The Guest List: an introduction into live classical music

Audience member leaning over the choir stalls at Royal Festival, watching the Philharmonia Orchestra. The camera focuses on a Philharmonia concert programme

At the Philharmonia Orchestra, we believe that classical music is for everyone. That’s why we’re proud to offer The Guest List, an initiative designed to open the doors of live orchestral concerts to individuals and community groups who have never attended a classical music performance. 

If you’ve always been curious about what it feels like to experience a live orchestra but weren’t sure where to start, The Guest List is here to offer you a warm welcome to the world of classical music. 

What is The Guest List? 

The Guest List provides complimentary tickets to selected Philharmonia concerts in London, Bedford, and Leicester, specifically for individuals who have never attended a live classical concert. Whether you’ve felt uncertain about concert etiquette, wondered if classical music is for you, or faced accessibility challenges, The Guest List helps break down these barriers. 

As part of the initiative, participants receive more than just a ticket to a concert. We want to make sure you feel comfortable, informed, and excited about your experience. Here’s what you can expect: 

  • Pre-concert support: before the concert, we provide all the information you need to feel prepared and confident. This includes details about the venue, the concert programme, and what to expect at a classical performance. We ensure that any access needs are addressed and if you have any questions or concerns, we’re here to help. 
  • Welcome talk: On the day of the concert, a member of the Philharmonia team will introduce the music, giving you context and insights into what you’ll be hearing. 
  • A friendly, welcoming environment: We want everyone to feel comfortable in the concert hall, so we’re here to support any access needs and help you navigate the experience. We also reserve a space before the concert starts, exclusively for The Guest List participants, where we offer complimentary refreshments. This is where our welcome talk takes place. The room is also available during the interval and after the concert, allowing you to relax, ask any questions, and discuss the performance with other attendees and Philharmonia staff. 

Why sign up for The Guest List? 

We understand that attending a classical concert for the first time can feel daunting, but The Guest List is designed to make your first experience as enjoyable and stress-free as possible. By signing up, you’ll be joining a growing community of people who are discovering the joy of live orchestral music and learning more about this rich art form. 

This initiative is for anyone aged over 18 who has an interest in music or any other form of creative expression but has never voluntarily attended a classical concert before. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a curious first-timer, or simply someone who has never had the opportunity, The Guest List welcomes you. 

Upcoming concerts 

To explore upcoming Guest List concerts and get a feel for what’s on, visit our website and the Guest List page for details on current concerts and venues. 

If you’re interested, please register your interest using the link below. We recruit on a rolling basis, so we’ll contact you as soon as tickets become available. 

Sign up to The Guest List 

We encourage you to share this opportunity with friends, family, or community groups who may like to experience a classical concert for the first time. The more people we can introduce to the magic of live orchestral music, the better!