Lichfield’s only professional orchestra, the Darwin Ensemble Chamber Orchestra (DECO) was founded in September 2008, with its inaugural concert on 31 January 2009 in Lichfield Cathedral - its home base. There is at present no comparable orchestra with resident affiliation to a cathedral or church foundation in the region. DECO stages three regular concerts a year in the cathedral - winter, summer and autumn - and during the year contributes to the music of three Cathedral services.

The orchestra is formed from the highest calibre classical musicians in the West Midlands, with a strong emphasis on the employment of young, exciting players in the early stages of their professional careers. DECO's repertoire is mainly popular and accessible classical music. It aims to draw the local community into the world of classical music in the inspiring setting of one of the most beautiful cathedrals in the country. By keeping ticket prices low, DECO hopes to bring the pleasure and excitement of hearing top quality live classical performances to a wider audience. DECO's remit also includes sharing the experience of the live orchestral sound with young people, through workshops and collaborations with young performers.

“DECO are to be congratulated on top class performances in Lichfield for tickets priced at less than a single CD.  Watch out Birmingham. You have competition!”  Christopher Arnold, Lichfield Mercury

2010 dates

21 March 2010 DECO perform Stravinsky’s Mass during Passion Sunday service

4 April 2010  DECO perform Schubert Mass in G during Easter Sunday service 

19 June 2010  Midsummer Music – summer concert of the finest music composed for strings by English composers.  Featuring the Boult Quartet playing alongside DECO strings.  

11 July 2010 – Lichfield Festival concert at the Garrick Theatre – Roald Dahl’s Little Red Riding Hood

2 October 2010 – Autumn concert – including Haydn’s Cello Concerto and Schubert’s Unfinished Symphony

To contact DECO

via email : This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

telephone: 01543 258303

or visit: www.darwinensemble.co.uk