Centre for Orchestra

Boulez described the Orchestra as an ‘ensemble of possibilities’, providing not only the opportunity to play core and new repertoire but the opportunity to challenge perceptions, challenge yourself and create new experiences.

Centre for Orchestra (C4O) is a ground-breaking initiative in orchestral training and development, part of a unique collaboration between the London Symphony Orchestra, the Guildhall School and the Barbican Centre.

C4O aims to train talented young musicians, prepare them for orchestral careers and support professional development for established players. Above all, it brings orchestras, composers and audiences together in a forum for orchestral development in the 21st century. Musicians need to work in more flexible ways than they have in the past, C4O enables students to develop this flexibility ensuring the future health of live music.

Centre for Orchestra is a unique collaboration between the LSO, Guildhall School and the Barbican creating a forum in London for orchestral development in the 21st century. The programme provides orchestral training, education and early career support for young professional musicians studying at the Guildhall School.

‘This is what the musical world has been needing.’
Sir Colin Davis, President, London Symphony Orchestra

Centre for Orchestra focuses on the following core components:

- Orchestral work: Members of the London Symphony Orchestra lead intensive coaching sessions for Guildhall School musician in the run up to public workshops and concert performances at the Barbican them exposure to the exacting standards of world class professionals.

- Masterclasses: Internationally renowned soloists and conductors share their expertise and creative passion in a series of masterclasses with Guildhall School musicians.

- Entering the profession: Guildhall School musicians receive invaluable training and advice from members of the London Symphony Orchestra on preparing for life as a professional musician. By attending LSO rehearsals, LSO concerts, Orchestra Fairs and Mastering auditions classes Guildhall School musicians get to know the inner workings of a professional orchestra.

- The wider profession: Orchestral musicians have to be adept in working in many different areas. Guildhall School students are given the opportunity to work alongside LSO musicians to inspire young musicians from East London as part of LSO On Tack, as well as getting involved with a range of education and community work through LSO Discovery and Barbican Guildhall Creative Learning.

- Chamber music: Guildhall School students are given the opportunity to develop their chamber music performance by shadowing LSO performances and performing on stage at the Barbican in advance of LSO concerts

- Digital links: Digital platforms offer international audiences and students the opportunity to engage in artist conversations, masterclasses, conferences and research to debate orchestral practise of the 21st century.

- The Development Laboratory: The Development Laboratory provides the opportunity for young people and professional artists to explore the performing and visual arts to create innovative works across a range of styles and genres.

- Research projects: what does it take to become and sustain a career as an orchestral musician? What new possibilities are there for orchestral musicians in the contemporary world?

From September 2013 the Guildhall School will be launching a new masters programme in Orchestral Artistry in association with the London Symphony Orchestra. Applications are now open for entry onto the programme in September 2013.

Contact us

For further information on getting involved in any of the activities mentioned, please contact the Centre for Orchestra team.

Email: Centre for Orchestra
Phone: 020 7382 2505

Supported by the Higher Education Funding Council for England