Be part of the conversation

What might a visit to the Schwarzman Centre look like?

Perhaps a gathering where music, poetry and ideas collide in unexpected ways, or a conversation that explores how technology is reshaping creativity. Or you might find yourself considering questions about climate, democracy, migration, philosophy or the stories that frame our world.

Be part of the conversation

The Schwarzman Centre invites you to not only encounter new ideas but to challenge, question and connect with them. What is it like to be part of that conversation?

For Champion member Yiren Shen, who completed her master’s degree in Visual, Material and Museum Anthropology at the University of Oxford in 2018, the Centre has quickly become more than somewhere to attend individual events. “I really feel like the Schwarzman is part of my everyday life, from using the libraries to working, having coffee, and meeting my friends there,” she says.

Shen has “become an unofficial ambassador.” She says, “I’ve been telling all my friends about it and getting tickets for them to come along to concerts or experiences. They all come back and thank me for letting them know this place exists!” Whether you are an Oxford resident, a member of the University community or simply curious about ideas, creativity and culture, membership of the Schwarzman Centre gives you the opportunity to stay informed, book events early and gain insight into the people and ideas shaping its programme.

Its cultural events can offer something more personal, too. Shen recalls a recent immersive listening experience called Ára, which used live recordings from the orchestral world tour of Icelandic band, Sigur Rós combined with lighting effects. “It took me to another place,” she says. “Art and culture are like an anchor when we are a bit lost or very busy – they bring us back to the essence of being a human.”

If you simply want to keep up to date, First Look membership is free and provides advance email notifications when new events go on sale. As Rob Grant, who lives in Manchester, says, First Look membership ensures he doesn’t miss out. “My daughter lives in Oxford so being able to see what’s coming up gives me an opportunity to plan my next visit.”

For those who visit more regularly, paid membership options such as Good Friend membership and Close Friend membership both include priority booking. At Champion level, members enjoy the earliest access to events, invitations to season launches and the annual member gathering.

For Shen, becoming a Champion member was not so much about the member perks but about fostering that community. “I want to feel like I’m giving something back.” Membership offers a chance to play a part in the life of the Schwarzman Centre by supporting a space where research, culture and conversation can be shared with audiences far beyond the University.

Become a member today

Full membership terms and conditions can be viewed here.

Sign up for our newsletter to be first to hear what’s coming up. It’s free to join, and the sure-fire way to stay ahead of the queue.

Perfect for occasional visitors keen to support the Centre with a few perks along the way.

Tailored to regular visitors curious to connect with the Centre’s life and community.

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