Porsche partnership brings orchestra to Preston

The Lancashire city of Preston has launched its own orchestra, with its inaugural concert set to take place in June. The new ensemble has been formed following a successful crowdfunding campaign and the formation of a ‘strategic corporate partnership’ with local car manufacturer Porsche Centre Preston.

With the aim of overturning Preston’s position as the only major UK city without an orchestra and rekindling a new love for classical music in the city, the Preston Symphony Orchestra will present its first concert at Ashton Methodist Church on 9 June.

Alexander Roe MBE, Preston Symphony Orchestra marketing and publicity manager, said: ‘It’s incredible that fifty years have passed without a Preston-based orchestra. That means that two generations have never known an orchestra based in the city! That’s why we're so thrilled to bring this community celebration of classical music back after such a long hiatus. The launch of the Preston Symphony Orchestra is a dream realised for many of us. It's not just about the music; it's about reviving Preston's cultural heartbeat and inspiring future generations.’

The new Preston Symphony Orchestra is the city’s first in since its last orchestral ensemble disbanded in the 1960s. It has already recruited over 40 classical musicians and rehearsals have begun every week in Longton. The orchestra’s newly-forged collaboration with Porsche Centre Preston aims to illustrate a ‘model of mutual support between the arts and the business sector’.

Amy Lancaster-Hall, the Centre’s marketing manager, said: ‘When we heard that Preston was the only UK city without an orchestra, we couldn't believe it. We knew we had to do something to help. Supporting the arts is important to us. The orchestra represents innovation, excellence, and passion – values we share at Porsche. We are proud to participate in this historic new cultural chapter for Preston.’