Hello and welcome

Forest Philharmonic is one of London’s leading amateur orchestras, with players drawn from London and the South East. Based in East London for over 50 years, the orchestra has gained an impressive reputation for the high quality and vitality of its performances.

Our full programme for 2025-26 has now been announced. Details can be found on the Concerts page.
The brochure is also available to download FPO season flyer 25_26. 

News

North & East London Young Musician of the Year 2026

The Final of the North & East London Young Musician of the Year 2026 took place on Sunday 1st February at St Gabriel’s Church in Wanstead. 

The four talented soloists, who all competed in the North London Music Festival, were Doraly Gill (cello) Heather Brooks (Harp) Clover Kayne (Soprano) and Alex Lavine (Cello). After careful deliberation by the judges and an audience vote the unanimous decision was to award the prize to Heather Brooks who captivated the audience with her performance of two movements from the Ginastera Harp Concerto. (Picture: Jeremy Cook)

Heather receives a £500 prize, generously donated by the event sponsor Ingles & Heyday, and will be performing a harp concerto in full at a future Forest Phil concert. The orchestra is also very grateful to Mrs E James for their generous donation Well done to all the finalists! Dates for the Third competition will be announced later in the year. 

Tickets

For all ticket enquiries for concerts this season please email tickets@forestphilharmonic.org.uk
If you would like to join our mailing list, please contact us at orchestra@forestphilharmonic.org.uk

String Players Wanted!

We are looking to recruit string players of at least Grade 8 standard, particularly violins and double basses. In you’re interested in joining, we’d love to hear from you. Please email orchestra@forestphilharmonic.org.uk