Hallé Orchestra is Britain’s oldest professional orchestra and is based in Manchester. It is founded by the pianist Charles Hallé and performs for many years at the Free Trade Hall before moving in 1996 to the Bridgewater Hall, which offers improved facilities and acoustics.

History

The orchestra becomes closely associated with Sir John Barbirolli, who conducts it for many years and helps bring it to wider prominence. During this period, it makes many recordings under his direction. In September 2000, Mark Elder, CBE, takes up the post of Music Director.