Forthcoming concerts
Note that all events and programmes may be subject to change
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Conductor Paul Witkiewicz
Leader Anita Naughton
Sibelius The Bard
SIbelius The Oceanides
Mahler Blumine
Tchaikovsky Symphony No 2
including the original version of the first movement penned by the composer, in addition to the complete, revised symphony
Second Thoughts
21 November 2026 3:00pm
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Conductor Ben Crick
Leader Anita Naughton
Narrator Emma Cunliffe
A musical journey through an enchanted forest accompanied by a mountain king, picnicking bears and a Gruffalo!
Philip Mackenzie The Gruffalo
Smetana Vltava from Die Moldau
Grieg In the Hall of the Mountain King
Bruckner Symphony No 4 (opening)
Mouret Fanfare for the King of France
Bratton The Teddy Bears' Picnic
Strauss Thunder and Lightning Polka
Philip Mackenzie The Gruffalo's Child
Including big screen projection of Axel Scheffler's original illustrations from the Gruffalo books.
Sponsored by Friends of BSO
A Walk in the Woods
24 January 2026 3:00pm
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Future BSO season dates
Note that all dates may be subject to change
2027
23 January
13 March
8 May
26 June
25 September
20 November
About us
Bolton Symphony Orchestra was first formed by Nigel M Taylor who conducted its inaugural performance in 1988, as part of the 150th Anniversary celebrations of Local Government in Bolton. The Orchestra was re-formed in 1993 under the musical direction of Paul Payton. The Orchestra has established a reputation as one of the leading non-professional ensembles in the North due to the high standard of performances and innovative programme.
BSO contributes significantly to the cultural life of Bolton and also the North West. Recent performances have included Stravinsky's The Rite of Spring, Mahler's 8th Symphony, Bruckner's 8th, and a complete cycle of Beethoven's symphonies. We have performed with many leading international soloists including the violinist Leland Chen and pianist Peter Donohoe.
The Orchestra has recorded two CDs, the most recent being a performance of Ein Heldenleben by Richard Strauss, the other being "A Celebration" that demonstrates the versatility of the Orchestra and includes a BSO-commissioned composition by local composer Ivor Hodgson.
Our membership incorporates the very best of amateur, semi-professional and professional musicians who are drawn from throughout the North of England. The Orchestra is totally self-financed, funded by a mixture of subscriptions, sponsorship, box office and our Friends Association. We are always interested in hearing from people who would like to play in, hire or help the orchestra in some way.
Support
The Orchestra is very grateful for the support of its Friends Association. The Friends offer practical and financial support and, in return, they receive a range of benefits including priority booking and access to rehearsals and social events.
The Friends Association has provided financial support for the Orchestra in many ways, including sponsoring soloists, contributing towards the CD recording and supporting the purchase of our timpani. The Friends are pleased and proud to support such a fine orchestra and contribute in these ways to its continuing success.
Members of the Orchestra have developed close ties with the Friends, and we welcome them to come along to see how the Orchestra works. We regularly put on private performances for them, and these are always convivial events greatly enjoyed by both Friends and performers alike.
The annual Friends subscription is £15, and we very much welcome new members!
For further information, please use the online contact form or enquire in person at the 'Friends' table at any concert.
Samples
Contact us
Send us a note and we will respond as soon as we are able.
