Brixton Chamber Orchestra embarks on its sixth annual Christmas Estates Tour

This holiday season, an orchestra will be bringing 13 free concerts to 13 housing estates across one South London borough.

Brixton Chamber Orchestra (BCO) is set to embark on its sixth annual Christmas Estates Tour across Lambeth from today until December 21.

The 25-piece young and diverse orchestra with emerging singers and rappers from the area to perform an hour-long set spanning musical genres.

The set list, ranging from classical to grime, disco, pop, jazz and classic Christmas tunes, promises to captivate residents of all ages.

BCO encourages audience participation, with an orchestral open-mic at the end of each show where anyone can take the stage and perform alongside the orchestra.

As part of the initiative, BCO has conducted workshops at schools, including Christ Church Streatham Primary School, in Cotherstone Road, Brixton Hill, and Evelyn Grace Academy in Shakespeare Road, Brixton.

The budding musicians from these schools will share the stage with BCO in special performances at their respective schools today and December 15.

Matthew O’Keeffe, artistic director of BCO said: “The Christmas Tour is my very favourite project of all that we do.

“It’s a privilege to be part of so many special community events, and bring some seasonal magic to community halls all around Lambeth.

“People love to sing along with a carol, and dance around to whatever else we’re rocking.

Last year, we played Dukas’ Sorcerer’s Apprentice, which really set the room off.

“This year we’re leading with the Overture to Strauss’ Fledermaus, and with any luck they’ll be waltzing into 2024.”

Picture: Opera Gala 2023 Picture: Lewis Patrick