The Guitar Federation operates as an umbrella site for existing societies across the UK to offer mutual support in promoting the classical guitar and related instruments in addition to providing a source of help and advice to enthusiasts (The Federation of Guitar Societies –). A major function of the Federation is to facilitate an annual event where interested groups can meet up to play music in a scratch orchestra concert as well as showcasing the playing of attending societies.
This year’s event was held at the Galleywood Heritage Centre just outside Chelmsford and was hosted and organised by Roger Montgomery and members of the Chelmsford Guitar Orchestra (Chego) who put on an excellent and highly memorable day.
A few weeks before the event, Roger circulated part scores and recordings of five pieces for us to work on and get up to speed before playing all together on the day.
- Les Savages (Jean-Phillippe Rameau arr. Roger Montgomery)
- Anitra’s Dance (Edvard Grieg arr. Roger Montgomery)
- Winter’s Brightening (Roger Montgomery)
- The Swan LK243 (Catriona McKay arr. Roger Montgomery)
- El Caballo (Roger Montgomery)
The day itself consisted of the morning full orchestra session working through the five pieces
There then followed a session of Ensemble Showcases where each attending group were given a 10 minutes to showcase some of their work. We chose to perform the Norwich Suite by John Gibbs with its contrasting movements and local history which was well received and generated a lot of interest.
The afternoon was rounded off with a final playthrough of the five pieces, photos and videos of which can be viewed at The Federation of Guitar Societies – FGS Meetings.