Tuesday, December 14, 2010

Austrian band of musicians with Down syndrome will play at Prince William wedding

From The AP:

VIENNA — An Austrian band made up mostly of musicians with Down syndrome has two big gigs next year: royal weddings in Britain and Monaco.

Josef Schoerkmayr, head of the No Problem Orchestra (pictured), says the group was contacted by organizers of Prince William and Kate Middleton's big day in London on April 29, as well as an official from Monaco where Prince Albert II and Charlene Wittstock will tie the knot in July.

Schoerkmayr said Tuesday the band members, eight of whom will travel to the royal weddings, are already rehearsing but aren't nervous because they've had plenty of practice playing for a high-profile audience including Queen Elizabeth II.

All members of the band have disabilities. Their repertoire ranges from classical to rock, jazz and even traditional Austrian folk music.