Members of Northern Ballet’s orchestra, the Northern Ballet Sinfonia, have expressed concern that they may “never play again” following a potential merger with Opera North, announced by Northern Ballet.
The Leeds-based ballet company recently stated that it is “beginning to explore a strategic partnership” with Opera North, which could see its dancers performing to the music of Opera North’s orchestra.
Mary Gilbert, a 53-year-old oboist who has played with the 27-member Sinfonia for 35 years, fears their last concert together on June 9 may have been their final performance.
“It’s very upsetting,” she remarked, noting the emotional toll of the uncertain future.
Northern Ballet has attributed this exploration to financial strain, particularly due to rising production and touring costs.
In a statement, the ballet company acknowledged the impact the potential partnership would have on Sinfonia’s freelance musicians, whose long-standing dedication has been integral to the company.
For some performances, Northern Ballet already began using recorded music last year as a cost-saving measure.
Sinfonia’s principal percussionist, John Melbourne, called the possible merger a “watering down of both companies,” warning that “two Yorkshire-based orchestras will become one,” which he believes will inevitably result in fewer performances from both ballet and opera.
The proposed changes have also alarmed the Musicians’ Union, with Paul Reed, North of England’s regional organizer, expressing concerns over the decision’s impact on professional musicians and the future talent pipeline.
“The musicians at Northern Ballet Sinfonia have been working there many years – decades in some cases,” said Reed. “It will be deeply disappointing if the company goes through with it.”
For musicians like Gilbert, the potential merger represents a loss for future generations, as she explains, “I don’t want to be the last incumbent of my chair. Someone passed it on to me, and I want to pass it on, too.”
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