Create Workshops
Regular creative music workshops for disabled and/or neurodiverse adults, their supporters and carers.
LSO Create is a welcoming music project for learning disabled and neurodivergent adults aged 18+. Led by London Symphony Orchestra musicians and creative leaders, the sessions give people the chance to make music together in a relaxed, supportive and creative environment. The project is free to take part in. Participants can explore different ways of making sound and music, using both traditional instruments and accessible music technology.
There are two ways to take part in LSO Create: Open Sessions and Create Perform.
LSO Create Open sessions
LSO Create Open Sessions are regular one-off creative music days for learning disabled and neurodivergent adults, their supporters and carers. Each session is inspired by music being performed by the LSO, and shaped by the ideas, experiences and interests of those taking part. Sessions are standalone and not linked to previous workshops.
Together, participants compose, improvise and create new music alongside LSO musicians and creative leader Mark Withers. You do not need to have played an instrument before, although people with musical experience are also very welcome. Open Sessions offer a chance to explore different ways of making music with other people and LSO musicians.
A facilitator from Drake Music supports the sessions, helping participants to use accessible music technology. Drake Music is the leading national organisation working in music, disability and technology.
Advance booking is required. Please note that Open Sessions do not include performance opportunities.
LSO Create Open sessions – FAQ
We welcome learning disabled and/or neurodivergent adults, their supporters and carers – attending as individuals or as part of a group.
Tuesday 08 September 2026
Monday 05 October 2026
Wednesday 11 November 2026
Tuesday 01 December 2026
Monday 01 February 2027
Tuesday 02 March 2027
Wednesday 07 April 2027
Wednesday 12 May 2027
Wednesday 09 June 2027
Tuesday 06 July 2027
Time: 11am – 2.30pm
The doors are open from 10.45 for a soft start.
10:45 – 11:00 Arrive
11:00 – 12:00 Session all together
12:00 – 12.45 Break into smaller groups
12:45 – 13:25 LUNCH
13:25 – 14:15 Continue smaller group work
14:15 – 14.30 All Back together to share our new music pieces
We will be providing self-service tea and coffee in the morning on arrival (from 10.45am) and at lunch time.
Please bring your own food for lunch time.
Sessions take place at:
LSO St Luke’s
161 Old Street,
London,
EC1V 9NG
St Lukes is a fully accessible venue. Find out more about the Accessibility at LSO St Luke’s.
There are three accessible toilets at LSO St Luke’s. One of these facilities is equipped with a hoist and changing bench. If you would like to make use of this, please bring along your sling.
Limited parking is available for bookers with access requirements. Please request at point of booking.
LSO Create Open Sessions are free to attend but you must book in advance as spaces are limited. Drop in spaces are not available for this project.
Participants may attend alone, with family members or supporters, or as part of a group from a local day or residential centre or college. If you are booking as part of a group, there is maximum of 4 participants per group.
Please note that there is limited capacity at these sessions. Once spaces are full you will be added to the waiting list in case of cancellations.
We will confirm your place via email.
If you have a question or want to find out more, please get in touch with the Project Manager at helen.lolljee@lso.co.uk or on 020 7382 2578.
LSO Create Perform
LSO Create Perform is an ensemble focused on creating and performing original repertoire up to three times a year. Membership of the group is by invitation, and all participants have experience of and interest in rehearsing, developing ideas and performing alongside LSO musicians.
Find Out More & Take Part
To find out more about LSO Create Workshops, and for information about taking part, please contact:
Helen Lolljee LSO Discovery Project Associate (Musical Inclusion)
community@lso.co.uk
LSO Create: Inclusive Audience Opportunities
Relaxed Concerts
Free concerts particularly suited for people with sensory and communication impairments, or who are neurodiverse.
Open Rehearsals
An opportunity for individuals and groups of disabled and/or neurodiverse adults, their supporters and carers, to hear the LSO rehearsing in the Barbican Hall.
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LSO Create is generously supported by 29th May 1961 Charity, Andor Charitable Trust, Anthony and Elizabeth Mellows Charitable Settlement, David Solomons Charitable Foundation, Rix-Thompson-Rothenberg Foundation and the Worshipful Company of Fan Makers.
