Living The Music: Nelsons Own Symphony 1966-2010

This book is a surprise. Included is the anticipated chronology of concerts and music performed, conductors through the years, soloists who have played with the orchestra and a full history from the orchestra's establishment to the present day. What is unexpected is the raft of fascinating anecdotes, old photographs, newspaper cuttings, concert posters, delightful black and white illustrations and a clear guide to the sections of the orchestra that many readers will find helpful. One of the stories recalls Ivar Hallstrom's dachshund, Lotte, who, during rehearsals, lay beside him in his cello case, accompanied by a soothing ticking clock; another, when on their very first tour in 1968, the orchestra was marooned in Takaka by rising flood waters. Throughout the book human interest tales add warmth and bring these individuals and past times back to life. Generous acknowledgement is given to the many talented music teachers at the Nelson School of Music who have contributed to the orchestra, either as a player or a provider of new talent or both. One of them, Dora Alack, is described by Shelley Wilkinson as ... the most beautiful woman ever ... her hair in a soft wispy bun, always wearing autumn coloured polo-necked jerseys, and driving around the Port in her buttercup yellow Cortina. Among the long interesting chapter on conductors is a gracious tribute to David Lindup, conductor from 2003-2008 until bad times befell. It is generally felt that he gave inspired leadership to the NSO and Margot Hannigan writes that "no-one could deny the huge loss we all felt" concluding, "He was a great conductor - totally focused and clear in his communication." Despite the help of individuals and businesses whose memories, scrapbooks and practical assistance have enhanced this book, the credit for an idea come to fruition goes to the author, and Living the Music is the result of her labour of love. The smiling members of today's Nelson Symphony Orchestra are pictured in a panoramic photograph that wraps around the front and back cover. It is a happy and positive picture of a successful orchestra in extremely good heart, with able conductor Mick Dowrick in the middle and at the helm. Living the Music is an absorbing read and a treasure for all who enjoy music and are interested in Nelson's history. - Fairfax NZ New