Become a member
We are currently in particular need of upper string players and brass. However, feel free to contact us and we can add you to our waiting list even if there isn't a current vacancy.
There are no auditions or trial periods and there is no minimum ability level required for entry, though orchestral experience is desirable.
The orchestra also will call on specialist instrument players (eg bass clarinet, harp, rare percussion etc) when necessary for a specific concert. If you play a specialist instruments, please contact us to be considered for our guest player list.
To enquire about becoming a member of the orchestra please email us at enquiries@portsmouthphilharmonic.org - or use the contact form located under "Contact Us"
The Portsmouth Philharmonic in rehearsal
Subscriptions
A subscription fee of £35 is payable at the start of each term, with a concessional rate for students of £15 per term. We like to welcome everybody regardless of financial situation. If you are unable to afford the subscription fees please don't hesitate to come along anyway.
New members are invited to come along for up to three rehearsals free of charge. The subscription fee for the relevant term will then be calculated on a pro rata basis.
The orchestra is run on a non-profit basis and all subscription fees go toward the costs of running the orchestra, such as rehearsal room hire, music hire and conductor's fees.
Rehearsals
We rehearse regularly during term time on Sunday evenings from 7pm - 9pm.
Below is a summary of the term dates for 2026-27
Summer Term 2026
Sunday April 12 - Sunday July 5
(no rehearsal Sunday May 24 - half term)
Concert: Saturday 27 June 7pm
Autumn Term 2026
Sunday September 13 - Sunday December 6
(no rehearsal Sunday October 25 - half term)
Concert: Sunday 29 November 3pm
Spring Term 2027
Sunday January 10 - Sunday March 21
(no rehearsal Sunday February 14 - half term)
Concert: Sunday 21 March 3pm
The orchestra rehearses at:
Church of the Resurrection Hall
2 Brecon Avenue
Drayton
Farlington
PO6 2AP
There is on street parking space available. See map for directions.