The BBC Philharmonic is reimagining the orchestral experience for a new generation – challenging perceptions, championing innovation, and taking a rich variety of music to the widest range of audiences.  Along with around 35 free concerts a year at its MediaCityUK studio in Salford and a series of concerts at Manchester’s Bridgewater Hall, the orchestra broadcasts concerts from venues across the North of England and annually at the BBC Proms. Its performances are broadcast on BBC Radio 3 and available on BBC Sounds.

Championing new music, the BBC Philharmonic has recently given world premieres of works by Tom Coult, David Matthews, Emily Howard, Outi Tarkiainen, Anna Thorvolsdottir, Erland Cooper, Anna Appleby and Robert Laidlow with the scope of the orchestra’s output extending far beyond standard repertoire.   The BBC Philharmonic’s Chief Conductor is John Storgårds, with whom the orchestra has held a long and successful association.

In 2020 the BBC Philharmonic entered the UK Top 40 charts with Four Notes: Paul’s Tune and, in 2022 it released The Musical Story of the Gingerbread Man – a unique musical re-telling of the classic children's tale narrated by BBC Radio 5 Live's Nihal Arthanayake.  In May 2023 it performed at the Eurovision song contest, both in the fan park with previous Ukrainian winner Jamala, and in the final itself, with Italian artist Mahmood for a soulful rendition of John Lennon’s Imagine during the Liverpool Songbook medley.

It also records regularly for Chandos Records and since its first release, in 1991, has produced a catalogue of more than 300 discs and digital downloads. It enjoys working with a range of artists, conductors, and composers: a growing family that includes both familiar faces and exciting new talent.

Through all its activities, the BBC Philharmonic is bringing life-changing music experiences to audiences across Greater Manchester, the North of England, the UK and around the world. 

www.bbc.co.uk/philharmonic