The North Devon Sinfonia (NDS) is a symphony orchestra which draws on local talent for its members. The orchestra gives at least three concerts a … Find out more
The Friends of NDS has been established to provide benefits to those who attend our concerts regularly and also to provide a way for people to support … Read more
Musical Director – Emma Kent Emma Kent studied at the Birmingham Conservatoire with Janet Hilton (clarinet) and Andrew Mogrelia (conducting). During … Find out more
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I’m not really a classical fan but loved Carmen.. A pleasure to support you all and will be back again…
We, in North Devon, are fortunate indeed to have a resident symphony orchestra, under the guidance of an enthusiastic conductor, Emma Kent, who has the courage to tackle the demanding repertoire of the 19th and 20th centuries. Now in its fifth year, the orchestra draws on local players for its members, comprising a mixture of professional experience, amateur talent and youthful endeavour. One of the problems for the conductor of such a group, is whether to “play safe” with the tempi, thereby…
NDS you were amazing tonight. What a fantastic concert with some stunning solos – thoroughly enjoyed it as did the rest of the audience judging by the comments at the end.
“Woodland to the New World” MENDELSSOHN – From the outset the players portrayed the feeling of wave movement and restlessness. The irregular drum rolls depicting the stronger waves, with the brass and woodwind imitating gusts of wind and the cries of seagulls, painted a graphic picture for an appreciative audience. We were off to a good start despite temperamental house lights. MACDOWELL – I and, dare I say it, quite a few in the audience, knew very little of MacDowell’s work prior t…
“Skill and professionalism abound” Not having heard North Devon Sinfonia before, I was immediately impressed by the lovely round tone they produce. Skill and professionalism is there too, in abundance. Add to this fact that this concert was their first under the baton of Emma Kent (director of music at West Buckland School) the combined achievement was remarkable. Choice of programme too was well considered, in that it gave them a real chance to demonstrate their versatility. How nice it w…
There was something rather incongruous about hearing the Cesar Franck D minor Symphony in a school hall on the edge of Exmoor. One doesn’t expect to hear a symphony of such gargantuan proportions in North Devon and nor does one expect to find the players to play it. However, at West Buckland School last night, there were doctors, teachers, machine workers, the odd student and an accountant or two all dressed in black tie playing orchestral works with a verve which is rarely heard these days in t…
Review by Richard Westcott The Carmen selection turned out to be a perfect choice: the ideal starter, with that shuddering massive opening, moving on through many a familiar and much loved tune – setting not a few toes tapping, not to mention a temptation to join in, Last Night of Proms style. Yes, this was a full-blooded performance, Emma Kent presenting a wonderfully in-your-face Carmen. That said, those amiable melodic moments (what impeccable woodwind playing!) were beautifully savoure…
We welcome applications from players of experience or with Grade 7 or above, young and old.
We would welcome experienced Viola players
Experienced string players in all sections always welcome.
Please email rodmullick@tiscali.co.uk if you are interested in playing with the orchestra.
The Friends of NDS has been established to provide benefits to those who attend our concerts regularly and also to provide a way for people to support the orchestra.
Find out more >