The Suffolk Philharmonic is marking its third anniversary this May with an “unforgettable” celebration concert.

Three years to the day since its launch in St Edmundsbury Cathedral, and with a string of sell-out concerts at The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, under its belt, the orchestra is returning during the 2015 Bury Festival.

The concert on May 23 will feature deputy Director of Music at the Cathedral Dan Soper on the organ during a performance of Symphony Number 3 in C, by the French composer Camille Saint-Saëns.

A spokesman for the orchestra said: “One of the most spectacular of all symphonies, this music has been borrowed many times – including for the film Babe – but in its full form, with the organ sometimes warmly accompanying the orchestra strings, and sometimes in full power contrast with the orchestra, it is an unforgettable work.”

Returning to join in at the celebration concert is the violinist Thomas Gould, who as well as appearing as soloist, is leader of the Aurora Orchestra and associate leader of the Britten Sinfonia.

Founder and conductor Leslie Olive is fitting in the celebration concert amid a busy schedule of performances and singing days with choral singers.

He recently conducted Eye Bach Choir in their performance of Bach’s St John Passion and Stowmarket Chorale’s Duruflé Requiem.

Mr Olive said he is delighted to be conducting the orchestra on such a “grand occasion”.

“This will be an unmissable concert and will make a spectacular celebration,” he added.

The concert is part of the Suffolk Philharmonic’s Spring into Summer programme, and is supported using public funding by the National Lottery, through Arts Council England.

Tickets are on sale from The Apex on 01284 758000 or online at www.buryfestival.co.uk