Our Story
Street Orchestra Live (SOL) was founded in 2016 with the belief that access to live music is a vital and enriching part of life and everyone has an equal right to its benefits.
Everyone in SOL believes passionately that music, especially so-called classical music, should not be exclusive but available to anyone that would like to listen. We offer our concerts with an open hand for listeners to take from it what they wish or what they need. Some dance. Some sing along. Some take inspiration. Many people tell us how uplifted they feel watching and listening to us.
During our tours we visit public spaces such as shopping centres, parks and hospitals, and closed settings like nursing homes, prisons and schools.
Our players come from across the UK, and many are at music college or study music at university. All aspire to be excellent musicians rooted in their communities.
Our Vision
To live in a world where orchestral music and music making uplifts and reconnects people in all parts of society.
Mission Statement
We take orchestral music out of the concert hall into a range of community settings. With an ensemble of aspiring professional musicians, our free concerts connect with new and under-served audiences to promote well-being, enliven our shared spaces, and support local communities and causes.
Our Values
Joy: creating and sharing joy in music.
Community: connecting with under-served and diverse communities.
Revitalisation: renewing the experience of orchestral music with vivacious audience-centred performances.
Well-being: nurturing personal growth and a health-conscious approach to performance.