The Reza Community Orchestra was set-up in 2015 and is a unique community orchestra for people of all ages and abilities to come together to make music and perform under the expert guidance of professional musicians Ensemble Reza and conductor Steve Dummer. Since 2015 over 250 musicians from Mid Sussex have taken part and currently the orchestra has over 100 members from 4-84 years. We need funding to ensure we can run the orchestra from September 2019 -June 2020. Funding will cover venue hire, insurance, publicity, music arrangements, photocopier and for the time of our fantastic conductor Steve Dummer. Players are literally dusting off instruments and joining friends and family to play in the orchestra. With the support from an expert team of professional musicians the orchestra is a safe and friendly environment for both adult and child beginners. This multi-generational orchestra is truly special for bringing together a diversity of people in a uniquely musical way.

What we'll deliver:

• 9 x 3 hour rehearsals from September-June 2020 with 4 professional music coaches and conductor
• 2 x informal concerts for members of all ages to try repertoire
• 2 x formal concerts to the general public
• 1 x outdoor concert at the Orchards in Haywards Heath

Why it's a great idea:

Have you: Regretted giving up an instrument which is now gathering dust in the attic? Thought 'I'd like to take up an instrument' but think it's too late? Got a child who is struggling to practise as they do not play in a group? Got a child who is really keen to play with others but cannot find the right group? The Reza Community Orchestra is the answer to all of these questions. The professional group Ensemble Reza offers players a supportive and fun professional environment for musicians regardless of age and ability and has been an inspiration to players and audiences. 'I haven't played in an orchestra for many years and this is a fun and safe place to get back into playing and I can play with my daughter' Emma: 'This orchestra has been my inspiration. I have enjoyed the camaraderie and sense of belonging' Richard. 'It’s great fun. Love seeing how much the children get from rehearsing with adults and professionals. Has renewed my daughter’s interest in the cello' Marie

Steps to get it done:

• To have at least 25 players enrolled by August 31st
• To have at leaset 80 players enrolled by first rehearsal
• To perform Christmas concert
• To perform Spring concert in May 2020
• To perform at the Orchards Shopping Centre in June 2020
• To run informal concert for members of the orchestra to perform to friends and family in October 2019
• To run informal concert for members of the orchestra friends and family in February 2020
• To have completed nine rehearsals

Feedback from other players: ‘Other instrumental teachers who didn't personally take part, have told me that the improvement in their pupils' playing, and especially confidence, is marked, and encouraging.’ Andrew Thurgood (Ensemble Reza violinist) ‘It's by far one of the best activities Ellie has done. The benefit of coupling her music lessons with the orchestra experience has improved her competency immeasurably.’ Kate ‘Your organisation is second to none and the whole atmosphere is extremely supportive.’ Adrian ‘it's very hard for adult beginners to find groups/orchestras to play with’ Jane ‘I enjoyed a chance to play in a group when my playing isn't the right level for other orchestras’ Elspeth ‘The REZA Community Orchestra is wonderful to experience, such motivating, inspiring and inclusive music being made’ ‘Great atmosphere, music, singing and everyone enjoying themselves’ ‘joyful sense of community embracing all age groups – how lucky we are in Haywards Heath’