My Bristol Favourites: Tim Harrison

Tim Harrison is the new conductor of the Bristol Youth Orchestra, the city’s flagship instrumental ensemble featuring more than 70 of the most talented musicians in Bristol.

Tim’s first major concert as conductor of BYO is on December 1 at the Victoria Rooms. For tickets, visit www.colstonhall.org/shows/bristol-youth-orchestra-winter-concert-2019.

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Here are Tim’s top-five Bristol favourites:

The Severn Bridge

Opened by the Queen in 1966, the Severn Bridge was by far the longest span in England when it was built

“I like to cycle or walk to the village of Aust, which isn’t too far from where I live. I often go to the top of the cliffs to admire the view, or under the bridge itself to fully appreciate this immense structure. I do my big thinking at this surprisingly quiet spot, especially in the summer, where the lights twinkle at twilight. It is also the gateway between Bristol and the homeland and a good reminder that beautiful Wales isn’t so far away!”

We The Curious planetarium

“I have always loved science, especially astronomy. At heart, I’m still a big kid, especially when learning about the stars. Ideal for children and adults alike, I’ve really enjoyed the shows at the planetarium at We Are the Curious. It’s not for everyone, but if you like science, this feels very real and is highly thought provoking. There may be life out there!”

The Lansdown

The Lansdown pub is a former coaching inn situated on the edge of Clifton Village

“As well as being a very nice drinking and eating establishment (with very good ales and friendly staff), it was particular musical events that first attracted me to the Lansdown pub in Clifton. Clifton International Festival of Music is attracting great artists, especially from the world of ‘historically informed performance’ (often early classical music). The artistic director, Tom Williams, is bringing classical music to new settings, including interactive music-making with a pint. (I deeply approve; much of the music was written for this purpose, so it’s historically appropriate!) In particular, Purcell at the Pub and the showing of The Passions of Vaughan Williams were a real triumph. I think it’s wonderful how the Lansdown have taken a risk by opening its doors to interesting events such as this; they’re light-hearted, different and you can get involved if you choose. You also make a donation of your choosing for these events, rather than paying admission.”

Blaise Castle Estate

The folly castle at Blaise features in Jane Austen’s Northanger Abbey

“We are lucky to have the huge Blaise Castle Estate close by. It’s perfect for taking my very little son on walks and there are some great views over Bristol. There’s even a little folly at the top of the hill as a reward for your climbing effort. Blaise Castle is somewhere we tend to go to spend time as a family and so I feel very fond of this park. It’s easy to find a quiet spot and, despite it being such a vast green space. I think many people aren’t aware of it, perhaps because it’s slightly out of town. It can also be accessed from Coombe Dingle and is a good option if you want to cycle.”

Arnos Vale Cemetery

Arnos Vale is a 45-acre spectacular Victorian garden cemetery

“I enjoy performing at many of the well-known classical music venues in Bristol, but Arnos Vale Cemetery may be a less obvious place to hear live music. It holds a chapel which is an intimate setting for concerts, as well as offering nice walks, tours and workshops for children. Chamber music and small opera companies (like Bristol’s own Tessitoura) are taking advantage of this classy setting for performances. It has a stunning cafe/bar area and programmes music that you may not otherwise hear elsewhere in Bristol. For example, I’ve especially enjoyed playing in the orchestra for small scale Mozart operas translated into English. As an audience member, the action is close, it’s easy to follow, the acoustics are warm and performances are good value for money. It’s well worth bookmarking their website and keeping an eye on their diverse events.”

Read more: A pioneering orchestra for disabled musicians