The sounds of summer  

When it comes to summer, there’s nothing like the sound of music to lift your spirits. And with plenty of festivals and events to choose from, your group will be spoilt for choice. Here are just a few to keep you entertained.  

A classic affair  

London Symphony Orchestra is offering fantastic group rates this summer on a number of up-coming events. Groups can expect a 20% discount on all ticket prices, plus free coffee vouchers, and souvenir programmes. The huge selection of concerts they offer means there is something to suit all tastes; from old favourites to popular film music. Kicking off on 27 September, your group can listen to works by one of the greatest composers of all time in the Pure Beethoven series, with the world-renowned young pianist Evgeny Kissin. London Symphony Orchestra also holds free group familiarisation events, which include free entry to a concert, and the chance to meet the musicians. For more information or to make a booking contact their groups line on the details below.  

020 7382 7211  

Fun and fireworks  

Leeds Castle is another popular attraction for group visitors, thanks to the summer festivals in their stunning grounds. Set on two islands on the River Len in the heart of Kent, the castle offers two great music events. First up on 5 July, is the Bootleg Blues Brothers concert. Recreating the energy and excitement of Dan Ackroyd and John Belushi, the Bootlegs will perform a cavalcade of hits, routines and fun. Then a couple of days later on 7 July, your group can enjoy the Open Air Classical concert, where they will be celebrating American classics from the Wild West to Broadway with a sprinkling of Hollywood magic; including a short Charlie Chaplin film to a live soundtrack. The finale will feature a grand fireworks display. To find out more about events at Leeds Castle contact them on the details below.  

01622 880 008  

Cause for celebration  

Mostly Mozart celebrates its 6th annual festival with a weekend of concerts, dance, opera, free foyer events, pre-concert talks, improvisation workshops, and even fireworks, at the Barbican during July and August. The festival has become a well-loved feature of the classical music calendar, as it provides a chance for audiences to celebrate the summer in the heart of the City. This year’s programme focuses on the great violin concertos, with violinists such as Nicola Benedetti performing Mendelssohn on 14 July, Viviane Hagner playing Bruch on 21 July, Chloë Hanslip with the Beethoven concerto on 28 July, and Jennifer Pike with Mozart’s Concerto No 3 on 3 August. And there’s also a chance for audiences to win a trip to Vienna, by voting for their all time favourite Mozart work. To join in the fun, give Mostly Mozart a call or visit their website for more details.  

0845 120 7550  

Magnificent Maria  

If musicals are more to your group’s taste, you’ll be pleased to hear the world’s best-loved musical, The Sound of Music, continues to dazzle audiences in London’s West End. Andrew Lloyd Webber’s production is based on the uplifting true story of the Von Trapp family, which tells the story of a young nun, Maria, who’s sent to work as a governess for the children of the widower Captain Von Trapp. The children and Captain soon fall head over heels for her. Connie Fisher – from BBC talent show How Do You Solve A Problem Like Maria? – still shines bright in her lead role of Maria, and performs classic songs such as, My Favourite Things, Do-Re-Mi, Edelweiss, and Climb Every Mountain. Special rates are available for groups of ten or more. Find out more by calling the number below.  

020 7087 7940  

Hall of fame  

The Royal Albert Hall is offering a rare opportunity to see behind the scenes in a one-off backstage tour on Monday 18 June. Groups can listen to the fascinating story of the history of the building and view the auditorium before heading backstage to witness the unseen workings of the Hall. They can even take a peek in the dressing rooms where stars such as The Beatles, Frank Sinatra and Pavarotti have prepared to perform. The tour will operate on a rest day during the run of the spectacular production of Swan Lake. Tours will take one hour and cost £12.50 per person.  

020 7589 8212