London Philharmonic Orchestra to perform at Shard inauguration

The UK’s latest skyscraper, The Shard, is to be inaugurated in a special ceremony in central London tomorrow, Thursday July 5.
To mark the occasion, the world-famous London Philharmonic Orchestra will perform for the guests and VIPs at the opening of the 95-storey building, purported to be Europe’s tallest, which is situated on London’s South Bank.
The orchestra will accompany a spectacular light and laser show, performing Copland’s Fanfare for the Common Man and the Finale from Stravinsky’s Firebird Suite.
Timothy Walker, orchestra chief executive and artistic director, revealed his pride at having been asked to perform at the landmark event, telling Gramophone Magazine: “London is the world’s capital for the arts and The Shard has instantly become an iconic image of London’s creativity.”
He added that the London Philharmonic Orchestra, which has been a key part of London’s cultural identity for 80 years, is “delighted to welcome its new neighbour by being part of The Shard’s opening celebrations”.
Those in attendance at the show, which is set for tomorrow (July 5), will be treated to a spectacular lights show, featuring 12 lasers and 30 searchlights.
Organisers of the eagerly-awaited event will see the London skyline light up around 10:15 BST, when the laser show will help to illuminate various landmarks across the capital.
People living outside of London can follow events via the official Shard website, the-shard.com, and at facebook.com/theshardlondon.
The opening of The Shard isn’t the only big event for the Philharmonic Orchestra in July.
On July 29, the orchestra will perform alongside the Beijing Symphony Orchestra at a special gala concert for the 2012 Olympics.
The concert is set to conclude with a performance of Choral, Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9, which is widely recognised as one of his best pieces of work.
What is your favourite fanfare or music for special occasions?