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THE ORCHESTRA​
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Now in its 12th year, Faust Chamber Orchestra has emerged as a leading force making classical music fresh, comprehensible, and inspirational in the concert hall. Under the artistic direction of conductor Mark Austin, recent highlights include performances with artists Siobhan Stagg, Guy Johnston and Katie Bray, concerts at LSO St Luke's, Kings Place, Ely Cathedral and Hatfield House Chamber Music Festival and the expansion of its educational programme.

​Audiences are drawn to Faust Chamber Orchestra’s distinctive programming which throws light on the hidden meanings of works using commentary and comparison, together with live musical illustrations and the chance for listeners to ask questions. Recent successes have included an eclectic mix of Haydn and Sally Beamish, as well as “Ways into Bach”, an exploration of dance in the music of JS Bach alongside linked works by CPE Bach and Grieg. The orchestra is committed to new music and recently gave the world premiere of Oliver Rudland’s new opera ‘Pincher Martin’ at the Britten Theatre in the Royal College of Music.

Faust Chamber Orchestra’s approach to music is about ensuring its vitality now and for generations to come. The ensemble leads a wide range of educational projects, working in partnership with Chiltern Music Academy, at Chickenshed Theatre and in several primary and secondary schools. These include school workshops, side-by-side sessions and joint performances. Members of the orchestra are currently involved with a major research project at Warwick University focusing on Music of the Napoleonic Era.