About the Ulster Orchestra
The passion and commitment of this Orchestra is second-to-none.
Enriching life through music, the Ulster Orchestra’s mission statement, is a clear articulation of the goals and the dreams of the Orchestra, shaping its strategies and determining its day-to-day operations.
Facts About the Orchestra:
- Northern Ireland’s only professional symphony orchestra
- Based in Belfast
- Founded in 1966 by the Arts Council of Northern Ireland
- Became an independent company in 1981, then with 4 major funding partners: ACNI, BBC, Belfast City Council and, from the private sector, Gallaher.
- Now employs 63 full-time musicians
- A cornerstone of cultural life in Northern Ireland.
- An extensive and vibrant education and outreach programme
- Has toured throughout Europe, to Asia and the USA
- A regular visitor to the BBC Proms at the Royal Albert Hall in London
- • gives an extensive concert season in Belfast’s Ulster and Waterfront Halls
- Performs across Northern Ireland, including Derry/Londonderry, Coleraine and Enniskillen
- Has established an annual season in Dublin’s National Concert Hall
- Around 70 CDs recorded for Chandos, Naxos, Hyperion, BMG, Priory, Toccata Classics and BBC Music Magazine
- Strong commitment to developing home-grown talent and building the audiences of the future, regardless of social, racial or financial disadvantagement
The Ulster Orchestra seeks the help of individuals and businesses to maintain its work. It is important that the Orchestra demonstrates that its community support is widespread and that the Orchestra’s financial base has a broad foundation, rooted in that community.
The Orchestra values the continued support of its principal funders - the Arts Council of Northern Ireland (including the National Lottery), the BBC and Belfast City Council. Their monies, along with the income generated from ticket sales, contribute hugely to the running of the Orchestra
However, to achieve a secure future and maintain the highest musical quality, there is always a substantial amount to be found from other sources. That extra money helps to address the shortfall, paying for education and outreach projects, securing internationally-renowned soloists and conductors, and funding inspirational programmes which usually require enlarged orchestral forces.
If you can help us to enrich life through music, please contact us through this website or by telephone: 028 9068 9064.