[1] Inspired in part by Arthur Dennington's Modern Symphony Orchestra (which had given the premiere performance of Gipps' Oboe Concerto in its 1941–2 season[2]), and by Gwynne Kimpton's London Amateur Orchestra of World War 1, it was intended to provide opportunities for "students, young professionals and good amateurs" to become exposed to a wider range of music.
[6] Prince Philip visited the tenth anniversary rehearsal in 1965, requesting a programme of all British music.
[7] The baton was passed from Gipps to Francis Griffin (a professional horn player and conductor) in 1986, and he served as musical director until 2009.
In its early days rehearsals were held at the International Musicians Association premises at 14 South Audley Street, then a somewhat notorious drinking club as well as a rehearsal space, frequented by writers and musicians including Kingsley Amis, John Dickson Carr Gerald Hoffnung, Bruce Montgomery and Malcolm Arnold[9][10] But in 1958 the Inner London Education Authority recognised the growing reputation of the orchestra and offered an affiliation, providing a rehearsal space (the Salle Erard Hall, 18 Great Marlborough Street) and salaries for the conductor and leader.
[12] Today rehearsals take place at St Joseph's Church Hall, Lamb's Passage, London EC1 on Wednesday evenings during term times.