The London Philharmonic Orchestra has announced a new development with Sky Arts as they launch a four-part documentary series, 'Backstage with the London Philharmonic Orchestra,’.

The series, scheduled to air on March 13, offers a glimpse behind the curtain into the inner workings of one of the world's most celebrated orchestras. Cameras will follow Principal Conductor Edward Gardner and thirteen LPO players through the meticulous preparations leading up to the opening of the 2023/24 season, featuring Mahler’s monumental Symphony No. 2 (Resurrection).

In each episode, viewers will be immersed in the world of the orchestra, delving into the unique routines and preparations of the Philharmonic’s percussion, woodwind, string, and brass sections. From personal anecdotes of the players’ musical journeys to the conductor’s opinion of Mahler's score, the series promises to showcase the dedication and passion it takes to become a professional orchestral player. The fourth and final episode will conclude with a live performance of Mahler’s ‘Resurrection’ Symphony, filmed during a sold-out concert at London’s Royal Festival Hall on September 23, 2023.

This grand finale will allow viewers to experience the culmination of hard work and individual passion required to pull off a world-class performance.

The London Philharmonic Orchestra was founded in 1932 by conductor and impresario Sir Thomas Beecham. The orchestra resides at the Southbank’s Royal Festival Hall and regularly tours around the UK and overseas, including its annual residency at Glyndebourne Festival Opera.

Edward Gardner, Principal Conductor of the London Philharmonic Orchestra, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, saying, 'We thoroughly enjoyed filming this documentary series, knowing that we were showcasing both our wonderful orchestra and Mahler’s incredible score. Sky Arts viewers will be able to witness LPO phenomenal family of musicians and staff through the process to performance, with hard work and absolute passion for the music.'

The series is scheduled to air weekly on Sky Arts from March 13 and will be available on demand on Sky and Now TV.