As much genre-defining as defying, The Absolute Orchestra is a professional orchestra of first-class musicians specialising in collaborations with high-profile non-classical bands and artists. Founded by arranger, composer, conductor, and percussionist Dave Danford, the ensemble was born from his vision to bring the expressive power of live orchestral music into a new popular music light. The result: constantly evolving, boundary-breaking, collaborative shows that blur the lines between classical tradition and contemporary innovation.

Recent collaborations highlight its versatility and artistic ambition. In 2024, the orchestra joined forces with Kosheen, reimagining the band’s iconic trip-hop and drum & bass sound through powerful orchestral arrangements. In 2025, they partnered with KT Tunstall, blending her soulful songwriting and vibrant stage presence with Hollywood-style cinematic symphonic textures. Also in 2025, the ensemble collided with Teke::Teke, the genre-bending Japanese-Canadian collective, in a vibrant collaboration that underscored both groups’ commitment to pushing musical boundaries.