On 13th October 2004 from 7-9pm, The Liverpool Phil are inviting Orchestral players of any age, Grade V upwards, to join them for a rehearsal (playing, not watching!) of Sibelius' Finlandia and Adagio from Spartacus at The Philharmonic Hall, Hope Street Liverpool. Conducted by assistant conductor Matthew Corey, who seemed like great fun at the children's concerts. I think they spread the real players around so there's a chance you'll be sharing a desk. Anyone interested ring the super orchestra hotline, 0151 210 3801. I understand beyond the grade guideline there are no restrictions on numbers, which does have the effect that delicate woodwind entries tend to be played by a windy line of clarinets or flutes. Sounds like fun, though - I'm fretting as to whether I can pluck up courage - it's been a long time! I think doing it in just one rehearsal for someone of Grade V standard is going to be quite challenging (I did grade VI violin 18 years ago), and apparently some of those who turn up are of a really high standard, but others are pretty tentative and just having a stab at it. I also understand it was cancelled one previous year, so please check with the hotline before turning up, although my little girl's teacher tells me it's definitely on as at today.

I have plucked up the courage to book a place and the music's in the post to me. Apparently we're also doing "5 Klee pictures". I've paid a quick visit to Amazon for a cheapo recording of Finlandia and the Adagio as I've never played either. The only recording of the Klee is out of print. If you live nearby and can make it, it seems like an opportunity not to miss - I doubt anyone attending's going to be worse than me, so why not give it a go!