The City Of York Guildhall Orchestra has hit a new high note - landing a £6,000 sponsorship deal from BT.

Presenting a cheque for £6,000 to the City of York Guildhall Orchestra is Craig Chadburn of BT, front left, with violinist Geoff Egginton, and back, from left, David Nesbitt, principal tuba, musical director, Simon Wright, and on viola Maureen Burrows. Picture: David Harrison

And the money will hopefully help the orchestra attract even more financial muscle, as it will help produce more publicity and promotional material and help stage a series of concerts to encourage other potential sponsors.

The orchestra say it can cost them about £10,000 just to put on one concert.

Musical director Simon Wright said: "We are pleased to receive the support of BT, and hopefully this sponsorship will raise the profile of the orchestra and attract new sponsors."

Craig Chadburn, BT's corporate affairs manager, said: "BT is delighted to support an orchestra that York can be proud of."

The orchestra will be performing at York's Barbican Centre on Saturday, May 15, at 7.30pm, with a programme including works by Sibelius, Richard Strauss and Andrew Ravel. Tickets are available from the Barbican box office priced from £3 to £12.

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