THE York Guildhall Orchestra has unveiled a star-studded new season of concerts at York Barbican.

The orchestra's 35th season will feature musicians including a tenor who recently wowed the stage at Glyndebourne, a pianist who has appeared on British and European TV and a soprano who represented Wales at Cardiff Singer of the Year programme.

Spokesman Geoff Egginton said the season would begin on October 18 with an exploration of the large scale symphonic works of Sibelius, with the 'stunning' Korean violinist So-Ock Kim as soloist.

Conductor Simon Wright said: "We shall also perform The Swan of Tuonela with one of the repertoire's most hauntingly beautiful cor anglais solos representing the swan."

The second concert, on February 14, will feature Wagner, Mozart, Puccini and Prokofiev and end with Ravel's Bolero.

"The orchestra is joined by no less than three superb young soloists making names for themselves; Oliver Johnson is a talented tenor who recently wowed the stage at Glyndebourne, Rebecca Taylor is a wonderful pianist who has broadcast on the British and European TV and soprano Céline Forrest recently won her way to the Cardiff Singer of the Year representing Wales.

Mr Wright said:“February 14 will be an unashamedly emotional roller-coaster of an evening celebrating Valentine's Day – glorious melodies and wonderfully talented, young soloists; this will definitely be a night to remember!”

At its final concert, on May 16, internationally acclaimed guitarist Craig Ogden will perform Rodrigo's Concierto de Aranjuez with the orchestra.

"Craig is currently one of the featured artists on Classic FM," said Mr Wright.

Mr Eggington said the orchestra was again working with City of York Council to provide free places at the October and February concerts to young school children.

"Master classes with some of the visiting soloists are also being arranged," he said, adding that more information could be found by going to www.yorkguildhallorchestra.co.uk