The Orchestra (Electric Light Orchestra original members)

THE ORCHESTRA is a band inheriting the Electric Light Orchestra (ELO), formed by former members of ELO and ELO Part II. Initially starting under the name ELO Part II, the band featured five former ELO members. Since then, it has evolved into a true rock supergroup, continuing its activity today under the name THE ORCHESTRA, carrying on ELO’s music, legacy and spirit to audiences worldwide.

The story begins in 1970 in Birmingham, England, where Electric Light Orchestra starts its journey to become one of the most popular rock bands in the world. Their music is characterized by a unique fusion of Beatles-inspired pop, classical arrangements and a futuristic aesthetic.

Mik Kaminski joins the band in 1973 with his famous blue violin. ELO’s classic lineup is consolidated in 1974 with the arrival of bassist and vocalist Kelly Groucutt as well as orchestral arranger Lou Clark, who enriches the band's distinctive symphonic rock sound with his innovative classical arrangements.

Following the dissolution of the original ELO lineup in 1986, drummer Bev Bevan creates ELO Part II in 1988 alongside English guitarist Pete Haycock, American keyboardist and songwriter Eric Troyer, as well as former ELO members Mik Kaminski, Louis Clark, Kelly Groucutt and cellist Hugh McDowell. The band then recruits English guitarist Phil Bates. Bates leaves ELO Part II in 1998 and is replaced by American singer, songwriter and guitarist Parthenon Huxley.

In late 1999, Bev Bevan retires and is replaced by American drummer Gordon Townsend. In 2000, the band begins touring under the name THE ORCHESTRA, becoming a true supergroup bringing together former members of ELO and ELO Part II as well as renowned musicians from other legendary bands. This new lineup releases the critically acclaimed album No Rewind, featuring original compositions by Kaminski, Troyer, Huxley and Groucutt, as well as a remarkable cover of “Twist and Shout”.

In 2009, the band is struck by tragedy when Kelly Groucutt, THE ORCHESTRA’s iconic bassist and singer, passes away suddenly just one day after a concert in Berlin. His passing deeply devastates the band and classic rock fans worldwide. A memorial has been placed on his childhood home. THE ORCHESTRA then occasionally welcomes Glen Burtnik, former ELO Part II member and former bassist, guitarist, songwriter and singer for the band Styx, to take his place on stage.

Although Louis Clark Jr., son of the talented Lou Clark, had already collaborated with ELO Part II in the 1990s, he becomes a permanent member of THE ORCHESTRA in 2011. Father and son shared the stage around the world until Louis Clark Sr.’s passing in 2021. Today, Louis Jr. continues his father's work as orchestral keyboardist and symphonic conductor, while occasionally playing cello and guitar.

Since 2017, multi-instrumentalist Cliff Hillis brings his talents as singer, guitarist and bassist to the band. In 2025, five-time Grammy Award-nominated electric violinist Susan Aquila joins the group. She brings her dynamic style, electrifying stage presence and experience gained alongside artists such as Paul McCartney, Elton John, Beyoncé, Billy Joel and Joe Jackson.

In early 2026, Mik Kaminski retires from touring and stage performances while continuing to collaborate with THE ORCHESTRA in a special role, helping to preserve and guide the band's musical and artistic legacy. On January 30, 2026, Parthenon Huxley passes away after a long illness.

In January 2026, Dave Scott-Morgan (known as Dave Morgan during his time with ELO) joins THE ORCHESTRA. A former ELO member from 1981 to 1986, he notably appears on the album Secret Messa