The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra (RPO) is set for a world first this summer when it performs a live accompaniment to a horse race at Kempton Park.

An energy-packed performance of the William Tell Overture will be played during a live race over a distance of one mile and three furlongs on July 8th 2009.

The music may even have a rousing effect on the horses as well as the spectators, suggests Dr Roger Mugford, psychologist at the Animal Behaviour Centre.

He said: "Science and practice show that music affects the emotional states of animals just as it does in people.

"It will be interesting to see whether the musical experience lifts the performance of the horses as well as race-goers."

The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra is due to perform at the Breast Cancer Campaign Pink Ribbon Gala Concert in November this year.

Music will accompany poetry and song performances at the fundraiser in Cadogan Hall, London.