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Who are we?

South West Philharmonia & Chorus is the only organisation in the UK to operate as a single, fully integrated orchestra and chorus. We are not two separate groups sharing a stage, and we are not a project ensemble that comes together occasionally. We are one musical community, rehearsing, performing and growing together.

What truly sets us apart, however, is this: we are proudly non-auditioned.

We believe exceptional music-making should be accessible, not exclusive. Musical ability is important, but so are commitment, curiosity and the desire to grow. With strong artistic leadership, clear expectations and a supportive environment, community musicians are capable of producing performances of real quality, power and emotional depth. Our audiences hear that every time we perform. Founded in 2015, SWPC brings together singers and instrumentalists from across Cornwall, Devon and the wider South West to tackle ambitious large-scale repertoire alongside accessible, audience-focused programmes. Our concerts range from symphonic and choral masterworks to Proms-style events and film music, always delivered with professionalism, warmth and a strong sense of occasion.

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Being non-auditioned does not mean lowering standards. Quite the opposite. It means raising people up. We invest in rehearsal process, musical development and collective responsibility. We create an environment where members feel supported to improve, challenged to stretch themselves and confident to perform at their best.

We are equally committed to doing things properly off the stage. Governance, safeguarding, accessibility and integrity sit at the heart of how we operate. We work hard to ensure our rehearsals and performances are safe, welcoming and respectful spaces for everyone involved. Inclusion and representation are not optional extras; they are fundamental to who we are.

South West Philharmonia & Chorus is more than an orchestra and choir.
It is a shared musical journey.
A community built on trust, ambition and belonging.

We are proud to be creating something distinctive in the South West and nationally, proving that inclusive music-making and artistic ambition do not just coexist, they strengthen each other.

We have an amazing dedicated team behind everything we do at SWPC

Marcus Alleyne Conductor

Founder & Director of Music

Marcus Alleyne

Mark Smith Piano

Assistant Director of Music (Choirs)

Mark Smith

Barry Parsons Clarinet

Assistant Director of Music (Orchestra)

Barry Parsons

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Operations Manager

Sharon-Lee Beattie

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Orchestra Manager

Sally Humphries

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Finance Manager

David Cullen

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Membership Manager

Gail Cullen

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Designated Safeguarding Lead

John Cavill

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Sponsorship & Fundraising Manager

Karen Cavill

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Choir Librarian

Hilary Savigear

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Front of House Manager

Lisa Overton

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Orchestra Administrator and Programme Notes

Chris Parsons

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