Chester was a centre of musical excellence in the late 18th Century, the focal point being the Cathedral and the Festivals. Although the Cathedral has been modified many times, it dates from between 1093 and the 16th Century but the site itself may have been used for Christian worship since the Roman times! This magnificent Cathedral is used as concert venue for most of the Chester Philharmonics performances. |
The music festivals in Chester began in 1772 with a performance of Handel's Messiah, but by 1829 the festivals came to an end due to a fall in the standards of performance and organisation. However, Joseph C. Bridge set about rectifying this in 1883 with a major performance of the Messiah once again in the Music Hall. Thos local to Chester will have seen the Music Hall progress from Cinema to Supermarket, then Gentleman's Outfitters and finally to it's current state, Superdrug. But in its day it could hold an audience of 1400 will plenty space for orchestra and 250 strong choir. No fewer than 1049 people attended that concert of Messiah in 1883.
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In 1884 the Chester Philharmonic Orchestra (CPO) was founded and is now one of the premier non-professional orchestras in North West England. The orchestra, originally known as the Chester Orchestral Society, has a large playing membership enabling it to perform most pieces within the symphonic repertoire. The orchestra plays an important role in the musical life of the North West and provides young professional soloist and conductors opportunities to develop their talents as they embark upon their careers. It also provides proficient amateur musicians the opportunity to rehearse and perform from a wide repertoire which appeals to both playing member and audience alike.
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