A Chester-based violinist and his orchestra are marking their second anniversary with two special concerts at Chester Town Hall.
Philip Chidell returns to the historic city centre venue on 24 September, with performances at 2.30pm and 7pm.
The concert will see Chidell lead the 20-strong orchestra, comprised of talented young musicians from across the North West, in a varied programme including a number of popular favourites as heard at the Last Night of The Proms.
The concerts will also mark the orchestra’s tenth performance at the town hall, where their events have become a much-loved fixture in the city’s live music scene.
Chidell said setting up his own orchestra in 2024 fulfilled a long-held ambition, after he began studying the violin at six years old.
A graduate of Chetham’s School of Music in Manchester, he was their youngest student at the time.
He has since performed throughout the UK, and at 13 he played for the first time as a soloist with an orchestra.
Chidell has gone on to perform at venues including the Bridgewater Hall, Royal Festival Hall, Manchester Cathedral and St George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle.
“I am delighted that this autumn, the orchestra I founded will celebrate its second anniversary with a magical concert,” he said.
“We now have 20 professional musicians, more than 50 beautiful pieces of music under our belts, and will welcome our 2,000th audience member next month.
“It has been an extraordinary journey, and none of it would have been possible without the support and encouragement I have received while busking on the streets of Chester.
“So, above all, my thanks go to the people of this wonderful city!”
More details of Chidell’s concerts can be found at: www.philipchidell.com
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