The National Festival Orchestra is the heart and soul of every Festival performance at Buxton Opera House—and has been part of the Festival family since the very first event in 1994.
Under the leadership of Sally Robinson, who has been with them from the start, the orchestra continues to deliver outstanding music, year after year. Quite simply, they’re exceptional. Every summer, we’re in awe of their stamina, professionalism, and sheer endurance. Arriving in Buxton just two days before opening night, they’re in the pit from morning until night, adjusting to a different conductor each day as each visiting society brings its own musical director. With only one dress rehearsal before every show, it’s a demanding schedule- but one they rise to with dedication and passion.
Without this incredible team, the Festival – and our enjoyment of these wonderful productions – just wouldn’t be the same.
This year, we are delighted that on Tuesday 4 August and Friday 14 August, you will have the chance to see the orchestra take centre stage in the Best of G&S Concert in the Opera House. It’s a perfect opportunity to celebrate their remarkable talent. And when the curtain falls at the end of each show, don’t forget to give them the applause they so richly deserve!
The National Festival Orchestra is based in the north of England and has built up a reputation for compelling performance across a variety of genres – ranging from symphonic and operatic repertoire to the world of West End and Broadway shows. Musicians are from all over the UK and venues include the Royal Albert Hall, London Palladium, Symphony Hall, Bridgewater Hall and the Sage. Regular engagements for the NFO include a 32 – year residency at the International Gilbert & Sullivan Festival and touring with the NGSOC and through the rest of the year a busy round of choral society performances, concerts and festivals. A concert at the first Edward German Festival led to an invitation to record a CD of the composer’s light opera Tom Jones for Naxos and reviews for the performance and the orchestra have been glowing. Other engagements include live and recorded appearances on BBC Radio and Sky Arts, a tribute concert to Oscar-winning film composer John Barry and overseas festivals in the USA, Ireland and Germany.
