English Chamber Orchestra Hosts Royal Gala 2026
News related to:English Chamber Orchestra · 2 min read
LONDON, GREATER LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM, October 18, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- The English Chamber Orchestra (ECO) hosted its Royal Gala 2026 at Banqueting House, Whitehall, on Saturday, 17 October, bringing together an international community of business leaders, diplomats, philanthropists, royalty, and cultural figures. The event, with HRH Princess Katarina as Guest of Honour, aimed to champion music education, emerging talent, and the Orchestra’s legacy.
The gala featured live orchestral performances, a candlelit dinner, awards, and a silent auction. The evening’s programme, directed by violinist John Mills, included works by Vivaldi, Handel, Grieg, Mozart, Vaughan Williams, and Holst, showcasing the ECO’s diverse repertoire and recording history. The event concluded with after-dinner cocktails and conversation in the Undercroft.
James Rutherford, the Chief Executive of the English Chamber Orchestra, emphasized the Orchestra’s commitment to building support for its artistic future, community and education work, and opportunities for emerging musicians.
The ECO, whose Patron is His Majesty King Charles III, has a distinguished history of over six decades. The gala connected the Orchestra’s heritage with an international network of supporters and partners, encouraging long-term relationships that can sustain its work on stage and in communities.
Between 2024 and 2026, the ECO’s award-winning Close Encounters community and education programme delivered 65 UK school-based projects, engaged more than 5,000 young participants, and presented over 20 bespoke concert performances for young people. The programme aims to bring music to life for children and young people, creating memorable, hands-on experiences that spark curiosity, build confidence, and inspire creativity.
New Horizons, scheduled to launch formally in autumn 2027, will offer emerging musicians and composers a two-year pathway from education into professional life through mentoring, workshops, rehearsals, performances, commissions, and career development.
The gala was supported by several partners, including TrinityBridge as the Principal Gold Partner, Orient Express as the Gold Partner, ATARATMA London as the Silver Partner, and Eton Holdings as the Bronze Partner. The Orchestra also congratulated Ekin-Su, HSH Dr Donatus, Prince of Hohenzollern ISM, Ishani Bhoola, Nadiya Bychkova, and James Farrell for their philanthropic support.
Elvijs Plugis, Event Director and International Advisory Board member of the English Chamber Orchestra, led the gala’s organisation, partnership development, and delivery through Sigulp, working with the ECO team and event collaborators. The Orchestra’s wider annual fundraising goal is £1 million across community and education, emerging talent, international touring, and artistic and organisational development.
To support the Orchestra and its charitable mission, visit English Chamber Orchestra.