RPO Resound

Life-enhancing music for all

What is RPO Resound?

We have a responsibility to ask ourselves how our musicians can unlock potential in those who feel excluded, those who thrive on alternative methods of communication, those who need a helping hand at a tough time – or those who just want to know more about how live music works or how to play it.

Here at the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, we know that music can change your life. RPO Resound is our way of ensuring as many people are involved in it as possible – whoever you are, and however you want to engage.

Nothing brings us together – or opens us up – like music does.

Our programmes in community, education and healthcare settings are at the heart of our mission. Participants feel the difference it makes, and we see it.

Sound Sanctuary participants and RPO musicians playing instruments together.

Areas of focus

Making a difference

Across our diverse range of projects and partnerships, we focus on three key areas where music makes a difference:

STROKESTRA participant and Occupational Therapist at UCLH.

Health and wellbeing

Music makes us happier, healthier people and is a proven tool for physical and mental wellbeing, rehabilitation and recovery.

Human contact is at the centre of all our work, but the meaning of that contact comes into focus in our health and wellbeing sessions. Our participants feel the positive effects during these sessions to an overwhelming degree. Our musicians thrive on it too – our work with people who have suffered strokes or those with mental health struggles, challenges them and helps them become better artists.

High fives in audience at Brent Relaxed Performance.

Inclusion and social cohesion

We all have music inside us – some of us just need a little nudge to bring it out.

In what can feel like a disconnected world, music can cross almost any boundary imaginable. It is a common language, an emotional release, a communal glue and a tool for expression that leads to openness and understanding. Our work with people on the edges of our society creates joyous moments and memories and has long-lasting legacies. It also helps prove that while we may look and sound different, we’re really all the same.

Smiling parents and children watching a Relaxed Performance

Aspiration and achievement for all

Musical skills unlock and connect parts of the brain like no others. They engender confidence, help numeracy and literacy, raise aspirations, foster teamwork, and open up countless career and life paths.

We work with groups and individuals to develop musical skills in young people through strategic partnerships and targeted interventions. We have a proven track record in improving progression routes for those who would most benefit from them.