COLCHESTER Symphony Orchestra is going Scottish this weekend.

The classical ensemble has just two concerts left in its first season following its revamp last autumn and this weekend’s looks set to be just as popular as the others.

Conductor Chris Phelps has been impressed with not only how the public have taken to the new orchestra, but the members of the orchestra as well.

“It’s been very positive all round,” he says. “The audiences’ response to our concerts has been very strong, but I’ve been particularly pleased with how the orchestra itself has reacted to the programme and the venue.

“They are a very happy band and in turn I think that has helped with the audience’s reactions.”

For any audience member with Scottish blood in them, this Saturday’s concert will certainly appeal.

On the programme will be Mendelssohn’s Hebrides Overture, Alwyn’s Suite of Scottish Dances and Mendelssohn’s Symphony No 3 in A Minor, known as the Scottish.

Chris adds: “We’ll also be kicking off with my own version of the Scottish National Anthem, Scotland the Brave, which, as well as having a reference to Flower of Scotland, will also include a Scottish reel.”

There will also be a welcome return for London-based cellist Nick Cooper, who is back by popular demand following his performance of Saint Saens’s cello concerto, to play Tchaikovsky’s Rococo Variations for cello and orchestra.

Chris says: “We have one more concert left on June 2 and then we’ll be getting ready for our next season, which starts in September.

“I have to say, it’s looking pretty exciting.”

Colchester Symphony Orchestra St Botolph’s Church, St Botolph’s Street, Colchester.

Saturday, May 12,7.30pm.

Adults £12, concessions £10 and £2.

01206 500900