The orchestra began life as an evening class in Solihull, becoming Knowle Sinfonia in 1990 with the late Malcolm Peters as its conductor. In January 2005, the orchestra changed its name to the Solihull Symphony Orchestra. Martin Leigh became the orchestra’s first professional Music Director in 2001.
In January 2005, the orchestra changed its name to the Solihull Symphony Orchestra.
Between 2013 and 2023 the orchestra’s Music Director was Jon Malaxetxebarria.
Following a two year evaluation period, Tommaso Nista was appointed as Music Director in 2025.
The orchestra is affiliated to Making Music, (the National Federation of Music Societies), and has received supported from the PRS Foundation for new music. Since 2014, the Mayor of Solihull has been Patron of the orchestra and the orchestra maintains a close relationship with Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council.
The Solihull Symphony Orchestra is a Registered Charity No 1118720
www.charitycommission.gov.uk