The Gloucestershire Symphony Orchestra was founded in 1901 by Cathedral organist Sir Herbert Brewer and conducted by Herbert Sumsion and John Sanders, before Mark Finch was appointed in 1994. Since then the orchestra has greatly expanded the scope of its concert giving and performed in more than a dozen venues throughout the county and beyond.

It has appeared at Gloucester's Three Choirs Festival in 1998, 2001, 2004 and 2007, winning acclaim as a champion of 20th century English music.

The GSO provides a platform for local composers and soloists, with a particular emphasis on encouraging young musicians and audiences. The orchestra plays classical music from all eras, including modern works and first performances.

We are supported by members and friends, grants and sponsorship.

To hear the orchestra playing part of Tchaikowsky's Nutcracker Suite, click on the picture below; to listen to more samples of the orchestra playing, please click on our samples page.

Photo by Elsie Kenny February 2007