Housebuilder works in harmony with community orchestra

A local housebuilder has struck a chord with musicians in Boston by sponsoring the town’s community orchestra to the tune of £500.

Chestnut Homes, which is building new homes at The Quadrant, off Tytton Lane East, Wyberton, made the donation to The Boston Orchestra after being contacted by one of its members. The orchestra is putting the money towards the cost of venue hire for concerts, programme printing and purchasing new music.

The orchestra’s conductor, Gina Boaks, said: “We’re really so very grateful for this donation. It’s really nice to have some support from the business community. “It’s been very encouraging to have had such a positive response from Chestnut Homes. It makes us feel that what we are doing is worthwhile and appreciated by the local community.”

The Boston Orchestra was founded in 1937 and currently has about 30 members ranging from teenagers to people in their 80s. The orchestra meets weekly for rehearsals and presents two main concerts a year in and around Boston. Membership is open to players of all ages and ability who hold a keen interest in music and can play an orchestral instrument.  There are no auditions: all that is required is commitment and a love of music. Gina, who became conductor two years ago, after previously playing the horn in the orchestra, said: “It’s a friendly orchestra and it doesn’t matter how good people are. We are hoping to raise awareness of the orchestra and attract some more players. We don’t have a huge brass section and always need more violins in particular, but anyone is welcome. “The money will help cover the costs of the concerts which will take the pressure off when we perform. We also have to buy or rent music, as although we have a library, we have to choose pieces which will suit the range of abilities among our current members.”

David Newton, Managing Director of Chestnut Homes, said: “As a local housebuilder keen to support the community in Boston, we were only too happy to help The Boston Orchestra when they got in touch. “The group brings together local talented musicians and gives them an opportunity to play together as an orchestra and it’s a great example of the thriving community spirit to be found in Boston.”

The orchestra’s next concert is at 3pm on Sunday, November 3, at Boston West Golf Course. More information about the group can be found at https://www.bostonorchestra.org.uk/concerts