History & Alumni

Since it was formed by Xenophon Kelsey in 1994 in response to perceived gaps  in the provision of orchestral training at universities and conservatoires, VaCO has benefitted over 750 students, many of whom have gone on to professional careers in music.  Amongst our alumni are conservatoire professors, major chamber ensemble members, and players in many of the country’s leading orchestras. 

VaCO has brought over 349 concerts to more than 182 venues in 13 countries, featuring students of 33 different nationalities - and that's not including collaborations with international dance groups!

We are always keen to hear from alumni (and hope to have a page on the website for/about them soon) so if you want to tell us what you're up to now and how VaCO helped get you there please contact us.  We'd love to hear from you.

Forthcoming Courses

VaCO Easter Course 2012 7-14 April 2012 Yorkshire Dales & North York Moors - The Jonas Centre, Redmire

VaCO Summer 1 Course 21-28 July 2012 Yorkshire Dales & North York Moors - The Jonas Centre, Redmire

VaCO Summer 2 Course 24 August - 1 September 2012 The Cotswolds

VaCO Christmas Course 27-30 December 2012 Yorkshire Dales

Forthcoming Concerts

Aldborough Church Tuesday 10 April

Stokesley Parish Church Thursday 12 April

Kirkby Lonsdale Church Wednesday 11 April

St Cuthbert's Church, Pateley Bridge Friday 13 April

St Andrew's Church, Aysgarth Saturday 14 April