MUSIC filled the room as an 80-strong string orchestra brought compositions to life for the first time.

A total of 10 composers from across the UK, US and Asia had written new works for the AllComers amateur string orchestra, performed as part of the Music at Oxford University’s St Hilda’s College mini festival.

Three workshops were held at the Jacqueline du Pré Music Building at St Hilda’s College on Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

Darragh Morgan, conductor and violinist with the Guildhall School of Music and Drama and workshop director, said: “The composers are delighted to hear their music played, which is a rarity for them.”

Mr Morgan, pictured above left conducting the orchestra, added: “The workshop also pushes people beyond the normal comfort zones as amateur musicians. They did brilliantly.”

The string players received coaching in chamber and string orchestral music by performers Max Baillie and Robin Michael, as well as Mr Morgan.