Home   News   Article

All rise for the Ukrainian national anthem in Nethy!





An audience rose spontaneously on Sunday in Strathspey as a local orchestra played the Ukrainian national anthem.

Abirneithi Sinfonia's free concert at the Nethy Bridge Community Centre had initially intended to stage retiring funds for two local charities, but Speyside Fields for Wildlife and Explore Abernethy had both requested that any monies raised should instead go to the Ukrainian Relief Fund.

Abirneithi Sinfonia delight their audience
Abirneithi Sinfonia delight their audience

"It was their choice," organiser Bruce Davies told the Strathy, "and clearly a popular one as it raised £368!

"But most notable was the wonderful response of the audience as the country's national anthem was played. Everybody stood. It was very moving."

In return, the small but passionate audience were treated to a joyous evening of music from 40 dedicated and talented musicians, who presented: Ode to Joy, Gold's Ladies in Lavender, Colonel Bogey, Beethoven's Romance in F, Pirates of the Caribbean and Zulu folk song Mwangani M'pulele.

A lesser-known piece, La Dame Blanche by Boildieu, was a thrilling surprise.

Conducting at Nethy Bridge: Michael Graham
Conducting at Nethy Bridge: Michael Graham

Guest conductor Michael Graham introduced each piece with interesting facts and gentle humour. Barbara Downie, the guest violinist, beguiled with her mastery.

The Abirnieithi Synfonia is made up of amateur musicians, half of whom are local and the other half from further afield in Scotland. They practise their parts separately before coming together, under the professional conductor, to put on a yearly concert.

Strathy headlines


Do you want to respond to this article? If so, click here to submit your thoughts and they may be published in print.



This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies - Learn More