The London Philharmonic Orchestra will be at the centre of celebrations marking the official inauguration of Europe’s tallest building, The Shard, this Thursday July 5. Under the baton of David Angus, the orchestra will accompany a light and laser show from the 95-storey building on London’s South Bank, performing Copland’s Fanfare for the Common Man and the Finale from Stravinsky’s Firebird Suite.

‘London is the world’s capital for the arts and The Shard has instantly become an iconic image of London’s creativity,' said LPO chief executive and artistic director, Timothy Walker. ‘The London Philharmonic Orchestra, central to London’s cultural life for 80 years, is delighted to welcome its new neighbour by being part of The Shard’s opening celebrations.’

The light show will incorporate a combination of 12 lasers and 30 searchlights that will set London’s night sky ablaze at approximately 10.15pm, illuminating recognisable landmarks across the capital. The display will be streamed live on The Shard’s website, the-shard.com, and Facebook page, facebook.com/TheShardLondon.

Sinead McKenna