Fulham Symphony Orchestra

Fulham Symphony Orchestra, one of London's premier amateur orchestras, was founded in 1958 by Stephen Hunt, then principal of the Fulham and South Kensington Institute. Initially named the Fulham Municipal Orchestra, it performed in association with Fulham Borough Council and later under the sponsorship of the London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham. The orchestra became independent in the 1980s, adopting its current name and establishing a partnership with Novotel Hammersmith for rehearsal space. Notable conductors have included Joseph Vandernoot, Andrea Quinn, and Marc Dooley, who has been the Musical Director since 2001. The orchestra is known for its ambitious repertoire, including works by Richard Strauss, Igor Stravinsky, and Gustav Mahler, and has collaborated with internationally renowned soloists. It maintains a strong community presence through partnerships with local organizations and educational initiatives, and regularly performs at venues such as Hammersmith Town Hall and St John’s Smith Square.