FRYO (Friends of Reading Youth Orchestra) is a group formed of parents of members of the orchestra and other interested parties. It provides a vital support role for the orchestra by:
We need more parents to get involved in the work that FRYO does. The Orchestra could not run without it.
The Friends' committee is run by Anne Ballard. We welcome new committee member, Susanne Armstrong.
We have received a great deal of support in the form of local company sponsorship in recent years, but our major sponsors have recently withdrawn. We are therefore looking for local companies to sponsor us.
Any suggestions you have will be gratefully received. Please contact Anne Ballard if you have any ideas or are interested in assisting or joining the committee
Summary of events 2009–10
Summer Course: 5-7th August 2009
A non-residential course, led by Paul Cox, based at Bulmershe Court with rehearsals during the day and evening social events. This ended with an afternoon concert at Greyfriars Church.
Autumn Term
RYO rehearsed regularly throughout the autumn term ending with a Christmas Soiree. Several members played; some choosing to play instruments they do not normally play on Friday evenings.
Music Workshop: 20th March 2009
This focused on Haydn’s ‘London’ Symphony, 1st Movement in collaboration with the Henley Music Centre.
Spring Concert: 21st March 2009, Christchurch Henley
The programme included:
Overture to The Barber of Seville, Rossini
Saint Saens’ Cello Concerto No 1 in A minor with soloist Oliver Howell, leader of RYO cellos
Haydn Symphony 104 ‘London’
We had some good publicity in both the Reading Chronicle and the Henley Standard newspapers prior to this event, and a good audience.
Summer Concert: 26th June 2010, Greyfriars Church, Reading
The programme included:
Overture to The Barber of Seville, Rossini
Pavane op 50, Faure
Two movements from L’Arlesienne Suite, Bizet
Pavane pour une enfante defunte, Ravel
Peer Gynt Suite No1 op 46, Morning, Grieg
Symphony no. 104 Haydn
Membership and organisation
23 members attended during this year. Former members and other additional players joined RYO for the concerts.
Recruitment for membership has been a key focus throughout the year.
We are grateful to Rachel for her help and as acting leader of the orchestra.
Thanks also to Tom Bennellick who has continued to assist at rehearsals.
The orchestra has been directed by Paul Cox whose input, teaching and musical leadership have been invaluable.
The website is now improved and updated, www.ryo.org.uk. We are grateful for the help of Trevor Howell, who has become webmaster.
Last, but not least, many thanks to the parents who have assisted with refreshments on Friday evenings, helped with concerts and with poster distribution.