BBC Philharmonic

Bio

The BBC Philharmonic is a British symphony orchestra based in Manchester, England. Founded in 1922 as the 2ZY Orchestra, it became the BBC Northern Orchestra in 1934 and adopted its current name in 1982. The ensemble performs a wide repertoire ranging from the classical canon to contemporary works and has collaborated with many leading conductors and soloists. As the resident orchestra of Manchester’s Bridgewater Hall, the BBC Philharmonic also records extensively for BBC Radio 3 and releases commercial recordings on labels such as Chandos. Its activities include regular studio sessions at MediaCityUK in Salford, national tours, and international engagements, maintaining its role as one of the United Kingdom’s principal broadcast orchestras.