Jessica Heywood - New Chariman of the Dartmouth Orchestral Society
By the Dart met Jessica who is the new Chairman of the Dartmouth Orchestral Society, often referred to as DOS. She is a well known figure in and around Dartmouth and is involved in all aspects of music. Her enthusiasm for cello playing, singing and teaching has touched many from the very young to adults.
“Having been a member of DOS for nine years I was only too pleased to become the Chairman of the new committee which was elected this year,” said Jessica, “DOS is a small local orchestra which has been based in Dartmouth since the 1990s. It consists of enthusiastic musicians of different technical abilities and ages who gather on Saturday mornings (10 o’clock to noon) in St Clements church hall at the top of Dartmouth.
Being a registered charity the orchestra has to raise funds to survive, which it has done successfully over the years by performing at least three concerts each year. The players and I enjoyed contributing to the Dartmouth Music Festival by playing in the Market Square again this year and are expecting to do so in the future.
This year the Orchestra is going through exciting times with a change of conductor and committee members. Those stepping into the breach would like to thank the outgoing conductor Sid Davis for his wonderful leadership over many years. Sid is now the manager of the Flavel Arts Centre in Dartmouth which promotes everything good about the arts, including DOS. The past committee have left the orchestra in good health for which the new members say a big thank you.”
Jessica is excited about having a new conductor who has started rehearsing for a concert at 7.30pm, Tuesday, 23rd July, in St Clements Church. Jessica continued;
“Tony Hindley, the new conductor, brings a wealth of experience and musical expertise. Having been a professional trumpet player his understanding of music and how to extract the best from players is already paying dividends.
I know that there is a wealth of playing talent in the area and DOS needs you. Permanent violins are required as a matter of urgency; however all instruments are welcome. If you play grade five or above and want to have fun, then make contact (07525 442313). Alternatively, just drop in on a Saturday morning and give it a go; you may well surprise yourself. The whole ethos of the orchestra is to enjoy playing together while exploring varied programmes of music and to give pleasure to both our new and faithful followers.”
It was suggested that in these hard times survival would always be a challenge.
“I believe that the Orchestra will be here for many years,” said Jessica. “We have to work hard at promoting ourselves and performing the music people want to hear and to a standard comparable to their wishes. We are grateful for the help regularly given by the players from the BRNC Volunteer Band, and long may it continue. It is the committee’s intention to persuade other musical organisations to use our talents. Within the orchestra we have music arrangers who bring fresh interpretations to well known pieces. If there are aspiring composers and arrangers out there why not consider us to promote your musical dreams?
On behalf of DOS I would like to thank the tireless support of many people who work hard behind the scenes. Helen Deakin in particular has used her extensive influence and shear enthusiasm to encourage and promote us.
Without DOS, Dartmouth would be a poorer place and it is my intention that we will always be performing and giving pleasure to audiences and playing musicians alike.”•
First Published July 2013 By The Dart
