Relaxed concerts by the London Symphony Orchestra are particularly suitable for individuals or groups who feel more comfortable attending concerts in a relaxed environment.

Everyone is welcome, including people who have sensory and communication impairments, or who are neurodiverse. Suitable for over-5s.

These informal concerts take place on selected Fridays from 12.30 pm to 1.15 pm at LSO St Luke’s on Old Street, a refurbished church used by the LSO for performances, workshops and rehearsals.

View of the stage at LSO St Luke’s from the ground-level stalls

Dates for your diary

LSO musicians perform chamber music (classical music in a small ensemble). Coming up this season, we have performances on:

• Friday 23 February 12.30pm
• Friday 7 June 12.30pm

LSO St Luke’s opens at 11.30am, when The Crypt café opens. Doors to the concert open at 12pm.

Ways to engage with the music

Whether you’re new to classical music, or just want to learn more about the musicians and the pieces, there are lots of ways to engage with the music.

The concerts are presented by Rachel Leach, our resident musical animateur, and there is a chance to ask questions at the end.

We also provide free online and print programmes for every concert.

Accessible digital programme notes are published (in Word and PDF format) on the LSO website to download in advance or on the day.

Rachel Leach presenting at a relaxed Friday lunchtime concert with a BSL interpreter

Informal atmosphere

As the title suggests, our relaxed Friday lunchtime concerts have a much more informal atmosphere than some of our other concerts.

You can expect a relaxed attitude to noise in the audience and the doors will remain open throughout the performance, so you can leave and re-enter at any point. We also have a separate chill-out space that remains open throughout the performance.

Accessibility

You can expect an adapted BSL interpretation, which will include more visual and gestural elements, and friendly staff on hand throughout the concert.

LSO St Luke’s is a fully accessible venue, with a RevoLOOtion toilet on site.

For more information on LSO St Luke’s accessibility, visit: At LSO St Luke’s | London Symphony Orchestra

No booking needed

Advanced booking is not required and concerts are seated on a first-come, first-served basis.

We recommend arriving in good time before the concert starts at 12.30 pm.

Please note that accessible seating is limited. For more information or to discuss access needs before you book, please email sophia.lyons@lso.co.uk.

Watch from home

If you prefer to watch from the comfort of your own surroundings, most of our relaxed concerts are streamed live for free on our YouTube channel, and are also available to watch on-demand afterwards.

You can ask questions during the Q&A using the Live Chat feature. There is BSL interpretation and live captions.