Epsom Symphony Orchestra was founded in 1951 by John Gale, his wife and three children, John, Jocelyn and Gwendoline (who were all keen string players). John Gale’s son, originally a viola player, conducted the orchestra for twenty years until he handed over to Derek Lucas, who had previously been the orchestra’s principal clarinet. Derek conducted the orchestra for the next ten years. In 1981 Darrell Davison was appointed musical director and remains the orchestra’s conductor.
Over the years, many well known soloists have appeared with the orchestra. Performers have includes Cyril Smith and Phyllis Sellick; Eileen Joyce and Semprini. Later on soloists included pianist John Lill, the clarinettist Gervase de Peyer and pianist Benjamin Grosvenor.
Eric Hastings, who passed away in March 2015 aged 90, led the orchestra for fifty years and was a significant part of the cultural life in Epsom during that time. Previously, he had had a busy professional life as a founder member of the Yorkshire Symphony Orchestra and then with the London Philharmonic Orchestra.
The Orchestra is currently in its 74th Season.
