Led by conductor Tamas Vasary, the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, from its beginning until it was closed in 1999, performed and recorded with some of the most talented and important artists worldwide. The Sinfonietta, founded in 1968, was awarded a Sainsbury’s Art for All Award in 1995 in recognition for its rôle as trailblazer for the concept of the Community Music residency. This was a way for artists to share music with those in remote communities where one would never see live performances by professional musicians. Members of the Sinfonietta, both separately and as ensembles, participated in residencies in Cornwall, Devon and West Wiltshire, among other locations. The Bournemouth Sinfonietta was created to complement to the work of the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, and during its time was considered to be one of the finest chamber orchestras in Great Britain.

The Bournemouth Sinfonietta toured Spain and Brazil and appeared on Television and radio, at many major British music festivals, for the National Opera Studio and at the BBC proms.