Friday, March 14, 2008

The Really Terrible Orchestra

Eli of Multi Medium found this wonderfulness:
Some years ago, a group of frustrated people in Scotland decided that the pleasure of playing in an orchestra should not be limited to those who are good enough to do so, but should be available to the rankest of amateurs. So we founded the Really Terrible Orchestra, an inclusive orchestra for those who really want to play, but who cannot do so very well. Or cannot do so at all, in some cases.

6 comments:

Steve Bates said...

Forgive me if I give this one a miss. I've heard them before. If they love music, why do they abuse it like this?

I understand there is a pleasurable physical sensation in playing an instrument, as well as an undeniable sense of camaraderie in participating in an ensemble. I experienced both of those before I retired from performing.

But I wish people would at least agree with me that the music is the whole point. If they need the fellowship, they should join a club. If they need something to do with their hands and/or mouths... oh, never mind.

I know quite a few people who play an instrument just well enough to participate in a real, albeit amateur, orchestra; I have no problem with them. But the noise emitted by this one offends my sensibilities to the point that any humor to be found in it is really diminished for me.

ellroon said...

Well... maybe they shouldn't call it music then...

How about instrumental hazard zone?

Anonymous said...

I've always been especially fond of the Portsmouth Sinfonia.

Anonymous said...

(but mainly because my parents used to subject us to Hooked On Classics during long car rides)

Steve Bates said...

You want musical humor? There's always the Helsinki Complaints Choir.

ellroon said...

GAhhhhhHHHhh!! Michael, that Portsmouth Sinfonia is DREADFUL ... yet funny.

And Steve, I've seen the Helsinki Choir one, which makes me laugh. Thank god someone posted the translation.