Founded in 2015, Bishop’s Stortford Sinfonia brings orchestral concerts of truly professional standard to the heart of Bishop’s Stortford. Drawing on a core of local professional and semi-professional musicians, the orchestra has quickly built a reputation that now attracts outstanding players and audiences from across the UK. United by a shared passion for music-making of the highest quality, the Sinfonia combines musical excellence with a welcoming and accessible concert experience.

Under the leadership of Principal Conductor Rebecca Miller and Artistic Director and Leader Tanya Barringer, the orchestra presents several symphonic concerts each year, bringing ambitious programmes and outstanding guest artists to local audiences. In recent seasons the Sinfonia has welcomed internationally renowned soloists including bassoonist Amy Harman, trombonist Peter Moore and violinist Fenella Humphreys.

The orchestra’s programming combines great orchestral masterpieces with contemporary works and rediscovered repertoire. Alongside symphonies by composers such as Beethoven and Tchaikovsky, recent programmes have featured colourful orchestral showpieces including Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition, as well as music by composers including Amy Beach, Anna Clyne and Marie Jaëll. A particular focus of the Sinfonia’s work is championing music by women composers and bringing overlooked works back to the concert stage.

Education and community engagement are central to the Sinfonia’s mission. The orchestra regularly presents side-by-side projects with local students, giving young musicians the opportunity to perform alongside experienced players in a full symphonic setting. The Sinfonia also collaborates with local organisations including Bishop’s Stortford Choral Society and Bishop’s Stortford College, helping to strengthen the town’s vibrant musical life.

Alongside its concerts, the Sinfonia hosts its popular monthly Listening Cafés — relaxed and welcoming sessions where musicians share their favourite recordings and explore great music together with the local community.