About Us
We are an amateur orchestra that first performed in 2007, performing on Radio Stoke. We have enjoyed steady growth and development over the subsequent years, becoming a strong and friendly group of musicians. We have been able to explore wide ranges of music from classical to jazz. We have a strong library of music, with some originating from the field of concert band music which has provided variety of arrangements that have suited our strengths. Yet, we also play full orchestral arrangements of classical, stage and film music. We encourage musicians to join us, accepting almost all forms of instruments. This has provided us with what may appear to be an atypical spread of instruments. We have a strong string section, larger sections of wood wind instruments than is usual, and encourage sections of saxophones players as part of our brass section. The "unusual" construction of sections however provides us with the greatest opportunities to explore all musical styles, and enjoy music in its widest forms.
UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL ORCHESTRA
The Joy of Music Rediscovered!
MEMBERSHIP
We welcome players of all standards, from early experience to accomplished players. Our supportive environment and wide range of music provides a most enjoyable opportunity for musicians to play and perform. Players are of all ages from teenage to retired. Members are from all walks of life, being students, accountants, farmers, music teachers and health care workers etc.
MUSIC WE PLAY
We play all styles of music, allowing both musicians and audiences to have wide and exciting experiences of music. Our wide repertoire extends from classical to film and stage, big band to opera and jazz. Players of strings, brass, woodwind or percussion, will always find parts that are engaging and challenging. We continually introduce new music to our repertoire.
PERFORMANCES
Our concerts deliver ever new experiences to our audiences. We play classical or theatre masterpieces that compliment performances of singers and dancers. Our concerts have occurred at venues including the Liverpool Arena and Birmingham NEC, and have included performances with award winning choirs, solo singers, dance groups and national pairs dance champions. We design events to present Summer Cabarets and Balls, themed concerts and our traditional Christmas Concert.
Thoughts of orchestra members and the audience
To the UHO, I wanted to thank you for the wonderful concerts we have enjoyed in '22. The Christmas concert was exceptional and each performance so enjoyable. I know the friends I brought along all I am writing and pass their appreciation.
~Janet B