>perform three concerts a year in the local area, the net profits from which go to charities. </p><p>Now in our 16th season, more than £20,000 has been raised for a variety of local good causes. The conductor is primarily responsible for directing the rehearsals and concerts. In addition, the conductor is responsible for selecting the orchestra’s repertoire in consultation with the committee.</p><p>We also have a concert on 10 December 2023 at 3pm in the Church of the Resurrection in Drayton<br>PO6 2AP, which you may wish to attend.</p><p>If you would like to apply for the position, please request an information pack from<br><a class="no-pjax" href="mailto:enquiries@portsmouthphilharmonic.org">enquiries@portsmouthphilharmonic.org</a></p><p><strong>The deadline for applications is 31 December 2023.</strong></p><p>We will aim to process applications quickly and will invite those shortlisted to conduct the orchestra<br>during part of a rehearsal on either 28 January or 4 February 2024. We hope that the new conductor<br>will take up the position from April 2024, or as soon as possible after that.</p>Portsmouth Philharmonictag:portsmouthphilharmonic.org,2005:Post/72976942023-11-02T14:57:22+00:002023-11-02T14:57:22+00:00PPO charity concert celebrates Portsmouth FC<p><span>A charity concert to celebrate 125 years of Portsmouth FC is being staged by the Portsmouth Philharmonic Orchestra next month to raise funds for Pompey in the Community.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p><span>Featuring music by Mendelssohn, Bizet and Schubert, the concert will be held at the Church of the Resurrection, Drayton – the orchestra’s home venue – at 3pm on Sunday December 10.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p><span>Since it was founded in 2009, the orchestra has raised more than £20,000 for local charities and orchestra chair Di Lloyd explained the thinking behind celebrating the football’s club’s anniversary.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p><span>“Pompey in the Community have been on our list of charities we have wanted to support for some time now, so when the club announced it would be celebrating its 125<sup>th</sup> season in 2023-24 it seemed too good an opportunity to miss.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p><span>“We hope supporters of the club who appreciate classic music will support the event and raise a significant sum,” she said.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p><span>The first half of the concert features Mendelssohn’s Hebrides’ Overture – more commonly known as Fingal’s Cave – and also Bizet’s Arlesienne Suite No 2. The second half comprises Schubert’s fifth symphony in Bb Major.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p><span>Priced at £10 for adults, with accompanied children free, tickets can be booked </span><a class="no-pjax" href="https://www.skiddle.com/whats-on/Portsmouth/Church-Of-The-Resurrection/Charity-Concert-in-aid-of-Pompey-in-the-Community/36731275" target="_blank" data-link-type="url"><span>here</span></a><span>. Please note a booking fee applies. A limited number of tickets will be available on the door on a first-come first-serve basis, but advance booking is strongly recommended.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p><span>Pompey in the Community (registered charity no. 1126118) is an independent charitable trust affiliated to Portsmouth Football Club, which harnesses the motivational power of football to promote education, healthy living, sporting participation and achievement amongst participants of all ages.<o:p></o:p></span></p>Portsmouth Philharmonictag:portsmouthphilharmonic.org,2005:Post/72390272023-07-10T09:00:00+01:002023-10-16T15:52:42+01:00Southsea kitchen for the homeless benefits from orchestra concert<p><meta charset="utf-8"></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/239374/4d8f6945428b6fb43d67ac51334fe8196293bfa1/original/img-0209.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_l justify_center border_" />A Southsea food kitchen for the homeless has benefitted to the tune of £500, the proceeds of the Portsmouth Philharmonic Orchestra's performance at the Lee Coronation Celebration concert in May.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;">Orchestra chair Di Lloyd presented the cheque to Mike Morell, manager at The LifeHouse, and some of its volunteers who regularly feed and support homeless people in the city.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;">Di said: “The orchestra committee thought this was a really good cause to support. Some of our players and supporters volunteer at The LifeHouse - for instance our former chair Anne White and current treasurer Sue Thornton bake cakes for them on a regular basis - so we have a really strong connection with the work that they do.”</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;">Mike added: “We were overwhelmed to hear that the orchestra was supporting our efforts. This money will make a big difference to us and we will be using it to buy basic staple foodstuffs. </span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;">“We work with food banks, food kitchens and local stores, who kindly donate food, but this will enable us to assure the supply of the basic ingredients we need.”</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;">The Portsmouth Philharmonic was formed in 2009 by a group of amateur musicians in the city and has raised more than £20,000 for local charities since then. With more than 30 members, it plays at least three concerts a year. It is supported by Portsmouth firm Bishops Printers.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;">More details about the orchestra can be found here: </span><a class="no-pjax" href="http://www.portsmouthphilarmonc.org"><span style="color:#1155cc;"><u>www.portsmouthphilharmonic.org</u></span></a><span style="color:#000000;">. </span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;">More details about The LifeHouse can be found here: </span><a class="no-pjax" href="http://www.lifehouse.org.uk"><span style="color:#1155cc;"><u>www.lifehouse.org.uk</u></span></a></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;"><i>Picture Caption: Di Lloyd (centre right) presents the cheque to Mike Morrell (centre left) with some of the volunteers from the food kitchen.</i></span></p>Portsmouth Philharmonictag:portsmouthphilharmonic.org,2005:Post/72172222023-05-29T10:06:52+01:002023-05-29T10:10:18+01:00King's concert raises £500 for The Lifehouse<p><meta charset="utf-8"></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/239374/04e5416b80d71a1d5eed9e8da96c13000d8bf4bc/original/20230527-pp-concert-103.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_xl justify_center border_" />A concert fit for a King was the latest outing for the Portsmouth Philharmonic Orchestra as it entertained an audience of almost 200 at Lee-on-the-Solent on Saturday in a special event to mark the coronation of King Charles III. The orchestra’s efforts raised £500 for charity.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;">With a programme reflecting the majesty of the occasion - including Elgar’s Pomp & Circumstance No 4 and Walton’s Crown Imperial - the orchestra was also joined by soprano Jennifer Parker-Lummis, who got the audience involved with her lusty renditions of Rule Britannia, Jerusalem and Land of Hope & Glory.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;">The PPO’s own Karen Travers also starred, with her solo in the third movement of Haydn’s Trumpet Concerto.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;">The orchestra donated its fee of £500 to The LifeHouse, a charity in Southsea which feeds the homeless. The concert was part of the Lee Coronation Celebration, a series of events held in the town during May 2023. </span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;">Di Lloyd, Chair of the PPO said: “We were delighted to be asked to play for such a prestigious occasion. We did something similar when we performed a Last Night of the Proms event at Bucklers Hard a few years ago but this was the first time the orchestra has played in Lee.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;">“It was also a pleasure to accompany someone with the talent of Jennifer. She really brought the house down with her outstanding singing.”</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;">To see a gallery of photos from the concert taken by our photographer Colin Farmery click </span><a class="no-pjax" href="https://portsmouthphilharmonic.org/galleries/993001/gallery-lee-coronation-celebration-concert" data-link-type="url"><span style="color:#000000;">here</span></a><span style="color:#000000;">.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;">The Portsmouth Philharmonic was formed in 2009 by a group of amateur musicians in the city and has raised more than £20,000 for local charities since then. With more than 30 members, it plays at least three concerts a year. It is supported by Portsmouth firm Bishops Printers.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;">Its next concert is on Sunday June 25 at 7pm at the Emsworth Baptist Church Hall, where it will feature music by Beethoven, Strauss and Dvorak. To buy tickets online click </span><a class="no-pjax" href="https://www.skiddle.com/whats-on/Portsmouth/Emsworth-Baptist-Church/Portsmouth-Philharmonic-Charity-Concert/36365572/" target="_blank" data-link-type="url"><span style="color:#000000;">here</span></a><span style="color:#000000;">. </span></p>Portsmouth Philharmonictag:portsmouthphilharmonic.org,2005:Post/71827242023-04-02T15:12:38+01:002023-04-02T15:19:25+01:00Concert raises £575 for Aurora New Dawn<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/239374/7320d59c039c6004cb1a33a9f844e472523f9f1a/original/20230325-pp-concert-7.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_m justify_left border_" />The latest concert by the Portsmouth Philharmonic raised £575 for Aurora New Dawn and was attended by the Lord Mayor and the Lady Mayoress of Portsmouth, whose chosen charity was the beneficiary.</p><p>Featuring soloist Karen Travers, who performed Hayden's Trumpet Concerto, the programme also included Mozart's Don Giovanni's Overture and Dvorak's Eighth Symphony. A gallery of photos from the concert is available <a class="no-pjax" href="https://portsmouthphilharmonic.org/photo-archive" data-link-type="url">here</a></p><p>Orchestra Chair Di Lloyd said: "The Dvorak was one of the more challenging pieces the orchestra has played and we were delighted with how we performed. Karen was fantastic in her solo role in the Haydn.</p><p>“Aurora New Dawn was a great charity to back in the work it does supporting those whose lives are affected by domestic violence and we were really pleased to have the support of the Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress once again.”</p><p>The orchestra's next outing is a concert to celebrate the Coronation of King Charles III on May 27 at St Faith's Church, Lee-on-the-Solent. Details of ticket sales are available <a class="no-pjax" href="https://portsmouthphilharmonic.org/event/5044534/634814534/celebrating-the-king-s-coronation" target="_blank" data-link-type="url">here</a>.</p><p> </p><p> </p>Portsmouth Philharmonictag:portsmouthphilharmonic.org,2005:Post/71779442023-03-24T16:01:57+00:002023-03-24T16:12:56+00:00Charity concert features Dvorak, Haydn and Mozart<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/239374/4885d7c26cd9591b4812c0f6cb5ea4e7a909ffbc/original/bishops-pr.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_m justify_left border_" />Dvorak's Eighth Symphony is the centrepiece of the latest charity concert by the Portsmouth Philharmonic in aid of Aurora New Dawn.</p><p>The charity is Portsmouth’s Lady Mayoress Marie Costa’s chosen cause for her year in the role, which comes to a close shortly. She will be in attendance along with the Lord Mayor.</p><p>Other works being performed at Haydn’s Concerto for Trumpet and Orchestra, featuring Karen Travers as soloist, and Mozart’s Don Giovanni Overture.</p><p>Doors open at the Church of the Resurrection in Drayton at 7pm for a 7.30pm start. Tickets are available on the door priced £8.00 for adults and accompanied children free.</p><p>The concert also marks the start of the orchestra’s partnership with Bishops Printers for 2023.</p><p> </p><p> </p>Portsmouth Philharmonictag:portsmouthphilharmonic.org,2005:Post/71403152023-01-21T09:00:00+00:002023-01-21T09:00:02+00:00PPO hands over cheque to air ambulance charity<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/239374/49a117cacb2ddeac436ee3722a882add9e492aed/original/20230115-cheque-presentation-1.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_left border_thin" alt="" />More than £650 was raised at the last concert of the Portsmouth Philharmonic, to support the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance. </p>
<p>The orchestra handed over a cheque for £656 at a recent rehearsal which was the proceeds of the event at the Church of the Resurrection in December. </p>
<p>Natalie Russell, supporter engagement officer at the air ambulance charity said: “Thank you to each and every member of Portsmouth Philharmonic Orchestra for your brilliant support. Your generosity, passion, and talent sent our team to another Hampshire local when they needed us most. </p>
<p>“Thanks to you, they are now safely reunited with their family. Thank you for a moving performance and we hope to see you again soon.” </p>
<p>Di Lloyd, Chair of the orchestra said: “We were really pleased to be able to support such an important service in our community. The stories Natalie told us of the work the air ambulance does emphasised the crucial nature of its work.” </p>
<p>The orchestra’s next concert, featuring music by Mozart, Haydn and Dvorak, is on Saturday March 25 at 7.30pm at the Church of the Resurrection, Drayton. For more details of the concert click <a contents="here" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://portsmouthphilharmonic.org/event/4894094/623239706/charity-concert-featuring-dvorak-s-eighth-symphony">here</a>.</p>
<p>The concert will be raising funds for Aurora New Dawn, a charity supporting victims of domestic violence, which is backed by the Lady Mayoress of Portsmouth, Miss Marie Costa. </p>
<p>Since its foundation in 2009, the orchestra has raised more than £20,000 for local charities and is kindly supported in its activity by Bishops Printers.</p>Portsmouth Philharmonictag:portsmouthphilharmonic.org,2005:Post/71403132023-01-20T09:00:00+00:002023-01-20T16:05:19+00:00PPO announces new partnership with Bishops Printers<p><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/239374/4885d7c26cd9591b4812c0f6cb5ea4e7a909ffbc/original/bishops-pr.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_left border_none" alt="" /></p>
<p>The Portsmouth Philharmonic is delighted to announce a partnership with Bishops Printers to supply its print requirements for 2023. </p>
<p>Since its formation in 2009, the orchestra has raised more than £20,000 for local charities and it sees the association with the city’s premier print firm as an important stage in its development. </p>
<p>Orchestra Chair Di Lloyd said: “Since the pandemic we have been looking to professionalise our image and this relationship with Bishops Printers underpins that, allowing us to produce high-quality promotional materials and programmes for our concerts. </p>
<p>“The orchestra is very grateful for Bishops’ support and the fact that such a significant city business wants to back us is a huge boost for us and we hope this can become a long and fruitful partnership.” </p>
<p>Gareth Roberts, Managing Director at Bishops Printers added: “From spurring me on at the gym to helping me de-stress at the end of the day, I’ve always recognised the power of music as a mood enhancer. The importance of the arts in supporting and inspiring us is something I feel passionate about, so I’m delighted we’re involved as Portsmouth Philharmonic Orchestra’s print partner.” </p>
<p>The partnership will formally launch at the orchestra’s next concert, featuring music by Mozart, Haydn and Dvorak, on Saturday March 25 at 7.30pm at the Church of the Resurrection, Drayton. </p>
<p>For more details of the concert click <a contents="here" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://portsmouthphilharmonic.org/event/4894094/623239706/charity-concert-featuring-dvorak-s-eighth-symphony" target="_blank">here</a> For more details of the range of services Bishops offer click <a contents="here" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.bishops.co.uk/" target="_blank">here</a></p>Portsmouth Philharmonictag:portsmouthphilharmonic.org,2005:Post/71212162022-12-11T11:08:36+00:002022-12-11T11:08:36+00:00Celebrating Anne White - Founder of PPO<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/239374/a0e395ecbdf5c72c7b05891aaa68da16b38313c0/original/20190616-concert-1.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_left border_thin" alt="Anne White" />At its concert in November 2022, the Portsmouth Philharmonic dedicated the performance to founder Anne White, who retired from playing in the summer.</p>
<p>When Anne was a Southsea GP she had the idea of setting up an amateur orchestra in the city which would raise money for charity. </p>
<p>She had played in the European Doctors’ Orchestra, where medic musicians came from all over the UK and Europe to play, and proceeds of the concerts went to a chosen charity. </p>
<p>She was sure that a city the size of Portsmouth could support an amateur orchestra that could do the same, so in 2009 she got together a small committee with a view to setting up what was then called the Portsmouth Philharmonia. The orchestra started rehearsals in March 2009 and held its first concert in June 2009, with the chosen charity being the Rowans’ Hospice. </p>
<p>Under Anne’s leadership, the orchestra went from strength to strength and is now in its 15th season. There are approximately 40 members aged from 18-90 years, and we put on three concerts per year. Our repertoire now includes challenging pieces of music such as Beethoven’s 7th and Mendelssohn’s Italian Symphony and we have played concertos with semi-professional soloists. </p>
<p>The orchestra has collaborated with a variety of other local groups and in 2011 Anne arranged for a Dutch orchestra to come over to Portsmouth for a few days and the orchestras played a joint concert. </p>
<p>To date the orchestra has raised around £20,000 for mostly local charities. Anne plays the flute and was chair of the PPO until 2018. </p>
<p>She has now decided to retire from playing in the orchestra, but we look forward to welcoming her back to future concerts and she has volunteered to help with refreshments during the interval.</p>
<p><span class="font_small">Photo: Colin Farmery / cocoFOTO.eu</span></p>Portsmouth Philharmonictag:portsmouthphilharmonic.org,2005:Post/71197702022-12-08T11:51:37+00:002022-12-08T11:53:26+00:00Concert raises more than £650 for air ambulance<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/239374/e75fd3739994b5c9b058b66093760f6d5e80c9f1/original/20221127-ppo-concert-5661.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_left border_thin" alt="Catherine Lawlor" />Our concert featuring soloist Catherine Lawlor playing Max Bruch's violin concerto raised more than £650 for the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance.</p>
<p>Attended by the Lord Mayor of Portsmouth Canon Cllr Hugh Mason and the Lady Mayoress Miss Marie Costa, a bumper audience was treated to a concert which also included a performance of Beethoven's Eighth Symphony and the Dambusters' March by Eric Coates.</p>
<p>Chair of the orchestra Di Lloyd said: 'This was a challenging concert for the orchestra, but it was a pleasure and privilege to be able to play with someone as talented as Catherine.</p>
<p>'As always it is the charities we raise money for which are the most important thing and we are delighted to have raised so much for them."</p>
<p>The amount raised from all sources was £656. Since its inception in 2009 the orchestra has raised around £20,000 for local charities.</p>
<p>The orchestra's next concert is on Saturday March 25 (7.30pm) at the Church of the Resurrection, Drayton, in aid of the Lady Mayoress's chosen charity Aurora New Dawn. The programme will feature Dvorak's Eighth Symphony.</p>
<p>To see a gallery of images from the concert click <a contents="here" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://portsmouthphilharmonic.org/galleries/961103/gallery-concert-in-aid-of-hampshire-iow-air-ambulance">here</a></p>
<p> </p>Portsmouth Philharmonictag:portsmouthphilharmonic.org,2005:Post/70025392022-06-27T14:35:04+01:002022-06-27T14:35:04+01:00Concert raises £420 for Cavernoma Alliance<p>Saturday's concert, featuring music by Mendelssohn, Mozart and Gounod, has raised £420 for the Cavernoma Alliance UK charity</p>
<p>In its first public concert for more than two years, the Portsmouth Philharmonic put on an impressive show at its Church of the Resurrection home venue in Drayton, which delighted its loyal audience.</p>
<p>Orchestra conductor Hugh Carpenter said:‘It was a relief that we were at last able to perform in public and I thought the orchestra excelled itself. The Mendelssohn, in particular, is a real challenge for any amateur orchestra and the Mozart had a good dynamic range and a sense of vitality throughout. The Gounod was quite a departure from our normal repertoire, but we played it really well.”</p>
<p>The concert opened with a stirring rendition of the Ukrainian national anthem.</p>
<p>The orchestra's next concert in on Sunday November 27 (3pm) at the same venue, and will feature Bruch's Violin Concerto No 1, with Catherine Lawlor the soloist. Ticket details will be announced nearer the time.</p>Portsmouth Philharmonictag:portsmouthphilharmonic.org,2005:Post/69832892022-05-31T10:46:02+01:002022-05-31T10:46:02+01:00Tickets now on sale for next PPO charity concert<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/239374/b7b7536083ec2de81890f4d54e162467fe79f80a/original/ngr2684.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_left border_thin" alt="" />Tickets are now on sale for the next charity concert of the Portsmouth Philharmonic, featuring music by Mendelssohn, Mozart and Gounod.</p>
<p>The concert, postponed from March, will take place on Saturday June 25 at the Church of the Resurrection, Penrhyn Road, Drayton starting at 7.30pm. </p>
<p>The concert is in aid of <a contents="Cavernoma Alliance UK" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://cavernoma.org.uk/" target="_blank">Cavernoma Alliance UK</a> (CAUK) and tickets can be bought online <a contents="here" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.skiddle.com/whats-on/Portsmouth/Church-Of-The-Resurrection/Charity-Classical-Music-Concert/36094675/" target="_blank">here</a> priced £8 for adults with accompanied children free. Please note a booking fee applies to maximise the amount the concert raises.</p>
<p>Tickets will also be available on the door.</p>
<p>The full programme is as follows:</p>
<p>Mozart - Magic Flute Overture </p>
<p>Mendelssohn - Symphony No 4 'Italian' </p>
<p>Gounod - Faust: Ballet Music</p>Portsmouth Philharmonictag:portsmouthphilharmonic.org,2005:Post/69306892022-03-24T12:14:20+00:002022-03-24T12:14:20+00:00Covid causes concert postponement<p>An outbreak of Covid-19 among orchestra members has caused Saturday's concert in aid of the Cavernoma Alliance UK to be postponed.</p>
<p>The concert, which featured music by Mendelssohn, Gounod and Mozart, was due to take place at the Church of the Resurrection at Drayton, but an outbreak of Covid saw key members of the orchestra struck down.</p>
<p>Di Lloyd, Chair of the Orchestra, said: "We are all disappointed as this was our first full concert in over two years. It was unfortunate that crucial members of the ensemble were affected, giving us little choice but to postpone."</p>
<p>The new date has provisionally been set for Saturday June 25 (7.30pm) at the same venue, with the same charity partner.</p>
<p> </p>Portsmouth Philharmonictag:portsmouthphilharmonic.org,2005:Post/69156822022-03-07T12:28:31+00:002022-03-07T12:29:22+00:00PPO's charity concert programme confirmed<p>Mozart's Magic Flute Overture has been added to the charity concert programme on Saturday March 26 (7.30pm) at the Church of the Resurrection in Drayton.</p>
<p>The concert, in aid of the Cavernoma Alliance UK, already had Mendelssohn's Italian Symphony and Gounod's Ballet Music from the opera Faust on the agenda. Tickets for the concert are £8 on the door (accompanied children are free) or can be bought online <a contents="here" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.skiddle.com/whats-on/Portsmouth/Church-Of-The-Resurrection/Charity-Concert-in-aid-of-the-Cavernoma-Alliance/36013430/" target="_blank">here</a> (booking fee applies). </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/239374/2d4463f504f81b45f6ee1c3fb4b07ea99355c0b0/original/202020326-poster-a5-page-1.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_left border_" /></p>
<p> </p>Portsmouth Philharmonictag:portsmouthphilharmonic.org,2005:Post/68965182022-02-13T14:49:49+00:002022-02-13T14:49:49+00:00First charity concert since 2019 features music by Mendelssohn and Gounod<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/239374/adb9d026443ba9f44255622d4a8d58cda2ce50a7/original/20181209-concert-13.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsInNtYWxsIl1d.jpg" class="size_s justify_left border_none" alt="Di Loyd - Chair of the Portsmouth Philharmonic" />The Portsmouth Philharmonic is back with its programme of charity concerts and is promoting its first public concert in more than two years, featuring Mendelssohn’s Italian Symphony. </p>
<p>In aid of the Cavernoma Alliance UK (CAUK), the orchestra will be performing at its ‘home’ venue of the Church of the Resurrection in Penrhyn Road, Drayton on Saturday March 26 at 7.30pm. </p>
<p>As well as the Mendelssohn, the orchestra will also be performing Gounod’s Ballet Music from Faust, as well as a third piece to be confirmed nearer the concert. </p>
<p>Orchestra Chair Di Lloyd (pictured) said: “It will be great to be performing in public again. We did put on a special show for friends and family of the orchestra before Christmas, but that was very much to get us back into the groove after 18 months without rehearsals.” </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/239374/a991faf2705bce1427fc1b8e09cb090465962fb8/original/pp-logo-white-on-black-png-v2.png/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsInNtYWxsIl1d.png" class="size_s justify_right border_none" alt="New Logo" />And Di revealed the orchestra now has a redesigned logo (right) to cement the link with its home city. </p>
<p>“Since we changed our name to the Portsmouth Philharmonic in 2016, we have had a terrific logo with a nod to the Spinnaker Tower, but we wanted to make our link with the city of Portsmouth more obvious, so we have incorporated the star & crescent symbol into the design,” she added. </p>
<p>Tickets will be available on the door priced £8 (cash only) or can be purchased online <a contents="here" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.skiddle.com/whats-on/Portsmouth/Church-Of-The-Resurrection/Charity-Concert-in-aid-of-the-Cavernoma-Alliance/36013430/" target="_blank">here</a> (booking fee applies).</p>
<p>The Cavernoma Alliance UK was founded in 2005, and its aim is to provide support and information for all those affected by cavernoma including friends, family, carers and professionals. For more information click <a contents="here" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://cavernoma.org.uk/" target="_blank">here</a>.</p>
<p>The Portsmouth Philharmonic was founded in 2009 and has raised close to £20,000 for charity since its inception.</p>Portsmouth Philharmonictag:portsmouthphilharmonic.org,2005:Post/68116182021-11-16T18:56:22+00:002021-11-16T18:56:22+00:00From Schubert to Sousa: PPO announces 'friends and family' December concert<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/239374/b7b7536083ec2de81890f4d54e162467fe79f80a/original/ngr2684.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_left border_thin" alt="" />The Portsmouth Philharmonic will play its first concert for two years when it puts on a programme featuring composers as varied as Schubert and Sousa on Sunday December 5 at the Church of the Resurrection, Drayton (3pm).</p>
<p>PPO last performed in December 2019 and only started rehearsals again in September following an 18-month gap for the pandemic.</p>
<p>To get back into the swing, Conductor Hugh Carpenter has put together an interesting programme which will also feature music by Vaughan Williams, Nicolai and Hely-Hutchinson.</p>
<p>While there is no admission charge, there will be a collection at the interval towards the cost of hiring the venue, when light refreshments will be served..</p>
<p>Orchestra Chair Di Lloyd said: 'We are all very excited about playing as a group for an audience again. It seems a long time ago since we last did.</p>
<p>'There will be a Christmas-themed element to the concert and it will be the perfect chance for our supporters to reconnect with the orchestra, as well us giving us a chance to "warm up" ahead of what we hope will be a full programme in 2022.'</p>
<p>The venue is the orchestra's base and is in Penrhyn Avenue. For SatNav users the post code is PO6 2AP</p>
<p> </p>Portsmouth Philharmonictag:portsmouthphilharmonic.org,2005:Post/67327722021-09-01T11:35:49+01:002021-11-07T14:05:04+00:00Portsmouth Philharmonic back in business!<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/239374/3b550218410c2122b47e0073d29faddb5ec56ea4/original/20181209-concert-46.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJjb250ZW50LnNpdGV6b29nbGUuY29tIn0=/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_left border_thin" alt="" />The Portsmouth Philharmonic is delighted to announce it will be resuming rehearsals from September 2021.</p>
<p>After the cancellation of its last scheduled concert in March 2020, due to the pandemic, the orchestra has been in hibernation.</p>
<p>With restrictions now eased, the orchestra is picking up where it left off and, under the guidance of conductor Hugh Carpenter, the orchestra will rehearse again on Sunday September 5.</p>
<p>A concert in spring 2022 has been pencilled in, with further details to follow, but for orchestra Chair Di Lloyd the important thing is to simply be playing again.</p>
<p>"It has been difficult for everyone not being able to play together. While small groups have used the opportunity, where they can, to play with one another, there is nothing like getting the full orchestra together. Everyone is really looking forward to it," she said.</p>
<p>The orchestra has put in a number of Covid-19 protocols for rehearsals to keep everyone as safe as possible.</p>
<p>Anyone interested in playing with the orchestra should contact <a contents="enquiries@portsmouthphilharmonic.org" data-link-label="" data-link-type="email" href="mailto:enquiries@portsmouthphilharmonic.org" target="_blank">enquiries@portsmouthphilharmonic.org</a> to find out the latest vacancies.</p>Portsmouth Philharmonictag:portsmouthphilharmonic.org,2005:Post/62468322020-03-12T19:35:11+00:002021-10-24T20:36:52+01:00Orchestra cancel charity concert<p>It is with regret Saturday’s concert at St Vincent College has had to be cancelled. The unavailability of a number of key members of both the orchestra, and the chosen charity GAFIRS, has led to this decision being taken. It is hoped the concert can be rearranged for later in the year. Tickets bought online will be refunded in the next day or so.</p>Portsmouth Philharmonictag:portsmouthphilharmonic.org,2005:Post/62170922020-02-16T17:22:24+00:002022-02-15T14:07:38+00:00Orchestra crosses the harbour for charity concert<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/239374/e3c736dea61429a916e9e707698377bf60506daa/original/ngr2800.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_left border_" />The Portsmouth Philharmonic will cross the harbour for its latest charity concert in aid of the Gosport & Fareham Inland Rescue Service which will feature music by Sibelius, Gounod and Haydn. </p>
<p>The concert will take place at the St Vincent College Theatre on Saturday March 14 at 7.30pm and is the first time the orchestra has played a concert in Gosport. The Mayor of Gosport Cllr Kathy Jones, will be in attendance. </p>
<p>With almost £20,000 now raised for local charities since the orchestra’s foundation in 2009, its latest programme should prove popular and pre-booking is advised. </p>
<p>Chair of the orchestra, and ‘cellist, Di Lloyd also has a personal reason for looking forward to the event. </p>
<p>“I’m delighted we’re playing in Gosport at St Vincent. I have very fond memories of the place, as I worked there for 25 years and retired as Principal of the college in 2014. </p>
<p>“The programme we have put together for this concert we hope will appeal to the public and, in turn, raise a decent amount of money for a great local cause. It was selected as one of the orchestra members has a close family connection with GAFIRS. </p>
<p>“The Karelia Suite by Sibelius is a very popular piece of music, which featured in the theme tune to the long-running ITV current affairs programme This Week. Haydn’s Symphony No 103, known as the ‘Drumroll’, is similarly well-known. Gounod’s ballet music from the opera Faust gives a rounded programme, which the orchestra has been working hard on in rehearsals.” </p>
<p>Now in its 12th concert season, the Portsmouth Philharmonic now has a reputation as one of the area’s leading amateur orchestras. </p>
<p>Among the charities who have benefitted recently are the Cystic Fibrosis Trust, The Alzheimer’s Society, The Stroke Association and Tonic: Music for Mental Health. </p>
<p>Tickets for the concert are £8 – accompanied children are free – and will be available on the door, or can be purchased online <a contents="here" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.skiddle.com/whats-on/Gosport/St.-Vincent-College/Charity-Concert-by-the-Portsmouth-Philharmonic-Orchestra/13747049" target="_blank">here</a>. Booking fees apply. </p>
<p> </p>Portsmouth Philharmonictag:portsmouthphilharmonic.org,2005:Post/59961362019-12-07T10:11:01+00:002021-10-31T14:15:18+00:00Total confirmed for cystic fibrosis charity concert<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/239374/b7b7536083ec2de81890f4d54e162467fe79f80a/original/ngr2684.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsInNtYWxsIl1d.jpg" class="size_s justify_left border_" />Portsmouth Philharmonic is delighted to announce the total raised by December 1’s concert for cystic fibrosis (CF) is £835.40. </p>
<p>The orchestra performed music by Humperdinck, Rossini and Beethoven at the Church of the Resurrection in Drayton. </p>
<p>More than 80 people attended the concert, making it one of the most successful concerts in the orchestra’s ten-year history. </p>
<p>Dannii Hutchins, a local Community Fundraiser for CF said afterwards: “On behalf of the Cystic Fibrosis Trust, I would like to thank all those who attended and organised this afternoon’s concert with Portsmouth Philharmonic Orchestra. </p>
<p>“It is a privilege to represent the 89 people in the area who have cystic fibrosis today and to witness a wonderful act of fundraising that will go on to support ground-breaking research and other services ultimately seeking a life-unlimited by CF.” </p>
<p>The orchestra’s next concert is on Saturday March 14 at the St Vincent College Theatre, Gosport at 7.30pm in aid of the Gosport & Fareham Inshore Rescue Service. </p>Portsmouth Philharmonictag:portsmouthphilharmonic.org,2005:Post/59874542019-12-01T22:50:32+00:002021-11-09T11:35:14+00:00Beethoven concert raises £800 for Cystic Fibrosis<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/239374/2cdd46f69e58ea8e9b075f36e3496e2928bb8567/original/ngr2877.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_right border_thin" alt="Concert Image" />Portsmouth Philharmonic raised more than £800 for Cystic Fibrosis after its latest charity concert in the city featuring music by Rossini, Humperdinck and Beethoven. </p>
<p>More than 80 people attended a concert at the Church of the Resurrection in Drayton on Sunday December 1, which featured a varied programme much appreciated by the audience. </p>
<p>The event was raising money for the Cystic Fibrosis Trust, a charity backed by former Portsmouth Lord Mayor Lee Mason. </p>
<p>And his successor Cllr David Fuller and the Lady Mayoress Leza Tremorin were also in attendance. </p>
<p>The first half featured Rossini’s Thieving Magpie overture and Humperdinck’s Hansel & Gretel overture, as well as a special composition and arrangement for audience participation by conductor Hugh Carpenter. </p>
<p>After the interval the orchestra performed Beethoven’s seventh symphony – regarded by many as his best – which delighted the bumper audience. </p>
<p>Formed in 2009, the Portsmouth Philharmonic has now raised almost £20,000 for local charities. </p>
<p>Chair of the orchestra Di Lloyd said: “We were delighted so many people turned up to see this concert and we are sure they will have gone away impressed. </p>
<p>“Beethoven’s seventh is never a straightforward piece to perform, but the orchestra managed the piece very well and it was a mark of its increasing maturity.”</p>Portsmouth Philharmonictag:portsmouthphilharmonic.org,2005:Post/59715342019-11-24T21:08:49+00:002021-11-16T12:52:01+00:00Classical music treat in Portsmouth raises cash for charity<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/239374/3848d59e580cbb3da1d17f03d4a8cdeba4a15e30/original/20181209-concert-37.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsInNtYWxsIl1d.jpg" class="size_s justify_right border_" />Portsmouth Philharmonic gets its twelfth season of charity concerts up and running on Sunday December 1 with a performance of Beethoven’s seventh symphony in aid of Cystic Fibrosis. </p>
<p>The orchestra, which was formed in 2009, will be performing at the Church of the Resurrection, Brecon Avenue, Drayton at 3pm <sunday december=""></sunday></p>
<p>Supporting the programme will be performances of Rossini’s Thieving Magpie Overture and Humperdinck’s Hansel & Gretel Overture. </p>
<p>Since it was founded, the orchestra has raised more than £18,000 for local charities and has gone from strength to strength. This time it will be the Cystic Fibrosis Trust who will benefit. </p>
<p>Chair of the Portsmouth Philharmonic, Di Lloyd, said: “It’s always a pleasure to play at the church as it is our home venue, as we rehearse in the hall here every Sunday evening. </p>
<p>“This concert has been a challenge for us all to prepare, but we are confident people will really enjoy what we are going to play. The first two pieces are very well-known and Beethoven’s seventh is also a popular piece. </p>
<p>"We also have a special surprise up our sleeve as well. Our conductor Hugh carpenter likes to keep the audience on its toes. </p>
<p>“It is great to be able to raise money for a well worthwhile charity, so we hope to see as many people there as possible. Light refreshments will be served at the interval in exchange for a donation to the charity.” </p>
<p>Advance tickets for the concert, priced £8 for adults (fees apply), are available online at skiddle.com and tickets will also be available on the door. Under 18s accompanied by an adult are free. </p>Portsmouth Philharmonictag:portsmouthphilharmonic.org,2005:Post/57958682019-06-18T20:17:11+01:002021-10-18T22:32:56+01:00More than £1000 raised for Alzheimer's Society<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/239374/aade574a734065070b9a95030c0e182c0c4f8708/original/20190615-concert-611569.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsImxhcmdlIl1d.jpg" class="size_l justify_right border_none" alt="" style="margin: 10px;" />A charity concert by the Portsmouth Philharmonic, featuring some of the country’s best loved music, has raised more than £1,000 for the Alzheimer’s Society. </p>
<p>The orchestra was invited to the Buckler’s Hard Yacht Harbour on the Beaulieu River to perform a private concert on June 15 for users of the marina. </p>
<p>Featuring music by Eric Coates, Ronald Binge, George Frideric Handel, Edward Elgar, Henry J Wood and Hubert Parry, concert-goers were treated to a ‘Last Night of the Proms’ style performance which was well received by an audience of almost 400. </p>
<p>Conducted by Hugh Carpenter and led by Colin Wilkins, the orchestra played for more than an hour and was given a rousing ovation at the end of the concert. </p>
<p>Orchestra Chair Di Lloyd said: “It was an honour to be invited to play in this annual event and the orchestra found it a hugely enjoyable and challenging concert to be involved in. </p>
<p>“The location was idyllic and we were very fortunate with the weather. To raise more than £1,000 for an important charity such as the Alzheimer’s Society is an amazing achievement and everyone involved in organising the event should be very proud.” </p>
<p>Beaulieu River Harbour Master Wendy Stowe added: “We were delighted to welcome the orchestra to perform at our mooring holders’ summer party on the picturesque banks of the river. The annual get together is a key date on the calendar of Beaulieu River events, bringing together new and old friends of the Buckler’s Hard Yacht Harbour community. The rousing Proms style concert was perfect for everyone to wave their flags and sing along to the thoroughly enjoyable performance. We are very grateful to the talented musicians.”</p>
<p>The Portsmouth Philharmonic is fast gaining a reputation of being one of the foremost amateur orchestras in the region. </p>
<p>Di, who is a ‘cellist, added: “The most important thing is that we are here to enjoy our music first and foremost. We are an open-access orchestra, which means we don’t require auditions, but we do expect members to commit the time required to practise to ensure a high standard of performance.” </p>
<p>Last summer the orchestra featured in the Portsmouth Festivities, as well as playing a concert at its ‘home’ venue of the Church of the Resurrection in Drayton, where it rehearses, in December in aid of Tonic: Music for Mental Health. In March the orchestra played at Portsmouth Grammar School, raising money for the Stroke Association. </p>
<p>Its next concert is on Sunday December 1 at 3pm at the Church of the Resurrection, which will feature a programme including Beethoven’s seventh symphony. </p>
<p>Since it was formed in 2009, the orchestra has now raised almost £18,000 for local charities. </p>
<p>For more information about the orchestra email enquiries@portsmouthphilharmonic.org. </p>
<p><strong><span class="font_small">Picture by Colin Farmery / cocoFOTO</span></strong></p>Portsmouth Philharmonictag:portsmouthphilharmonic.org,2005:Post/56912722019-03-24T15:22:39+00:002021-11-16T02:21:45+00:00Soloist Lawlor steals the show for the Stroke Association<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/239374/256a1a786f57d7aefcdb4607da3d47b856ce6e65/original/20190316-concert-2.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_right border_thin" alt="Catherine Lawlor" />Solo violinist Catherine Lawlor stole the show as the Portsmouth Philharmonic’s latest concert raised £400 for the Stroke Association. </p>
<p>Lawlor performed The Lark Ascending with the orchestra at the Portsmouth Grammar School last Saturday <march> as part of a concert which also featured Beethoven’s Egmont Overture and Haydn’s Surprise Symphony, as well as Vaughan Williams’ perennially popular piece. </march></p>
<p>Di Lloyd, Chair of the Portsmouth Philharmonic, said: “We were very fortunate to be able to play with someone of Catherine’s calibre and it was clear the audience appreciated her performance. </p>
<p>“We were raising money for a very good cause and we were delighted the people of the city turned out in such good numbers to support us. </p>
<p>“The orchestra is also hugely grateful for the support of the Lord Mayor, Cllr Lee Mason, who is a regular at our concerts and who enjoyed himself again immensely at this event.” </p>
<p>Concert goer Pauline Morrison said afterwards: “I so much enjoyed the concert, particularly the orchestra and soloist playing The Lark Ascending - it was so harmonious. It was also well supported and a great tribute to you all for a worthy, local charity.” </p>
<p>And another, Sandy Tremlett, added: “It was a very enjoyable concert. The orchestra is getting better and better. I also liked the introduction and information about each piece given by the ‘cellist [Alan Glock] in the orchestra.” </p>
<p>The Stroke Association is the leading charity working to support people affected by the condition and local volunteers supported the concert and provided information for people at the event. </p>
<p>Portsmouth Philharmonic was founded in 2009 and is now in its eleventh concert season. It has raised more than £15,000 for local charities in that time. </p>
<p>Its next public concert will be on Saturday November 30, 2019 at 7.30pm and will feature music by Beethoven. The venue and full programme will be revealed in the autumn. </p>
<p>In June the orchestra will be supporting the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust at a private outdoor concert at Buckler’s Hard. </p>
<p>Di added: “This is a prestigious event and we are honoured to have been approached to play. It really does reflect how the orchestra is gaining a reputation across the region.”</p>
<p>Picture: Catherine Lawlor performs The Lark Ascending / Picture by Colin Farmery / cocofoto.eu</p>Portsmouth Philharmonictag:portsmouthphilharmonic.org,2005:Post/55644202018-12-21T19:02:46+00:002021-11-15T09:02:57+00:00Portsmouth Philharmonic gives mental health a Tonic<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/239374/3b550218410c2122b47e0073d29faddb5ec56ea4/original/20181209-concert-46.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_left border_" />A charity orchestral event has raised £750 for a Portsmouth mental health charity. </p>
<p>The Portsmouth Philharmonic Orchestra staged a concert featuring music from Bizet, Strauss, Greig and Schubert at the Church of the Resurrection, Drayton last Sunday <dec>. </dec></p>
<p>The concert was in aid of Tonic: Music for Mental Health, which is based in the city and uses music to encourage people to come to terms with mental health issues they are facing. </p>
<p>Supported by the Lord Mayor of Portsmouth, Cllr Lee Mason, who attended the concert, the orchestra performed Schubert’s Rosamunde Overture, Strauss’s Serenade in Eb Major and Grieg’s Peer Gynt Suite No 1 in the first half. </p>
<p>The second half was devoted to Bizet’s Symphony in C Major, with a Christmas-themed encore to close the event. </p>
<p>Steph Langan, founder of the charity, said: “It was an amazing concert, which at times made the hairs on the back of my neck stand on end. They are truly a great orchestra. </p>
<p>“To raise this amount of money for us is incredible. It will have a major impact on the scope of support we can offer people in the new year. </p>
<p>We have a number of workshops already planned and this money will enable us to do even more.” </p>
<p>Di Lloyd, Chair of the orchestra, added: “We are really pleased that we were able to raise so much. We like to support local charities wherever possible and Tonic’s goals are completely in line with ours.” </p>
<p>The Portsmouth Philharmonic orchestra is the city’s leading amateur orchestra. Founded in 2009, it has raised more than £15,000 for local charities. </p>
<p>Its next concert is on Saturday March 16 at 7.30pm in the David Russell Theatre at Portsmouth Grammar School and will feature music by Haydn and Vaughan Williams. </p>
<p>More information on Tonic is available on their website: <a contents="http://www.tonicmusic.co.uk/" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.tonicmusic.co.uk/" target="_blank">http://www.tonicmusic.co.uk/</a></p>Portsmouth Philharmonictag:portsmouthphilharmonic.org,2005:Post/55391472018-12-04T17:33:54+00:002021-11-04T06:36:14+00:00Orchestra's charity tonic<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/239374/03ed9d8f72aba081016d2195d45e3f177efd96a8/original/20181127-tonic-1.jpg/!!/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_left border_none" alt="" />Music has the power to heal and the Portsmouth Philharmonic orchestra will be doing more than its bit to prove that to be the case at its latest concert in aid of mental health. </p>
<p>Tonic: Music for Mental Health is a Portsmouth not-for-profit organisation working with people using music as a therapy to help people come to terms with the mental health issues they are facing. </p>
<p>The orchestra’s next concert at the Church of the Resurrection, Drayton on Sunday December 9 (3pm) will be raising funds for the charity. </p>
<p>Featuring music by Schubert – the Rosamunde Overture – Strauss’s Serenade in Eb Major and Bizet’s Symphony in C Major, as well as Greig’s well-known Peer Gynt Suite No 1, the concert promises to have something for everyone, as well as raising money for a great cause. </p>
<p>Steph Langan Founder and Director of the charity said: “We’re an independent organisation and we don’t get any funding, so when community groups support us it means a great deal. It means we can put the money towards projects we don’t have funding for. </p>
<p>“We have a new timetable of creative workshops and music groups in January and February and it means we can add some additional workshops to that programme that we wouldn’t have been ordinarily able to do.” </p>
<p>And although Tonic largely focuses on using popular music forms, Steph is a strong advocate of the role classical music has to play in helping people. </p>
<p>“Classical music is key to supporting people. Lots of people who have mental health issues I’ve met over the years cite classical music as being a strong part in helping them feeling more relaxed and calm and it has a huge effect on people’s wellbeing. It’s incredibly important,” she added. </p>
<p>Orchestra Chair Di Lloyd said: “We like to support local charities wherever possible and we felt this charity was an excellent fit with our goals, so we are delighted to be able to support them. </p>
<p>“The concert programme is varied, from more popular pieces to some challenging works, and I hope will appeal to people in the city. We are also honoured the city’s Lord Mayor, Cllr Lee Mason, will be in attendance.” </p>
<p>The concert venue is in Brecon Avenue. Tickets, priced £8 for adults, with accompanied children free, are available on the door or in advance from the orchestra website: <a contents="https://portsmouthphilharmonic.org/concert-programme" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://portsmouthphilharmonic.org/concert-programme" target="_blank">https://portsmouthphilharmonic.org/concert-programme</a> Advance tickets are subject to a booking fee. </p>
<p>The Portsmouth Philharmonic orchestra is the city’s leading amateur orchestra. Founded in 2009, it has raised more than £15,000 for local charities. </p>
<p>More information on Tonic is available on their website: <a contents="http://www.tonicmusic.co.uk/" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.tonicmusic.co.uk/" target="_blank">http://www.tonicmusic.co.uk/</a></p>Portsmouth Philharmonictag:portsmouthphilharmonic.org,2005:Post/54904582018-10-29T10:40:55+00:002021-11-11T13:00:04+00:00Orchestra plays Bizet for mental health charity<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/239374/05d8e69c10d4c12337f792dd23db4fdbb23cbca0/original/20160717-resurrection-11.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_left border_" /></p>
<p>A music-oriented mental health charity is the latest good cause to benefit from a concert by the Portsmouth Philharmonic Orchestra. </p>
<p>Tonic is a Portsmouth-based charity which raises awareness and challenges the stigma often associated with mental illness through music and art-based events. </p>
<p>The orchestra's next concert, on Sunday December 9 (3pm) at the Church of the Resurrection, Brecon Avenue, will feature Bizet's Symphony in C Major, as well as Schubert's Rosamunde Overture and Strauss's Serenade in Eb Major. </p>
<p>Chair of the Orchestra and 'cellist Di Lloyd said: "Tonic is a relatively new charity and the orchestra thought it was important to show how important music can be in terms of mental well-being. </p>
<p>"It really is a universal language and we look forward to working with the charity to make this concert a success and raise the profile of this issue." </p>
<p>Tonic organises music workshops, gigs, art groups, and community projects throughout the year for people experiencing mental health problems. </p>
<p>Tickets priced £8 for adults will be available on the door or can be purchased in advance <a contents="here" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.skiddle.com/whats-on/Portsmouth/Church-Of-The-Resurrection/Charity-Concert-in-aid-of-Tonic-Music-For-Mental-Health/13376223/" target="_blank">here</a> (£1.05 booking fee applies). Accompanied under-18s are entitled to a free ticket. </p>
<p>The orchestra, founded in 2009 and now in its tenth season, has raised more than £15,000 for local charities.</p>Portsmouth Philharmonictag:portsmouthphilharmonic.org,2005:Post/54495272018-09-30T15:59:45+01:002021-08-30T17:03:17+01:00Chair steps down after nine years' service<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/239374/a0e395ecbdf5c72c7b05891aaa68da16b38313c0/original/20190616-concert-1.jpg/!!/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_left border_" />Flautist Anne White (pictured), the driving force behind the creation of the Portsmouth Philharmonic, has stepped down as Chair of the orchestra after nine years in the role. </p><!-- more -->
<p>Her replacement as Chair is Di Lloyd, a ‘cellist, who joined the orchestra in 2014. </p>
<p>Since 2009 the orchestra has gone from strength to strength, raising more than £15,000 for local charities and providing musicians in Portsmouth with the chance to perform orchestral pieces in venues across the city and beyond. </p>
<p>Anne said: “I am absolutely thrilled by the way the orchestra has expanded over the years. It has been a source of happiness and friendship for so many people as well as raising money for good causes.” </p>
<p>However the orchestra very nearly failed to get off the ground at all. </p>
<p>“After an initial attempt failed in 2008, despite more than 40 people tuning up for the first rehearsal, eventually four plucky musicians met in the 5th Hants Volunteer Arms in March 2009,” recalled Anne. </p>
<p>“One of the number said it would be too difficult to set up an amateur orchestra and was not seen again! Another said he would conduct as long as all he had to do was 'wave the baton', so he was given the role of conductor and the orchestra was born. </p>
<p>“It was agreed that given the population of Portsmouth there should be sufficient numbers of enthusiastic amateurs to join in. </p>
<p>“The aim was to be inclusive which meant no auditions or trial periods, enabling local amateur musicians the opportunity to play great music together and to have three concerts per year, the proceeds of which would be donated to charities. </p>
<p>“I remember our first concert took place in St Swithun's church; the tickets cost £2 and £140 was sent to the Rowans Hospice, the orchestra's charity of choice that time. Refreshments were served by members of the Havant Symphony Orchestra who were happy to support their amateur colleagues,” she said. </p>
<p>Anne will also continue to play her flute for the ensemble. “I cannot imagine ever not wanting to head off and practise each week. I was only talking to one of our ‘cellists recently who remarked it really is the best way to start the week. </p>
<p>“However, I felt the time was right to pass the responsibility for driving the orchestra forward to someone else and I’m delighted Di has agreed to take on the role. I am sure she will do a great job.”</p>Portsmouth Philharmonictag:portsmouthphilharmonic.org,2005:Post/54174042018-09-06T16:29:40+01:002021-11-16T18:03:57+00:00Portsmouth Philharmonic Season 10 gets underway<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/239374/ab60d724a78ebd00d76129f60fb1418a0926c6c4/original/20180311-rehearsal-35.jpg/!!/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_left border_" />The tenth season of the Portsmouth Philharmonic gets underway on Sunday September 16 with the first rehearsal of the term.</p><!-- more -->
<p>Having raised more than £15,000 for local charities in its ten-year history, the new season promises to be as busy as ever.</p>
<p>The orchestra's first concert is on Sunday December 9 at the Church of the Resurrection in Drayton at 3pm, where a programme of music by Bizet and Tchaikovsky will be played.</p>
<p>If you are interested in getting involved with the orchestra, please contact using the page <a contents="here" data-link-label="Contact" data-link-type="page" href="/contact">here</a> to find out more about our current vacancies.</p>
<p><em>Picture: The double basses take a break at a recent rehearsal. By Colin Farmery / cocoFOTO</em></p>Portsmouth Philharmonictag:portsmouthphilharmonic.org,2005:Post/53444972018-07-13T11:59:12+01:002021-10-31T18:36:53+00:00Cheque for £150 presented to rheumatology department at QA<p>Portsmouth Philharmonic has donated £150 to the rheumatology department at the QA hospital – the proceeds of a concert it staged in March. </p><!-- more -->
<p>The event on March 4 at the Church of the Resurrection in Drayton – the orchestra’s home base – featured music by Brahms, Bach and Schubert among others. </p>
<p>Anne White, who organised the concert, said: “The orchestra has done previous concerts on behalf of the department, but this time we decided to do the concert “in-house” as we feel it is such a good cause.” </p>
<p>Colin Beevor, from the Rheumatology and Fracture Liaison Service, said: “The department is delighted the orchestra was able to help us out with this concert. The money will be used to support patient self-management support programmes.” </p>
<p>The Portsmouth Philharmonic’s next concert is on Sunday December 9 at the Church of the Resurrection at 3pm and will feature music by Bizet and Tchaikovsky.</p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/239374/d67200f66e3c03507a3503cab881e43716459088/original/20190624-rheumatology-low-res-1.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_left border_" /></p>
<p>Picture: Colin Beevor receives the cheque from Anne White at a recent orchestra rehearsal. By Colin Farmery / cocoFOTO</p>Portsmouth Philharmonictag:portsmouthphilharmonic.org,2005:Post/53012912018-06-17T23:16:12+01:002021-11-10T16:29:22+00:00Concert raises almost £500 for Meningitis Now!<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/239374/00df9392e2c74d9a2a22da225baa045a8d1c479a/original/mn-master-logo-hires-pink.png/!!/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsInNtYWxsIl1d.png" class="size_s justify_left border_" />As part of the Portsmouth Festivities the Portsmouth Philharmonic combined forces with the Southsea Community choir to raise nearly £500 for Meningitis Now. </p><!-- more -->
<p>The programme, featuring music by Beethoven and Vivaldi, took place in the David Russell Theatre at Portsmouth Grammar School and was introduced by Alison Hull from the charity. She described how she had lost her son when he died of Meningitis, including the process of bereavement that her family has undergone. </p>
<p>Alison is now a campaigner for Meningistis Now which has raised countless millions for research into the disease and aims to raise awareness of the early symptoms with public and the medical profession alike. </p>
<p>The concert was introduced by Alan Glock, a 'cellist in the orchestra, who talked about the pieces of music in the programme. The first piece was by Vivaldi for orchestra and two violins. Vivaldi was the prototype of the modern virtuoso. He wrote 230 concertos for the violin creating the most original and innovative music of the age </p>
<p>The orchestra then played Beethoven's third symphony also called ‘Eroica’. Beethoven had planned the symphony as a homage to Napoleon who he saw as a champion of liberty and freedom. Legend has it that when he heard that Napoleon had crowned himself Emperor, he scratched out the word ‘Bonaparte’ from the first page and replaced it with the one word ‘Eroica’. </p>
<p>Chair of the orchestra Anne White said: "This piece of music was one of the most ambitious pieces chosen by the orchestra and is a fantastic effort by all concerned." </p>
<p>The second half of the programme was led by Janet Ayers and the Southsea Community choir. They, like the orchestra, meet every week and perform for charities and like the orchestra, everyone is welcome. They sing unaccompanied four part harmony folk songs from around the world for fun and enjoyment. </p>
<p>Over the years the choir has raised more than £15,000 for Water Aid. Picking up on the theme of 'Freedom' set by the festivities, they sang a variety of songs from around the world, including South Africa, a New Zealand Maori blessing and Black American cultures. One song was based on a poem written by Lemn Sissay. The audience was also invited to join in under Janet’s instruction. </p>
<p>Audience member Marie Costa said: “It was a great performance! The orchestra and choir did so well in mixing the classical with the ‘normal’ singing. It was a concert which had something for everyone.” </p>
<p>Portsmouth Philharmonic's next concert is on Sunday December 9 at 3pm in the Church of the Resurrection at Drayton, Portsmouth in which a programme of music by Bizet and Tchaikovsky will be played. </p>
<p>To get involved with Southsea Community Choir, Janet can be contacted on 023 9281 8802 or 07541 470225 </p>
<p>To get involved with the Portsmouth Philharmonic, Anne can be contacted on 023 9273 1122 or 07712 279199 or email enquiries@portsmouthphilharmonic.org</p>Portsmouth Philharmonictag:portsmouthphilharmonic.org,2005:Post/53008952018-06-11T17:55:00+01:002021-10-03T10:06:32+01:00VIVALDI & BEETHOVEN feature in a charity concert as part of Portsmouth Festivities <p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/239374/4cd06920bcae488e4815fee5e760cc8e6318401c/original/portsfest-logo-large-green-2018.png/!!/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsInNtYWxsIl1d.png" class="size_s justify_left border_" />The Portsmouth Philharmonic and Southsea Community Choir have teamed up to put on a charity concert as part of the Portsmouth Festivities.</p><!-- more -->
<p>On Saturday June 16 at 7.30pm in the David Russell Theatre at Portsmouth Grammar School, 1 High Street, Portsmouth, the orchestra will lead off in the first half with Vivaldi's Concerto No. 8 for two violins and Beethoven's third 'Eroica' symphony. </p>
<p>After the break the Southsea Community Choir will perform a selection of songs from around the globe on the theme of Freedom. </p>
<p>The concert aims to raise funds for Meningitis Now. Since it was founded in 2009, the orchestra has raised more than £15,000 for charities in the Portsmouth area. </p>
<p>Tickets are available on the door on a first-come, first-served basis priced £7.50. </p>Portsmouth Philharmonic