The English Symphony Orchestra: the International Orchestra of Elgar Country, are synonymous with artistic excellence, innovative programming, and community service . Since 2013 when Kenneth Woods became the ESO's third Principal Conductor, the orchestra has emerged as a major force in British music, presenting the 2015 and 2016 Classical Music Magazine “Première of the Year.. Founded by William Boughton in 1980, Vernon “Tod” Handley became the orchestra’s second Principal Conductor in 2000. The ESO has worked with Nigel Kennedy, Steven Isserlis, Michael Tippett, and Yehudi Menuhin. “The ESO – enjoying a comet-like rise under Kenneth Woods” Musical Opinion "Electric performances, all!" The Times