The Alternative Orchestra

The Alternative Orchestra is a professional ensemble led by Nathan Jones, Creative and Music Director, dedicated to expanding how orchestral music can be experienced.

Moving beyond conventional classical concert formats, the ensemble brings orchestral instruments into new musical contexts across pop, film, musical theatre, cabaret and LGBTQIA+ repertoire. Its work ranges from intimate performances to large-scale productions, combining high-level musicianship with an inclusive, genre-crossing approach to programming.

The orchestra is particularly interested in challenging expectations around orchestral performance, creating space for diverse voices and presenting familiar music through fresh arrangements and collaborative live experiences.

I have worked with The Alternative Orchestra across both performance and production. As a violinist, I have appeared in cabaret performances, Remixed concerts and themed productions including Boy Bands vs. Girl Bands and Pride Film with Live Orchestra, as well as contributing as a featured and solo player across a number of projects.

Between 2025 and 2026, I also supported the organisation as a seasonal Production Assistant, working alongside the Music Director on venue coordination, outreach, partner engagement, rehearsal scheduling, bookings and production administration across Cardiff and online.

This combination of performance and production experience has allowed me to contribute to the organisation from both an artistic and organisational perspective, while developing an ongoing collaborative relationship with the ensemble.