About us

Bristol University Symphonia was formed during the summer of 1998 by students Richard Campbell and Tim Petheram and started off as a non-auditioned, "come and play" orchestra conducted by Jonathan Palmer. Since its formation, membership has grown over two orchestras consisting of enthusiastic and talented members. Symphonia specialises in big romantic symphonies as well as film music and the orchestra performs three concerts each academic year. 

The founding conductor of the orchestra was Jonathan Palmer, then Director of Music at Clifton High School, who conducted Symphonia for a term in the Summer of 1998. He was succeeded by Richard Osmond who was Principal Conductor for 18 years whilst Director of Music at Bristol Grammar School. He moved to London in July 2016 and relinquished his role as Principal Conductor following his appointment as Director of Music at The Haberdashers' Aske School. He has since been succeeded by a series of amazing student conductors!

Since then, we have gone from strength to strength, winning performing arts society of the year in 2020 and 2023! We offer a complete package for our members from fun varied socials to outreach events that give back to the local community we are lucky to live amongst (and lets not forget about our amazing concerts!).

We are always on the look out for musicians of all abilities so please don't hesitate to get in touch with any questions or fill out our interest form and join us! 

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