CONCERT REPORT BY CARMINA BROWN, MAKING MUSIC SCOTLAND

Marketing of Concert

General comment:

There was reference at the start of the concert about the disappointing turnout being due to

there being several events in the area on the same night and this together with the poor weather

may have prevented your usual audience from attending. Would audience figures have been

improved by greater publicity or a more careful choice of date? Sometimes, of course despite

one's plans events conspire against.

Points to consider:

If you as an orchestra depend on such a concert to raise funds, there may be a case for closer

liaison with the Whitburn organisers on how to more widely promote your excellent concert on a

"safe" date: Is there potential to advertise more e.g. through local radio, newspaper ads, good

posters and fliers well distributed throughout the area, especially targeting other audiences as

they leave other local concerts/events?

Programming of Music

General comment:

A great choice of classical favourites, technically demanding, with an interesting inclusion of

Scottish compositions. The MacCunn work was atmospheric and your own composer in

residence, Archibald Smith's orchestral arrangement of 'She moved through the Fair* was most

impressive and inspiring. The programme offered even more variety through the arrangements

of Abba favourites and the soloist sax group added excellent jazz and entertainment with a most

professional, melodic performance. This programme had musical appeal for a wide audience.

Printed Programme

General comment:

Informative and educational about the musical content, neatly produced and economical.

Points to consider:

Making Music and its 'parent body', the Scottish Arts Council, would like Making Music societies

to raise public awareness of the work of these two organisations by including the MM and SAC

logos in the societies' posters and concert programmes. Has your society considered having

local businesses advertise in your concert programme to help fund costs?

Presentation

General comment:

The orchestra observed a smart black and white dress code and assembled decorously, if a little

haphazardly. The venue was modern and most attractive with good acoustic. The auditorium

sloped down to the platform allowing a good view of the performance for everyone in the

audience. The view out through the glass side wall to the green garden beyond added a lovely

ambience. The MD established a warm rapport with the audience.

Points to consider:

A microphone would have been helpful as speakers were at times difficult to hear.

Performance

General comment:

A dynamic and melodic performance. The brass section were thrilling and the flutes beautiful,

especially the solo flautist's solo performance of the Thais. Altogether the orchestra gave the

audience a very exciting and delightful musical experience. The soloist jazz group were

excellent.

General overall comment:

A most enjoyable programme and uplifting performance.