Momentous massed rehearsal gets started at Mayflower Cruise Terminal

Percussionists warming up, ready for rehearsal

At 10am this morning (Saturday 3 November 2018), Mayflower Cruise Terminal plays host to a massive massed rehearsal for 600 musicians from across Southampton, Isle of Wight, Poole and Bournemouth.

Brought together by Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, in celebration of their 125th anniversary, they are rehearsing a brand new piece of music — Symphony 125 — which they will perform at the Royal Albert Hall on Monday 5th November.

Views over the Solent provide the backdrop to a momentous rehearsal at Mayflower Cruise Terminal.

ABP Staff have been helping at the rehearsal, generously donating the venue and their time to help 600 musicians rehearse for the performance of a lifetime.

The Mayflower Cruise Terminal has been kindly donated by Associated British Ports (ABP). On a normal working day, the huge departures lounge would be a gateway to the world for cruise travellers. Today, it is the gateway to a once-in-a-life time performance at a world-renowned venue for the performers from across the region.

Members of the Family Orchestra rehearse their parts ahead of the massed rehearsal.

Lottie and Jess, members of the Southampton Family Orchestra, says:
“We’re very excited to be here. It’s so much fun, and we can’t wait for our performance in London. You can really feel the excitement in the room!”

Byron, percussionist in Southampton Youth Orchestra, says:
“Thank you so much to ABP for giving us the opportunity to rehearse in such an amazing space — we hope we have entertained the staff who have looked after us so brilliantly today!”