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07.03.24 | Death and the Maiden

28.02.24 | Fighting Fund campaign launched

25.02.24 | Mainly Baroque

17.10.23 | Northern Chamber Orchestra Presents Music of Innocence, featuring Chloe Hanslip, Nadine Benjamin and Delyana Lazarova

The Northern Chamber Orchestra (NCO) proudly announces a concert highlighting the exceptional talents of three extraordinary women in the world of classical music. Violinist Chloë Hanslip, soprano Nadine Benjamin, and conductor Delyana Lazarova will captivate audiences with their prowess in a performance that promises to be both powerful and emotionally stirring.

The Northern Chamber Orchestra, known for its commitment to artistic excellence, will bring Gustav Mahler’s Fourth Symphony to life. Mahler’s music often showcases soloistic orchestration, making it an ideal candidate for the chamber orchestra’s unique interpretation. Ian Farrington’s arrangement enables this monumental work to be experienced in the intimate surroundings of The King’s School.

Soprano Nadine Benjamin, whose star has been steadily rising since her debut with ENO in 2018, promises to enchant the audience with her sublime vocals. Benjamin’s remarkable journey has seen her perform at prestigious venues like the BBC Proms in 2019 and the Royal Opera House in 2020. In Mahler’s Symphony No. 4, she will take the audience on a celestial journey, portraying heaven through the innocent eyes of a child with her breathtaking voice.

Chloë Hanslip, the NCO’s esteemed Artist in Association, is a distinguished violinist renowned on the international stage. Her recent and upcoming concerto performances with renowned orchestras such as the London Philharmonic, Philharmonia, and Hallé orchestras have garnered critical acclaim. In this performance, Hanslip will grace the stage with Mozart’s youthful Violin Concerto No.4, showcasing her virtuosity.

Adding to the richness of the evening, Estonian composer Arvo Pärt’s evocative composition, Cantus in memoriam Benjamin Britten, will be performed, paying homage to the late Benjamin Britten, whom Pärt greatly admired.

Delyana Lazarova, who triumphantly conducted Beethoven’s Eroica with the NCO last season, returns to lead the orchestra in this extraordinary performance. In the 2022/23 season, Lazarova made her American debut, collaborated with the Philharmonia Orchestra for the first time, and reunited with the Orchestre National de France and the CBSO.

Don’t miss this exceptional evening, featuring three remarkable women who continue to make their mark in the world of classical music.

Ticket Information:

Standard: £27.00, Under 30s £17.00, Full-Time Students and Under 18s free

For tickets and further information, please visit  www.ncorch.co.uk or call 0161 706 1990

05.10.23 | Macclesfield Music Centre collaboration

Macclesfield Music Centre

The Northern Chamber Orchestra (NCO) and Macclesfield Music Centre (MMC) are delighted to announce their second-year partnership project, set to bring enriching musical experiences to MMC members. Over the course of the year, NCO musicians will engage with MMC in a series of sessions tailored to various instrumental sections. These sessions will provide MMC members, regardless of their skill level, with the invaluable opportunity to interact with and learn from NCO specialists.

The programme spans six Saturday mornings, offering MMC members unique opportunities for musical growth. It features diverse sessions catering to various instrumental sections. The NCO specialists share valuable insights and techniques, benefiting participants’ skills. Advanced Orchestra members gain expertise from NCO cellists, and double reed players refine their skills in the Double Reed Session. Brass and woodwind players enhance their abilities through the Brass and Woodwind Sessions. The programme concludes with a Strings Session and a captivating String Quartet Performance in MMC’s coffee shop, creating an enjoyable musical experience for all members.

These sessions promise to enhance the musical journey of MMC members and foster a deeper appreciation for the art of music. For more information and details on how to participate, please visit the Macclesfield Music Centre website.

24.09.23 | National Day of Arts in Care Homes

Sunday 24 September 2023 marks a significant day in the calendar as we celebrate the National Day of Arts in Care Homes. On this occasion, we reflect on the profound impact of initiatives like our Mind Music project, which has been a beacon of hope and inspiration, showcasing the transformative potential of live music in improving the lives of individuals living with dementia.

The Northern Chamber Orchestra’s Mind Music project has been on a remarkable journey, touching the lives of many and spreading the joy of music to those who need it most. At its core, this initiative is a testament to the healing power of the arts, proving that music has the ability to transcend barriers, reach deep within the human soul, and foster connections that enrich the lives of all involved.

Mind Music at Morris Feinmann Care Home

Lawrence Dinh, Education Coordinator at the Northern Chamber Orchestra, expresses the significance of this project beautifully:

“Mind Music is not just about playing music; it’s about creating a space where the melodies resonate with the hearts of those who often find themselves in the shadows of dementia. It’s a language that transcends words and a bridge that connects us with our shared humanity.”

This project is not confined to the concert hall but extends its reach into the heart of healthcare policies and research. By engaging with caregivers, academic institutions, and parliamentary groups, the Mind Music project has paved the way for the integration of arts into healthcare, underscoring the importance of holistic approaches to well-being.

As we celebrate the National Day of Arts in Care Homes, we are reminded of the profound impact that initiatives like Mind Music have had, and continue to have, on the lives of individuals facing the challenges of dementia. It leaves behind a legacy of compassion, connection, and healing through the universal language of music.

The Mind Music project has, over the years, shown that music is not just a form of entertainment, but a powerful tool for enhancing the quality of life, fostering connections, and instilling hope in the hearts of those who need it most.

You can read more about Mind Music here: https://www.ncorch.co.uk/community/mind-music/

14.09.23 | Community Concerts in Port Sunlight

Get ready to embark on a delightful musical journey as the Northern Chamber Orchestra (NCO) teams up with the Port Sunlight Village Trust to present “Music and Song with the Northern Chamber Orchestra.” These enchanting events promise to immerse you in a captivating mix of well-known classics and beloved old songs, all performed by the incredibly talented musicians of the NCO, right in the heart of Port Sunlight.

Under the expert leadership of Jamie Manson on the double bass and Naomi Atherton on the horn, this event guarantees an interactive musical escapade designed for intimate and lively small groups. Leave behind the formality of traditional concerts and embrace the sheer joy of music in a relaxed, informal atmosphere that is sure to bring a smile to your face.

A Symphony of Talent

Picture this: four skilled orchestral musicians, each a master of their instrument – the Horn, Violin, Viola/Cello, and Double Bass – coming together to create an hour of pure musical bliss. As the melodies flow, you’ll find yourself singing along to some of the most cherished tunes. And for those with a desire to participate even more actively, we offer a unique opportunity to play along with tuned percussion instruments that will be handed out to the audience.

But here’s the best part – this unforgettable musical experience comes with free entry, and the Warm Welcome concert on Tuesday 3rd October is open to all, ensuring that the magic of music and joy are accessible to all who wish to partake. So, gather your friends and family, and join us for a musical celebration that will resonate in your heart long after the last note is played.

Event Details

The Mini Concerts will take place at various locations across Port Sunlight:

Monday 2nd October – Church Hall
– 10:30 am – 12:30 pm: Port Sunlight Community Allotment Group
– 1:30 pm – 3:30 pm: Sunlight Stitchers

Tuesday 3rd October – Church Hall
– 10:00 am – 11:30 am: Warm Welcome Space – open to all

Tuesday 3rd October – The Bridge Inn pub
– 12:00 pm – 1:30 pm: The Ice Breakers

Grand Finale

The grand concert will take place at Hulme Hall on Friday, 13th October at 7:30 pm. For ticket information and reservations, please contact 0161 706 1990 or visit www.ncorch.co.uk

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to bask in the harmonious ambiance of the Northern Chamber Orchestra. Mark your calendars, bring your enthusiasm, and let’s create musical memories together! We look forward to seeing you there for a night of exceptional music and community spirit.

We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to CDL Software and Arts Council England for their unwavering support and funding for our outreach programmes. Their support has allowed us to bring the joy of music to the heart of communities across the North West.

24.08.23 | One Night Only…Again! at Buxton Opera House

One Night Only…Again!
Buxton Opera House, Sat 9 Sep 2023, 7:30pm

The stage is set for an enchanting night of music and performance as Buxton Opera House presents “One Night Only…Again!” This eagerly anticipated event will feature the return of renowned soprano Mary Bevan and tenor Nicky Spence, joined by the Northern Chamber Orchestra, Kinder Chorus, and conducted by John Andrews.

Prepare to be transported into a world of musical magic, as the evening promises a diverse array of classics from the opera and musical theatre genres. The concert, which serves as a fundraising endeavour, will not only captivate the audience’s hearts but also contribute to vital accessibility provisions at the Buxton Opera House, ensuring that the joys of the performing arts are accessible to all.

A Night of Unforgettable Performances

Mary Bevan, a name synonymous with excellence in baroque, classical, and contemporary music, will be taking the stage alongside tenor sensation Nicky Spence. Their previous collaboration left audiences in awe, and this year’s performance is expected to exceed all expectations. Bevan’s reputation as an international star is well-deserved, having graced prestigious stages worldwide with her captivating voice. Her recent appearance in Alcina at the Royal Opera House was met with resounding acclaim.

Nicky Spence, recipient of the esteemed “Personality of the Year” award by BBC Music Magazine in 2022, brings his unparalleled singing actor abilities to the forefront. With an OBE for Services to Music adorning his achievements, Spence’s honesty and depth in musicianship have elevated him to the zenith of the music profession. His recent roles in productions like Jenufa for the Royal Opera, The Valkyrie for English National Opera, and Káta Kabanová at Glyndebourne Festival have solidified his status as a true musical virtuoso.

Symphonic Harmony by The Northern Chamber Orchestra

Adding another layer of brilliance to the night, the Northern Chamber Orchestra, under the expert baton of conductor John Andrews, will grace the stage. Known for their masterful interpretations and synergy, the orchestra promises to enrich each performance with a symphonic tapestry that transcends the ordinary.

A Harmony of Voices: The Kinder Chorus

This year’s event becomes even more special with the inclusion of the Kinder Chorus, whose young voices will intertwine with the seasoned brilliance of Bevan, Spence, and the Northern Chamber Orchestra. This unique blend of talents ensures that the night will be etched in memory as a truly extraordinary musical experience.

Supporting Accessible Arts

Notably, each ticket sold for “One Night Only…Again!” contributes directly to enhancing accessibility provisions at the Buxton Opera House. By attending this remarkable event, patrons are not only treating themselves to an evening of world-class music but also playing a crucial role in ensuring that the beauty of the performing arts can be enjoyed by all members of the community.

Prepare to be swept off your feet by a night of operatic grandeur and musical theatre splendour. The Northern Chamber Orchestra invites you to join them on Saturday September 9th, 2023, at 7:30pm at the Buxton Opera House for an unforgettable experience. “One Night Only…Again!” is a testament to the power of music, collaboration, and shared passion, and it promises to leave an indelible mark on the hearts of all who attend.

Book your tickets now: https://buxtonoperahouse.org.uk/event/one-night-only-again