Founded in 1973, the Mid-Somerset Orchestra has long been a cornerstone for talented amateur musicians across the region, offering them an inspiring platform to showcase their artistry. Each season, the orchestra brings four captivating concerts to life, delighting audiences with a diverse repertoire and the thrill of live performance. Most performances are held at the renowned Strode Theatre in Street, an accessible and comfortable venue nestled in the heart of Somerset, where music lovers gather to enjoy this rich tradition of local orchestral excellence.

 

Harvey Brink was appointed Principal Conductor of the MSO starting with the 2026-27 season.

He brings extensive experience of conducting orchestras, choirs and ensembles at both amateur and professional levels. He has been closely involved with the musical life of Somerset in recent years. He is Deputy Director of Music at Wells Cathedral School where he conducts the Symphony Orchestra.

Harvey began conducting while studying Music at Cambridge University, subsequently studying with distinguished conductors George Hurst and Colin Metters, alongside attending conducting masterclasses at the Royal Academy of Music. His early conducting career in London included regular guest appearances with amateur orchestras such as Dorking Philharmonia, as well as professional work with the chamber orchestra Bach Sinfonia.

Marianne Sutton became the professional leader and first violinist of the Mid-Somerset Orchestra in September 2024. A graduate of both Wells Cathedral School and the University of Oxford, she studied violin with renowned mentors including Lucy Akehurst, Tricia Noall, and Caroline Balding. Marianne now enjoys a rich and varied career that spans multiple facets of music. As a professional violinist, she blends her performance career with many other musical activities including conducting, composing, arranging, songwriting, and producing.