We are delighted that our American Friends organisation has been granted public charity status by the Internal Revenue Service in the United States. Funds raised through the rejuvenated American Friends will provide essential support for the Orchestra’s US tours, educational activity at home and abroad and for some of the young American artists who regularly appear with the RPO.
The Orchestra is keen to attract a new generation of Patrons who will enjoy being associated with one of the world’s great cultural institutions and who recognise the importance of developing cross-cultural relationships between the USA and Great Britain. A Board of Trustees is now being formed and the Orchestra is immensely grateful to Mr Barry Bloom in the US for his tireless support and enthusiasm.
The Orchestra’s relationship with the United States of American commenced in 1950 when it made its inaugural US tour under the baton of Sir Thomas Beecham, performing 52 concerts in 42 cities over 64 days. Since then, the RPO has enjoyed a warm relationship with American audiences, building an enthusiastic following during its regular coast-to-coast tours. The RPO’s next US tour is scheduled for January 2018 and full details will soon be available on our website.
For further information on membership of the American Friends of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra (AFRPO), contact Huw Davies on +44 (0)20 7608 8825 or email