On a bitterly cold evening last Thursday, everyone who attended the concert given by the Greenhill School Orchestra for the Arts Club was well rewarded. It was a privilege to listen to the large group of talented and dedicated students. Introducing the programme, Newman Vincent brought everyone up to date with the various activities of the orchestra, after which the concert began, under the directorship of Paul Rapi, with Ron Goodwin's lively, energetic 'Aces High'. This was followed by memories of 'Satchmo' where the brass section excelled and the whole orchestra displayed a wonderful 'big band' sound. On the short list for this year's Urdd Eisteddfod, Henry Mancini's 'Pink Panter' came next with its mysterious loping style, admirably interpreted by all sections of the orchestra. In contrast, the audience now heard the delicate Dwertimenti No.1 by Leopold Mozart beautifully played by Lee Mottram, clarinet, Sam Davies, flute and Natasha van da pas, oboe, the trio capturing the intimacy of the three movements to perfection. Back now to the whole orchestra who regaled everyone with the exciting 'Star Trek' music, brass and percussion showing their skills. The syncopated rhythms and frequent change of tempo in the 'Chicago' music were handled with style and feeling for this '30s genre. Before moving on to the next item, Newman Vincent introduced William Edwards who has recently joined the National Youth Orchestra of Wales as a prize-winning percussionist. William performed Ney Rosauro's Prelude No.1 which won enthusiastic applause for the audience. The theme music from 'Mission Impossible' came next, again with syncopated rhythms and scope for some spirited woodwind passages. Ted Ricketts' arrangement of 'Pirates of the Caribbean' with its atmosphere of adventure on the high seas, gave the whole orchestra full rein, enjoyed by players and audience alike. With the end of the concert in sight, Newman Vincent told a little of the future plans for the orchestra, which included a tour to Barcelona next year. Finally, the Latin American rhythms of 'Tequila' completed a wonderful evening provided by a large group of very talented and hard-working students. Congratulations go to the director, Paul Rapi, the many peripatetic teachers, and not least the orchestra leader Andrew Birch, on their excellent achievements. They are wished every success for the future. This (Friday) evening, one of Wales's leading wind ensembles, Celtaidd, will give a concert at the Tenby Community Learning Centre at 8 pm. Admission £3. Everyone is welcome.
