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About the Exeter Symphony Orchestra

History

The Exeter Symphony Orchestra has its origins in the late 1930s in association with the cathedral-based Exeter Musical Society. It became an independent enterprise in January 1989, and since that time the ESO has had three musical directors and principal conductors – David Cawthra, Will McBurnie, and from September 2005 Brian Northcott.

Our programmes provide wonderful opportunities: for players in the Exeter area to take part in great symphonic works; for music-lovers to come to hear ‘locally-produced’ music and for young soloists to perform with the ESO, sometimes at the beginning of their careers. Because of the welcoming atmosphere, some have returned to give virtuoso performances – such artists include Alexander Pannizza, the acclaimed pianist who now lives and performs in Argentina, and the Fujita sisters.

Vice President | Felicity Cawthra

Felicity is the wife of the late David Cawthra, who was the Musical Director and Principal Conductor of the Exeter Symphony Orchestra in the 1980s. We are delighted that she has agreed to become our first Vice President.