Coro Nuovo gets cash boost after Mid Sussex Competitive Music Festival folds

As spokeswoman Susan Fleet explains: “The festival, which ran for more than three decades, enabled musicians of all ages to access classes led by music professionals.

“It was last held in November 2018 before the associated charity closed last year.

“At its final meeting, the charity chose two local Sussex groups to carry the baton onward and support young musicians in the area. They are Coro Nuovo, a Mid Sussex choir that stages a Sussex Musician of the Year competition, and the Ensemble Reza Community Orchestra.

“The £1,000 donation to Coro Nuovo will be used to increase the prize money for Sussex Musician of the Year to £2,000.

“The competition, which was held in October, supports young local musicians – either choral or instrumental – as they finish their studies and begin their professional careers.”

Kate Kent, chairman of Coro Nuovo, said: “We are sorry to see the festival close and its impact on several generations of Sussex musicians will continue to be felt for years to come. We’re also so grateful to receive the extra money for our Sussex Musician of the Year.

“After such a challenging year for so many people, the arts are struggling which is why our bursary, and the work of Ensemble Reza within the community, is more important than ever

“We’re very excited to find the next musician of the year and to nurture their career moving forward.”

Pictured above are (left to right) Kate Kent, chairman of Coro Nuovo; Rebecca Dowden from the Mid Sussex Competitive Music Festival; andAndrew Rees, musical director of Coro Nuovo.

coronuovo.org.uk