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.