Southampton Music Hub, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, and the UEFA Women’s EURO 2022 Culture Programme

Southampton Music Hub was delighted to partner with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra on the UEFA Women’s EURO 2022 Culture Programme. 

In partnership with the  Football Association, the Women’s EURO 2022 Culture Programme, will engage fans in a range of musical opportunities and public events celebrating the history, ethos and future of women’s football.  Southampton is one of ten local authorities across England that will host a vibrant arts programme as part of the UEFA Women’s EURO 2022 in England this summer – part of an exciting national cultural programme supported by £800,000 funding from Arts Council England, thanks to National Lottery players.

Eight workshops were held across Southampton with a local composer and RPO musicians to create a bespoke Southampton anthem celebrating our local area and women’s football heritage. Workshops took place with a wide range of residents, from a library rhyme time to intergenerational choirs and several schools pupils and their parents. Using musical activities and games, workshops drew out ideas, lyrics and musical themes that will culminate in a new song performed by and for local audiences in match day Fan Zones accompanied by RPO musicians.  In total over 500 people contributed their ideas and inspiration. Like the Women’s EURO 2022 Tournament Anthem, resources and recordings will be made available free source to all fans wishing to learn, perform or use these celebratory songs. 

Workshop participant Glenda said, ' We were thrilled that we were joined by a past member of Southampton's 1972 cup final winning team. The footballers won the respect of the whole room and the professional musicians’ skills inspired us all. You never know what surprises can come about from a collaboration between music and sport.’.

Lisa Rodio, Director of Community and Education with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra says:

“The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra are delighted to be working with Southampton Council and Southampton Music Hub on this exciting project, engaging so many Southampton residents with music and football. The new anthem for Southampton will be a celebration of the area made with and for local people, and we can’t wait for everyone to hear, learn and join us in performing it this summer when the UEFA Women’s EURO comes to town.”

More to come on this exciting project!