The London Vegetable Orchestra has said the band’s profile has “grown” significantly since it was formed 15 years ago.
When the group were students at music college, it was suggested to one member that he try and fashion a musical instrument out of a potato.
He declined, but insisted he could do it with a carrot.
When he succeeded, he contacted the college and asked whether anyone else would like to help him out with a new vegetable orchestra.
“Of course, we all leapt at the opportunity,” carrot recorder Clare Grahams told The Pat Kenny Show.
“We went and we had a wonderful day or recording this advert that I don’t think came of anything.
“We had so much fun that we just decided that we were going to carry it on.
“It’s gone from there, it’s grown.”
Members of the London Vegetable Orchestra. Picture by: Alamy.com.Swede and butternut squash player Patrick Johns explained that he has played various vegetables over the years.
“My first performance with the orchestra was on the carrot and then I think people quickly realised I was probably better on something else,” he said.
“So, I moved to butternut squash and started playing the swede last year.
“I think butternut squash is where my heart is but I do like the swede as well.”
Vegetable memories
Ms Grahams added that the amount of time that vegetables last as instruments varies significantly.
“It depends on the carrot, to be completely honest,” she said.
“Sometimes they can last a week - or longer - and sometimes they’re just gone after a couple of days.”
She continued that she still remembers “the really good ones”.
“There was one that I used about 10 years ago and it lasted a full week,” she said.
“It was just amazing; honestly, I think it was the best one I’ve ever had.”
“It had a lovely clear tone and it was incredibly loud.
“I’ve never had one since that was so good.”
The London Vegetable Orchestra will perform at the Ballyroan Library in Dublin tomorrow.
Main image: Bill Cooper and Clare Graham of the London Vegetable Orchestra. Picture by: Alamy.com.
