derby concert orchestra

HISTORY

---

Founded as 'The Derby Light Orchestra' in 1949 by Allan Street (a well known brass player and teacher) the orchestra originally concentrated on 'light classical' repertoire. Performance standards were initially high and the orchestra continues in this tradition. Soloists such as violinist Alfredo Campoli and the composer Ronald Binge featured in concerts in those far-off days.

With time, the name and characteristics of the orchestra changed as it matured and grew. Now the entire orchestral repertoire is played, from smaller scale baroque performance to the mightiest symphonic works. Soloists such as Leon Goosens and Nigel Kennedy have featured in more recent programmes along with many other established artists. Additionally we often invite new and emerging singers and instrumentalists to perform, usually leading to some extraordinarily exciting and memorable concerts.

The 2009/10 season is the 60th anniversary of the orchestra and a special programme has been planned. Some historic/original repertoire will be revisited along with other events appropriate to this huge milestone in the development of the DCO.