Blackburn Symphony Orchestra is one of the leading amateur orchestras in the North West, attracting players from the immediate area and across the north-west to work together with professional conductors and soloists to achieve a high standard of performance.
We celebrated our 60th anniversary in 2025.
Our Musical Director is Richard Howarth
Richard has a distinguished career as a player, leader, and now conductor. His passion for music is apparent in every performance. His depth of musical knowledge gained from working at the highest level with leading orchestras, and his love of the music by great composers, results in assured and compelling performances.
You can read more about Richard on our Conductor page.
Our Leader is Anita Naughton
Anita began playing the violin at the age of 9, having lessons initially at school before studying privately with Terry Lewis in Southport. She combines her work as a freelance violinist, working regularly with professional orchestras and chamber groups in the North.
You can read more about Anita on our Leader page.
Our History
Ian Ramage, one of the founder members of the orchestra who has recently retired after 53 years (!), has written an interesting personal account of our history. Ian Ramage Memoirs