South Coast Partnerships
At the London Philharmonic Orchestra, we’re dedicated to expanding our reach and deepening our community connections along the South Coast. Beyond our performances at Brighton Dome and Eastbourne’s Congress Theatre, we’re partnering with local arts organisations, charities and community groups to share the transformative power of music. Come and check out what we’re doing on the South Coast – through collaboration and creativity, we’re building lasting relationships and enriching lives across the region.
What we’re up to on the South Coast
With 600 members from across West Sussex, the dynamic Worthing Philharmonic Orchestra showcases the incredible musical talent of its community. Mainly comprised of passionate amateur and semi-professional players, the group occasionally welcomes support from LPO musicians during rehearsals. Twice a season, they collaborate with LPO players for rehearsals, where we support their music-making with sectionals or tutti sessions, guided by their inspiring Music Director. It’s all about enhancing their already fantastic performances and celebrating the power of local talent!
At Age Concern Eastbourne’s Day Club, members come together to socialise, create, and enjoy life. From crafts to games and lunch, this vibrant hub supports individuals of all abilities, including those living with dementia or mental health challenges. To add a special touch, we bring live music to their afternoons! With a mix of classical and easy listening, these 45-minute performances followed by friendly interaction create meaningful moments of joy.
AudioActive is a trailblazing local organisation using music to inspire personal growth and social change in young people. Specialising in urban, hip hop, rap, and electronic music, they connect young people with professional artists in a safe, creative space—completely free of charge. As part of our new partnership, we’re joining their Soundcheck and Beats & Bars sessions, bringing fresh sounds and new layers to their improvisations. It’s all about collaboration, creativity, and showing young talent the possibilities of music beyond the expected.
While the Regis Centre in Bognor Regis undergoes renovations, we’re thrilled to join their 2 O’Clock Club initiative! These 45-minute concerts, followed by audience meet-and-greets, help keep their community engaged while introducing us to Bognor audiences. This partnership builds relationships now and sets the stage for future collaborations when the theatre reopens. Stay tuned for more!
Langney Shopping Centre, in a quieter part of Eastbourne with limited transport links, is a community hub that thrives on bringing people together. We have returned for our second year of bringing Christmas carols to this vibrant area, spreading festive joy to a community with limited access to live music. It’s become a cherished tradition, and we hope to make it a yearly celebration for years to come.
Shinewater Disabled Trust, based in Eastbourne, provides a live-in facility that offers crucial support to individuals with disabilities. This incredible organisation creates a nurturing environment where residents can thrive, and they’re eager to explore creative collaborations beyond just performance. Our initial chamber performance served as a meaningful introduction, allowing our players and the LPO to build an awareness and appreciation for the valuable work that they do. We look forward to strengthening this partnership and exploring future opportunities together.
Soundcastle is an inspiring organisation using music-making to support mental health recovery and combat social isolation. Their ‘Lab Day’ sessions, held once a term, offer adult members the chance to learn and create together, exploring everything from lyric writing to harmonies under expert guidance. With just 8–10 participants, these sessions are intimate, collaborative, and may involve some improvisation. We’re proud to contribute by providing 1–2 LPO musicians to support and participate, helping to foster creativity in this vibrant community.
Age Concern Eastbourne's Day Club
The London Philharmonic Orchestra's activities with South Coast communities are generously supported by Garfield Weston Foundation, TIOC Foundation and donors to the LPO’s Arts for Impact Big Give campaign.