MUSIC lovers in Okehampton were treated to an evening of musical delight from a distinguished Latvian orchestra at the All Saints Parish Church. Around 100 music enthusiasts and musicians from the area enjoyed a ?sparkling? performance from the Gaudeamus Chamber Orchestra of Strings, a Latvian orchestra that was touring Devon. Hailing from the Latvian city of Riga on the Baltic coast, the orchestra was conducted by Gunntars Bernats, and performed music from Vivaldi, Mozart, Bach and Grieg. The Friends of All Saints Parish Church report that the concert was well supported and the orchestra received a standing ovation from a full house. The church, which was praised on the night for its acoustics, is becoming an increasingly popular venue for musical events. The concert was made possible through the help of Waitrose and the Okehampton Educational Foundation. All proceeds from the event went to the Dartington Trust Young Musicians? Support, a Devon charity that offers financial support and encouragement to talented young musicians in the area. A spokesman for YMS said: ?The musical ambition of many talented youngsters is frustrated because the costs involved are too much for their families. ?In North Devon a group of concerned professional musicians, teachers and enthusiasts decided to help. With the support and encouragement of the Dartington Trust a charity was founded specifically to raise funds and promote excellence in musical education in this area. ?YMS has been working with local school children since 1988 and in that time has raised thousands of pounds to help with the cost of music education.? More information is available from Heather Shorten on 01805 603386 or e-mail Karen Hopper [email protected]">[email protected]
