The Palatinate Ensemble was originally formed by James Lancelot to accompany Durham Cathedral Choir in occasional orchestral masses. It currently consists of five string players, all alumni of Durham University.

The group took on its current form in 2000, since when it has broadened its horizons: it has collaborated with other groups in successful concerts, works more regularly - covering a wider range of music - with the Cathedral Choir, and has promoted its own concerts. The group plays sometimes as a string quartet, and sometimes as a chamber orchestra with other musicians.

The Ensemble has performed a diverse selection of music including Mendelssohn's Octet, Haydn's Toy Symphony, Bach's Brandenburg Concerto no. 3 , Saint-Saens' Carnival of the Animals, Tchaikovsky's Souvenir de Florence, Schubert's String Quintet, Schumann's Piano Quintet and Shostakovich's String Quartet no. 8. The opening concert at Durham's new Gala Theatre featured the Palatinate Ensemble, playing on the same bill as Bonnie Langford, Ruby Turner, Nicholas Parsons and Westlife!

As well as frequently playing for university and private functions in Durham, the group has played at venues throughout northern England including Matfen Hall and Chillingham Castle in Northumberland, the Lowry Museum in Salford, Lumley Castle near Durham, the Assembly Rooms in Newcastle and Pooley Bridge in Cumbria. The Ensemble was also privileged to play to the Queen during her Golden Jubilee visit to Durham.

The Palatinate Ensemble is committed to the wider promotion of music in and around Durham. The various aspects of its work are important in giving an added dimension to music in Durham: they also give the members of the Ensemble a valuable opportunity to develop their playing and widen their musical experience.

Updated 03/11/07