Free classical music in London
Forget shelling out for pricey festivals and arena tours, some of the capital's best concerts don't cost a penny
© Chris Christodoulou
London's many classical music venues regularly offer free concerts or performances where a small donation is required. Discover free classical concerts, opera and more with our regularly updated guide.
Free classical events in London this week
Organ Recital
- Free
As part of a series celebrating the fiftieth anniversary of the opening of the church's Walker organ, a recital by New Zealand organist Douglas Mews. Music by Bach, Sweelinck, Douglas Mews, Herman Strategier, Jean-Adam Guilain and Franz Liszt.
- St John the Evangelist Church Duncan Terrace, N1 8AL
- Sat May 25
A Singing Sky
- Free
Jessica Summers (soprano) and pianist Jelena Makarova. John Woolrich: 'A Singing Sky' (2009) Raymond Yiu: 'The Earth and Every Common Sight' (2010) Richard Causton: 'Poems Almost of this World' (2005) Plus, three songs by Elizabeth Maconchy in memory of WB Yeats, and four pieces from Kurtag's 'Játekok'.
- St Martin-in-the-Fields Trafalgar Square, WC2N 4JH
- Tue May 28
LSO in Trafalgar Square
- Free
After the success of last year's inaugural London Symphony Orchestra concert in Trafalgar Square, this year's offering, conducted once again by the orchestra's Valery Gergiev, is a programme of Berlioz pieces. Berlioz: Overture: 'Le Corsaire', and Movements from 'Symphonie Fantastique' (a specially arranged version by Gareth Glyn and 80 young musicians from the orchestra’s award-winning music education and community programme.) (BMW LSO Open Air Classics: last year an estimated 10,000 people enjoyed the free concert, so arrive early to get a good spot. No glass or furniture is allowed in the square.)
- Trafalgar Square
- Mon May 27
LSO Open Air Classics 2013
- Free
Following last year's inaugural open-air, free LSO concert in the square, the London Symphony Orchestra returns to give a Berlioz programme conducted by its principal conductor, Valery Gergiev. Berlioz’s Overture Le corsaire, Symphonie fantastique will form the basis of the concert, but additionally, in a performance of a specially arranged version of Symphonie fantastique by Gareth Glyn, 80 young musicians, including conservatoire students and LSO On Track young musicians from LSO Discovery, the Orchestra’s award-winning music education and community programme, will play alongside the LSO players. Large screens will be mounted on either side of the stage to allow the audience to witness the concert up close.
- Trafalgar Square
- Mon May 27
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