Genre

:

Concerto

 

 

Orchestral

 

The Ulster Orchestra is a classical music ensemble based in Belfast, Northern Ireland. It was founded in 1966 by the Arts Council of Northern Ireland, with the aim of providing a professional orchestra for the region. Since then, it has become one of the leading orchestras in the United Kingdom, with a reputation for excellence in both live performance and recording. The orchestra's founding conductor was Maurice Miles, who led the ensemble until 1977. He was succeeded by Bryden Thomson, who served as principal conductor from 1985 to 1990. During Thomson's tenure, the orchestra gained international recognition for its recordings of the music of Jean Sibelius, including a complete cycle of the composer's symphonies. Other notable conductors who have worked with the Ulster Orchestra include Yan Pascal Tortelier, Dmitry Sitkovetsky, and JoAnn Falletta. The Ulster Orchestra is made up of around 70 musicians, who perform a wide range of repertoire, from Baroque and Classical music to contemporary works. The ensemble has a particular affinity for the music of Irish composers, including Hamilton Harty, Charles Wood, and Shaun Davey. It has also premiered works by contemporary composers such as James MacMillan, John Tavener, and Arvo Pärt. One of the highlights of the Ulster Orchestra's history was its performance at the BBC Proms in 1985. Under the baton of Bryden Thomson, the orchestra gave a memorable performance of Sibelius's Symphony No. 2, which was broadcast live on BBC Radio 3. The performance was widely praised by critics, and helped to establish the orchestra's reputation as a world-class ensemble. In addition to its live performances, the Ulster Orchestra has also made numerous recordings, both for commercial release and for broadcast on BBC Radio 3. Its recordings of the music of Sibelius have been particularly well-received, and have won several awards, including a Gramophone Award in 1990 for the complete cycle of symphonies. The Ulster Orchestra has also been recognized for its work in the community, particularly through its education and outreach programs. These programs include workshops and concerts for schoolchildren, as well as collaborations with local community groups and musicians. The orchestra has also been involved in several initiatives to promote peace and reconciliation in Northern Ireland, including a performance at the opening of the Northern Ireland Assembly in 1998. Despite facing financial challenges in recent years, the Ulster Orchestra remains a vital part of the cultural landscape of Northern Ireland. Its commitment to excellence in performance and education, as well as its dedication to promoting the music of Irish composers, has earned it a well-deserved reputation as one of the leading orchestras in the United Kingdom.

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