Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra – Inspiring Live Music Across the South

Discover the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra (BSO), one of the UK’s most celebrated ensembles and a major force for culture across the South and South West. The BSO brings world-class music to audiences of all ages, while leading one of the most ambitious community and education programmes in the country. If you love live performance, creative learning, or family-friendly musical experiences, the BSO offers something special for you.

About the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra

The BSO performs at its home venue, Lighthouse in Poole, and holds residencies in cities including Southampton, Portsmouth, Exeter, Bristol and Yeovil. It also appears regularly in Basingstoke, Truro, Barnstaple and Weymouth. Its wide reach makes it the largest cultural provider in the South West. The Orchestra is known for its rich sound, innovative programming and commitment to making music part of everyday life.
The BSO works tirelessly to bring exceptional live music to as many people as possible. Its busy concert calendar features everything from thrilling symphonic evenings to relaxed performances and family concerts. Each event aims to connect communities and spark imagination.

BSO Participate – Music for Everyone

Alongside its main-stage concerts, the BSO runs BSO Participate, a far-reaching programme that supports education, wellbeing and community engagement. Every year, this award-winning strand creates more than 50,000 opportunities for adults, children and young people to learn, play and enjoy music.
BSO Associate Musicians work across the region to deliver hands-on workshops, school events, creative sessions and wellbeing projects. These activities enrich lives by building confidence, supporting mental health and encouraging creativity. The programme also brings interactive concerts to more than 200 locations, helping the BSO reach people far beyond the concert hall.

Schools and Education

The BSO supports schools by offering accessible and inspiring ways for young people to explore live music. Its projects include assemblies, workshops, open rehearsals, masterclasses and symphonic concerts tailored to different age groups. Teachers also benefit from CPD sessions designed to boost confidence and enrich the music curriculum.
Schools can book a range of opportunities, including KS2 Explore the Orchestra concerts, large-scale creative projects and instrumental days. Specialist events for SEND schools ensure that every child can enjoy a meaningful musical experience.

Community and Family Music

The BSO creates welcoming spaces where people of all ages can enjoy music together. Dementia-friendly Cake Concerts provide relaxed performances with tea, cake and conversation. Care Home Concerts bring bespoke musical experiences directly to residents, supporting wellbeing and connection.
Family Orchestras offer a chance for generations to make music side by side, while budding young musicians can take part in coaching sessions and play alongside BSO players. These activities strengthen community bonds and celebrate creativity at every level.

Support the BSO

As a registered charity, the BSO relies on the generosity of supporters to continue its vital work. Donations help bring extraordinary performances to concert halls and ensure that music reaches classrooms, care settings and isolated communities.
By becoming a member, patron or corporate partner, you help the BSO share the joy of music with hundreds of thousands of people each year. Your support keeps ambitious projects thriving and helps secure a bright future for live music in the South.
Explore how you can get involved and become part of the BSO family today.