Last update:
5 May 2008
© 2004-8 BSO
About the Orchestra
Who are we?
The inaugural performance of Bolton Symphony Orchestra (BSO) was in 1988 as part of the 150th Anniversary celebrations of Local Government in Bolton. The Orchestra was re-formed in 1993 under the musical direction of Paul Payton. The orchestra has established a reputation as one of the leading non-professional ensembles in the North due to the high standard of performances and innovative programme planning.
What do we do?
BSO contributes significantly to the cultural life of Bolton and also the North West. Recent performances have included Stravinsky's The Rite of Spring, Mahler's 8th Symphony and a complete cycle of Beethoven's symphonies. We have performed with many leading soloists including the international violinist Leland Chen.
Why do we do it?
Our membership incorporates the very best of amateur, semi-professional and professional musicians who are drawn from throughout the North of England. The Orchestra is totally self-financed, funded by a mixture of subscriptions, sponsorship and box office. We are always interested in hearing from people who would like to play in, hire or help the orchestra in some way.
BSO objectives
The objectives here are an informal list that arises out of the Objects of the BSO in the Constitution.
- Promote asuccessful and exciting concert season.
- Develop closer links with like-minded ensembles.
- Maintain and develop high customer interest in BSO and its associated ensembles.
- Promote 20th Century music wherever possible.
- Promote appropriate community events.
- Promote the cultural excellence of the Borough to a wider audience.
- Encourage greater family attendance at BSO events.
- Bring to Bolton the very best in international soloists.
More information
The combination of interesting programme planning and inspirational conducting ensures the fun and 'buzz' of music making continues for the players and audience alike.
Audiences for BSO concerts are continually increasing showing that what is played is attractive to Bolton's public. It is, of course, a priority that the orchestra performs a balance of programmes during the year that will bring in regular and appreciative audiences.
Joint concerts with other musical groups such as Opera '74 and Bolton Catholic Choral Society help to widen the choice of works played and increase the target area for audiences.
The Lottery: Peer Gynt
In July, 1998 BSO was involved in a National Lottery funded project involving groups of Bolton primary school children in which the children performed their own music inspired by their study of the music played by the Orchestra. Supervised by the pupils' teachers and professional advisory staff this project and its concert was a splendid educational experience for the children and an inspirational one for the orchestra. Many of those who attended the concert were 'first-timers' who we would hope were sufficiently impressed to return in the future.
Exciting programming and bringing in professional soloists all costs money as do the other major running costs of music hire and venues for rehearsals. The adult orchestra members' pay an annual fee to play and the orchestra has been lucky to find several sponsors who make annual contributions or sponsor individual concerts. The unpaid administration is divided up between several orchestra members.
Interested in joining the BSO?
We occasionally have a small number of vacancies. If you are interested in being a part of this exciting group please use our online contact form.
working in partnership with Bolton Music Service