What Orion Orchestra does for young musicians,
in the words of some of our current stars…
Catriona lockhart, oboe
“Performing with Orion I’ve covered some of the main repertoire as well as new commissions and compositions by composers such as Eleanor Alberga, and Hannah Kendall. It’s been very rewarding to be able to share these musical explorations with like-minded young musicians who are at a similar stage of their careers.”
Wilbert Chan, cello
“It has always been a pleasure to play with the orchestra. Not only is it a good way to learn new orchestral repertoire, it is also an opportunity to work with great musicians like Nicholas Daniel OBE”
Aaliyah Booker, violin
“It has been such a joy to work with the Orion Orchestra since 2023. I am truly honoured to have played with such an amazing ensemble, and to play such diverse repertoire under the baton of Toby Purser and Nicholas Daniel. It is so special to make music with close friends and colleagues and I am excited for future projects with the orchestra.”
Harry Nim, violin
“The Orion Orchestra has given me the opportunity to work with and meet like-minded and exceptional musicians, providing an environment where I can engage and collaborate closely with peers, while also expanding my orchestral expertise. My engagement with Orion Orchestra has enhanced my experience with orchestral performance, and provides the ability to share that knowledge with the next generation of musicians, reinforcing my commitment to music education.”
Orion’s Alumni - Where are they now?
Orion’s players have gone onto successful careers across the musical world. Below are just a few of the top musicians whose early careers were helped along by Orion’s work…
Peter Facer Oboe - Britten Sinfonia - Principal
David Stark - Principle Bass - BBC National Orchestra of Wales
William Knight - Clarinet – Royal Scottish National Orchestra
Oliver Roberts - Flute – Orchestra of Scottish Opera
Felix Tanner - Viola - no 2 - Scottish Chamber Orchestra
Liam Buckley - Viola – Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra
Claire Wickes - Flute – principle – English National Opera Orchestra
Hetty Snell - Cello – Orchestra of the Royal Opera House - Principle
Anna Blackmore - Principle 2nd Violin – Orchestra of the Royal Opera House
Anna Hashimoto - Prof of Clarinet at Birmingham Conservertoire
Laurence Unglass - Double Bass - John Wilson Orchestra
David Edmunds - Cello - Ulster Orchestra
Sarah Joyce - Cello - RTÉ National Symphony Orchestra Ireland
Margarita Kangron - Cellist - is now an Agent with IMG Artist
Phoebe Fullbrook – Snape Maltings Education Officer
Chris Cotter – Trumpet – Royal Philharmonic Orchestra
Fraser Keddie - Viola - Royal Swedish Orchestra
Evangeline Tang – Bass - On trial with London Symphony Orchestra
Silvia Bettoli - Principal Horn - Orchestra Sinfonica Siciliana, Palermo Sicily