hale light orchestra
Hale Light Orchestra (HLO) are based in the UK in the village of Hale, near Altrincham, on the south Manchester/Cheshire border. We are a community based orchestra formed in 1988 that specialize in rehearsing and performing orchestral works from the extensive light classical music repertoire, as exemplified by the compositions of Frederic Curzon, Eric Coates, Robert Farnon, Haydn Wood, Percy Fletcher and Leroy Anderson to name just a few. We particularly focus on those works from the 'golden era' of radio broadcasting, musicals, and film production from the early 1900's and beyond.
Established in 1988 and formed from an initial membership of 14 local musicians, many of whom still play regularly with us, the orchestra now has approximately 35 players, representing all instrumental sections. All of our players are amateur musicians, drawn from all walks of life, and are united in their passion for, and enjoyment of, light classical orchestral music. HLO owns an extensive library of original orchestrations and we have been fortunate to collect these over the years through kind donations from private collections, other local music societies and organisations, or via composers and arrangers. The library has well over 2000 sets to date.
Variety is the spice of life for both our players and audiences alike as we rehearse and perform programmes of music with wide ranging styles. Typically at any one time we may be rehearsing styles including overtures, marches, show selections, radio and film themes, ballet music, waltzes, tangos, paso doble, idylls, novelty items etc. Something for everyone is guaranteed. If you would like the HLO to perform for your charity or good cause, do get in touch.