A supposedly “terrible” Inverness group are looking to recruit new musicians by taking the “attitude not the aptitude that counts” principle to new levels.
The Truly Terrible Orchestra (TTO) wants a new musician to come and play tuba after the last player fled back to his native Canada.
But before leaving Edward Hatton kindly gifted his tuba to the orchestra which they hope it will be adopted by a new member in time for Christmas.
As well as a new tuba player, the TTO is looking to boost their string, woodwind and brass sections.
That means there could be an opportunity for any keen but “not necessarily talented” oboists, bassoonists, trumpeters, trombonists, horn players, violinists, viola players and percussionists.
Despite the orchestra’s good humour about their musicianship they are aiming to raise money for a good cause at the annual Christmas charity concert in December.
This year’s event will support Team Hamish which is a local charity that wants to establish a community project in Nairn.
It is in memory of Hamish Hey who lost his battle with cancer last year at age of just eight.
And though the cause is serious the concert will to be full of great tunes from classics to musicals and a bit of carol singing to add to the festivities.
Truly Terrible Orchestra Chairman Niall Ramsay: “We’re enormously grateful to Edward for gifting his tuba to the orchestra, now that he’s heading back to Canada.
“We’re hoping that out there in Inverness, there is someone who used to play tuba and would like to take it up again. They can have the loan of the tuba and be part of a great group of amateur musicians in the TTO.”
Julia de Meillon, conductor and musical director of the Truly Terrible Orchestra: “We have a fabulous group of musicians in the TTO and it is great fun to conduct them.
“We’d love to welcome some new faces to the orchestra and, as our name suggests, it is the attitude not the aptitude that counts so come and have a go.”