Bristol Beacon is a place of welcome, warmth and light; an open invitation to the city for everyone to come and share in the joy of live music.
Since 1867 we have been at the heart of Bristol’s cultural life. We are so proud and grateful to have played such an important role in our city and the lives of our audiences for so long.
Some of the world’s biggest music stars have performed on our stage, including The Beatles, David Bowie, Sergei Rachmaninoff, Ella Fitzgerald, London Symphony Orchestra, Louis Armstrong, Blondie and Bob Dylan. As well as thousands of Bristolians through our schools and creative learning programmes.
Our ongoing multi-million pound transformation is set to create the world-class music centre that Bristol deserves.
Through Bristol Plays Music, the music education hub for the city, we aim to make Bristol the ‘UK Capital of Young People’s Music’.
The difference music makes
Bristol Beacon creates meaningful musical experiences for the people of Bristol to share in the joy of live music. On this page you can find a summary of the impact that our work has.
Our impact document gives more information about the difference we’re making beyond our four walls. Click below to download our most recent impact document.
Regular Instrumental Lessons continued to take place in 61 schools
Our Earthsong instrumental sessions are running in 35 schools
228 young people supported online to engage with our music centres
Free online music tuition for young people with disabilities through our Flow Creative online programme – we currently have 11 young people with complex needs engaged in regular online music-making
5 young people supported by National Open Youth Orchestra engaging in one-to-one tuition
Free online sessions for 32 young people in care through our Hope Creative online sessions
Our value for money
£12 million gross value added contribution to Bristol’s economy each year
£1.5 million invested into local artists, music leaders and tutors per year
£200,000 spent with partner venues per year
For every £1 invested by Bristol City Council, £8.30 is generated
As a charity, every penny is reinvested in our programme
The impact of our Transformation
Over £52 million raised to date
£13 million projected contribution to Bristol’s economy in first year of reopening
273 full time equivalent jobs created
Carbon neutral by 2030
3 state of the art performance spaces
Recording and broadcast studios, education suites, rehearsal rooms and live stage facilities for emerging artists
On Wednesday 23 September 2020 Colston Hall changed its name to Bristol Beacon.
Our new name is just the first step, it is about more than the sign above our door. Click below to find out more about how we’re changing, watch our name announcement, and discover how we want everyone to share in the joy of live music.