09/08/2020
At stressful times like these, music can be a source of relaxation. Of course, live music is not currently available but all is not lost, thanks in no small part to the Internet.
Whilst the name of Weyhill Electronic Organ Society has become known to many residents of the Andover area and beyond, it has perhaps conveyed a misleading message to those yet to experience the Club’s monthly concerts. The instruments used by visiting performers are now better described as electronic keyboards, capable of a multitude of sounds and styles from military bands to orchestras, from violins to harmonicas; in fact, the sounds of almost any instrument imaginable can be reproduced by these amazing pieces of electronic wizardry.
Formed in 2002, the non-profit Club has staged over 200 monthly concerts and during that time has helped to raise in excess of £13,000 for a number of deserving charities. Understandably, the Club decided to forge an association with the history of Weyhill by adopting a folk song titled 'Weyhill Fair' as its signature tune. The piece has subsequently been re-arranged, firstly as the 'Weyhill March' and later as the 'Weyhill Overture'.
The concerts are aimed particularly at people who prefer their music to be melodic, easy listening and tuneful, whilst the programmes are always balanced to suit most musical tastes. Over the years, the Club has established an excellent reputation, amongst guest performers and audiences alike. Video projection equipment is utilised, thereby enhancing stage productions so that members of the audience have a clear view of the keyboards and pedals.
In 2017, the Club was nominated for the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service – an award created by the Queen in 2002 to mark her Golden Jubilee, recognising excellence in voluntary activities carried out by groups in the community.
Much more information about the Club can be found on its website – for example, messages from artistes and visitors, reviews of past events and recent concerts, plus, more importantly, music samples typifying the kind of entertainment available. In addition, many of the players’ recordings are available on YouTube – a very useful source of melodic music during the current unavailability of live performances.
Until we return, just visit www.weyhill-eos.co.uk … and enjoy the music that is available to you.
