History

President: - Richard Hickox.

Vice Presidents: - Graham Smallbone; Christopher Finzi;  Hazel Howells.

The North Wilts Orchestra was founded in 1966. Following a meeting in June of that year (called by the late Maurice Bennett, the orchestra’s first Chairman, and held in Marlborough) the first rehearsal was held on 5th October, under the baton of Graham Smallbone, who had recently been appointed Head of Music at Marlborough College.

The rehearsal venue was Fynamore School, Calne, and the first concert was given there on December 2nd 1966. For many years the orchestra performed at different venues in Calne, Chippenham, Devizes, Marlborough, Swindon and Westbury, until St. Andrew’s Church, Chippenham was made its regular concert venue a few years ago.

When Graham Smallbone left Marlborough to teach at Eton in 1971, Christopher Finzi became the orchestra’s conductor and remained in the post until 1997.  Alan Harwood then took over and conducted the orchestra until 2002; Alan died in 2003. Chris Thompson, Director of Music at Dauntsey's School, has now become the permanent conductor.

Two of the original members are still playing in the orchestra - Rosemary Stanbury (the first leader), and Michael Oliver (for many years the principal viola and now the current orchestra leader).

The Orchestra rehearses on Wednesdays from 7.30 - 9.30 at Devizes School and would welcome more string players. Players wishing to join should contact Christopher Joseph (Secretary) on 01672 513364 for more details.