Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra

Founded in 1840 by a group of Liverpool music-lovers, the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic is the UK’s oldest continuing professional symphony orchestra and one the world’s oldest concert societies. It has always been at the heart of Liverpool’s cultural life and today is a rapidly developing, forward-looking and innovative arts organisation.

The original vision of that first committee has remained a driving ambition, and is interpreted today in the organisation’s mission “to enhance and transform lives through music” through a dynamic group of music ensembles, at the centre of which is the award-winning Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and its associated ensembles; Liverpool Philharmonic Hall, one of the UK’s premier arts and entertainment venues; the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Choir; Liverpool Philharmonic Youth Orchestra, Youth Choir, Children’s Choir and Melody Makers; a chamber music series; and an extensive learning programme which is a leader in its field in its quality, reach and impact on our communities.

Liverpool Philharmonic presents more than 400 concerts and events at Liverpool Philharmonic Hall, Music Room, and venues across the City annually. The Hall is recognised as one of the UK’s premier venues for its wide-ranging presentation of the best in contemporary and roots music, partnerships with festivals, broadcasters and promoters and innovative approaches to classical and non-classical programming. The Hall also offers a unique cinema experience and a popular film programme and a comedy line-up featuring many of the top stand-up comedians in the country, as well as hosting numerous community events.

More than 350,000 children and adults engage with Liverpool Philharmonic, either as ticket buyers for performances or as participants in workshops and associated events, each year. We offer a range of inspirational lifelong learning opportunities to enjoy and take part in live music-making. Flagship learning programmes include our annual Schools’ Concerts, performed to over 23,000 children from more than 300 schools; leadership of In Harmony Liverpool, the El Sistema-inspired music and social programme; and our Musician in Residence programme delivered in partnership with Mersey Care NHS Trust.