A HIGHLY regarded youth orchestra in Coventry which had its funding withdrawn is optimistic about the future amid a funding drive.
The Coventry and Warwickshire Youth Orchestra is to celebrate its 60th anniversary during Coventry’s year as UK City of Culture 2021.
But without further funding and new recruits the group said there is a possibility it will not exist to be part of the city’s celebrations.
It has launched a funding drive to raise about £20,000 which could ‘secure its long term future’ in the city.
The symphony orchestra gives a platform to talented children and young people across Coventry and Warwickshire.
In September its musicians will begin their first season as an independent youth orchestra.
A spokesperson said in a statement last month: “The CWYO currently faces uncertainty about its future, following the announcement in summer that Coventry and Warwickshire music hubs will be withdrawing their funding at the end of this academic year.
“However, alternative funding streams are being explored by the orchestra’s committee members and there is confidence that the orchestra will be able to continue.
“The orchestra is also actively seeking additional support in the form of donations or sponsorship.”
The orchestra is a registered charity run by trustees with some financial support from the music hubs of Coventry and Warwickshire – part funded by Coventry City Council and Warwickshire County Council.
It says the vital funding from these hubs was stripped.
The orchestra will be replaced with a new wider regional service in September.
Paul Leddington Wright, conductor of Coventry Cathedral Chorus, said last September: “As someone who has worked with and seen the orchestra in action since the 1970s I am saddened to learn of the decision to withdraw funding for the youth orchestra.
“The orchestra provides a wonderful opportunity for talented young musicians and is vital to the cultural life of Coventry and Warwickshire.”
The orchestra has struggled to recruit sufficient players to maintain a full symphony orchestra.
But it has now called on young musicians from across the West Midlands to sign up in an attempt to ‘sustain and further develop’ the orchestra.
Donations can be made via https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/charity-web/charity/finalCharityHomepage.action?charityId=1003645
Anyone wishing to discuss sponsorship can contact the committee on [email protected] or speak to Brian Chappell on 07971043696
