Inspired by Listening

Poems and prose all inspired by listening to music.

Since 2008, the Royal Philharmonic Society has commissioned some of the UK’s leading writers from across literature to write pieces inspired by listening to music. Take time to read and listen through the selection to see how they encapsulate the listening experience.


Read ‘A London Symphony’ by Jo Shapcott




Read ‘Music is Flavoured Air’ by DBC Pierre


  Music is Flavoured Air by DBC Pierre by RoyalPhilharmonicSociety



Read ‘Gabriela practising without her hearing aids’ by Sarah Hall


  Gabriela practising without her hearing aids by Sarah Hall by RoyalPhilharmonicSociety



Read ‘On Listening’ by Fiona Sampson


  On Listening by Fiona Sampson by RoyalPhilharmonicSociety



Read ‘Knowing about music’ by Bernard O’Donoghue


  Knowing about music by Bernard O’Donoghue by RoyalPhilharmonicSociety



Read ‘Outcast’ by Jamie McKendrick


  Outcast by Jamie McKendrick by RoyalPhilharmonicSociety

Back to top

Share