‘Formed in 1950 and is a small classical orchestra of around 40 musicians, comprising of woodwind, horns, trumpets and percussion, in addition to the usual complement of strings. This core orchestra is supplemented by additional instruments, such as trombones, as required ... Each year the orchestra gives three concerts in Sheffield ... Our concert programme usually includes a concerto and it is the orchestra’s policy to work with and provide a performance opportunity for young professional musicians who are just starting out in their careers as concert soloists. The relatively small size of our orchestra enables us to be adventurous with our wide-ranging and innovative repertoire from the baroque to the present day ... We don’t normally hold auditions, but a minimum playing standard equivalent to Grade 8 is expected.’