Welcome to the Royal Philharmonic Society (RPS), an organization with a rich history spanning over two centuries. At the heart of music, we are a registered charity committed to nurturing musical excellence, championing the vital role of music in our lives, and promoting diversity and inclusion within the music community. Our dedication to advancing the power and reach of music has shaped the cultural landscape and continues to inspire generations of music-makers and enthusiasts.
A Legacy of Music Excellence
The roots of the Royal Philharmonic Society can be traced back to 1813 when a group of visionary musicians set out to build a wider audience for their work. They established a series of orchestral concerts in London, attracting world-class artists such as Mendelssohn and Wagner. The Society soon became renowned for commissioning exhilarating new music, most famously Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony. In this founding gesture, the Royal Philharmonic Society laid the foundation for a lasting musical culture, sparking the growth of orchestras and the resounding impact of their music throughout Britain.
Promoting Music Excellence
Today, the Royal Philharmonic Society remains at the forefront of music excellence. Our mission is to create opportunities for musicians to excel, providing grants, commissions, professional development initiatives, and performance platforms. We strive to remove barriers and empower performers and composers to fulfill their potential. By recognizing and celebrating exceptional talent, we inspire and support the continuous growth of the music community.
Championing the Vital Role of Music
We firmly believe in the transformative power of music. It has the ability to touch hearts, transcend boundaries, and unite people from all walks of life. Through our programs, we aim to champion the vital role that music plays in our lives. From engaging concerts to thought-provoking exhibitions, we celebrate the diverse forms of musical expression and its profound impact on individuals and society as a whole. By fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of music, we strive to ensure its rightful and powerful place in society.
Dedication to Diversity and Inclusion
Diversity and inclusion are fundamental to our values and aspirations. We are committed to recognizing and celebrating excellence and authenticity in all its forms. Our programs actively promote diversity within the music industry. The RPS Composers program showcases exceptional talents from the global majority, disabled individuals, those from working-class backgrounds, and individuals who identify as LGBTQ+. Through our RPS Women Conductors courses, we address gender imbalance in conducting, empowering women to fulfill their promise as conductors. We strive to cultivate a music community that is inclusive, representative, and relevant to the diverse society we live in.
Team, Trustees, and Partnerships
The Royal Philharmonic Society is guided by a small but dedicated team, each playing an important role in furthering our mission. Their expertise, passion, and commitment ensure that the society continues to thrive and make a meaningful impact. Our dedicated trustees provide strategic guidance and bring a wealth of experience from various sectors, supporting the society’s vision and initiatives.
We are proud to collaborate with a wide range of partners, including orchestras, ensembles, educational institutions, music festivals, and philanthropic organizations. These partnerships enable us to create a vibrant and interconnected music community, fostering collaboration, innovation, and the sharing of knowledge and resources.
Join Us on this Musical Journey
We invite you to join us on this extraordinary journey through classical music. Whether you are a music lover, performer, composer, or supporter, there are numerous ways to engage with the Royal Philharmonic Society. Become a member and be part of a connected community of music enthusiasts and professionals united by a shared cause. Explore our programs, attend our events, and experience the transformative power of music firsthand.