Sue Verity retiring from Rochdale Youth Orchestra

Sue Verity

Sue Verity, the musical director of the Rochdale Youth Orchestra, will be conducting her final concert with the orchestra on Saturday 5 December after 35 years involvement.

Sue started with the orchestra following her children’s connection. As a music teacher, she joined the orchestra to help out with the organisation and ended up taking over roles including conductor and musical director.

Speaking about her retirement, she said: “It was a difficult decision but I decided to do it following my husband’s retirement in May. It was the right time and it meant that we wouldn’t have to restrict ourselves any more.”

During her time with the orchestra, Sue has enjoyed many things and has seen many young musicians go on to greater things.

She added: “All of the concerts that we do are always fun. We do three a year and the children are always great. They play really well and always do their best. A lot of the people I have taught have gone on to become music teachers themselves or have become professional musicians. My deputy Chris Jolly, who runs the Jazz Ensemble, was one of my pupils so that is nice to see.”

For her final concert, Sue is asking for former members of the orchestra to come back and play one last time.

“We are asking for former players and anyone who was involved really to come back for my finale concert. I think it would be a nice touch,” said Sue.

Even though she is retiring from her role as musical director, Sue says she will still be around to offer a helping hand.

“I will miss it,” she said. “It is something I have done for a long time and we are still hoping that it continues to thrive and be successful. As of yet there is no one set to replace me but I will still be around to offer a helping hand here and there if they need it.”

Sue’s final concert will take place on Saturday 5 December at The Gracie Fields Theatre and will include performances of festive favourites including ‘Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer’ and ‘Santa Clause is Coming to Town’.

The Youth Orchestra Jazz Ensemble will also perform pieces that have been enjoyed over the years by many.

Special guests will include St Vincent’s R.C. School Choir and Ken Davies will act as compere for the evening.

Sue said: “It will be emotional for me because it is my last concert but it had to come at some point.”

Former members of the orchestra who are interested in playing at the final concert should contact Sue as soon as possible:

sueverity@sky.com
07801 077063

A rehearsal is taking place between 2.30pm and 3.30pm on the day of the concert.