Bushey Symphony Orchestra currently has a core membership of approximately 35 professional, semi-professional and talented amateur musicians. It began life in 1975 as an ad hoc group of local musicians who called themselves the ‘Festival Orchestra’. Under the direction of David Pickett, the orchestra gave three concerts, including one as part of the Bushey Festival in July 1975. The musicians, however, felt they wanted something more regular and so the BSO was formed.

BSO’s current music director, George Vass, was appointed in 1985 and with the invaluable assistance of professional leader Martin Smith, has developed the orchestra into the highly-regarded performing ensemble it is today.