It's important to us to make classical music of all types accessible to everyone. In addition, we also aim to achieve the objective of creating innovative ways of bringing artists into contact with the general public through concerts and workshops.

Right from the inception of the group, we believed an appreciation of music and the cultural shaping of leisure activity as vital aspects of our development work as a leading orchestra in the region. Over some years, we've gained many friends and partners who help us achieve this objective. For the November 2013 celebration concert, we engaged the extremely talented cellist, Richard Jenkinson (C.B.S.O. lead cellist and member of the Dante Quartet), who gave a stunning performance Cello Concert by Dvorak.

We are a very friendly orchestra and aim to generate an appreciation of classical music across the generations and cultures. So whatever your age or background, do contact us. Playing vacancies arise from time to time so new experienced players are always welcome to apply. Membership is on the basis of experience and recommendation. Young up and coming players are especially welcome to apply.

Stephen Guy - cello

Trevor Taylor - violin

Roger Hendy - viola

Antony Clements - violin

Roger Hendy -  Musical Director Isca Ensemble.

Graduate in Mathematics and Chemistry at Exeter University, Roger founded the University of Exeter Symphony and Chamber Orchestras and took up conducting whilst studying. He went on to enjoy a successful teaching career in schools in Devon and Hampshire as well as lecturing at Exeter University. With his colleague John Dalton, he founded the Honiton International Festival. In 1982 he was invited to develop the Exeter Music Group into a formidable regional symphony orchestra and directed it for over 25 years.

He has worked with many famous soloists such as Emma Johnson, Alexander Baillie, Hu Kun, Freddy Kempf, Crispian Steel-Perkins, Richard Jenkinson, Jack Liebeck, Jennifer Pike, Mark Bebbington, Robert Tear and many others including French artists in guest appearances in Brittany. He has conducted many major classical works including Mahler’s Resurrection Symphony and Beethoven’s Choral Symphony in Exeter Cathedral. Roger has also been very keen to support local and young artists. He has also premiered new works by leading composers and in particular, has collaborated with Gordon Langford on numerous occasions.

Ten years ago he founded the Isca Ensemble. Such was the popularity of the group, that since its inception, the Ensemble has naturally blossomed into a full-sized orchestra. The group also actively promotes many chamber concerts by the Isca String Quartet, Octet and other ensembles. Roger has worked for over 40 years in many artistic ventures to support local and international charities. In this context, he is greatly indebted to the support he has received from many dedicated and very talented players in the region.

We welcome our new lead cellist - Tirke Linnemann.

Playing in Isca.

Currently there are few vacancies in sections of the orchestra but sometimes opportunities for new players do arise. Experienced string players are always welcome to contact the Musical Director or leader of the orchestra. Use the contacts page or contact Roger Hendy roghendy@gmail.com

However, there are firm opportunities for more string players to join the special orchestral workshop with C.B.S.O. tutors on 23 January 2016 in Honiton. Please contact Roger Hendy roghendy@gmail.com.