THE Brewhouse Theatre and Arts Centre in Taunton is to have its first ever professional orchestra in residence.

Southern Sinfonia’s first season at The Brewhouse will include three main house concerts and a series of chamber performances - and will boost Taunton’s vision of becoming a world class arts and entertainment destination.

Taunton Theatre Association chairman Val Hammond said: “The new partnership is a huge boost to the theatre’s fortunes, and is the first ever residency of its kind in the area.”

The orchestra’s patron, Sir Roger Norrington, best known for conducting the Last Night of the Proms and judging on the BBC’s ‘Maestro’ series, will make a guest appearance to conduct the first concert on Friday, October 9.

Sir Roger said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for the orchestra and for Somerset and one which I’m thrilled to be a part of.”

David Hill, music director of Southern Sinfonia and chief conductor of The BBC Singers, said: “We’re delighted to be moving our administrative offices to Somerset’s county town and look forward to many happy years of music making in our new home.

“For The Brewhouse to have a resident professional orchestra is a remarkable achievement and something the whole community can be proud of.”

Brewhouse chief executive Vanessa Lefrançois said: “We are delighted to welcome Southern Sinfonia to the Brewhouse.

“Today is the beginning of an exciting new partnership and marks an important moment in the Brewhouse’s development.

“We look forward to working with Southern Sinfonia to enrich the professional musical repertoire in the region and further engage local communities in music making.”

Jonathan Manners, Southern Sinfonia’s managing director, said: “There is a vibrant musical scene in the South-West, and to be resident professional orchestra at The Brewhouse is a fantastic opportunity for Southern Sinfonia.

“Taunton and the surrounding area is already home to wonderful amateur and semi-professional ensembles, and we’re really excited to be able to share our resources with those groups, as well as adding to the cultural environment of the county.”