History of the Orchestra

The Orchestra was founded 8 years ago in Whitehead in Co Antrim when a number of local orchestral musicians came together to try to get an orchestra for adult enthusiasts established in the area. June Edgar, a well known cellist from Islandmagee, was one of the main visionaries for the orchestra and we owe so much to her for her dedication over many years.

When June was given her first cello she was told “Never let it gather dust – no instrument deserves that.” After her retirement June realised that there must be many people who at some time in their life had played an instrument and then due to changing circumstances such as leaving school, pressure of work or family commitments had stopped playing. She decided that she would form a community orchestra to give those people the opportunity to play their instrument and make music; the important thing being that playing live music, whether for enjoyment or relaxation, should be fun!

The first conductor was Mike Russ, a musicologist and viola player, and under his direction the orchestra went from strength to strength, including surviving covid!

In 2025 the orchestra changed its name to the ‘Loughshore Orchestra’ and rehearsals moved to the Newtownabbey area.