Brighton Dome has announced that Brighton Philharmonic Orchestra (BPO) will become its Resident Orchestra, marking a major milestone in a partnership that has endured for nearly 100 years.
The appointment forms part of Brighton Dome’s ongoing commitment to championing regional artists and recognises the orchestra’s long-standing contribution to the venue’s cultural life.
Founded in 1925, Brighton Philharmonic Orchestra first performed in Brighton Dome’s Concert Hall in 1928 and has been a regular presence at the venue ever since. Last year, the orchestra celebrated its centenary with a critically acclaimed programme of concerts.
Lucy Davies, Director and CEO of Brighton Dome, said: “Today we cement our relationship with BPO after nearly 100 years of travelling side by side. In formalising BPO as our Resident Orchestra we celebrate the power and endurance of the city’s creative collaborations. Brighton Dome & Brighton Festival is proud to be the official home and partner for Joanna MacGregor’s exceptional leadership and brilliant orchestra.”
Joanna MacGregor, CEO and Music Director of Brighton Philharmonic Orchestra, said: “To become Brighton Dome’s Resident Orchestra is a wonderful recognition of BPO’s vibrant performances over the last century, and cements an already close partnership. We’re looking forward to developing ambitious, world class programmes and exciting artistic collaborations for Brighton audiences.”
Over its 100-year history, the orchestra has welcomed performances from many of classical music’s most celebrated figures, including Myra Hess, Sergei Rachmaninoff, Yehudi Menuhin, Sir Simon Rattle and Evelyn Glennie.
Its distinguished line of presidents has included Sir Thomas Beecham, Ralph Vaughan Williams and Benjamin Britten, while its commitment to contemporary music continues with works by composers such as James MacMillan, Gwilym Simcock and the forthcoming premiere of a new piece by Eric Vloeimans.
The orchestra opens its new Brighton Dome season on 27 September with a programme featuring Rachmaninoff’s Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini, Gershwin’s musical tribute to Havana, Piazzolla’s Spring in Buenos Aires and Janáček’s Sinfonietta.
The season will also include programmes combining Stravinsky and Mozart, explorations of jazz and strings, music inspired by Antarctica, and a closing concert featuring Nigel Kennedy performing Beethoven’s Violin Concerto alongside his arrangements of Jimi Hendrix classics.
The announcement further strengthens Brighton Dome’s rich musical heritage, which has previously welcomed artists including Adelina Patti and Samuel Coleridge Taylor, while continuing to host performances by leading orchestras from across the UK.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
