CLO is a member-led orchestra where great music meets great company.
We’re a friendly bunch of musicians who love playing ambitious repertoire in a fun and relaxed setting. Our concerts might feature anything from fiery Russian symphonies to hidden gems you’ve (probably) never heard live before.
We love championing new voices: working with local artists, giving RAM students their first shot at soloist glory, and even commissioning brand-new works (our first one lands in 2025 — watch this space!) When it comes to conductors, we’re also helping the next generation take the podium.
Above all, CLO is about community. We make music together, we make decisions together, and we head to the pub together after rehearsals. If you’re after great music, good laughs, and a say in how your orchestra runs — you’ve found your people.
The Upcoming Season
Marking our 10th Anniversary!
We kick-off by celebrating our tenth birthday in style with a stellar programme featuring Holst's The Planets, the prelude to Also Sprach Zarathustra (think 2001: A Space Odyssey), John Williams' Star Wars Suite, and a specially commissioned composition from RAM's Jonathan Knight.
Sat 06 DecSt Giles CripplegateJoin us for a celestial evening of epic works by Holst, John Williams, and a new commission from the Royal Academy's Jonathan Knight
June 2026St Giles CripplegateJoin us for a night at the ballet, featuring our favourite suites from Tchaikovsky, Prokofiev and Khachaturian
March 2026St Giles CripplegateThis atmospheric programme explores water's profound mystery through two of Rachmaninov's most indelible works and Debussy's impressionist seascape.
Want to get involved?
We’re currently looking for cellos and trumpets to join our ranks. Find out how to join here.
Rehearsals are on Thursday evenings near St Paul's (currently at St Botolph's without Aldersgate) for 10-12 weeks before each concert. Click here for more details.
Membership fees are £60/£35 (concession rate for full-time students and unemployed), with reduced fees if you are unable to play the concert.
We do not accept applications from those wishing to perform a solo piece with the orchestra.