news

Following Emilie Godden’s decision to step down as Principal Conductor due to personal commitments, we would like to thank Emilie for all her inspiration, kindness, and musical guidance – creating countless wonderful and joyful moments whilst conducting us.

We are delighted to announce the appointment of Rhys Herbert as our new Principal Conductor.

"I am absolutely delighted to be appointed Principal Conductor of St Woolos Sinfonia. Having worked with the orchestra over recent years as both conductor and cellist, I have been continually inspired by the warmth, generosity, and musicianship of its players.

Our concert in November demonstrated the orchestra's remarkable energy and commitment, and I am excited that we now have the opportunity to develop an even closer and more meaningful relationship over the coming years. I am enormously grateful to the orchestra for the confidence and trust they have placed in me, and I'm excited to explore a range of repertoire together – continuing to strengthen the orchestra's presence within the local community, bringing our music-making to as many people as possible!"

— Rhys Herbert

‘Christmas Spectacular’ at Newport Cathedral, Saturday 6 December 2025

Some of our musicians preparing to play at the ‘Christmas Spectacular’: carols and excerpts from Handel’s Messiah, The Cathedral was full to capacity and it was wonderful to accompany the Cathedral Choir and audience. There were some nice lighting effects too that added to the atmosphere. What a joyous occasion! The concert raised almost £2000 for the musical life of Newport Cathedral

Appointment of new Artistic Director. 18 September 2025

St Woolos Sinfonia is delighted to announce the appointment of Laura Sinnerton as its new Artistic Director. She has a wealth of experience as a professional orchestral musician and we look forward to working with her. To read more about Laura, see ABOUT US

Spring Concert, Saturday 3 May 2025, conducted by Tianyi Lu

“Sparkling and exciting from the very first note of the Overture”

“A deeply moving and memorable concert”

“Tianyi took us with her right to the heart of the music”

See interview with Tianyi. Click HERE

[Photos and video: Mike Griffiths]

Advent service at Newport Cathedral , Sunday 8th December 2024

The St Woolos Sinfonia and Chorale performed JS Bach’s beautiful Cantata, Nun Komm Der Heiden Heiland, BWV 61, as the musical centrepiece of an act of worship to mark the season of Advent. Also performed was a new composition, Fiat Lux, by contemporary composer, Ben Heneghan, written especially for this occasion. The event was an uplifting experience and we were privileged to have planned it in collaboration with Newport Cathedral.

Soloists: Soprano - Sarah Jane Griffiths, Tenor - Dominic Neville, Baritone - Leonardo Au-Yeung. Leader: Christoph Mädler. Conductor: Huw Griffiths

Photos 2-10: Mike Griffiths