King named as Royal Liverpool Philharmonic patron

King Charles III has been a lifelong supporter of the arts and classical music

King Charles III has accepted the patronage of the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Society, Orchestra, and Choir, the charity has announced.

It follows a review of Royal patronages conducted by the Royal Household, following His Majesty The King’s Accession.

Queen Elizabeth II had supported the charity for over six decades after becoming patron in 1958.

Royal Liverpool Philharmonic chief executive, Michael Eakin OBE, said the charity felt "very privileged" and was looking to welcoming the King and Queen to Liverpool in the future.

'Immensely grateful'

The Liverpool Philharmonic was the first orchestra outside of London to be granted the honour of using the word 'Royal' in its title and was given Royal patronage in 1990 to celebrate the Society's 150th anniversary.

Mr Eakin said: "As the UK’s oldest orchestra, and one of the largest cultural organisations in Liverpool, we strive to enhance and transform lives through music.

"We are immensely grateful to His Majesty for recognising the work we do through our Orchestra, Choir, and extensive learning and community engagement programmes.

"We offer our warmest congratulations to Their Majesties on the anniversary of the coronation and look forward to welcoming them to Liverpool in the future.”

The late Queen visited Liverpool Philharmonic Hall on several occasions, including the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic's 150th anniversary concert in 1991 and during her visit to the city during its European Capital of Culture celebrations in 2008.

Mr Eakin was appointed an OBE for his services to music and the community in the King's New Year Honours List 2024.