Review: Northern Chamber Orchestra Event at Tatton Park, Cheshire*

[Ad-gifted] There’s nothing more festive than mulled wine, mince pies and beautiful orchestral music playing festive-style music over Christmas. What’s more, is the location where the Northern Chamber Orchestra Event took place – within the extensive grounds of Tatton Park. 

The Northern Chamber Orchestra was set up in 1967 and has been performing events ever since. Most notably they perform yearly events at Kings School in Macclesfield and at the Buxton Festival.  There are 25 members all of whom are distinguished chamber musicians, in their own right, most of whom perform regularly as soloists at varying events.

Tatton Park is renowned in the North-West for being one of the most complete estates of its kind. It sits in around 1000 acres of grounds and was established as far back as 1290 via Royal Charter. The current mansion – which could be toured on the evening of the event – has been in place since 1790 and is a beautiful representation of the Neo-Classical style. It also has a well-stocked servants’ quarter giving a true feel of times gone by.

What we thought of the event? 

As we arrived, we were greeted at the gate and guided to the main car park. We then followed the string of fairy lights down the path and towards the mansion. Along the way, you pass through the wonderful courtyard filled with festive decorations. When arriving at the mansion entrance, you are guided to explore the pantomime display that is on show for the Christmas holidays. The mansion is magnificent and being able to see it prior to the performance is incredible. 

As you approach the end of the tour, you are met by a table filled with spiced drinks and mince pies. If you fancy a mulled wine or a hot spiced apple to get you into the Christmas spirit you will enjoy this little extra treat. You then enter the Tenants’ Hall – which be warned – is filled with hunting trophies (which may not be to all peoples’ tastes). You have a place to pop your coat and then find your seat amongst the other guests. 

The performance began with the string instruments and was led by conductor and violinist Helen Mckenna. The music was so well played and beautiful to hear from such close proximity, equally, the hall is well lit so you can really immerse yourself into the sounds of the evening. During the performance, you were narrated through the pieces by the talented Kate Millward. The orchestra – at two points within the evening were accompanied by the Choir of St Nicholas Catholic School, who had wonderful voices and gave added depth, creating an intersting mix of music. 

The quality of the event was brilliant, although, for a younger audience, I think they would have to have a musical background or play an instrument to fully appreciate it. My two older children appreciated the event, however, my youngest was more interested in the mansion tour than the music, but we all still had a wonderful evening and were pleased to be able to experience the sounds of the Northern Chamber Orchestra. 

How much did the tickets cost?

Tickets were priced at £20 for the matinee while it is £27 for the evening show with discounts for students, under 18s and groups of 10+. As an extra treat, the concert ticket price includes a warming, winter drink or fruit juice, and a festive sweet titbit. 

When was the performance? 

The performance was on Friday, 9 December 2022 at 3.30 pm and 7 pm at Tatton Park.

Where is Tatton Park?

Tenants’ Hall, Tatton Park
Knutsford
WA16 6SG

About Northern Chamber Orchestra

The Northern Chamber Orchestra was formed in 1967 and has gained a formidable reputation from its engaging and exciting concerts, tackling a wide range of repertoire. The members of the orchestra are distinguished chamber musicians who regularly appear as soloists and principal players.  NCO presents a regular season of concerts at The King’s School in Macclesfield and performs at a variety of venues in Cheshire and across the north of England.

Review by: Lex Ward

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