News and Press

The RPO’s double bass players perform a beautiful rendition of Somewhere Over the Rainbow ? in the latest video in the #RPOatHome series.

Eaten one too many chocolate eggs this Easter? Give your lockdown exercise an orchestral kick and try the RPO Philharmonic Workout with Nicholas Allen, son of Co-Principal Trumpet Mike Allen.

Feel the burn with a twenty-minute fitness routine you can do from the comfort of your own home, set to heart-pumping music recorded by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.

The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra was deeply saddened to learn this week of the death of Ian Balmain, former principal trumpet of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra from 1997 – 2003.

Prior to joining the RPO, Ian held the principal trumpet position with the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and later went on to assume the principal trumpet position with London’s Royal Opera House.  Recognised as one of the greatest trumpet players of his generation, it was Ian’s warm and unassuming personality combined with his outstanding musicianship that the RPO will remember him by.

Below are personal tributes by four of Ian’s colleagues during his time at the RPO. Our thoughts and condolences at this difficult time are with Ian’s two children Matthew and Lucy and his wider family.