Musicians of sinfonia ViVA

Chris Swann
Principal Clarinet

On what makes sinfonia ViVA special...

sinfonia ViVA delivers a very wide variety of music in various formats to a very large cross-section of the public, some of whom are not necessarily traditional concert-goers. This makes for an extra challenge in performance, calling for an extra element of persuasion and communication above that which is ordinarily expected. Additionally the orchestra's administration is innovative, imaginative and supportive and encourages participation with other agencies all of which makes working for the organisation refeshingly different from many others. Because of this, there is no such thing as a typical working day with sinfonia ViVA.

On personal fulfillment through involvement with ViVA outreach and education projects...

I have experienced so many instances of this while working with ViVA. Perhaps demonstrating a wind quintet to a very difficult school audience and having a number of pupils come to us afterwards thanking us for making it possible to 'air' the subject of classical music in their school environment. (Giving them the courage to acknowledge their interest). Most recently playing for an elderly gentleman who retains his love of music but is not able to attend concerts. This took place in the living room of his house which was packed with neighbours and family and afforded him the most intense enjoyment which it seems he thought might not come his way again.

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