Join members, new players and Friends of Wimbledon Symphony Orchestra as we explore Mendelssohn's glorious orchestral and concerto repertoire. A relaxed and friendly event, suitable for players of all ages and especially interesting for younger players to experience playing with a full scale orchestra.
Use the form below to sign up or register your interest to play or support the Mendelthon. For those wishing to play or conduct, you can purchase a ticket in advance at the reduced rate by following the link below. (Note - ADVANCED TICKET ONLINE BOOKINGS WILL NOT BE AVAILABLE AFTER MIDNIGHT ON FRIDAY 27TH)
If you are a budding conductor, or just fancy having a go with the baton in your hand for a change rather than just watching it, there are a limited number of short conducting 'try-out' opportunities available throughout the day.
In addition to the playing, we are very excited to be welcoming Stephen Carpenter, who will be giving an illustrated talk about "Mendelssohn in Scotland" as part of the day's programme. Stephen has spent his career working in orchestral management including time with the Scottish Chamber Orchestra before moving on to be Chief Executive firstly of the Royal Scottish National Orchestra, then the City of London Sinfonia in the 1990s and most recently, the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment.
The planned schedule is as follows (with breaks during the morning and afternoon);
Elena Abad
- 9.45, arrive, coffee and set-up
- 10.30am Start
- Symphony No 4
- Heimkehr aus der Fremde
- Violin Concerto featuring the talented young soloist, Elena Abad.
- 1.30 LUNCH break
- "Mendelssohn in Scotland" talk by Stephen Carpenter
- Ave Maria (choral work - all welcome!)
- Symphony No 3 "Scottish"
- Hebrides Overture
- 5.00pm finish
The whole day will be presided over by our regular guest conductor Andy Morley and the orchestra will be lead by our leader, Charlotte Edwards.
All amateur orchestras and music groups have to work very hard to remain financially viable as the cost of putting on high quality concerts is significant, including venue and music hire, professional players, soloists and conductors. There will be a number of small fundraising events through the day including a raffle, silent auction, and cake sale and sandwiches and refreshments will be available for a small donation. Family and friends of players as well as audience and Friends of WSO are welcome to attend and there is no charge to do this.
Fees to participate in the Mendelthon as a player or conductor as follows;
- Player (Adult, WSO member or guest player) - Advanced purchase : £20*
- Player (Adult, member or guest) - On the door : £25
- Player (U18/Student Full-time Student) - Advanced purchase : £15*
- Player (U18/Student) - On the door : £18
- Conductor - Exact arrangements to be discussed and agreed : £50
- Audience including Friends of WSO : FREE ENTRY
* ADVANCED ONLINE BOOKING IS AVAILABLE UP UNTIL MIDNIGHT ON FRI 27TH
We will of course welcome donations also if you feel you would like to support WSO in putting on this event.
Thank you for your interest and we looking forward to seeing you on Sunday 29th April. Please note that there is ample parking at Burntwood School as well as good transport links.