The BSO has its own Composer-In-The-House, a scheme funded by the Royal Philharmonic Society and the Performing Right Society Foundation.
The BSO engages numerous conductors for concerts across the year. As well as the principal conductor, the Orchestra also has a young conductor in association who assists with rehearsals and preparation.
The BSO's largest string section, is made up of 14 First Violins and 12 Second Violins. It is the largest group and with the other string sections form the core of a modern symphony orchestra.
Violas add a rich colour to the string section and are used to fill in the harmony.
As well as adding a solid bass line to orchestral works the beautiful tone of the cellos is often used to add lyrical solo lines to pieces.
Woodwind instruments are derived from basic blown pipes using reeds which vibrate to make the sound. There are many instruments falling into four main groups. The woodwind section provides a variety of differet tones to an orchestra.
The brass section provides immense power and brightness when needed.
These sections provide the rhythmic backbone to the main orchestra sound.
Running a symphony orchestra is an extremely complicated business. Administration staff work on the scheduling of concerts, planning of repertoire, travel logistics, marketing, finances and funding. There is also a busy education and community department.
The BSO Board comprises talented individuals who give their time and expertise on a voluntary basis.
The BSO Council comprises representatives from local authority funders.
