The Cirencester Philharmonia features some of the very best local musicians the Cotswolds has to offer.

A mix of both amateur and professional, the orchestra usually performs twice a year, in spring and autumn.

Charles Stevens is a retired international banker who has played violin with the orchestra for three years.

“I played the violin at school and acquired a love of classical music,” he said.

“The CPO has given me the opportunity to take up the violin again and to make a contribution.”

The group’s next performance will be on Saturday 2nd November, when the Philharmonia will be playing Beethoven’s Corolian Overture, Wagner’s Siegfried Idyll and Mendelssohn’s 1st Symphony amongst other classic pieces.

Rehearsals for the concert began in early September and Charles, who also supports the orchestra with their publicity, says the hard work leading up to the concert is crucial.

“As we all know, performances don’t just happen,” said Charles.

“Leadership, rehearsal and lots of practise are an essential ingredient. Rehearsals start about five or six weeks in advance of the concerts and we are privileged to have the use of the Stratton School for this purpose.

“We would not want to do this year in year out if we didn’t enjoy both the hard graft and the gradual improvement in the performances.”

Lead by experienced and well-respected conductor Iain Higginson, the concert will be held at St Peter’s Church in Stratton.

Charles added: “One might think that St. Peter’s is a little small for a 25 to 30-piece orchestra, but we do fit in and the acoustics really suit the music we play.”

Charles is looking forward to the upcoming concert, which follows on from the group’s last performances in May.

He believes the Philharmonia brings a lot to the local community.

He said: “How many towns of our size can boast of their own orchestra? It is quite apparent that we fill a need and that our audiences truly enjoy coming to the concerts.

“Come and enjoy the experience of live classical orchestral music.”

Tickets are £10 each on the door or £5 for those in full time education or under 18.

For more information visit www.cirencesterphil.co.uk