Written by Amanda David
This free summer concert highlights the continued partnership between BMW Group and the London Symphony Orchestra; hear London’s oldest symphony orchestra in a free open-air concert in Trafalgar Square for the BMW Classics.
The 2025 BMW Classics concert programme opens with the uplifting overture to Rossini’s final Italian opera Semiramide, followed by Puccini’s dramatic early orchestral work Capriccio sinfonico.
The central section is the world premiere of a specially commissioned piece by Isabella Gellis: Opera for Orchestra. This work has been specially written for a mixed-ability orchestra and will be performed by LSO musicians alongside 55 young musicians from east London as part of the LSO Discovery programmes. For the final work, the Orchestra performs the rousing Grand March from Verdi’s opera Aida, and the final flourish of Victor de Sabata’s symphonic hymn to youth, Juventus.
Gates open at 3:45pm for a 5pm start and, as with all free events, we recommend getting there early. There will be toilets available (20p to visit, but you can use contactless payment), stalls selling food and drink, and cushions to hire, although you can also bring your own picnic and blanket (no glass please). Not to dampen anyone’s spirits but there is always a chance of rain, so bring something waterproof – though not umbrellas, they ruin concert viewing!
Organisers may cancel events, alter schedules, or change admission requirements without notice. Always check official sites before heading to an event.- 92 m from Charing Cross Bakerloo LineNorthern Line
- 355 m from Leicester Square Piccadilly LineNorthern Line
- 397 m from Embankment District LineCircle LineBakerloo LineNorthern Line
