This February marked the much-anticipated return of our family concerts, as the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra brought music, laughter, and creativity to communities in Hull and Brent. From energetic games to calm, sensory-friendly spaces, these concerts celebrated the many ways people can connect with live orchestral music.
On Saturday 7 February, families gathered at the Albemarle Music Centre in Hull for a sold-out, sports day-themed Noisy Kids concert bursting with colour, movement, and musical fun.
Led by conductor Patrick Bailey and hosted by the ever-energetic Tim Steiner, eight RPO musicians transformed familiar orchestral favourites into playful, interactive adventures. Young audience members clapped, cheered, and even 'competed' in friendly musical challenges, turning the concert hall into a joyful arena.
© Tennessee Woodiel
The response from families was overwhelmingly positive:
'Absolutely loved it! Great engagement for kids but fun for all the family.'
'Great stuff, please do more in our area.'
The Albemarle Music Centre is a lively hub for music education and community work in Hull, and it was the perfect backdrop for an afternoon filled with laughter, joy, and of course great music. We look forward to working with the Centre on future projects.
On Friday 13 February, the RPO welcomed audiences to a specially designed Relaxed Performance in Brent – a specially-designed concert that creates an inclusive space for those who may find traditional concerts challenging.
The day began with a gentle sensory introduction, helping audience members with sensory sensitivities become comfortable with the surroundings. This thoughtful start set the tone for a concert that was warm, flexible and inviting.
© Jasmine Waterfield
The afternoon was hosted by Tim Steiner and Aga Serugo-Lugo, with Matthew Lynch conducting and Angie Newman providing British Sign Language (BSL) interpretation. Opening with the audience singing along to the words ‘We are the RPO!’, the performance featured short orchestral pieces, hands-on demonstrations, and lively explanations of composers and the instruments that make up the Orchestra. Some of the pieces also were accompanied by videos created by artist Annis Joslin, with one of the videos featuring visuals created by students at Manor School, and another by community artists from Brent Mencap.
© Jasmine Waterfield
The musicians moved freely among the audience at some points, allowing those present to see them in action up close. Audiences were encouraged to explore the music at their own pace, in an atmosphere where every response was welcome.
© Jasmine Waterfield
After the concert, families and individuals joined small-group workshops with the musicians. Tailored to different energy levels and moods, these sessions included insights into reading music and following a score, Q&As with musicians about how instruments make sound and opportunities to conduct an orchestra.
© Jasmine Waterfield
One audience member summed up the experience beautifully:
'It was a wonderful event – so perfectly put together and performed. The breakout groups created another, more intimate, way for the audience to engage - seeing, listening and discussing with the musicians and their instruments.'
© Jasmine Waterfield
Our Noisy Kids concerts continue with performances in Crawley on Saturday 21 February and in Reading on Saturday 13 June. Our next Relaxed Performance takes place in Crawley on Saturday 21 March.