A unique musical production, Northern Soul Orchestrated, will bring classic anthems to Liverpool's Philharmonic Hall on Friday, March 13, 2026. The show combines the iconic sounds of the Northern Soul movement with the grandeur of a full orchestra, featuring the acclaimed BBC Concert Orchestra.
Curated by writer and broadcaster Stuart Maconie, the tour promises an immersive experience celebrating the music that defined a generation of dance hall culture across the North and Midlands of England during the 1960s and 70s.
Key Takeaways
- Event: Northern Soul Orchestrated, featuring the BBC Concert Orchestra.
- Liverpool Date: Friday, March 13, 2026.
- Venue: Liverpool Philharmonic Hall.
- Creative Team: Curated by Stuart Maconie and conducted by Joe Duddell.
- Tickets: General sale begins at 10 am on Friday, October 3.
A Symphonic Celebration of a Cultural Movement
The upcoming tour follows a series of highly successful performances, reimagining timeless Northern Soul tracks with new orchestral arrangements. The production aims to capture the energy and passion of the original movement, which saw fans travel across the country for all-night dance events.
The show will feature arrangements created by Fiona Brice, performed by the BBC Concert Orchestra alongside a lineup of guest vocalists. This fusion of classical and soul music offers both long-time fans and newcomers a fresh way to experience the genre's powerful and ecstatic sound.
What is Northern Soul?
Northern Soul is a music and dance movement that emerged in Northern England in the late 1960s. It is based on a particular style of Black American soul music, especially mid-1960s records with a heavy, fast tempo. The scene was known for its distinctive athletic dancing and its focus on obscure or rare American soul recordings, which were often overlooked in their home country.
The Creative Minds Behind the Music
The success of Northern Soul Orchestrated relies on the expertise of its creative team, each bringing a deep understanding of music and culture to the project.
Stuart Maconie: Curator and Broadcaster
Stuart Maconie, a respected writer and BBC Radio 6 Music presenter, curates the show's musical selection. His passion for the genre is evident in his commentary on the tour's impact.
"The Northern Soul Orchestrated shows have been nothing short of triumphant. Passionate, powerful, ecstatic music that we thought we would only ever hear again on treasured vinyl brought to life by extraordinary musicians and singers... I guarantee you the night of your life."
Maconie's involvement ensures the song choices are authentic to the spirit of the original Northern Soul scene, connecting with audiences who lived through the era and those discovering it for the first time.
Joe Duddell: Conductor and Composer
The orchestral elements are guided by composer and conductor Joe Duddell. His role is to merge the raw energy of soul music with the intricate layers of a concert orchestra. Duddell expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming tour, particularly its stop in Stoke, a city with deep roots in the movement.
"It’s great to be touring Northern Soul Orchestrated again in 2026 with the amazing BBC Concert Orchestra and stunning vocalists. Particularly looking forward to taking the show to Stoke for the first time, as it was such an important part of the Northern Soul scene."
The BBC Concert Orchestra
The BBC Concert Orchestra is renowned for its versatility, performing a wide range of musical styles from classical to contemporary pop. Matthew Swann, the orchestra's director, highlighted the ensemble's enjoyment in participating in this unique tour.
"Northern Soul Orchestrated is always a highlight for the BBC Concert Orchestra. It’s always a joy taking this incredible music around the UK to the audiences who formed the scene first time round... and those who continue to be drawn to it."
The Legacy of the All-Nighter
Iconic venues like the Wigan Casino and Manchester's Twisted Wheel became legendary for their "all-nighters," where dancing continued from late evening until the early morning. This culture of dedication and community is a central theme celebrated in the Northern Soul Orchestrated show.
Full 2026 UK Tour Schedule
The Liverpool performance is part of a wider UK tour that will visit several key cities associated with the Northern Soul movement. The tour provides an opportunity for audiences across the country to experience this celebrated production.
The confirmed dates for the March 2026 tour are:
- March 10: Sheffield City Hall
- March 11: Stoke-on-Trent Regent Theatre
- March 12: Newcastle O2 City Hall
- March 13: Liverpool Philharmonic Hall
- March 14: Wolverhampton The Halls
- March 15: Birmingham Symphony Hall
Each venue has been chosen for its acoustics and ability to host a large-scale orchestral performance, ensuring a high-quality audio experience for attendees.
Ticket and Booking Information
For those wishing to attend the Liverpool show or any other date on the tour, it is important to note the key details for purchasing tickets.
Tickets are scheduled to go on general sale at 10 am on Friday, October 3. Given the success of previous tours, demand is expected to be high. Prospective buyers should be prepared to book promptly to avoid disappointment.
Tickets will be available through official vendors, including:
- www.gigsandtours.com
- www.ticketmaster.co.uk
It is always recommended to purchase tickets only from authorized sellers to ensure their validity. The event promises to be a memorable night, blending nostalgia with the timeless power of orchestral music.