Biography
The Bath Festival Orchestra served as the primary symphonic group for an international event staged each spring inside the historic Bath Abbey along with adjacent locations in Wells and Bristol. Impresario Ian Hunter established the event in 1948 as a showcase for young musicians, opening with appearances by the National Youth Orchestra. Programs during the 1950s centered on Classical works and benefited substantially from Thomas Beecham’s involvement. Following twelve years marked by persistent deficits and a complete suspension of activity in 1956–1957, Hunter appointed Yehudi Menuhin artistic director beginning with the 1959 edition, an engagement that generated worldwide interest via inventive repertoire choices. Menuhin assembled the Bath Festival Orchestra from musicians previously encountered during London recording projects. His expansive plans soon revived monetary difficulties, prompting his departure in 1968 together with the ensemble, which he promptly rebranded the Menuhin Festival Orchestra. The festival thereafter relied on guest orchestras for its concerts. Michael Tippett, then resident in the nearby town of Corsham, joined the organization in 1969 and remained music director for the following five seasons, shifting emphasis toward contemporary compositions. Later leadership passed through William Glock, William Mann, Amelia Freedman, Nicholas Kraemer, Jolyon Laycock, and Tim Joss.
Albums
