Although Bournemouth’s Meyrick Park concerts have been a longstanding feature of our summers here on the South Coast, this year the Orchestra ventured further to launch a series of open-air concerts in Portsmouth’s stunning Guildhall Square, in partnership with The Guildhall Trust.

The concerts were greeted with enthusiasm from music lovers in the city who described the music and atmosphere as “great”, “brilliant” and “magical”. Another attendee said that it was a “brilliant evening” and that they “loved every minute!”.

Friday night’s concert in Portsmouth celebrated the film music of John Williams before a performance showcasing the music of iconic super group, ABBA, on Saturday.

Staff from Portsmouth Guildhall said that the concerts meant the Guildhall Square “came to life over the weekend”.

And, just a week later, the Orchestra travelled back to Bournemouth for its much-loved closing concerts of the summer in Meyrick Park, Bournemouth.

Featuring some of the best classical and film music of all time — as well as a much-anticipated symphonic 80s night! — local music fans were thrilled to let their hair down in the glorious surroundings of Meyrick Park.

“Excellent choice of music played in a wonderful atmosphere – just brilliant.”

One happy audience member described the 80s night as the “best yet”, while another said they “love it and come every year!”. The “fun, relaxing and friendly” atmosphere was noted as well as the “great song selection”.

Another described it as “first class live entertainment”, with others concluding “Proms in the Park with the BSO is an absolute joy!”.

We’ll be back in full force next summer with more spectacular outdoor concerts – including two concerts in Meyrick Park, Bournemouth – already in the diary! Join us for Now That’s What I Call Symphonic Music [7 Aug] and Symphonic Smash Hits – the 90s! [8 Aug].  

And don’t forget to check out our What’s On page for everything that’s coming up in our fabulous autumn season, and beyond. We can’t wait to see you soon!