The vibrant music and social scene in Halifax has its orchestral side too, and a truly local one at that (‘Shoreditch of the north’, 19 February). The UK’s plethora of amateur orchestras is nowhere more exemplified than in Yorkshire, with Halifax no exception. The newly refurbished Square Chapel’s delightfully intimate auditorium provides a showcase for two local orchestras, ours and the Orchestra of Square Chapel. Concerts cover a wide repertoire of classical masterpieces, light orchestral music, operatic, dance and film music performed to standards only attainable by virtue of a professional attitude and an abundance of local talent. The enjoyment of the players is shared by friends, family and music lovers who appreciate the buzz of a locally sourced live performance at reasonable cost.
The enthusiasm and commitment of their members and supporters enable our amateur orchestras to thrive and coexist and compete with professionals, CDs, downloads, Classic FM etc, with minimal financial resources. We are proud to offer some small contribution to this brilliant cultural revival in Halifax.
Chris Leyland
Chair, Halifax Symphony Orchestra
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