The three-year agreement is the continuation of a seven-year collaboration aimed at making a meaningful difference in the community through the power of music.
The partnership gives the world-famous orchestra, and its musicians and staff, essential legal advice. This allows the BSO to focus on its music and community engagement so it can serve its audiences and fulfil its charitable objectives.
Ellis Jones’ provision of pro-bono advice for the prestigious orchestra – a registered charity – demonstrates its commitment to social responsibility and the local communities it serves.
Nigel Smith, Managing Partner at Ellis Jones Solicitors, said: “This agreement opens an exciting new chapter in our relationship with the BSO.
“We are fortunate to have such an internationally acclaimed orchestra and registered arts charity on our doorstep which also does so much valuable work in the community.
“It is a privilege to play our part in its continued success by providing legal guidance so the BSO and its exceptionally talented musicians can concentrate on spreading joy, entertainment and emotional support through the power of their music.”
Chief Executive of Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, Dougie Scarfe OBE DL, said: “We’re thrilled to announce a new three-year partnership with Ellis Jones, which builds on a strong working relationship developed over the last seven years.
“As a registered charity, the BSO tours world-class live music throughout the Southwest of England each year and impacts thousands of people beyond the concert hall through a range of community-based events.
“In providing quality legal advice — and enabling the Orchestra to focus on what it does best — we’re delighted that Ellis Jones supports our mission of creating a happier, healthier, and fairer society through live music.”
Ellis Jones Partner and Joint Head of Family Deborah Leask has been on the BSO’s board of trustees for two and a half years.
Legal 500-rated Ellis Jones Solicitors has 178 staff including 21 Partners in seven offices across the South Coast and London.
It is a strong supporter of community events, good causes and charities – including sports clubs, carnivals, fundraisers and armed forces veterans.
Founded in 1893, the BSO predominately serves the south and south west of England, but has built a national and international reputation for its musical excellence and championing the role of culture in people’s lives.
Alongside its concert schedule, its BSO Participate programme delivers events and activities in more than 200 locations across 23 local council areas.
This includes inspirational workshops in schools and special performances for people who may not otherwise be able to experience a live concert.
Visit bsolive.com to find out more about the BSO’s work both on and off the stage and https://www.ellisjones.co.uk/about/helping-the-community/ for more about Ellis Jones’ community support.
IMAGE: Ellis Jones Solicitors and the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra hit the right note. Pictured with musicians from the BSO are at the back, from left, are Carla Brown (Head of Wills, Trust and Probate at Ellis Jones), Deborah Leask (Joint Head of Family at Ellis Jones). At the front, from left, are, Lauren Day (Head of |Dispute Resolution at Ellis Jones), Dougie Scarfe (BSO Chief Executive) and musicians from the BSO
ENDS
Notes to journalists:
Ellis Jones Solicitors is a regional law firm with 178 staff including 21 Partners. It has six offices across the south coast in Bournemouth, Canford Cliffs (Poole), Ringwood, Swanage and Wimborne – as well as London – and offers a wide range of services to individuals and businesses. For more information, visit www.ellisjones.co.uk. Media enquiries on this news release to James Tourgout on 07827 806400.
Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra One of the UK’s best-loved orchestras, the BSO is a professional ensemble known for championing the role of culture in people’s lives. Based at Lighthouse, Poole, the Orchestra has residencies in Bristol, Exeter, Portsmouth, Southampton, and Yeovil, and performs in towns and villages across the region. It is the largest cultural provider in the Southwest of England, serving one of the biggest and most diverse regions in the UK.
Known for championing access to high-quality music for all, the BSO leads hundreds of community-based events each year, from its award-winning work in health and care settings to partnerships with schools and music education hubs. In the 2024/25 season, it deepens its reach into local communities, including: a new residency in partnership with NHS Dorset; an expansion of its creative health work; and the extension of the BSO Young Associates community music training scheme. Following international attention for igniting change, BSO Resound, the world’s first professional disabled-led ensemble at the core of a major orchestra, continues to challenge perceptions.
bsolive.com Media enquiries to Claire Rawles on 07860 776646.