Orchestra inspires three generations to play together

Miranda Wilson, 80, Anna Wilson, 50, and Astrid Wilson-Gignoux, 17, all play together

A "lifeline" orchestra has inspired three generations of the same family to play violin together.

Wiltshire's Marlborough Concert Orchestra, which is comprised of teenagers to octogenarians, is now on the lookout for amateur musicians to join them.

Grandmother Miranda Wilson, 80, plays with her daughter, Anna, 50, and granddaughter, Astrid, 17.

"We played chamber music as a family and then that's just carried on and my children have done the same with their children," Miranda Wilson said.

Astrid Wilson-Gignoux began playing the violin when she was four years old.

"Being able to play with other people has always made it worthwhile," she said.

Musical director Phil Singleton said being involved with the orchestra at St Mary's Church was "a joy and a passion and often a lifeline for people".

Astrid said she really enjoys playing with family and friends in the orchestra

The orchestra, which has 35 players and meets once a week, encourages those who cannot play to come and watch.

Charlotte Brown, who plays the flute and the piccolo, said it was "a chance to participate in something that you all love doing together".

"I see it as something that I do just for myself.

"I don't do it for my family. I don't do it for my little boy.

"I just do it for me, which I think is a wonderful thing," she said.

'Really magical'

Not only does being part of the orchestra allow members to create beautiful music together, but those involved feel a strong sense of belonging, too.

For cellist Rob Napier, it is all about perseverance.

"Sometimes it's difficult to get right, but with the right atmosphere and the right conductors and the right attitude of people, it can be really magical," he said.

The orchestra is now preparing for its annual summer concert, which will take place on Saturday.

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