PHOENIX STRINGS
Conductor: John Foster
A Potted History
John Foster Violinist / Violist
John Foster studied in Manchester at what is now The Royal Northern College of Music. As a performer and teacher, he has worked all over Britain and America, playing in many different orchestras from The London Festival Ballet to The Bruce Forsyth Show.
For many years he was Head of Strings at Rossall School, a major public school in the North of England and many of his pupils won prizes at national competitions. He is now resident again in Cleveleys and in demand as an orchesral player, recitalist and teacher.
He formed Phoenix Strings in 2007 in order to encourage lapsed string players back into performing and to give late starters the opportunity and encouragemant to play in an ensemble. Works are always chosen that are accessible as well as instructive and interesting.
WHO CAN JOIN
Any adult string player returning to playing after a break, or a late starter who wishes to improve within a group situation. Help and assistance is given to all from the conductor, Mr. John Foster, a string player of vast experience.
Rehearsals are very relaxed in a friendly atmosphere.
If you are thinking of joining us and would like to talk to someone first, just contact us and we will be happy to help and advise.
WHAT BENEFIT WILL I GET FROM JOINING?
Even if you play to a good standard in an orchestra, it provides an excellent setting in which to concentrate on your tone, vibrato and intonation. Many players become frustrated that the emphasis in orchestras is often on hitting all the right notes, and there isn't enough time for the 'polish'.
WHEN & WHERE WE MEET
Wednesdays 7pm - 9pm in a school hall in Fleetwood, North of Blackpool (see calendar for rehearsal schedule)
Cost: £20 per term.
For further information and directions e-mail:
neil.patrick@virgin.net or Sheilajohnston@brenquest.freeserve.co.uk
LINKS TO OTHER LOCAL ORCHESTRAS
Fylde Concert Orchestra: based in St. Annes. Rehearsals one Sunday in three from 2:30 to 4:45. No subscriptions. www.fyldeconcertorchestra.org.uk
Lytham Light Orchestra: based in Marton, Blackpool. Rehearse Tuesdays 7.30 -9.30pm. Play light classics through to musical theatre. www.freewebs.com/lythamlightorchestra/
Fylde Sinfonia: based in St Annes. Rehearse Wednesdays 7.30-9.30pm. Full classical works. www.fyldesinfonia.org.uk
Blackpool Symphony Orchestra: based at Blackpool Sixth Form College. Rehearse Fridays 7.30-9.30pm. Full classical works.
LINK TO AMATEUR ORCHESTRA SITE
www.amateurorchestras.org.uk/ : large list of amateur orcheatras nationwide, grouped by region.
