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Farewell, Jonathan!

Jonathan Abbott conducting SBMS during rehearsal.

We are very sad to announce that we say a fond farewell to Musical Director, Jonathan Abbott, who is leaving us for pastures new.

Jonathan has had a long association with the orchestra, initially via his father, then assisting Colin from 2010, to principal conductor in 2015.

Under his direction, Jonathan has taken SBMS from strength to strength, challenging us with a variety of pieces from Korngold, Gershwin, Beethoven, Elgar, and more. We’re very grateful for everything that Jonathan has done during his time with us and wish him all the best for the future.

Sarah’s musical journey began at the age of 4, when she picked up her first recorder - an Early Learning Centre green recorder! She took up the violin at 7, followed by the clarinet at 10, partly inspired by her late grandfather, who also played the clarinet. She studied clarinet initially with Susan Boddy before moving to Sue Barber, and later returning to Susan Boddy. From 1991 to 2000, she attended the Saturday morning music school run by Essex Music Service, helping to develop her love of music from an early age.

Sarah first tried out for St Botolph’s Music Society around 2000-02. Although circumstances meant she was only able to attend one rehearsal at the time, she eventually found her way back to the Society, joining the second violin section in September 2016. She became section leader in 2023.

Alongside her musical activities, Sarah studied with the Open University, graduating in 2012 with a BA (hons) in Humanities with German and Music. She now plays an active role both on and off the concert platform as Secretary of the SBMS committee. She also looks after the Society’s website and ticketing, and leads its marketing and communications.

With both a love of performing and a passion for helping the Society thrive, Sarah enjoys being part of the team both on and off the concert platform.

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