Become a Friend or Patron

We invite you to support The English Concert with a monthly or annual contribution.

The English Concert in performance

Philanthropy has always played an important part in our success. Over five decades, supporters have demonstrated their enduring love of baroque music and commitment to the future of TEC by becoming Friends, Patrons and Benefactors.  In recognition of this vital contribution we offer a number of ways for individuals to get involved.

‘Your encouragement reminds us that what we do is still significant in people’s lives, that we are all together part of a community involved in making musical and concert life the galvanising, unifying and beautiful thing that it is.’

— Joe Crouch, Principal Cello

Friends

£5 / month · £60 / year

This is where many people begin. Friends have chosen to support The English Concert, keep in touch, and play a part in what we’re building. Your support helps keep the music resonating, and helps us to plan with confidence.

Patron levels

£25 / month
£300 / year

You have chosen to go beyond cheering us on, and are helping to sustain the work behind the scenes. Coram patrons make a real difference to what we can take on artistically, and bring you a little closer to the heart of the orchestra.

£50 / month
£600 / year

This is generous, purposeful support that backs the bigger projects that take time, care, and resources to do properly. Hanover Patrons help shape our legacy, and make ambitious work possible. They join us for special events behind the scenes and around live performances.

£100 / month
£1,200 / year

At this level, your commitment becomes a real pillar of our work. Chandos Patrons help us aim higher, think longer-term, and represent our repertoire as outstanding global ambassadors.

£250 / month
£3,000 / year

A truly exceptional level of support. Medici Patrons are bold in their philanthropy, and integrated in our activities. They make difficult projects achievable and help secure the future of the orchestra and ensure our music reaches far beyond the concert hall.

Benefactors

Beyond our Patrons’ tiers, our Benefactors are the people who change what’s possible. They come to us with ideas, funds, and visionary support that protects and strengthens The English Concert for the long term. They make sure that our reach can endure and grow. Many begin within the Patronage structure.

Additional information

What happens after I sign up?

Within a few days, you will receive a letter or email from us welcoming you and confirming the benefits at your level. After that, you’ll hear from us with invitations to supporter events, the Cadenza newsletter, a note from the office when something is happening you would want to know about. We do not bombard our supporters and we do not outsource the relationship. You may of course get in touch with us at any time. Aidan and Zoë, Head of Development are just an email or phone call away for all members. Their details are in the welcome letter or on the contact page.

How is my gift acknowledged?

Every Friend and Patron is named on our website unless you ask us not to be. You can ask us not to be at any time. Patrons are also named in the printed concert programmes for our self-promoted London concerts. If you would prefer to give anonymously, just tell us when you sign up or any time afterwards, and we will keep the gift off both lists.

Is my DONATION ELIGIBLE FOR GIFT Aid?

If you’re a UK taxpayer, Gift Aid adds 25p to every £1 you give, at no cost to you. We will ask you to confirm on the form. If you pay higher-rate tax, you can claim the difference back through your own tax return, which makes a £100 gift cost you £75.

Can I switch tiers later?

We are always happy to chat about your giving, and moving between different tiers, or supporting any other way that works for you.

Can I give jointly with my partner?

We have a joint Friend membership at £80/year (£6.66/month) for couples or households who want to give together. The online form does not currently handle joint sign-ups. Please email the office and we will set it up by hand. (Joint giving above the Friend rung is uncommon but possible; get in touch.)