Liverpool Philharmonic's Sandra Parr is handing over the reins for Artistic Planning

Liverpool Philharmonic has announced that Sandra Parr, Artistic Planning Director (Orchestra & Ensembles), has decided to leave her position at the end of this year after over 45 years’ incredible service. 

Sandra Parr said:  "I feel now is the right time to hand over the reins for artistic planning and, although I will miss attending all the concerts at the Phil as I do at present, I hope to maintain connections with this wonderful organisation. Having joined the Merseyside Youth Orchestra in 1975, and then joining Liverpool Phil staff in 1981, I believe my career is an example of how Liverpool Philharmonic can change the lives of young people on Merseyside through the opportunities offered. Being able to work with so many amazing artists, especially working closely with the most recent ten Chief Conductors, has been an honour and great fun. It has been a fantastic journey through almost five decades, and I will remain the No.1 fan of the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and Choir. I wish them, and all my work colleagues on the staff backstage, all the very best for the future."     

During her remarkable career, Sandra has made an outstanding contribution to Liverpool Philharmonic, playing an important part in its artistic, organisational and community life. Her commitment, expertise and care have helped shape the organisation and support its work over many years. She has worked closely with thousands of artists, musicians and singers during that time, as well as managing over 50 tours around the world for the Orchestra and Choir since 1988. 

Her connection with the company began in 1975 when she joined the Merseyside Youth Orchestra, which she subsequently managed from 1981 until 1995 and for which she organised several international tours, as well as three successful MYO/LPYO reunion concerts in 1991, 2001 and 2025, when hundreds of past members returned to play in fundraising concerts at the Phil. 

Liverpool Philharmonic would like to thank Sandra for her exceptional service and lasting contribution and wishes her every happiness for the future.

Louise Shepherd, Chair of Liverpool Philharmonic said: "Sandra's contribution to the Liverpool Philharmonic - from heading up our Youth Orchestra to directing our Artistic Planning - has enriched our organisation in an exceptional way for four and half decades. Her commitment, dedication and passion for what we do across our orchestra, choir, youth company and other ensembles has been an inspiration to us all and we wish Sandra all the best with her next chapter." 

Domingo Hindoyan, Chief Conductor, Royal Liverpool Philharmonic said: "Sandra’s deep understanding of this Orchestra, her musical sense and her judgment have meant so much to me. More than anything I have treasured her trust, her honesty and our friendship. She knows every part of this organisation inside and out. Her love for the Liverpool Philharmonic and her dedication to it are unique and I know her vision has always been shaped by what's best for the orchestra and the organisation. I am so grateful for all that she has given to the Philharmonic and, for the partnership we have built. I will miss her deeply."

Vasily Petrenko, Conductor Laureate, Royal Liverpool Philharmonic said:"Sandra's hard work, openness to the new and sense of humour are absolutely remarkable and were always strong qualities for the years we worked together. From solving problems with cancelling soloists to playing at the back of the Youth Orchestra viola section for reunion concerts, from calculating exact proportions of repertoire for ticket sales to discovering new or forgotten composers - it's always been a great pleasure! The RLPO has a long and glorious history, and Sandra has a very special place within its story. I wish her all the very best in her following paths and hope to see her many more times in Liverpool and beyond."