A community orchestra is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, with support from one of Staffordshire County Council’s enterprise centres helping it grow behind the scenes.
Newcastle-under-Lyme Community Orchestra (NULCO), founded by Thomas Barlow-Coxon, has become a well-established part of the local music scene, welcoming players of all abilities and bringing people together through a shared love of music.
The group will mark the milestone with a special anniversary concert at the DoubleTree by Hilton at Festival Park this July, bringing together current and former members to perform some of their favourite pieces from the past decade. A display showcasing the orchestra’s journey will also be on show.
Since forming in 2015 with just six members, the orchestra has grown into a group of around 45 regular players, performing at a wide range of events including the Newcastle-under-Lyme Christmas lights switch-on and BBC Radio Stoke carol concerts. They also frequently play at weddings, community events and care homes.
Thomas, 37, set up the orchestra after returning to his hometown from London, where he had gained experience running community music groups.
He said:
“We’re one big happy family really. It’s open to anyone who can play an instrument – whether you’re a beginner or more advanced, we cater for everyone. There are no auditions, it’s all about creating a friendly and enjoyable environment.”
While rehearsals take place at Wolstanton Methodist Church, the group relies on a base at Silverdale Enterprise Centre to store its growing collection of instruments, sound and lighting equipment.
Silverdale is part of Staffordshire County Council’s network of eight enterprise centres and provides affordable, flexible workspace for businesses, charities and community organisations.
Thomas said:
“We needed a safe, accessible space for all of our equipment and Silverdale Enterprise Centre was exactly that.
“It’s affordable, very secure with 24/7 access, and it works perfectly for us, especially when we’re preparing for evening performances.
“I’d recommend it to anyone who needs space to grow, whether that’s a business or a community project like ours.”
The flexibility and affordability of the centre have allowed the orchestra to expand its activities and continue bringing music to communities across the area.
Darryl Eyers, Staffordshire County Council's Director for Economy Infrastructure and Skills, said:
“Newcastle-under-Lyme Community Orchestra is a fantastic example of how our enterprise centres support not only businesses, but also organisations that make a real difference in our communities.
“Silverdale Enterprise Centre provides flexible, affordable space that enables groups like this to grow, and it’s great to see the positive impact they are having locally as they celebrate this milestone.”
Staffordshire County Council’s enterprise centres offer a range of workspaces, including offices, workshops and storage units, alongside meeting rooms and hot desks at selected sites.
A studio unit has become available to rent at Silverdale Enterprise Centre. To find out more, call Rob Harper on 07980 783792 or submit an enquiry form on the county council’s website at Enterprise centres | Staffordshire County Council.
Watch on YouTube: Newcastle-under-Lyme Community Orchestra celebrates 10 years
