About
Currently resident in Somerset, we play a diverse repertoire and present world-class performances across the South of England. Committed to musical excellence, we are one of the most distinctive chamber ensembles currently performing in the UK.
The Orchestra
Southern Sinfonia’s reputation continues to grow as the leading professional chamber orchestra in the South of England.
The Orchestra is characterised by the strength and depth of knowledge of its freelance professional players – from their unique ability to play Baroque instruments at the correct pitch and with informed playing style, to commitment to both well established, contemporary and newly composed music.
Recent high-profile recordings include the world premieres of Requiems by Matthew Coleridge, Dan Locklair (both on Convivium) and Carl Rütti (Naxos), and the Bach B Minor Mass and Monteverdi Vespers with Ralph Allwood and the Rodolfus Choir (Signum).
Southern Sinfonia, the Chamber Orchestra of Southern England.
The orchestra was formed 30 years ago by violinist Miranda Wilson in her barn at Boxford near Newbury.
It soon picked up a following and Chris de Souza (former Radio 3 Presenter) was appointed Artistic Advisor.
Previous chief conductors have included Steuart Bedford and David Hill.
Our Conductor
Simon Chalk
Simon is Artistic Director and Conductor of Southern Sinfonia, Principal Guest Conductor of the Slovak Sinfonietta and Guest Conductor of the St Petersburg Symphony Orchestra.
He has worked alongside some of the finest soloists including Peter Donohoe, Eugen Indjic, Nicholas Daniel, Catrin Finch, Craig Ogden and musicians from many other musical styles including IL Divo, Lea Salonga, Alfie Boe, Kathryn Jenkins, Russell Watson, Alice Cooper, Roger Daltrey, Barry Manilow and Johnny Mathis.
