ILKLEY Philharmonic Orchestra is the second of two new orchestras to be launched by conductor John Anderson. The Ilkley Chamber Orchestra has already given two highly successful concerts in the attractive setting of Ilkley’s ancient Parish Church. Now is the turn of the Ilkley Philharmonic to make its debut in a popular programme of symphonic music by Schubert, Elgar and Schumann.

Sir Edward Elgar’s beloved Cello Concerto in E minor forms the centrefold of an enticing programme. Elgar’s Autumnal masterpiece is suffused with unforgettable melodies which ensure its place in Classic FM’s ‘Hall of Fame’. Manchester Camerata’s Graham Morris is the soloist with the Ilkley Philharmonic, conducted by John Anderson.

Schubert’s dramatic Unfinished Symphony No 8 in B minor which opens the evening, is a fitting companion piece for the Elgar. The youthful energy of Robert Schumann’s Symphony No 4 in D minor fills the second half of a concert sure to attract a large audience. So the advice is to book early and avoid disappointment. Ilkley Philharmonic Orchestra’s inaugural concert is at All Saints Parish Church, Ilkley, on Saturday afternoon 2nd December, starting at 3.30pm.

Tickets £15, concessionary price £13, or £8 for students, unwaged and under 18’s. Available online from Eventbrite, or from the Grove Bookshop in Ilkley, Tel 01943 609335, or from Rosemary Anderson on 0771 943 2914