A NEW conductor will lead Shaftesbury Symphony Orchestra at a free concert in the town.

Orchestra leaders promise a diverse and exciting programme at the November 19 show, at St James’ Church, under the baton of Sarah Freestone.

As well as being an accomplished conductor, Sarah is a talented performer who plays a wide variety of instruments, ranging from classical violin as a member of the BBC Concert Orchestra, to banjo and ukulele in West End shows.

“She has even performed as a backing vocalist for pop recordings,” an orchestra spokesperson said.

“Sarah has a lot of experience working with community groups. She is a Creative Lead for the National Children’s Orchestra; a Music Mentor for Music For Youth and her community compositions have been performed at the BBC Proms.

“The orchestra are delighted that such a multitalented musician has agreed to become their musical director and have really enjoyed working with her preparing for this performance.”

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The programme will open with the overture to Cimarosa’s comic opera, The Secret Marriage, before the familiar and enchanting Pavane Pour Une Enfante Défunte, by Ravel.

The pace and excitement then builds through the set of Romanian Folk Dances that Bartok transcribed during his travels through Transylvania.

The finale of the concert is the youthful and exuberant 1st symphony by Mendelssohn, written when he was only 15.

The concert, which starts at 4pm, is free, with a retiring collection in aid of St James’ Church’s continued development as a community resource. Refreshments will be available for a donation.