The Essex Chamber Orchestra, popularly known as ECHO, comes together three times a year for intensive weekend rehearsals and a series of concerts at venues in Essex. Originally formed as a chamber orchestra, ECHO varies its forces to perform a wide variety of programmes ranging from Baroque and Classical works to 20th Century repertoire.
ECHO was founded in 1979 by Jim and Pat Smith, together with other parents, with the aim of creating an orchestra for the players were who were obliged to ‘retire’ at the age of 21 from the Essex Youth Orchestra. The orchestra now welcomes players who live or work in the county, those who attend Essex schools or colleges and other guest players.
2018-19 marked ECHO’s 40th season, culminating in an Anniversary concert held at Felsted School and featuring a performance of Berlioz’s Symphonie Fantastique conducted by ECHO’s principal conductor Andy Morley.
In 2025 Suzanne Loze stepped down as leader of ECHO, having held the position for many years.
Today, ECHO continues to thrive as one of the leading non-professional orchestras in East Anglia. We look forward to welcoming you to one of our future concerts. Details are on the Concerts page.