Cavan Sinfonia Orchestra is on the look out for new Longford members

A call out for new members by a Cavan based orchestra is hoping to attract musicians from Longford.

The Cavan Sinfonia Orchestra is seeking new players of all levels and abilities to join their collective.

Cavan Sinfonia Orchestra is an amateur group of players who rehearse weekly at Killygarry Community Centre, near Cavan town.

The orchestra was established in 2010 and performs a wide range of music from traditional to metal and classical to jazz.

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Directors Sue King and Evin O'Meara oversee the orchestra that operates on a voluntary basis and uses monies from concerts to pay for usual expenses.

There are about 35 members in the senior orchestra, with up to 20 musicians performing with the junior group.

The orchestra provides various instruments for individuals who wish to partake in lessons in the locality. Members can borrow the instruments for a year or until such time that they choose to buy their own instrument.

“At a minimum we do two concerts per year, Christmas and May. Last May we did music from the movies at the Cavan town hall for two nights. It was close to sold out for both nights,” Orchestra member Jennifer Jones told the Leader.

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Jennifer said many players from the Longford area have performed with the group: “We have been asked to perform in Longford next year, the plans are still being worked out. The musicians range in age from 18 to 73.”

Jennifer has been a member of the Cavan Sinfonia Orchestra for the last couple of years: “I am originally from Canada, but I have always wanted to move to Ireland.

“I lived in Dublin in 1991-1992 and was pulled back to Canada to help with the family business.”

“When I was doing my research for where I wanted to live, finding an orchestra was my first priority.

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“Sue King - the conductor was so gracious and encouraged me to join the group. I play the oboe and the English horn which is a rarer instrument.

“I arrived in February 2022 and eight days later I was in rehearsal. I have loved every minute of playing with this group. The music isn’t too challenging and it is very enjoyable.”

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Jennifer hopes that more members will join the orchestra: “We need more players in order to start playing bigger pieces of music. I think it's the best therapy for health and happiness and want to make sure others know about this opportunity.”

The Cavan Sinfonia Orchestra rehearses on Monday night from 6:30pm to 8:00pm at Killygarry School in Cavan: “I hope people will dust off their violin, cello, woodwind or brass instrument and join us for an enjoyable season,” Jennifer concluded.

The group has received funding from the Arts Council, CMETB and Cavan Arts Office over the years. Prospective members can contact cavansinfonia@gmail.com if they have questions or need more information.

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