Sinfonia Viva player receives national recognition

Graham Hall, a founding member of Bondholder Sinfonia Viva, has been awarded the prestigious RPS/ABO Salomon Prize by the Royal Philharmonic Society and Association of British Orchestras which celebrates the 'unsung heroes' of orchestra life.

Having started his journey studying at the Royal Academy of Music under James Blades, Graham left London and taught for two years as a peripatetic percussion tutor before going freelance as a player in 1984. He has since then worked with many orchestras throughout the country including Sinfonia Viva.

Graham received his award at a Sinfonia Viva concert at Derby Cathedral on his 56th birthday and commented: “It is important for musicians to have a voice in an orchestra and there are specific challenges for smaller orchestras whose players are freelance and work in many different guises. Although we are not working with each other on a daily basis, we are a tight band of players who share the same work ethos and commitment to Viva.”

Supported by fellow Bondholders Rolls-Royce, Derby City Council, Derby LIVE and Derby Cathedral, Sinfonia Viva is also supported with public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England.