The Festival began in 1963. It is a unique event - the only time when a full symphony orchestra comes to West Somerset. The orchestra rehearse and perform three different programmes in a week. It is run by a committee of volunteers and relies on the local community to host orchestra members. The players are drawn from all over the country but most come from the London area where many of them perform with well-established orchestras and chamber groups. The orchestra has been conducted for many years by Richard Dickins who always manages to secure the services of internationally renowned soloists. The festival will celebrate its 60th anniversary in 2023.