A SOLD-OUT auditorium in Taunton was raving as the popular Chris Grabham Pop Orchestra took to the stage.
The orchestra performed its new show, Summer Vibes, at the Tacchi-Morris Arts Centre on July 20, which includes hits from the 70s through to present day.
Audiences spent the evening singing, dancing and laughing.
For this show, Chris Grabham, the 26-year-old Taunton-based musician took the lead, conducting over 50 musicians playing a variety of instruments.
He said: "Forget everything you’ve ever associated with an orchestra, we play some of your favourite songs as you’ve never heard them before!
"Get ready for big tunes, dancing saxophones and an electric atmosphere."
Playing a range of instruments like trombones, tubas, harps, and saxophones, the orchestra aims to deliver enjoyable, spirited performances.
Though they are just a year old, they have significantly influenced the local music scene and developed a following, with some fans travelling from all parts of the country.
Mr Grabham was ecstatic about the performance: "We were over the moon to perform to a full house in Taunton, and the atmosphere was absolutely incredible.
"The feedback we’ve had from the audience has been superb and we’re thrilled that everyone enjoyed the evening as much as they did."
Buoyed by this success, the orchestra is gearing up to perform at the Northcott Theatre in Exeter on September 21.
Showcasing the Summer Vibes show, Mr Grabham expressed his excitement to share their music with a new audience: "It’s so exciting to bring Summer Vibes to Exeter, we're looking forward to spreading some late summer sun."
Minute changes have been made from the Taunton show.
There are new pieces and new faces added to the ensemble.
Mr Grabham hinted at the changes: "People who saw the show in Taunton will certainly recognise many elements, but there will be some key changes and we have some brilliant new tunes in there too."
Audience feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.
Praises included comments like, "Wonderful night, great fun".
"Really impressed", and "Absolutely fantastic and I can’t wait for the next one!", echoing the audience's joy and anticipation.
Seeing their popularity rise, the orchestra has plans laid out well beyond 2024.
Fans can follow them on social media, to stay up-to-date with their events and news.
The remarkable evening will definitely find its echo on September 21, at the Northcott Theatre.
Tickets are available now via https://exeternorthcott.co.uk/events/chris-grabham-pop-orchestra-summer-vibes/.
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