Conductor with cerebral palsy to work with UK orchestra
mainThe Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra has created what it calls a ‘training place’ for a disabled conductor with cerebral palsy and limited movement.
The initial trainee, James Rose, uses a head-baton and will lead an ensemble made up of both able-bodied and disabled players. He was chosen by the orchestra ‘for his outstanding ambition’ and will start work in June 2017. The scheme is funded by an ACE grant and ‘a significant donation from two private donors.’
James says: ‘The prospect of developing a new ensemble for the BSO comprising of players with and without disabilities is an exciting one. This will not only provide a platform for new talented musicians, but it will also be used as a vehicle to inspire those who have disabilities to engage with classical music – whether it be playing or listening.’
Given that it seems personality disorders have always been acceptable and the burgeoning opportunities for conductors with evidently crippled hands, it seems surprising that it has taken so long to allow for other disabilities to get in the game.