Concert is saved after conductorsteps in (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

Concert is saved after conductorsteps in

A TEMPORARY conductor has come to the rescue of Wootton Bassett Orchestra following the sudden resignation of its former conductor .

Cliff Parker agreed to step in just a few weeks before an important concert in the town.

Gordon Nelson, of Pelham Court, Marlborough, who was conductor of the orchestra for over three years resigned earlier this month because of decisions over players taken in his absence.

Mr Nelson said he took the decision to resign after receiving the minutes of a meeting that he was unable to attend. During the meeting decisions were made - such as the number of horn players required and the possibility of using guest players which he felt undermined his position.

He said: "It's a bit like the players telling the manager of a football team that they won't be bothering with a goalie.

"When their response is to positively undermine the situation like that by saying that I simply can't have the players which I feel it's perfectly reasonable to request, then I don't see the point in putting in the huge amount of effort that is required to get a concert off the ground."

His resignation came weeks before the orchestra is due to perform a concert of light music at the Memorial Hall, leading to fears that it would have to be cancelled.

But orchestra leader Phil Hewer, of Station Road, invited friend Mr Parker to step in.

Mr Hewer said: "I played in a band with Cliff and he said he'd take over as temporary conductor while we did the concert.

"Mr Nelson had a disagreement with the committee. He'd been conductor for three years and he'd done us very well and raised the standard a lot."

The concert on November 12 is due to go ahead as planned and tickets are still on sale from Brian Taylor Music Shop on the High Street.

Mr Parker has taken the position temporarily and the orchestra is now looking for someone to take over the unpaid position, possibly starting in December or the New Year. Anyone interested in auditioning for the position or who wants more information can call Mr Hewer on (01793) 852515.