The Kings Chamber Orchestra (KCO) are back in town this month and if you’ve ever seen them play, chances are you won’t need persuading to buy a ticket. Musical Director Gerard Le Feuvre is as enthusiastic as ever about the upcoming event on . This year’s theme is Silent Night and, says Le Feuvre, there couldn’t be a better time to focus on peace.
“In the aftermath of all the terrorism people are noticeably frightened – we noticed it in the airport (he hails from Jersey). We hope to rebuild Christmas peace with our music and also bring a smile to people’s faces, we’ll crack a few new jokes too – and more old jokes! When we do candlelit moments people can breathe a sigh of relief, they can relax, if only for one evening before rushing around again the next day. We are playing music by the greats and the greatly neglected – there’s something for everybody.”
KCO are not your typical ‘boxed in’ classical orchestra in their approach. They sometimes even surprise themselves.
“ I discovered a violin piece by Skoryk called Melody – it is so moving it can make people cry. We are playing this and another one of my all time favourite masterpieces, Octet by Mendelssohn. Then I have taken O Come O Come Emmanuel and done a slightly funky Jewish arrangement. There will be some spontaneous parts too– we tend to be led by the audience.”
Gerard, an internationally renowned cellist and chamber musician, was Director of Education for the London Festival of Chamber Music, where he loved introducing children to the world of live music. Ever since, KCO play daytime concerts for children and young families,
“Every venue we got to we do two concerts, one in the afternoon for children, this year it’s Following the Star.. weaving in the Christmas story but there’s lots of fun and games too – and presents. We are asking everybody to come in a onesie…it’s very unconventional! I’m looking forward to holding hands with everyone at Chorleywood.”
There’s only one downside to Kings Chamber Orchestra – they come to Chorleywood just once a year.
Expect a night of peace and good will, energy and laughter
KCO at St Andrew’s Church, Sat 12 Dec, 01923 47111
Silent Night £15/£10, 8pm ; Following the Starm £5/£3. 3pm
