The Johnny Parry Chamber Orchestra
What began in 2000 as a trio with Johnny Parry, drummer Ben Milway, and bassist Dave Lynch soon evolved into something far greater. Over the years, the ensemble expanded, drawing in world-class musicians, including cellist Margit Van Der Swan (Elbow, Snow Patrol, I Am Kloot), violinist Anne-Marie Kirby (Amy Winehouse, Adele, Elbow), and soprano Donna Lennard (Royal Opera House, Glyndebourne). As the project grew, the Johnny Parry Chamber Orchestra emerged—an ambitious collective of up to 30 musicians, merging classical grandeur with contemporary experimentation.
In 2015/16, the orchestra reached its most expansive form, joining forces with The Bedford Arts Choir, also founded by Johnny. At its height, the collaboration brought together 80 musicians and singers, creating immersive performances that blurred the boundaries between orchestra, choir, and experimental ensemble.
While the full orchestra has been less active in live performance in recent years, its influence continues. The musicians remain closely connected, forming lasting collaborations and friendships over the years. Many continue to feature prominently in Johnny’s recordings at Wolfy Studios, ensuring the ensemble’s spirit lives on through new projects and compositions.
