The Astra Chamber Orchestral Society was founded in Melbourne, apparently superceding the Astra Chamber Music Society and Astra String Orchestra which had been in existence since at least 1948. (At some point subsequently the name reverted to 'Astra Chamber Music Society'). Astra began as an all-female string ensemble, amateur and non-profit making. In addition to the established chamber music repertoire, Astra had a special interest in performing new works by Australian composers and in providing opportunities for promising young musicians to perform in a concert atmosphere. In 1959 the Astra Choir was formed. In 1964 male performers joined the Astra Orchestra for the first time and a wind section was added.
From the description of Records. 1951-1988. (Libraries Australia). WorldCat record id: 222191080
