In 1995 Nigel Morley, a well known and respected local figure in music circles, founded The Midland Sinfonia. Nigel’s dream was to bring live professional classical music to the people of Alvechurch in north Worcestershire, the Midlands and further afield. Based at St. Laurence Church in the small village of Alvechurch, it very quickly established a reputation for a high standard of music. Under Nigel’s leadership the orchestra played throughout the Midlands, in France and also at the Jersey Fesival.
A dedicated group of musicians was formed and could be called on to play depending on the works being performed. These professional musicians also played with other orchestras and many taught music across the Midlands. Such was the loyalty to Nigel and TMS, some regularly came from as far as Brighton and Cardiff.
During 2001, TMS became a registered charity with an elected Board of Directors to take over the administration and other day-to-day running operations, leaving Nigel free to concentrate on musical matters. The Board invited sponsors and patrons to support the orchestra financially and it is entirely due to their generosity that The Midland Sinfonia can offer such a high quality programme each season. We cannot emphasise too much the importance of our kind supporters, particularly The Elmley Foundation, without whom it would not be possible to continue.
But continue we do and with the appointment in 2008 of Richard Laing as our Music Director and principal conductor, we have a worthy and valuable successor to Nigel when he moved to Lincolnshire. In great demand around the world. Richard won the sinfonia VIVA Conducting Scholarship in 2001 and is in great demand around the world. TMS is lucky to have his inspiring musical leadership and enthusiasm.
The Board of Trustees have a passion that TMS should succeed and, like many similar groups, continue to rely heavily on the good-will of it’s sponsors and patrons ~ more so today than ever before. All offers of support are welcomed and should be directed to the Chair, Marian Barwell.
