Orchestral Liaison - Dee Gordon Jackson

Orchestral Liaison is a fascinating, detailed and immensly enjoyable role which is undertaken in close communication with the Musical Director. Christopher Gray's insight into the works and the clarity of his requirements are invaluable.

The Orchestral players are individually selected for each concert, depending on the forces of the works being performed. The musicians are drawn largely from the South West and include professionals, semi-professionals, teachers and examiners, many of whom perform nationally and internationally. Emerging young professionals from Cornwall are a welcome part of the orchestra.

Planning begins many months in advance when the concert programme is confirmed and players are booked. Finding suitable players can sometimes be a challenge as they are much in demand with other musical organisations and despite best efforts, there are occasions when events may clash.

The orchestral music arrives 3-4 weeks before the concert and is then sorted and sent to players together with further information and confirmation of rehearsal and concert arrangements.

Last minute changes can be also challenging when replacement players are required. This can entail many hours on the telephone searching country wide for a suitable player who is free - networking with other orchestral 'fixers' is essential!

Orchestral rehearsal time is only a few short hours on the morning of the concert and occasionally on the previous evening. This is a busy but special time when old friends and new players are welcomed and months of work and preparation come to fruition. At rehearsals and on concert day there are administrative matters to be managed and queries to be dealt with.

Following the concert, the music is collected, checked and returned to the Library or publisher.

It is important that all players feel welcome and supported at all times so that they are free to engage in the demands of rehearsal and performance. Whilst the forces may not be as large as some national orchestras, the musicians' expertise, interpretation and camaraderie is always evident.

On a personal note, I consider it an enormous priviledge to have been involved with Three Spires in this role since 2002; the musicians are a joy and I continue to learn from them about the intricacies of their instruments and the music they perform.

Three Spires Singers values the Orchestra enormously and I would like to add my personal tribute to the players who have been so much a part of our success.