There are many different instrumentalists of all ages and from all over Gloucestershire who play in the Cheltenham Philharmonic Orchestra

Many of these talented people perform as soloists at our concerts.

There are also professional soloists who are brought in from all over the country and sometimes abroad, to aid the performances and boost the interest in the orchestra.

Here at the Cheltenham Philharmonic, we are very involved in giving our instrumentalists the best opportunity to gain the necessary experience possibly to carry on in a musical career, and improve their ability at the same time. However, the fundamental part of being in the orchestra is to enjoy yourself and we certainly do!

The Cheltenham Philharmonic Orchestra is the principal orchestra for amateur players in the town.

New members are always welcome. There is no formal audition, but there is an informal assessment period of up to four weeks for you and us to decide whether or not we are suited. Where there is no full time vacancy, players may be put on a waiting list and contacted when there is a need for extras or deputies.

Full members pay an annual subscription, currently £60 per year (half price for students). With 35-40 rehearsals a year, this works out at around £1.60 per rehearsal (students 80p).

Currently (September 2010) there are vacancies for regular players in the following sections:

Violin
Viola
Horn
Trumpet
Trombone
Tuba
Percussion
Tympani

If you are an amateur player who would like the opportunity to play large-scale orchestral works, please contact us.