BHCO was formed in 1987 to bring together the best musicians in the South West and Bristol area to perform at a professional standard. We collaborate with some of the most inspiring conductors and soloists on the UK circuit today. Our players come from all walks of life and comprise both professionals and committed amateurs. In the week before our concerts, we meet for a series of intensive rehearsals, culminating in high-quality performances of varied and challenging repertoire, which are hugely rewarding for our audiences, conductors, soloists, and players. We're proud to be considered one of the finest orchestras of our type in the UK.

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St George’s

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BHCO performs in the beautiful Georgian St George’s chapel, Brandon Hill, Bristol, which is widely regarded as having one of the best acoustics in Europe for chamber music. Playing in this world-class concert space allows us the flexibility to stage a wide range of works and welcome soloists of all instruments. Being in the city center, St George’s is easily accessible to the public, including students and families who are welcome to our open afternoon rehearsal.

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Conductors

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BHCO has been extremely successful in creating relationships with conductors from across the globe and is proud to bring these inspiring musicians to audiences in Bristol. Conductors travel to Bristol for a week of intensive rehearsals. Such conductors include Martyn Brabbins, Grant Llewellyn, Douglas Boyd, and Andrew Shulman.

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Emerging talent

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BHCO is committed to supporting young and emerging artists. Audiences attending our concerts hear these fantastic young musicians at the beginning of their careers, and often the relationship between the orchestra and the soloists is long-lasting. Artists include Thomas Bowes, Guy Johnstone, and Julian Lloyd-Webber.