By Isle of Wight Observer
A late change of venue failed to dampen an enthusiastic crowd, as the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra took to the stage at Robin Hill at the Mountbatten Prom on Saturday.
The orchestra gave a rousing performance of classics, from Elgar to Tchaikovsky, with 1,700 people robustly singing Rule Britannia in the lower valley.
Accomplished soprano, Thea Callaghan, and the Medina Community Choir, fresh from their appearance in New York’s prestigious Carnegie Hall, also performed at the event, which was moved from Osborne House in East Cowes, due to unforeseen circumstances.
The performance took place thanks to the efforts of local businessman, Paul Cox, who acting as event director, took full responsibility for all the risk, and for the outcome of the event to raise funds for the Island’s only hospice.
John Smith, co-owner of Robin Hill, said: “In my experience, it’s rare that someone takes on this level of personal financial risk to do such a selfless thing for no personal gain. We at Robin Hill are very grateful that we were given this opportunity to participate in what was a great evening.”
On Thursday, Harriet Jane covers 1930s jazz to modern favourites, with an evening of music at the Mountbatten Cheverton Centre, Newport, between 7pm-9pm. Limited tickets at £10 available via iw.observer/harriet-jane.
