The All Souls Orchestra has a rich history of overseas tours that spans decades, intertwining music, faith and international outreach in ways that continue to inspire both performers and audiences. What began as a relationship-building initiative in the 1980s would blossom into a series of transformative tours, reaching countries across Europe, the Middle East and beyond. Join us as we explore the journey of ASO Tours and discover how music has been a powerful force in spreading hope, support and connection within churches and communities worldwide.
The Moscow Breakthrough: An Historic First Step
In 1993, ASO received an invitation from the Billy Graham Mission to join their crusade in the former Soviet Union – a land that had only recently opened up following Glasnost. This invitation marked a pivotal moment in ASO’s international outreach. The Orchestra performed at the prestigious Moscow Conservatoire – a cultural landmark in the heart of Russia’s capital – and their performance was a beacon of hope to an audience that had been living in the shadows of oppression.
This tour proved to be a turning point, leading to a series of other invitations from individuals and organisations who had witnessed the Orchestra’s powerful performance in Moscow. The seeds for future collaborations were sown and ASO began establishing connections across Eastern Europe.
Supporting Churches in Eastern Europe
As the 1990s progressed, ASO formed a deep relationship with Dave Pope and Saltmine, leading to multiple tours throughout Eastern Europe. The Orchestra’s performances became an important part of supporting and encouraging the churches emerging from the shadow of communist oppression in countries like Romania and Bulgaria. The ASO’s music was not only a source of artistic inspiration but also a testament to the resilience of the Christian community in these regions.
Pilgrimages and Special Tours: Bringing Music to Sacred Ground
The 2000s saw ASO continue its journey, but with a new twist: special pilgrimages and tours designed for listeners of Premier Radio. These tours took ASO musicians to some of the most iconic religious sites in the world, including the Holy Land and Oberammergau in Germany. The powerful combination of music and pilgrimage was an unforgettable experience for both the performers and those who attended the concerts.
In 2004, ASO was invited by BBC’s Songs of Praise to participate in programming for the Athens 2004 Olympics. This was a unique opportunity for the Orchestra to engage in street outreach and perform outdoor concerts, bringing music to the streets of Athens in collaboration with the 1st Evangelical Church of Athens. The week-long experience was a dynamic mix of service and creativity, inspiring both the performers and the local community.
Reviving Greek Connections
Building on their success in Athens, ASO received invitations to return to Greece in 2005 and 2008. These tours spanned all parts of Greece, where minority churches saw the ASO as a gift to their communities. More than just concerts, these visits became a catalyst for building connections and fostering a sense of unity and encouragement among Christians in the region.
A Deeply Moving Visit to Syria
In 2009, the Orchestra’s journey took them to Syria, where they were invited by James Doust, the Anglican minister in Damascus. The visit was poignant and deeply moving, as the Orchestra performed in the Armenian Church in Aleppo and the Catholic Church in Damascus. The concerts were a sign of solidarity with the small Christian communities in Syria. For many of the musicians who participated, the memories of the warm hospitality they received remain vivid, even as the country has endured turmoil in recent years.
Expanding into Western France
In 2010, Noël and Fiona Tredinnick, the driving force behind ASO’s international efforts, realised a long-held dream to bring the Orchestra to Western France. They had been drawn to a small Evangelical church near Poitiers, where they had built strong ties. What started as a small-scale venture gradually expanded as churches throughout France recognised the potential impact of ASO’s music. By 2018, the tours had evolved into two-week-long events that spanned the length of the country, from the Charentes on the West Coast to the Alsace region near the Swiss border.
Austrian Outreach: Music and Faith Together
ASO’s international presence continued to grow, with their 2012 trip to Austria marking another milestone. Partnering with Rachel Olney, an All Souls mission partner in Vienna, ASO reached out to musicians and students, offering them both music and fellowship. The success of this trip led to a return in 2015, where a larger group of musicians performed in a three-concert tour, partially sponsored by a local Christian businessman who wanted to offer the performances as a gift to his employees.
The planned return in 2020 was delayed by the Pandemic, but now, in 2025, the ASO will once again visit Austria, bringing together 30 UK musicians to join forces with local players. This upcoming tour will not only provide a platform for excellent music but also serve as a means to connect Christian musicians from the UK and Austria in a shared celebration of faith.
Rachel, who has played an instrumental role in fostering these connections, summarised the mission of the upcoming tour:
“To sing a new song to the Lord together, to proclaim God’s glory among the nations in Austria and to offer mutual encouragement in faith and music. We hope that through our music, many will meet Jesus, experience His beauty, and desire to know Him better.”
In a city steeped in history, grandeur and music, the ASO’s performances aim to give glory to the King of Kings while offering a powerful witness of faith through the universal language of music.
A Lasting Legacy of Faith and Music
The All Souls Orchestra’s journey overseas is more than just a series of tours; it is a testimony to the power of music in spreading hope and fostering connection across borders. From the streets of Athens to the churches of Eastern Europe, from the heart of Syria to the grand palaces of Austria, ASO’s music has been a gift to communities struggling with oppression, longing for peace and seeking faith. The Orchestra’s mission remains as relevant as ever, continuing to inspire, encourage and uplift people worldwide through the unifying power of music.
Author: Janet O’Brien
