80th Anniversary

In 2026, the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra’s journey reaches a milestone: 80 years since we performed our first concert.  

Over the last eight decades, many millions of people have been inspired, touched and entertained by our music. Over the same period, we have constantly reimagined what an orchestra can be. We have never stopped adapting, innovating and including.  

What started with a concert in Croydon in 1946 continues throughout Brent, London, the United Kingdom and the world – and across the digital and media space. More people are involved in our music-making than ever. Many of them see our work as an essential, enriching part of their lives.  

Throughout our 80th Anniversary, we’ll be hearing from some of those people. They’ll tell us about what the RPO has done for them and what it means to them – whether welcoming them into uplifting concert experiences or offering them support and companionship through challenging times. 

In the future, we will continue to reimagine what an orchestra can do and to welcome more and more people to join us on our journey. We want to continue our work – but we also want to expand it and improve it. 

At the RPO we are proud of our history. But we are even more excited by our future. The RPO matters more now, and to more people, than it ever did. If you haven't already experienced the RPO, there’s no better time to join us on the journey than in this special year. 

If you have a special moment or memory of the RPO we would love to hear it – you can share it via the button below.