Ulster Orchestra Society

Whilst moseying around St George’s Market and generally minding my own business out of nowhere came this almighty sound that turned my moseying in to a solid skip, but what was the sound I hear you ask?
Well, it was none other than our very own Ulster Orchestra staging a flash mob to raise awareness for what they do as an organisation with the long term goal of stopping them from ceasing to exist.
Maracas, bongos, violins, trumpets and some other instruments I don’t know the names of were all perfectly played together to make a majestic sound around the market. This sound seemed to perk up the people of Belfast and bring smiles to the faces of even the most hungover men (me).
It is for this very reason I think it would be a shame if they Ulster Orchestra ceased to exist — this talented group of individuals are capable of adding happiness, pleasure and entertainment to people’s lives and if we don’t have that then what do we have?
From what I heard at St Georges Market there is certainly a lot of musical talent in Belfast and I suggest you take in one of their many events.

The Ulster Orchestra is Northern Ireland’s only professional orchestra and has an excellent reputation the world over.
Most of its concerts take place in the Ulster Hall (where the box office is also based) and the Belfast Waterfront between September and May, but it also appears at venues around Northern Ireland sporadically.
Like any orchestra, the programme will vary, but generally there will be enough to keep classical music enthusiasts happy, as well as those of us who are less well-​informed!
There are occasional concerts for families as well which are a real highlight. I took my 4 year old nephew to see The Snowman last Christmas and we both loved it. Ray Briggs’ beautiful movie was screened to a packed Waterfront Hall while the music was provided live by the orchestra. It was refreshing to see him stimulated by something so gentle and beautiful. This is an annual event, so keep an eye out and bring the kids!
The great thing about the Ulster Orchestra is that they do not call for tuxedos and ballgowns as standard. You will still see people who enjoy getting dressed up for it, but you’re as likely to see someone in jeans and t-​shirt walk in and the Orchestra is really trying to prove that they’ll be just as welcomed.