Keeping It Classy-cal

Discover the who’s, where’s & when’s of Manchester’s classical landscape.

By Beth Shackleton

So, you’ve heard about the music scene in Manchester and how to get your own sound out there. But what if you’re not into rock or indie bands? Maybe you grew up listening to Phantom Of The Opera on full blast whilst your mum cleaned the house? Maybe your grandma only exclusively listened to Russell Watson. Or, even simpler, maybe you play a musical instrument and dream of playing in an orchestra one day. (We can relate!)

Well, don’t worry because we’ve got you covered. Here’s everything you need to know about classical music in

Manchester

Conductors

Sir Mark Elder for the Hallé - has been the director since 2000 and has appeared in many TV series. He was knighted in 2008.

John Storgårds for BBC

Philharmonic - won an Emma Award in 2023 for classical music album of the year.

Gábor Takács-Nagy for Manchester

Camerata - received the coveted Artist of Merit award in 2021. Working with The University of Manchester on Music In Mind Remote, an app which seeks to use music to help dementia patients.

Venues

Bridgewater Hall - Opened in 1996 and seats almost 2,400 people. It is Manchester’s international concert venue, designed specifically with acoustics in mind. Home of The Hallé orchestra, the halls prominent feature is the huge Marcussen organ at the head of the venue.

Stoller Hall - Built in 2017, and specially engineered to have a totally immersive experience. All about connecting with the musicthere is no dress code, no shushing from ushers and no judgement for not being a classical music buff.

Manchester Cathedral - The 600-yearold venue boasts brilliant acoustics and stunning stained-glass windows.

Orchestras

The Hallé - founded in 1858 with a strong belief that music should be for everyone, Hallé is a world-renowned symphony orchestra as well as a pillar of the community.

BBC Philharmonic - performs an annual season of concerts at Bridgewater Hall, as well as regular concerts up and down the country. Also perform on BBC Three.

Manchester Camerata - a registered charity performing since 1972. From opening at Glastonbury to playing in care homes, they believe that music connects people together.

Opera

A key feature of classical music is the song-based storytelling known as opera. Salford born tenor, Russell Watson, has shot to global stardom with his operatic singing style, proving talent is made right here. If you’re a fan of opera, you can catch performances live at Manchester’s theatres and music venues and even on-screen at some cinemas.

Budding Artists

For those of you interested in starting your own musical journey, here are some hotspots in and around Manchester to get you on your way.

Forsyth’s - a shop for purchasing musical instruments. They host an annual ‘Learn To Play Day’ offering free lessons with expert guidance.

RNCM - if you’re hoping to study music, the Royal Northern College of Music is the place to be.

Founded in 1973, it’s home to over 900 students from 60+ countries and is dedicated to providing a musical education for students that propels them into a career.

Music Classes - maybe your educational path has led you elsewhere, but you still feel inspired to learn an instrument. No worries! There are places around Manchester where you can take classes:

Maunders School of Popular Music closes at 9pm for flexibility and All Music Academy Didsbury specialise in group lessons and cater to all levels.

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