It all started under the Hulme Arch
'Arch Ensembles' was conceived in the summer of 2005 by Duncan Cross and Jennifer Downing to embody a passion for music and to bring together a group of highly skilled like minded musicians. Their aim to make music of the highest quality whilst maintaining a relaxed social atmosphere and enjoying the experience to the full.
Duncan and Jenny quickly realised that it wouldn't be much of an ensemble with just 2 (and also a little lonely) so decided to harangue a variety of friends and colleagues into joining the initiative. After an encouraging response to a rather persuasive email, Duncan and Jenny met the new members of the group yet to have a name at Arch Bar situated under the shadow of the Hulme Arch in Manchester, to deliver their vision. After several beers and a couple of gin and tonics 'Arch Ensembles' was born.
Since 2006, Arch Ensembles' swing band and wind band (Arch Stage Sound, and Arch Symphonic Winds) have performed at Manchester's pride festivals, providing an afternoon of LIVE music and entertainment, ranging from music from film and theatre to classics from the Last Night of the Proms.