The history of the orchestra

The origins of the Oxford Symphony Orchestra date back to 1902, when Dr Hugh Allen founded the Orchestra, initially for choral work. In May 1903, a concert by "Dr Allen's Orchestra" took place in the Town Hall. The orchestra's reputation quickly grew, and a concert in 1910 included Adrian C Boult as vocal soloist. The orchestra survived through the war, and in 1920 was renamed the "Oxford Orchestral Society".

Ralph Vaughan Williams and Foxy

The orchestra continued both to play its own orchestral concerts, and in accompanying choral works. Programming was adventurous for the time, and included a performance of Vaughan Williams' Fifth Symphony, directed by the composer, in the Sheldonian in 1944.

In 1978, the orchestra adopted its present name, and developed its reputation for performances of large scale works by many of the great composers under the directorship of Robert Secret. In 1996, Leon Gee was appointed as music director. He continued to raise standards of performance, whilst exploring both the Romantic and twentieth century repertoire. Recent performances have included Bartok's Concerto for Orchestra and Mahler's First Symphony.

Robert Max joined the Orchestra as its new Music Director with effect from September 2005, with widespread experience as both a conductor and cellist.

The orchestra aims to provide opportunities for soloists - both locally and nationally known. Recent soloists have included Zoe Beyers (Berg Violin Concerto) and Pip Eastop (Strauss Horn Concerto). The new season sees the Orchestra working for the first time with Natalie Clein ('cello) and Mark van de Wiel (clarinet).