Strathearn Music Society reveal their new programme

Jul 27 2012 by Katy Gordon, Strathearn Herald

THE new season of the Strathearn Music Society has been revealed, with a wide-ranging set of concerts planned.

The Herald was given a sneak peek at the 2012/13 programme, which boasts performances by both up-and-coming artists and well-established musicians.

SMS chairperson Marjorie Bourne said: “This coming season will promote Scottish talent. It is lovely to have people from abroad perform but we wanted to focus on people from, or educated in, Scotland.

“Daniel’s Beard and the Maxwell String Quartet are starting to make a name for themselves and Steven Osborne is already a star so there’s a bit of a mix.

“The programme really does offer something for everyone.”

Opening the season on Wednesday, September 17, will be Pure Brass, an award-winning brass quintet formed in 2006.

The season will see Daniel’s Beard and the Maxwell String Quartet perform before the end of 2012, with Steven Osborne the first concert scheduled for the new year.

In February the Andrews Massey Duo will play for the society.

The season will close with the Cameo Clarinet Quartet in March. The all-female group was founded in 2011 with a vision to show how versatile and innovative the clarinet can be.

And in a new twist the performances will come down off the stage.

Marjorie explained: “The performers will be on raised blocks on the floor instead of on the stage, which will create a more intimate atmosphere and make the engagement with the audience much more immediate.”

The society has also arranged workshops relating to the performances. Pure Brass will work with schools in the area, as will the Cameo Clarinet Quartet.

Although Marjorie said she was “happy and proud” to have such a loyal following for the society, she added that new members would always be welcome.

“Listening to music together is one of the most social and delightful things to do, especially going to concerts held in a relaxed and friendly way,” she said.

“I would encourage anyone to come along and enjoy the experience for themselves.”

To join the Strathearn Music Society visit www.strathearnmusicsociety.btck.co.uk, or contact Marjorie Bourne on 01764 650822 or secretary Mollie McCallum on 01764 654186.

Season tickets cost £40 and anyone under 18 accompanied by an adult gets in for free. For non-members each concert entry is £10, £3 for students.

Brochures with full details are now available locally.