The orchestra has a mission to enrich the lives of those living in Northern Ireland, with 63 full-time musicians establishing themselves as one of the major symphony orchestras in the United Kingdom.
They bring some of the most stunning music to the citizens of Northern Ireland and hold many different events throughout the year, giving people the opportunity to see and hear the amazing orchestra for themselves.
Here are some of the events the Ulster Orchestra are taking part in this year.
5. Midsummer Night’s Dream - Ulster Hall, May 12
Escape to a different land in the Athenian forest and bring some much needed calm to your soul, with Schaumann’s Violin Concerto which has a fascinating backstory. Acquaint yourself with a beautiful stillness and slow movement to bring some calm to your soul in this busy world. Then with singers from the talented Northern Ireland opera, listen to Mendelssohn’s complete incidental music for a Midsummer Night Dream. Skittish fairies, star-crossed lovers and even the braying of a donkey find their way onto the score, which will be sure to capture your imagination and give you a relaxing experience. Photo: Ulster Orchestra website
6. Bella Italia - Ulster Hall, May 26
Visit Italy with musical director Rustioni acting as your musical guide. Listen to Inspired works by Byron’s Childe Harold, with violinist Timothy Ridout taking on the role of Harold in Italy, observing the beautiful and changing Italian scenes around him, and creating both stirring and joyful music. Then travel to south Italy, with a little romantic melancholy and stormy drama, with Respighi’s pines of Rome conveying both the light and shade of the trees around this beautiful city. You will almost sense the warmth of the Italian sun when listening to this music, and it is the perfect way to say ‘Ciao’ to May. Photo: Ulster Orchestra website
7. Cbeebies: Ocean Adventure With The Ulster Orchestra - Millennium Forum, June 17
Bring your family aboard to a fun-filled musical adventure. Dive underwater with the Ulster Orchestra and Cbebbies friends JoJo & Gran Gran, as well as Andy with his safari sub. Search for endangered creatures whilst finding out fascinating facts, and collect sounds and pictures for your very own musical scrapbook. This magical multimedia event also features Cbebbies theme tunes, orchestral treats and even a few surprises along the way. Photo: Ulster Orchestra websiteUlster Orchestra website