Members of Paisley & District u3a are in for a reel musical treat. Top of the festive bill on Thursday 2 December is guest speaker and conductor, Robert Rocke. He’s sharing how the Caledonian Fiddle Orchestra is “still going strong 132 years on.” He will show a 30 minutes video featuring orchestral performances since the 1980’s with a commentary outlining the orchestra’s history. There will be time to share a few anecdotes and respond to questions. This free talk from 2-3.30pm will be held in the Salvation Army Hall at Mill Street in Paisley. Doors open at 1.30pm.
U3a chair, Kathy O’Donnell said: ‘Expect lots of hand clapping and toe tapping as Robert Rocke introduces us to the sounds of music played by fiddlers of all ages. I’m sure the history of how this longstanding orchestra has developed since1888 will be fascinating. The Caledonian Fiddle Orchestra recently started doing live rehearsals and playing together after 81 weeks of lockdowns and Zoom practices. Our u3a can enjoy some of their previous recordings, from Scottish jigs and polkas to strathspeys and waltzes. This promises to be a popular, lively event and a fun-filled way to end the year.’
Robert Rocke remarked: ‘Everyone remembers events enlivened by Scottish dance music. The orchestra aims to keep that music available to audiences.’
Details of local u3a activities and groups at: https://u3asites.org.uk/paisley/welcome