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About us

Find out more about the American Friends of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra on our journey to make orchestral music accessible to all.

John Rutter conducting the RPO at the Dr Phillips Centre Orlando

Our mission

The AFRPO is a unique institution – a gesture of transatlantic friendship in support of one of Europe’s finest orchestras, and a vital source of support, both financial and physical, for the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra’s frequent visits to the USA. 

Who we are

The AFRPO, established in 1983, supports the RPO’s biennial US tours and intermediary visits from the Orchestra’s chamber music groups. It has helped facilitate wondrous evenings of music-making at great concerts halls across the nation while also supporting the pioneering outreach work done by RPO Resound, a leader in the field of music outreach and education for more than 30 years - itself made possible from The Lilia Bloom Music Outreach Program.

The AFRPO is a registered 501 (c)(3) public charity, therefore all contributions, exclusive of ticket sales and special events, are fully tax deductible in the U.S.

Members of the AFRPO board at the British Consulate, New York

Residencies

Inspiring, connecting and enriching lives

The RPO's residencies across the USA form the basis for AFRPO-supported outreach programs.

Members of the RPO woodwind section warming up before a concert at the Wisconsin Hamel Music Center

Outreach programs

Our work beyond the stage

The RPO's role as an Orchestra extends far beyond the confinements of a stage; our objective is to create a significant impact, stepping off the concert platform and into communities, fostering meaningful relationships with audiences from around the world.

RPO musicians conducting a STROKESTRA workshop at UCLH