Six-figure funding boost for classical concerts in the East Midlands, North Lincolnshire and Norfolk.
rts Council England is investing almost £160,000 in regional orchestra Sinfonia Viva’s plans to take its mobile venue on tour to places where there are few traditional concert halls.
Inspired by its recent performances as part of The Grand Tour, the critically acclaimed Orchestra will use the money to transform its innovative mobile stage and auditorium into a modern day musical cabinet of curiosity.
Throughout June 2017, the tour will see Sinfonia Viva pitch up and perform in East Lindsey, Mansfield, north Norfolk, Scunthorpe and the orchestra’s home city of Derby. Viva will present a mix of classical concerts, events and workshops for people of all ages to enjoy.
For each place, university students will create designs to transform the inflatable structure into a modern-day cabinet of curiosity unique to the local area, reflecting its people, places, history and heritage.
The line-up of performances to choose from will include a brand new classical commission by the orchestra’s conductor Duncan Ward and one of Viva’s award-winning, family friendly concerts. The £159,525 comes from the Arts Council’s Strategic Touring programme, which makes it easier for cultural organisations and artists to bring great art and culture to people across England. Sinfonia Viva is one of five organisations nationally to receive a share of £782,700 in the latest round of investment.
Peter Knott, Area Director, Arts Council England, said: “Our Strategic Touring funding is all about taking great art and culture to more people across the country, particularly to places where it might not always be easy to access. “Sinfonia Viva’s inflatable concert venue gives the company the flexibility to perform anywhere, which is why we’re delighted to be supporting their latest tour. “The tailored line-up of events will offer something for everyone, giving adults, children and young people alike the opportunity to enjoy classical music by one of the country’s top orchestras.”
Sinfonia Viva Chief Executive Peter Helps continued: ‘We are absolutely delighted to have received this invaluable funding for our 2017 tour. “This project will enable us to bring high quality cultural activity to area’s we wouldn’t normally be able to reach, whilst at the same time celebrating local talent and showcasing each areas valuable artistic output. “As an organisation, we are committed to creating meaningful musical experiences through performance and participation. This tour ensures we can significantly increase opportunities for people to experience the vibrant spectacle and personal value of a tailored, high quality cultural offer’