The
Broken Consort started in 1972 as an adult education music class at
what was then called Ealing College of Technology. It was founded by
Denis Sobrielo who took over what had previously been a group for
wind players only.
George
Goodall, one of the group’s long-standing players, was one of the
original members. Of today’s membership about a third have been
attending for twenty years or more. Members’ ages span several
decades, and the group includes players of piano, flute, recorder,
oboe, clarinet, bassoon, violin, viola, 'cello and bass. Some members
play more than one of these instruments!
Over
fifteen years ago Helen Brammer replaced Denis Sobrielo, and under
her directorship the group has tackled a very wide repertoire from
Bach to Shostakovich, and from orchestral music to small chamber
pieces. A great deal of this music is arranged by Helen to suit the
range of instruments played, and also to suit the varying levels of
players. In addition to all this, Helen is a key player at the
post-concert parties and at the very informal summer sessions in
members’ homes when her delicious home-made cakes are the star
attraction!
After
meeting for 38 years at what became Thames Valley University, the
class was cut in June 2010. After a vociferous, but ultimately
unsuccessful protest, a decision was made to continue as an
independent organisation. As a result of this, the group now
rehearses each week on a Thursday evening at Drayton Manor High School, Hanwell, London W7 3EU.
Members
of the Broken Consort look forward to many more years of relaxed and
informal music-making, and to welcoming new players who are
interested in joining them.
