The Cirencester Philharmonia Orchestra (CPO) is one of the most popular music groups in the town.

Performing around two to three times a year, the orchestra is made up of a mix of amateur and professional musicians from Cirencester and the surrounding areas.

Charles Stevens is a retired international banker who now plays violin with the group.

He said: “The CPO has given me the opportunity to take up the violin again and to make a contribution. I have been with the orchestra for about three years and also support them with some of their publicity.”

On Sunday 8th September the orchestra begin rehearsals for their upcoming concert.

They will be playing Beethoven’s Corolian Overture, Wagner’s Siegfried Idyll and Mendelssohn’s 1st Symphony on Saturday 2nd November at St. Peter’s Church in Stratton.

And Charles is always keen for new members to come along and play.

He added: “We survive on the goodwill of the members of the orchestra and we are always willing to welcome newcomers. We are particularly looking for violin, cello and doubles bass players.

“The best way to find us for concert information and for enquiries for membership is to go to our website at www.cirencesterphil.co.uk.”