History
The idea of a community orchestra in Helensburgh was first discussed in 1976 by a small group of people interested in music. They initially met in each other’s houses playing music and arranging recitals in their own homes. The idea of establishing a community orchestra was mooted and discussed with interested parties including the Helensburgh Orchestral Society, teaching staff from local schools and other people from the community with an involvement in music. The first meeting of the orchestra, known then as the Saturday Orchestra was held on the 7th October 1977. David Bruce conducted this rehearsal and went on to have a connection with and interest in the orchestra over many years. Andrea Steel was the first conductor of the orchestra and has passed the baton on to both amateur and professional musicians in the intervening time.
The orchestra is now known as Lomond and Clyde Community orchestra and is abreviatted to Locco
The aim of the orchestra is to make music accessible to all, to encourage the playing of music in the community, to provide a platform for players of all ages to come together to make music and to give beginner players a taste of orchestral playing. Membership is open to players of all ages and all abilities and no audition is required. It is run by a committee of volunteers.
Currently about 40 people play regularly ranging in age from primary school age to people in their eighties and in ability from beginners to those who are more proficient. Young people are learning at school or from external teachers and adults may have always played or have stopped for a number of years and are taking up their instrument again as they have time. All are welcome to come and see if the orchestra suits them.
Playing in an orchestra brings many advantages from establishing social connections to learning about being part of team to improving musical ability and finally, and perhaps most importantly, to having fun. Some players have gone on to have professional careers in the musical field.
Our playing spans a wide range of music - films, musicals, classical. We have a library of orchestral scores and widen our repertoire with arrangements from the BBC "Ten Pieces" website.
We currently have a professional conductor who chooses music which offers enough challenge to make playing interesting but is still accessible and, where available, sectional tutors who support our playing.
Parents play an important role and can be involved in all aspects of the orchestra.
LoCCO holds rehearsals weekly, on a Saturday morning, from autumn through to spring. We put on an end-of-term concert where family, friends, our loyal supporters and members of the public, are welcome to attend. We also are invited to play at local community events. Recently this has included a local NHS property who have musical events over the summer, a local church and community Christmas celebrations.
