Torbay Symphony Orchestra is one of five shortlistees for the 2023 RPS Inspiration Award, voted for by the public. Although voting has now closed, we invite you to read about this year's shortlisted entities.
‘Classical. Contemporary. Community.’ These three words used to describe Torbay Symphony Orchestra capture so much of what is at the heart of the group which draws members from across South Devon with chamber music, orchestral concerts and an impressive commitment to music education in schools. Led by innovative music director Richard Gonski, rehearsals have a friendly and collaborative atmosphere while delving into the musical detail and focussing on the skilful interpretation and communication of orchestral music from all eras, including new works that have been specially commissioned for the orchestra.
Torbay Symphony Orchestra is firmly rooted in its community and its work with young people is equally important as its concert programme. The orchestra is known for giving workshops and taster sessions with primary schools and local music organisations that support children from low-income families, where members of the orchestra passionately describe the positive role music plays in their lives and encourage children to take up an instrument. As well as inspiring the next generation of musicians, some of whom have gone on to music college, the orchestra has been described as a lifeline for its older members, providing much-needed company and friendship.
‘I love coming to rehearsals because our musical director Richard creates the sense that together we are part of a musical community determined to communicate the beauty of the piece we are studying to others. There is a relaxed, open and collaborative atmosphere where our opinions are sought and we are free to comment and question. There are no auditions for this orchestra, but we manage to combine high standards with passion in performance. I also love the way we also reach out to the wider community, through weekend festivals with masterclasses for young people, schools’ workshops and family concerts.’
Lindsay, viola
‘I value the welcoming, inclusive atmosphere of the TSO community. We work on varied repertoire and I love how we strive to move beyond technical challenges in a bid to understand the true meaning behind a work. This makes for a hugely rewarding musical experience. I enjoy the outreach projects in schools when children have the opportunity to try instruments, conduct the orchestra and sit amongst us while we play. My daughter played in a masterclass organised by TSO when she was 14 and subsequently joined the orchestra. She gained inspiring, invaluable experience with TSO which I am convinced helped her to gain a place at Trinity Laban to study violin.’
Clare, flute
