2007
The vision of a symphony orchestra for Bunbury took its first steps towards reality in 2007. Inspired by local classical music lovers, a handful of enthusiastic string players began rehearsing regularly
Philharmonic South West Orchestra
About Us
Bringing classical music to life in the South West Region since 2009!
Our Story
Music at the Heart of the South West
Since our first note rang out, we’ve been bringing together musicians from all walks of life to create something truly special for the South West of WA. Our orchestra is built on a love of music, a dash of local pride, and a belief that everyone—no matter their background or experience—deserves a seat in the ensemble.
We aim to foster excellence and innovation in the performance and presentation of orchestral music, enriching the lives of communities in the South West whilst being as accessible as possible. Music education and music experience is what we are about with an emphasis on ‘fine’ music.
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2008
In August 2008 wind and brass players joined the strings for the first symphony orchestra concert, the ALCOA Family Concert.
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2009
In February 2009 Bill Curtis, an experienced and versatile local musician, was appointed conductor of the fledgling Philharmonic South West Orchestra
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2010
By 2010 a regular series of concerts was established – the Proms concert with Bunbury City Band, the afternoon of popular classics at Australind and the annual Christmas Concert with South West Opera Company
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2011
By 2011 the orchestra was ready to travel further afield, performing at Dunsborough, Busselton, Margaret River and Balingup and giving a concert to celebrate the 50th anniversary of St Boniface Cathedral.
With other string teachers from the orchestra Sabine Pfuhl and pianist David Harries set up the Young Fiddlers Programme.. Based at Bunbury Catholic College, this was the first in a series of music education ventures undertaken by PSW
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2014
In 2014 David Pye was appointed the orchestra’s regular conductor, travelling from Perth each week for rehearsals and performances. Described as funny, encouraging, exacting and inspirational, he has made playing with the orchestra an exciting experience.
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2015
In 2015 the orchestra organised the first Ferguson Music Trail, collaborating with local wineries for a series of chamber concerts at different vineyards followed by a full orchestral concert at St Aidan’s Winery. This event is so popular it is now a regular on PSW’s calendar
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2018
Three orchestras,including PSW, and two choirs joined forces in Albany in September 2018 for a mammoth undertaking – the performance of Gustav Mahler’s Resurrection Symphony
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2020
In 2020 ? PSW launched a scholarship programme to give motivated local adults the opportunity to obtain and learn to play an orchestral instrument, leading to participation in a symphony orchestra
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2022
In 2022 Tartan Tempest Scottish Fiddlers was formed as an ensemble group for adult string students. Playing the lively dance tunes of Scotland provided a fun introduction to string playing and a pathway to joining the full PSW.
Today
Today PSW is an established orchestra of 50 plus musicians of all ages. It has performed over 50 symphony concerts throughout WA’s South West. Through its successful music education programmes and by collaborating with local and regional performing arts bodies PSW greatly enriches the cultural life of Bunbury, WA’s largest regional city.
Become a Member
Love music? Join the Orchestra
If you’re a musician in the South West—whether you’re a seasoned pro or just dusting off your instrument—you’re invited to join our orchestra, perform in concerts, connect with fellow musicians, and enjoy exclusive rehearsals, workshops, and a few laughs along the way (we promise, the brass section is friendly), so click below to find out more and get involved.
Our Values
Community, Creativity, and Connection
We’re more than just a group of musicians—we’re a family. Our values are simple: foster creativity, support each other, and make classical music accessible to everyone in the South West. We believe in nurturing talent, celebrating diversity, and having a good laugh along the way (yes, even during rehearsals).
Based in Bunbury Western Australia, the Philharmonic South West Orchestra performs throughout the year at a variety of venues, including: Bunbury, Australind, Harvey, Balingup, Margaret River and Dunsborough. Members also support various smaller chamber ensembles throughout the region.
Our Work
Bringing Music to Life in the South West
From intimate chamber concerts in local halls to big community events under the stars, our orchestra is dedicated to sharing the joy of music across the region. We run workshops, collaborate with schools, and support emerging talent.
Typically the orchestra presents four concerts a year, usually at the end of each term. The term is spent learning and rehearsing for these concerts under the guidance of our professional Conductor, David Pye. David is our Musical Director, also an arranger and composer, which provides a fresh programme for each concert. PSWO rehearses weekly during the term, breaking for the same breaks as the school holidays.
Ready to play your part?
Thinking about joining? Whether you’re a seasoned performer or just dusting off your instrument, you’ll find a warm welcome here. We offer a supportive environment, plenty of performance opportunities, and a chance to be part of something bigger than yourself—right here in the South West.
