SOARING string sounds performed with a regimental, dramatic and subtle edge will engulf a theatre in Clacton next week with orchestral renditions of popular songs.

The Countess of Wessex’s String Orchestra will perform at the Princes Theatre on Monday, October 28 as part of the Clacton Arts and Literary Society’s latest programme of intriguing events.

Created in 2014 as part of changes made within the Corps of Army Music, the large ensemble of exquisitely trained musicians is steeped in tradition but utilises modern technology when performing live.

Reading from digital scores and occasionally using electric string instruments, the orchestra tackles a varying repertoire of tracks from a multitude of genres such as classic and pop.

The unique concoction is led by director of music Major David B Hammond and has been experienced by music lovers in both Jordan and Algeria, as well as in venues and all manner of settings across the country.

Performances using stringed instruments is a long-running tradition within the British Army and the Countess of Wessex’s String Orchestra traces it heritage right back to the days of The King’s Musick band.

Prominent during the monarch Restoration in England, the group eventually went onto form the basis of Queen Victoria’s private band which, many years later, became the Countess of Wessex String Orchestra.

The show, which is for members of the Clacton Arts and Literary Society, will take place at 7.30pm on Monday 28 from the Princes Theatre in Station Road.

To find out more visit clactonartsandlits.com.