Why the PLG exists

The offer of the free use of Park Lane House in 1956 led to the founding of the PLG. And more: to the creation of a prominent platform for outstanding young musicians and performances of special interest.

Today, over half a century later, though still without capital funding: the hundreds of highly-praised PLG events provide the impetus for expanding the PLG’s future seasons.

PLG performances have helped to establish the careers of generations of vastly talented young artists. Many of the PLG’s carefully selected performers are among the famous names on the international concert and opera circuit. More hold principal chairs in many leading orchestras and ensembles in the UK and on the Continent.

The PLG’s annual Spring auditions are in the Southbank Centre’s Purcell Room. The PLG concert series are presented in the Purcell Room, Wigmore Hall, St John’s Smith Square, Sam Wanamaker Playhouse (Shakespeare’s Globe) and other prestigious venues, plus sets of events across the UK. Programming often includes works by living and young composers. National Press reviews contribute an important and constructive role.

Audiences play a vital part in the success of PLG performances with opportunities to meet the participants and the organisers.

Policy

This policy of creative opportunity has been continued for 59 seasons resulting in an excellent Track Record. Well over 1,900 young artists have been presented over the years and an important proportion have achieved international and national careers. In addition, adventurous and imaginative programming, has established the PLG as a leading platform for young performers of outstanding talent.

Current PLG policy is centred on 12 sets of activities:

PLG Young Artists New Year Series

Concerts, masterclasses, discussions - a vibrant PLG cornerstone in the Southbank Centre’s Purcell Room. High qualily performances of imaginative and stimulating music. including: new works, living composers, modern classics and other works.

PLG Young Artists in Wigmore Hall, The Monday Platform

Exposure in one of the world’s great concert halls.

PLG Lunchtime Concerts

Monthly opportunities throughout the season for Young Artists linked with other PLG events.

PLG Legendary Masterclasses

Inspiration from great artists.

PLG Anniversary Series

A focus on artists, composers and occasions, plus more presentation of Young Artists.

PLG Regional Days

The Boulez Day in collaboration with the Birmingham Conservatoire a shining example.

Festivals featuring PLG Young Artists

A countrywide platform. High profile events and more opportunity for PLG Young Artists.

Open Door Policy with PLG Young Artists

Creating direct youngster-to-youngster contact. Performances for Music in Hospitals.

Developing plans for Young Artists’ International Exchanges

The PLG Young Artists’ high reputation is the starting point.

PLG Friends

Supporting the work of the PLG.

PLG Friends’ events

Opportunities for PLG Friends to work together.

Fund-raising Events: Part of the vital search for funding

All PLG activity has to be paid for: only part of requirement come from donations.