The Bishop Orchestra is the senior orchestra at State  Music Camp and named after the founder of the music camp movement in Australia, Professor John Bishop OBE. 
In South Australia we were fortunate to have his son David, who contributed greatly to the SA Music Camp for many years.

David Bishop OAM  passed away on 26 July 2011

The Committee of the South Australian Music Camp Association notes with sadness the passing of our fellow Committee Member, and past President and former Director of State Music Camp, David Bishop.  His life has been devoted to music, and especially to the support of young people participating in the performance of music.

 David Bishop will be remembered as a fine cellist, an inspiring teacher and a strong advocate of music education.  His vision that every child should have the opportunity to learn a musical instrument touched many thousands of lives.

Bishop Cellos

Bishop Bassoons

Bishop Orchestra in Concert

Membership of the Bishop Orchestra is the ultimate aim of many young instrumentalists, especially string players who move through the ranks over a number of years.  This can be a rare opportunity for many players to experience the inspiration of playing in a full symphonic ensemble.  The Bishop Orchestra traditionally performs as the final ensemble at the annual State Music Camp concert, demonstrating a high level of orchestral music-making performing legitimate orchestral repertoire.

        State Music Camp