Orchitecture Brixton – A live and immersive Lambeth Town Hall experience
On 8 March, Orchitecture Brixton turned Lambeth Town Hall into an immersive musical experience like no other. The event was free and sold out before the day, attracting over 400 visitors. As audience members moved through the grand building, they encountered musicians up close, witnessed impressive technical execution, and even saw the conductor seated in the mayor’s chair—leading an invisible orchestra in the ornate council chamber.
This extraordinary event featured professional musicians from the Chineke! Foundation, mentoring the Chineke! Junior Orchestra and young talent from Lambeth Music Service. It was a celebration of diversity, community, and the power of music to connect generations.
What made Orchitecture Brixton truly unforgettable was its multi-layered experience. At every turn, something new unfolded – a seamless blend of professional and young musicians, a dynamic mix of music, and the youthful energy that filled the space. Samuel Coleridge-Taylor’s Othello Suite, conducted by Enyi Okpara, resonated powerfully, while the striking image of a conductor in a seat of power turned tradition on its head in multiple ways.
More than just a performance, it was a space for interaction, emotion, and conversation, leaving many wanting more!
Councillor Donatus Anyanwu, Cabinet Member for Stronger Communities, Leisure and Sport, said:
- Orchitecture was a truly unique experience that showcased the power of creativity in transforming our public spaces. It was fantastic to see so many people come together to experience live orchestral music in such an immersive way. Events like this highlight Lambeth’s rich cultural heritage and our commitment to making the arts accessible to all. This also demonstrates that culture is not static."
Orchitecture was produced by Aswarm and Lambeth Council, in collaboration with Chineke! Foundation, Lambeth Music Service, and Orbital Sound. This unique event was made possible with support from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), bringing together talented musicians, sound designers, and young creatives to deliver an immersive orchestral experience in the heart of Brixton — and we’re keen to explore more events like this across the borough, as they have the power to enrich local culture and strengthen community bonds.