Settle Orchestra is delighted to announce a new partnership with Northern Rail, which will provide transport support for the orchestra’s conductor, Andre Chan, on his weekly train journey from Manchester to Settle. This collaboration is an exciting step in ensuring that classical music remains accessible, vibrant, and deeply rooted in the Yorkshire Dales community.
| A Leeds-Carlisle train about to leave Settle. The most scenic part of the journey is about to begin. (Photo credit: The Man in Seat 61) |
Charles Dobson, Chairman of Settle Orchestra, commented:
“We are thrilled to have Northern Rail supporting our work. Partnerships like this help ensure that music can flourish in our community, bringing people together, inspiring young musicians, and keeping culture alive in the Dales.”
The partnership comes at a momentous point in Settle Orchestra’s long-running collaboration with the Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM). For more than a decade, this unique programme offers postgraduate conducting students the invaluable opportunity to work with a full symphony orchestra over the course of a season. Last year’s conductor, Harry Lai, went on from his time in Settle to appear at the BBC Proms, performing Lady Macbeth with the English National Opera and BBC Philharmonic, where he served as Assistant Conductor to John Storgårds. His achievement highlights the significance of this collaboration in fostering young talent, with Settle Orchestra providing a valuable platform for conductors at the beginning of major careers.
Reflecting on his time with Settle Orchestra, Harry Lai commented:
“To spend a year with Settle Orchestra alongside my final year of studies was a real privilege. Having the experience of my own orchestra for a whole season, and benefitting from the mentoring, guidance and friendships that grew from that time, has given me a solid foundation on which my career can flourish. I will always be grateful for the trust and generosity of the players and community in Settle.”
This year, the baton is handed to Andre Chan, a talented conductor from Hong Kong and a postgraduate student at RNCM. Andre brings a wealth of experience, having worked with ensembles including the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic, BBC Philharmonic, Hallé, Manchester Camerata, and the MAV Symphony in Budapest. With Northern Rail’s support, he is now able to travel each week to Settle with ease, ensuring rehearsals and performances benefit from his energy, precision, and artistic vision.
This partnership exemplifies the positive impact that collaboration between local transport providers, educational institutions, and cultural organisations can have on communities. By facilitating regular travel, Northern Rail is helping to remove barriers, making it easier for musicians and audiences alike to engage with the arts. It is also a strong statement of support for the orchestra’s wider mission: to nurture talent, foster community, and keep the sound of classical music alive across the Dales.
Alex Hornby, commercial and customer director for Northern said: “We’re delighted to be partnering with Settle Orchestra to support the incredible talent and creativity within our communities.
“This collaboration is a wonderful way to connect people through music and travel – two things that bring joy, inspiration and togetherness to so many. We’re proud to support local culture and help make both the arts and the railway more accessible for everyone.”
Settle Orchestra’s 2025–2026 concert series opens in November, featuring Dvořák’s Cello Concerto performed by the orchestra’s own lead cellist, Bob Buller. In Spring a joint performance with the Langcliffe Singers will include Beethoven’s Mass in C. Additional programmes in Summer will showcase French-inspired works by Debussy, Ravel, and Poulenc, alongside Mozart’s Paris Symphony. Open rehearsals and opportunities for new musicians to join the ensemble further reflect the orchestra’s commitment to accessibility and community engagement.
The collaboration with RNCM has also been warmly welcomed by the College. Mark Heron, Professor and Head of Conducting, said:
“This partnership is a wonderful example of how regional arts organisations and higher education can work together to the benefit of students and communities alike. Supporting our student conductors in this role with Settle Orchestra not only enhances their professional development, but also brings outstanding music-making to the Yorkshire Dales.”
A busy Northern Rail service from Leeds to Carlisle at Settle Station, about to start the very scenic Settle-Carlisle trip. (Photo credit: Doc Brown)