FOR more than twenty five years the Colne Philharmonic Orchestra have been delighting classical music fans across Essex.

Since 1990 the group has helped nurture and develop some of the brightest young talents, and they’ve performed with exceptional musicians and conductors.

Gordon Stowell, chairman of the orchestra, has been leading the group for three years and been playing the clarinet for more than 50.

He said: “A few of us have been there for the whole 27 years but lots of different people come in and out.

“We have played music in the Braintree district for that amount of time. Our vision has been to bring quality orchestral music to the community.

“We are all amateurs but we have had quite a few music teachers with us over the years.

"Over the years we have had a lot of young soloist who have gone on to have careers in music.

“We see ourselves as a bit of a family but we always welcome new players.”

In particular the group need to add string players to their ranks, but everyone is welcome no matter their age.

Mr Stowell said: “A lot of young players who are still at school who might play in youth orchestras to a high standard give up when they move on to university.

"We are really looking to try and encourage those people or any musicians who have not played in a while back into it.

“We have a very active friend society that a lot can join with a lot of benefits.”

On March 11 the orchestra are set to perform their latest concert at Witham’s St Nicholas Church, on Chipping Hill, where members will be performing the music of Beethoven, Handel and Parry.

The group will be conducted by London born Boris Peck who has worked with some of the world’s most accomplished orchestra’s in the past.

Tickets cost £10 for adults and seniors or £3 for children

Call 01206 210933.

Visit www.colnephil.org.uk.