ABOUT US
We are a string orchestra of about 25 players, based in Bridport, Dorset, in a beautiful region of the south coast of England and normally perform three concerts each year.Our players come from a wide area of West Dorset, East Devon and Somerset, mostly within 25 miles of Bridport itself.The orchestra was formed in the autumn of 1975 by the conductor Bruce Critchinson. There are still one or two founder members playing with the orchestra, originally the New Elizabethan Players, now known as the Bridport Chamber Orchestra.
We have a broad repertoire embracing many composers from baroque to modern.
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Founder ~ Bruce Critchinson
Chairperson ~ Ruth Briggs
Secretary ~ Caroline Lewars
Treasurer ~ Liz Sansom
Liaison - Rosalind Tarry
Librarian ~ Marion Jones
Publicity - Kate Vernon
Conductor ~ David Hedges
Leader ~ Alexandra Ennis
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New players are always welcome -
please contact us to find out more
Our conductor, David Hedges, studied violin under Frederick Grinke and viola under Prunella Pacey. While at Durham University, he conducted the University Chamber Orchestra. Since moving to Somerset he’s conducted Somerset Opera, Taunton Sinfonietta and Taunton Youth Orchestra.
David is also a regular Musical Director of Taunton Amateur Operatic Society. He has been a soloist with Somerset County Orchestra in Walton's Viola Concerto and in Mozart’s Sinfonia Concertante for Violin and Viola.
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David was appointed Artistic Director and Principal Conductor of Somerset County Orchestra in 2005. As a freelance viola player, as well as playing for many local groups, He has worked for HTV, Welsh National Opera, English National Ballet, Travelling Opera and Crystal Clear Opera. In 2017, he retired from the post of Head of Strings at Queen’s College, Taunton, a position he held since his arrival in Taunton in 1984.
Charitable Status
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The Bridport Chamber Orchestra has charitable status and is self-funding. Its financial support is obtained mainly from ticket sales, local authority grants and generous contributions from its patrons, friends and in particular, our sponsor, Alan Williams. New patrons and friends are always welcome, please contact us for details.
Charity Registration No. 1215696