It was like a family getting back together.
That's how long-time Blue Mountains Orchestra secretary and performer Christine Bartlett described the slow transition back to normal operations for the group since COVID-19 shut them down in March last year.
Talented musical director Mal Hewitt had left at the end of 2019, and Bartlett took over while waiting for a new conductor.
"We had just started rehearsing for our big birthday celebration when we had to shut down in March 2020 because of COVID-19 . It's been a lot of hard work and encouragement to get everyone back together, but well worth it as we are back in force as a community orchestra."
The group currently has 36 members and is now under the baton of musical director Robert van Gend.
"We started back in September 2020 with five string players as wind and brass were not allowed to join us for rehearsal," Bartlett said.
"I almost thought it wasn't worth it, but they were so pleased to be back together I kept going. Each week more players came back, and when wind and brass could join in again it was like a family getting back together after a long absence. Loved it."
The new conductor, Penrith-based Robert van Gend, is a talented musician and capable musical director who completed his LMusA in violin and later went on to play viola with the Australian Youth Orchestra between 2015-2019.
In 2011 he was a recitalist at the National Youth Concerto Competition, and he has been awarded the Harmer Memorial Scholarship for Viola three times.
He has a Bachelor of Liberal Arts, a Master of Philosophy degree, and is currently undertaking a PhD. He describes himself as a violist, philosopher, teacher and gardener.
Bartlett said the orchestra is currently rehearsing for its next concert on October 30 and has vacancies in some string and woodwind sections. She was keen to let the community know Mr van Gend is now at the helm.
"This a great opportunity for local musicians to receive expert tuition and guidance with this exciting new conductor."
To inquire about joining the orchestra, contact Christine Bartlett on 0417 415 157.
