After the success of the SWEMF Baroque Orchestra workshop directed by Jacqui Robertson-Wade and Michael Williamson in November 2021, Jacqui and Michael have formed the South West Baroque Orchestra (SWBO), with rehearsals starting in January 2022.

The orchestra is open to players of baroque and modern strings, baroque winds, and a limited number of recorders (pitch = A 415).

Download the SWBO Flyer (pdf)

Download the SWBO Application Form (pdf)

Download the SWBO Application Form (docx)

Contact SWBO by emailing michaelwilliamson.swbaroque@gmail.com.

The workshops will be held at Culmstock Village Hall, EX15 3HQ:

Culmstock Village Hall has parking for 20 cars. Coffee and tea will be provided in the morning and afternoon breaks – please bring your own mug. There is a pub (2 min walk) and a shop/café (5 min walk) in the village which provides food, or bring a packed lunch.

South West Baroque Orchestra (SWBO) dates 2022 (all dates are Saturdays):
  • 29th January
  • 26th February
  • 26th March
  • 23rd April
  • 28th May
  • 18th June
  • 9th July
  • 16th July concert tbc
Timetable during the workshops, allowing for Covid ventilation breaks:
  • Arrival from 10am
  • 10.30-11.45am
  • 12noon-1pm
  • 2.15-3.30
  • 3.45-5pm

Michael (baroque violin) and Jacqui (baroque cello) have collaborated as leaders in Warwickshire Baroque and NORVIS Baroque (where they are both tutors).

Violin teacher Michael first played baroque violin in the Dartington International Summer School Baroque Orchestra in the 1990s.

Jacqui studied modern cello and viola da gamba at the Trinity College of Music and is well known as a viola da gamba player; the skills acquired playing both instruments have contributed to her success as a baroque cellist.

Both Michael and Jacqui live in North Devon and play regularly with Artavian Baroque, and have successfully auditioned for Devon Baroque.