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• Sunday Afternoon at the Symphony  

  Sun 3 Jan 2010 Symphony Hall

  Relax and enjoy a charming afternoon of perfect classics. ROSSINI William Tell Overture SAINT-SAENS Symphony No. 3 _Organ Symphony_ BIZET Carmen Suite MASCAGNI Intermezzo from _Cavelleria Rusticana_ ELGAR Chanson de Matin STRAUSS Blue Danube Waltz TCHAIKOVSKY Capriccio Italien
  *John Pryce-Jones* conductor *Jonathan Scott* organ *Manchester Concert Orchestra*
  
  

• The Gilbert & Sullithon 2010 in aid of the lord mayor's charity appeal 

  Sat 13 Feb Town Hall

  A sponsored marathon of all thirteen Gilbert & Sullivan operettas. Singers from Birmingham, the West Midlands and beyond will perform non-stop for 22 hours in aid of the Lord Mayor’s Charity Appeal. If you are interested in taking part call 0121 243 9896.
  
  Please note that this event runs until 8am on Sunday 14th February 2010 PLEASE NOTE THE FOLLOWING TIMES ARE APPROXIMATE AND ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE: 1000 Saturday _Grand Duke_ 1150 Saturday _Utopia Ltd_ 1340 Saturday _The Gondoliers_ 1530 Saturday _The Yeoman of the Guard_ 1720 Saturday _Ruddigore_ 1900 Saturday _The Mikado_ 2040 Saturday _Princess Ida_ 2220 Saturday _Iolanthe_ 0000 midnight _Patience_ 0130 Sunday _Pirates of Penzance_ 0300 Sunday _HMS Pinafore_ 0430 Sunday _The Sorcerer_ 0600 Sunday _Trial by Jury_
  

• Brass on Sundays with The Black Dyke Band  

  Sun 13 Jan Symphony Hall

  Spend a delightful afternoon with one of the world’s oldest and most famous brass bands. All seats £11, 60 plus/full-time-students/under 16’s/unwaged £9
  
  *Programme includes:* *Paul Lovatt-Cooper* Walking With Heroes *Verdi* the Force of Destiny *Tchaikovsky* Capriccio Italien *Philip Sparke* Variations on an Enigma *Tchaikovsky* 1812 Overture
  

• British Classics  

  Wed 1 Apr Symphony Hall

  Springtime in England, and what better way to celebrate it than with this delightfully tuneful programme? Some of these pieces are classics, others are the kind of melodies you’re always humming but can’t put a name to. Either way, they’ll come up fresh as a daisy under John Wilson’s sparkling baton. A fine British string player joins him for an afternoon of pure melodious pleasure. 1.15pm - Pre Concert Talk - John Wilson’s Light Programme. The conductor talks to Christopher Morley of The Birmingham Post about this concert of tuneful British rarities.
  John Wilson - conductor Lawrence Power - viola City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra
  Holst: The Perfect Fool - ballet music 13’ Delius: On Hearing the First Cuckoo in Spring 4’ Walton: Viola Concerto 25’ Sullivan: Overture di Ballo 11’ German: Romeo and Juliet - Nocturne 5’ Farnon: Westminster Waltz 3’ Ketèlbey: Sanctuary of the Heart 4’ Elgar: Chanson de nuit 4’ Coates: The Three Men Suite 15’
  

• Passion for Life Sunday Events Easter Praise, Rico Tice 

  Sun 28 Mar Town Hall

  A Passion for Life is a set of events organised at Easter 2010 by local churches and are an opportunity for people of all faiths and none to consider the relevance of Jesus Christ for today. Rico Tice will be giving a number of talks on various topics. Sunday will see an Easter Praise concert with a local gospel choir and a talk from Rico. Also throughout the weekend there are smaller events aimed different sections of the community such as an interactive Easter Family Praise concert and a pre-school Lost Sheep Party. On the Saturday there will also be a number of talks on issues with opportunities for Q&A. Full info at "A Passion For Life":http://www.apassionforlife-brum.org.uk
  
  3pm Easter Family Praise 7pm Rico Tice
  

• Centre Stage - Latin Cellos  

  Thu 27 May 2010 Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

  Popular classics with a Latin flavour - including music by *Falla, Pablo Casals* and *Dave Brubeck.*
  *CBSO Cellos*
  
  

• Holocaust Memorial Day 2010 The Legacy of Hope 

  Sun 24 Jan Town Hall

  Holocaust Memorial Day is the international day of remembrance as designated by the United Nations. It commemorates victims and survivors of the Holocaust and Nazi persecutions, as well as other worldwide genocides. The ceremony will take place in Town Hall, and will be inspired by the theme from the Holocaust Memorial Trust for 2010 - The Legacy of Hope. The afternoon will include speeches, music, readings and a special performance of Karl Jenkins’s _The Armed Man: A Mass for Peace_ with more than 200 singers and musicians including the Phoenix Singers, and the OneSound Youth Orchestra and Choir. The ceremony will enable all those affected by holocausts and genocides, either directly or indirectly, to reflect on these experiences and issues. Speakers will include a survivor of the Holocaust, local journalist Adrian Goldberg and Cllr Mike Whitby, the Leader of Birmingham City Council. Holocaust Memorial Day is organised in conjunction with community organisations by Birmingham City Council.
  
  
  

• Sunday Morning Coffee Concert - Bach: A Beautiful Mind David Rees-Williams Trio Plays Bach 

  Sun 31 May Town Hall

  The David Rees-Williams trio unite the best of classical and jazz. Following the release of _Thinking Aloud_, which was widely acclaimed as one of the outstanding albums of its genre, the trio round off the _Bach: A Beautiful Mind_ weekend with a bach-infused set perfect for Sunday morning listening. If you like the Jacques Loussier Trio, you’ll love this.
  
  
  

• ArtsFest Weekend - Friday 11 September Free events at Town Hall for ArtsFest 

  Fri 11 Sep Town Hall & Symphony Hall

  Kicking off the ArtsFest we have two fantastic free events: 5.30PM - 7.30PM, Symphony Hall *Rush Hour Blues Extended ArtsFest Special!* Double bill with Tim Amann's X-Tet and Zappajazz. In this special event, Rushour Blues moves from the foyer onto the main stage at Symphony Hall for ArtsFest. 8PM - 9.30PM, Town Hall *BBC Big Band* featuring *Matthew Ford* In this Big Band Special 30th Anniversary Concert for BBC Radio 2, Britain’s finest big band is joined by singing star Matthew Ford for a night of swing classics, conducted by Jiggs Whigham. Click on the day for more information about "Saturday":http://www.thsh.co.uk/view/artsfest-weekend---saturday-12-september and "Sunday":http://www.thsh.co.uk/view/artsfest-weekend---sunday-13-september ArtsFest Lineups
  
  
  

• An afternoon with PAM AYRES PLEASE NOTE THE START TIME HAS CHANGED TO 3.30PM 

  Sun 11 Oct Symphony Hall

  *IMPORTANT INFORMATION:* *The EDF Energy Birmingham Half Marathon and the 18th IAAF World Half Marathon Championship are taking place on Sunday 11 October. Before and during the races a number of road and car park closures will be implemented along the route between 7am and 4pm, including Centenary Square and Broad Street where the races will finish. For further information visit* "Birmingham Half Marathon.":http://www.birminghamhalfmarathon.com/travelInfo *_______* Pam Ayres comes to Symphony Hall for the first time, following her sell-out concert at Town Hall two years ago. Pam’s current show includes material from her bestselling books, _Surgically Enhanced_, _With These Hands_, and _The Works_, along with new poems and stories. It’s over 30 years since Pam first appeared on the TV talent show _Opportunity Knocks_. Now she’s a regular broadcaster on BBC Radio 4 in programmes such as _Just A Minute_, _Loose Ends_, and in her own series _Ayres On The Air_ and _Potting On_. On TV Pam has recently been seen on _QI_, _The One Show_, _The Paul O’Grady Show_, and _Countdown_. _“Pam Ayres carries the audience in the palm of her hand”_ *Daily Express* _“Forget the corny comedian: Pam Ayres is a proper poet, whose wistful, funny, and perceptive verse captures both the joy and unfairness of life.”_ *Sunday Times*
  Pam Ayres
  
  

• BBC Radio 3 Lunchtime Concert: Leon McCawley  

  Mon 12 Apr Town Hall

  2010 is the centenary of the birth of American composer Samuel Barber. BBC Radio 3 marks that anniversary with a series of lunchtime concerts at Town Hall, which place Barber’s chamber music in context with some of his contemporaries and influences. This afternoon one of England’s finest young pianists performs.
  *Leon McCawley* _piano_ *Barber Nocturne* Op 33 *Chopin* Sonata in B flat minor, Op 35 *Chopin* Nocturne in C sharp minor, Op 27 No 1 *Barber* Sonata for Piano, Op 26
  
  

• CBSO Friday Night Classics: Winter Wonderland  

  Fri 11 Dec Symphony Hall

  Take a sleigh ride into the CBSO’s very own winter wonderland, where the chestnuts are already roasting on an open fire and this Christmas, at least, is guaranteed to be white! A sumptuous spread of seasonal classics, beautifully gift-wrapped for you by the CBSO and West End maestro Gareth Hudson. Take time out from the Christmas shopping for an evening of pure musical indulgence.
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Gareth Hudson* _conductor_ *Annalene Beechey* _vocalist_ *Glyn Kerslake* _vocalist_
  Including: *Prokofiev* _Troika_ *Anderson* _Christmas Festival_ _Drivin’ Home for Christmas_ _Little Drummer Boy_ _Baby It’s Cold Outside_ _Mistletoe and Wine_ _Santa Baby_ _Winter Wonderland_ _Let It Snow_ _A Winter’s Tale_ _White Christmas_ _Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas_ _The Christmas Song_ _When A Child Is Born_ _Mary’s Boy Child_
  

• Final of The Robert William and Florence Amy Brant International Pianoforte Competition 2010  

  Sat 3 Jul Town Hall

  With an illustrious list of former winners and a first prize of £3,000, this prestigious competition provides young pianists with the chance to further their careers and perform in world-class venues. CLOSING DATE for applications Friday 28 May 2010 Entry fee £35 (non-refundable) The competition is open to pianists of any nationality who are both resident in Great Britain at the time of application and between the ages of 20 and 28 on Friday 28 May 2010. Entrants are advised of the following dates: Preliminary round - 26 June 2010 at the Barber Institute of Fine Arts, Edgbaston Semi-final - 27 June 2010 at the Barber Institute of Fine Arts, Edgbaston Final - 3 July 2010 at Town Hall For more information about the competition or the application procedure, please contact Emily Jones at Town Hall and Symphony Hall, Birmingham Telephone: 0121 644 6068 E-mail: Emily.jones@thsh.co.uk To apply, please e-mail Emily.jones@thsh.co.uk or download the application form and prospectus (rules) below:
  
  
  

• Sunday Morning Coffee Concert - Quintette Aquilon ECHO Rising Stars series 

  Sun 18 Jan Town Hall

  Here is some musical Parisian chic for a Sunday morning, courtesy of these Stars nominated by Paris's Cité de la Musique. A varied programme of attractive music for wind quintet embraces France's Jean Françaix and England's Gustav Holst, with extra novelties by Ligeti and Zemlinsky thrown in.
  
  *Françaix* Quintette Op 5 No 1 *Holst* Quintet 14
  

• CBSO Friday Night Classics: Silent Heroes  

  Fri 23 Apr Symphony Hall

  Carl Davis’s silent movie night is always a sold-out highlight of the CBSO season, as Symphony Hall transforms into a giant cinema and the CBSO performs a live soundtrack that beautifully mirrors every action on screen. This year Davis features classics by two of the great comic geniuses, Harold Lloyd and Charlie Chaplin. Both stars cut an unusual figure when arriving in the wild west: Lloyd’s comfortable East Coast gentleman seems completely unprepared for the rough and tumble that greets him, while Chaplin’s lovable tramp makes do as best he can in the poverty and excitement of the Gold Rush (in one memorable scene, cooking and eating his own boots!). This will be a joyous evening for film fans of all ages.
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Carl Davis* _conductor_
  *Harold Lloyd* _An Eastern Westerner_ 27’ *Charlie Chaplin* _The Gold Rush_ 90’
  

• Orchestra of the Swan: Italian Sunshine  

  Sun 12 Oct Town Hall

  Mozart meets Mediterranean sunshine for an autumn Sunday matinee. Orchestra of the Swan are renowned for the vivacity of their excellent playing and the sunny informality of their presentation. They're joined this afternoon by the outstanding Jennifer Pike, 2002 BBC Young Musician of the Year and 2008 winner of the South Bank Show/The Times Breakthrough Award. Top-class playing and fantastic value for money. -"It's just how music should be."_ *Birmingham Post* 1.30pm free pre-concert talk and Post-concert Conversation Club in the CircleBar 15 mins after the end of the performance. £8.50, £12.50, £16.50, £19.50 Choir benches £6.50 60 plus £7.50, £11.50, £15, £17.50 Orchestra of the Swan is a Town Hall Associate Artist.
  Orchestra of the Swan David Curtis _conductor_ Jennifer Pike _violin_
  *Rossini* Overture, _An Italian Girl in Algiers'_ *Mozart* Violin Concerto No. 3 in G *Mendelssohn* Italian Symphony
  

• Rejoice! Christmas Carols, Music & Drama with the Salvation Army Afternoon 

  Sun 9 Dec Symphony Hall

  
  
  
  

• Friday Night Classics: Music for Champions  

  Fri 6 Jun Symphony Hall

  As Euro 2008 prepares to kick off, the CBSO announces the squad for its own big match. Our premier team of musicians, captained by the inimitable Carl Davis, tackles some of the all-time champion sporting themes. From fans’ favourites like Nessun Dorma, Boléro and We Are the Champions to TV and movie classics, including Chariots of Fire, Rocky and Superman, it’s a line-up to have you cheering from the terraces! Get behind Davis and the CBSO as they play for Birmingham in the stunning acoustic of Symphony Hall, our very own field of dreams!
  *Carl Davis* Conductor *Jon Christos* Tenor
  
  

• New Year's Eve Gala  

  Thu 31 Dec Symphony Hall

  Symphony Hall’s annual New Year’s Eve festivities. What better way to greet 2010 than with a wonderful concert bursting with rousing classics? DVORAK Carnival Overture SIBELIUS Finlandia PUCCINI O mio babbino caro TCHAIKOVSKY Capriccio Italien STRAUSS Radetzky March FUCIK Entrance of the Gladiators And all your Proms favourites: Rule, Britannia 633 Squadron Land of Hope and Glory Nessun Dorma A generous helping of fun as special guests KIT AND THE WIDOW take a fond look back at the past year.
  *Claire Wild* soprano *Anthony Inglis* conductor *London Concert Orchestra*
  
  

• Birmingham International Concert Season 2010/11  

  Sep 2010 to Jun 2011 Town Hall & Symphony Hall

  h2. See the world’s greatest artists perform on the UK’s finest stages The 2010/11 season, promises more thrilling performances from a stellar line-up of artists, opening with a groundbreaking performance of "_Tristan und Isolde_":http://www.thsh.co.uk/tristan-und-isolde. Full details of the season will be published in mid-April. *How to Book* Booking of concert packages will open in mid-April. Order forms will be available to download from this page, or by calling our Box Office. Priority booking for Friends of Town Hall and Symphony Hall and group bookers opens on Thursday 27 May at 10am, by phone, post and in person. General booking opens on Thursday 3 June at 10am, online, by phone, post and in person. If you would like us to post you a brochure with full details of the Birmingham International Concert Season 2010/11, please e-mail your name, address and telephone number to marketing@thsh.co.uk with the message subject BICS 2010/11.
  
  
  

• RAY DAVIES with Band Plus Support 

  Thu 20 May Symphony Hall

  Following the success of last year's visit to Symphony Hall, Ray Davies returns. One of the most successful and influential songwriters to emerge from the British Invasion of the 1960s, founder of the rock band The Kinks whose hits include _You Really Got Me_, _All Day and All of The Night_, _Tired of Waiting_, _Set Me Free_, _Lola_, _Sunny Afternoon_, _Dedicated Follower of Fashion_, and _Apeman_ among many others. In June 2009 Ray’s new album which includes many of The Kinks classic hits was released entitled _The Kinks Choral Collection_. His May 2010 tour sees him performing, with his band, Kinks' hits and classics and material from his recent two solo albums.
  
  
  

• Sunday Morning Coffee Concert: ECHO Rising Stars Series Rising Star George-Emmanuel Lazaridis 

  Sun 6 May Symphony Hall

  Pianistic fireworks may be expected in this final Rising Stars concert given by the exciting young pianist George-Emmanuel Lazaridis, nominated by the Mergaron Concert Hall in Athens. Chopin�s sombre Fantasy, his longest single-span work, will make a perfect contrast with Mussorgsky�s celebrated �Pictures� which, when heard (as here) in their original format, comprise one of the most brilliant and virtuosic pieces in the piano repertoire.
  George-Emmanuel Lazaridis, Piano
  Chopin Fantasy in F minor Op 49 Mussorgsky Pictures at an Exhibition
  

• Sunday Morning Coffee Concert -Hendrickje Van Kerckhove & Inge Spinette ECHO Rising Stars Series 

  Cancelled

  Sun 26 Apr Town Hall

  This delightful soprano comes as a 'Rising Star' on the recommendation of the Concertgebouw Amsterdam and the Brussels Philharmonic Society. She offers a delightfully varied programme ranging from Grieg's Six German Lieder Op 48 through four of Richard Strauss's songs (including Ständchen and Morgen) to lighter numbers by Reynaldo Hahn and Oscar Straus and some cabaret songs - perfect fare for a Sunday morning in Town Hall Birmingham.
  *Hendrickje Van Kerckhove* soprano *Inge Spinette* piano Town Hall regrets that due to circumstances beyond its control this concert has been cancelled
  
  

• Celebrate Christmas with Thomas Spencer-Wortley Plus Special Guests: All Angels 

  Mon 21 Dec Town Hall

  *We have great pleasure in announcing that Camilla Kerslake will be making a surprise guest appearance with Thomas Spencer-Wortley in this concert at Town Hall.* Described by The Sunday Express as _'The solo version of Il Divo'_, classical crossover tenor, Thomas Spencer-Wortley, is bringing his spectacular Christmas concert to Town Hall, Birmingham. Joining him on stage as his special guests will be Classical Brit nominated and platinum selling All Angels, sensational Irish soprano Mairead Carlin and guests from the west end. The all female string quartet Midnight lead the fantastic instrumental ensemble. The evening will include popular classics to songs from the shows and festive favourites. This has something for everyone..... not to be missed! _The hottest Christmas show in town_
  
  
  

• Valentine's Day Tea Dance  

  Thu 14 Feb 2008 Town Hall

  Treat your partner to a romantic afternoon with live music from Gary Allcock and his Midland All Stars band and a gift rose for every lady. All tickets £8
  
  
  

• New Year's Eve Gala  

  Thu 31 Dec Symphony Hall

  Symphony Hall’s annual New Year’s Eve festivities. What better way to greet 2010 than with a wonderful concert bursting with rousing classics? DVORAK Carnival Overture SIBELIUS Finlandia PUCCINI O mio babbino caro TCHAIKOVSKY Capriccio Italien STRAUSS Radetzky March FUCIK Entrance of the Gladiators And all your Proms favourites: Rule, Britannia 633 Squadron Land of Hope and Glory Nessun Dorma A generous helping of fun as special guests KIT AND THE WIDOW take a fond look back at the past year. Please note that Broad Street will be closed on New Year's Eve from 11.30pm to 12.30am due to a fireworks event above Centenary Square. For your convenience we advise exiting the ICC through the Brindleyplace entrance.
  *Claire Wild* soprano *Anthony Inglis* conductor *London Concert Orchestra*
  
  

• Tinariwen  

  Wed 28 Jul Town Hall

  Tinariwen are a group of former Touareg warriors, one of the most exciting musical exports to emerge from West Africa. Distilled over 20 years of struggle, rebellion and exile, their rolling grooves and uncompromising messages of simplicity and freedom, have earned them countless accolades and the attention of high-profile fans such as Robert Plant, Santana, Edge and Thom Yorke. In June 2010 they will take part in the opening ceremony of the World Cup, to a global audience of 1 billion. And in July they’re playing for you in Birmingham! ‘_Sensational_’ Andy Kershaw ‘_. . . sounds thrillingly unlike anything else on the planet_’ Q ‘_[Tinariwen] strode out of the Sahara with the best rock album of the year, suggesting a gathering of the greatest guitars you’ve ever heard - John Lee Hooker, Jimi Hendrix, electric Bob Dylan - burnt into new shapes by the desert sun_’. Sunday Times ‘_This extraordinary band are clearly pushing for more than cult world music status. They fully merit it._’ Uncut ‘_If you make one discovery this year, make it Tinariwen._’ Marie Claire
  
  
  

• BBC Big Band with Ian Shaw In association with BBC Radio 2 

  Fri 17 Oct Town Hall

  Britain’s finest Big Band returns for a second season at Town Hall. This concert, to be recorded for BBC Radio 2’s Big Band Special, features an evening of jazz and swing classics, plus special guest vocalist Ian Shaw. Winner of Best Vocalist at the 2007 BBC Jazz Awards, Ian is a regular performer with the BBC Big Band and will feature jazz standards and songs from his recent albums, Drawn To All Things-The Songs of Joni Mitchell and the self-penned Lifejacket. “He has few rivals” Sunday Times “The best jazz vocalist we have” Time Out “One of the contemporary scene’s class acts” The Guardian “A razor-sharp performer with faultless time and unrivalled passion” WBGO Jazz88FM New York In association with BBC Radio 2. Concert to be recorded forBBC Radio 2’s Big Band Special. BBC Big Band is a Town Hall Associate Artist.
  *Jiggs Whigham* Conductor *Ian Shaw* Vocals
  
  

• Folk4Free English Originals Weekend 2010 

  Sat 15 May Symphony Hall Foyer Bars

  An afternoon of free folk music, curated by Moseley Folk Festival. *Dave Boddison* has been writing music for ten years and performing for seven. His solo acoustic sound hovers in the realms of ambient folk. 23-year-old *Abie Budgen* combines psychedelic, roots and blues sounds with finger-picking. As a child, *Deborah Hodgson* earned her first guitar by washing cars. Although not the most glamorous start to a career, she has now performed in festival fields, castles, a cathedral crypt and a major arena tour supporting 10CC. _‘Fantastic voice’_ Nick Britten, Daily Telegraph *Goodnight Lenin* caught the attention of audiences in Birmingham after releasing a YouTube video of a simple acoustic performance in which they sat perched on the counter-tops of their kitchen. The group attribute their sound to Bob Dylan and Elvis Perkins, mixing folk with a heavy American influence. 2010 is set to be a great year for the band as they supported First Aid Kit on the Birmingham leg of the duo’s UK tour and will be releasing their first limited edition single in the summer. Yet despite this, they can still be found performing amongst the pots and pans in kitchens. Growing up listening to Abba and Queen, *Megan Henwood* first performed at the tender age of nine. Turning eighteen she played her way round the world, singing to crowds in Venice, Thailand, India and Malaysia. After falling in love with Nepal, she has returned to Kathmandu twice to record with leading Nepalese musicians Nirmal Kulu, Binod Katal and Shyram Saram Nepali. In 2009 Megan won the BBC Radio 2 Young Folk Musician of the Year Award.
  2pm *Dave Boddison* 3pm *Abie Budgen* 4pm *Deborah Hodgson* 5pm *Goodnight Lenin* 6pm *Megan Henwood*
  
  

• Chanta La Mui presents Recital International Dance Festival 2010 

  Thu 6 May Town Hall

  In the second of our two Festival performances by Spanish company Chanta La Mui, performers Olga Pericet, Daniel Doña and Marco Flores explore the more traditional flamenco style of choreography and performance. Several pieces make up the show, in which dance, guitar and singing are the only players. Part of the "International Dance Fesitval Birmingham 2010":http://www.idfb.co.uk produced by DanceXchange and Birmingham Hippodrome.
  
  
  

• Chanta La Mui presents Complot International Dance Festival 2010 

  Wed 5 May Town Hall

  Chanta La Mui’s _Complot_ is the brain-child of three artists - Olga Pericet, Daniel Doña and Marco Flores - who have enjoyed prestigious dance careers. They have joined forces to present an alternative yet complete vision of dance and flamenco inspired by different styles and music. Part of the "International Dance Fesitval Birmingham 2010":http://www.idfb.co.uk produced by DanceXchange and Birmingham Hippodrome.
  
  
  

• Boxing Day Classics  

  Fri 26 Dec Symphony Hall

  Two giant keyboard masterpieces in one superb programme of rousing classics. _A complimentary glass of champagne for everyone_
  Edward Warren _conductor_ Malcolm Hicks _organ_ Martin Cousin _piano_ London Concert Orchestra
  *Rossini* William Tell Overture *Mascagni* Intermezzo from Cavalleria Rusticana *Tchaikovsky* Piano Concerto No.1 *Wagner* Prelude Act III from Lohengrin *Strauss* Emperor Waltz *Saint-Saëns* Symphony No.3 ‘Organ Symphony’ Featuring the majestic *Symphony Hall Organ*
  

• CBSO Friday Night Classics Film and TV Classics 

  Fri 8 Jun Symphony Hall

  Sit back and enjoy music from _Philadelphia_, _A Room with a View_ and _Fantasia_, along with much-loved tunes from musicals _Porgy and Bess_, _West Side Story_ and _My Fair Lady_. You'll recognise ads including Hamlet Cigars and TV themes from the Ashes ( _Jerusalem_ ), the Grand National and Torvill and Dean's signature skating tune, _Bolero_. Sposored by IMI.
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Carl Davis* Conductor *Claire Rutter* Soprano
  
  

• Friday Night Classics: A Night at the Oscars  

  Fri 6 Feb 2009 Symphony Hall

  Put the champagne on ice and roll out the red carpet as silver-screen showman Carl Davis hosts this evening of Oscar-winning movie soundtracks. With themes that include The Lord of the Rings, Dr Zhivago, Lawrence of Arabia, Dances with Wolves, Titanic, Robin Hood, The Godfather and much more, join us for a night that celebrates the soundtrack to all our lives.
  
  Carl Davis- conductor City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra
  

• CBSO Friday Night Classics: You Call the Tunes  

  Fri 21 May 2010 Symphony Hall

  This is your chance to nominate and vote for the music you want to hear! Tonight the CBSO plays the people’s favourites in a concert packed with Midlanders’ most-loved classical music. Look out for details on the CBSO website, and in CBSO podcasts and concert programmes during autumn 2009, to find out how to nominate your absolutely-must-hear pieces. The most popular nominations will then be voted on by CBSO fans ready for the performance in Symphony Hall on 21 May, culminating in the Midlands’ Favourite Classic for 2010. Following her success in the BBC’s conducting series _Maestro_, tonight’s presenter Sue Perkins will also step onto the podium once again to conduct the CBSO for one of tonight’s pieces. Sue Perkins appears professional contracts permitting. Visit the "CBSO website":http://www.cbso.co.uk
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Michael Seal* conductor *Sue Perkins* presenter
  
  

• Boxing Day Classics  

  Wed 26 Dec Symphony Hall

  The majestic power of the Great Symphony Hall Organ crowns this wonderful concert of great orchestral classics. There will be a complimentary interval glass of champagne for everyone.
  *Robert Dean* Conductor *Tamsin Waley-Cohen* Violin *Jonathan Scott* Organ *London Concert Orchestra*
  *Saint-Saens* Symphony No.3 ‘Organ Symphony’ *Rossini* The Barber of Seville Overture *Mendelssohn* The Hebrides Overture *Tchaikovsky* Swan Lake Suite *Bruch* Violin Concerto *Sibelius* Finlandia *Widor* Toccata
  

• The RAF in Concert 2008  

  Thu 30 Oct Symphony Hall

  Join us for an irresistible musical journey to celebrate the 90th Anniversary of the Royal Air Force. A nostalgic and uplifting evening is guaranteed thanks to a wonderful blend of light classics, jazz, big band and music from the shows, performed by the critically-acclaimed musicians of the Royal Air Force. With a triumphant finale, reminiscent of the Last Night of the Proms, this rousing night out is an ideal gift or family outing. Conductor: Wing Commander Stuart Stirling Seat Prices: £13.50, £16.50, £19.50 10% discount for Groups of 10 or more Concert in Support of the Royal Air Force Charitable Trust.
  
  
  

• CBSO Family Concert Classics for Kids 

  Sun 29 Apr Symphony Hall

  BBC Midlands Today presenter Michael Collie will guide you through this special concert, designed to introduce kids, parents and grandparents to the classics. FREE CREATIVE WORKSHOPS in foyer areas from 1.30pm.
  Michael Seal, Conductor Michael Collie, Presenter City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra
  Features Prokofiev's Peter and the Wolf, Mozart's Marriage of Figaro Overture, the Star Wars theme, and many more.
  

• Ed Byrne Different Class 

  Thu 19 Nov Town Hall

  Half toff, half pikey....All comic! Comedy favourite returns with a blisteringly funny new one man show about marriage, class, the youth of today and anything else that strikes him as humorous. It’s hard to say any more than that as this blurb had to be written in April when the new show was barely taking shape. He might end up doing an hour about going to the Opera for all I know. Oh, no he’s done that. www.edbyrne.com _“His wit won deafening cheers and feet stomping”_ The Guardian _“Dazzling”_ The Sunday Times _“Jokes come so fast that hecklers don’t have a chance to get a word in edgeways”_ The Times _“Hottest tip this year is Ed Byrne - fluent, assured and wicked”_ The Sunday Times _“It is rare for a comic to merit the word “masterful” but in this case it is no overstatement”_ The Scotsman _“His set had the audience in stitches for most of the evening - they roared their approval at the end - but he is technically excellent as well, the sure sign of a comic on the cusp of a major career. It does not come much better than this.”_ The Stage _“Utterly Charming”_ The List _“Astoundingly polished material”_ The Sunday Telegraph _“This charming man may well be threatening to give stand up a good name”_ The List _“Byrne looks set to become a comic who will inspire as many swoons as guffaws”_ The List _“A comedian with everything going for him, Ed Byrne has all the attributes to upgrade to the big time - see him”_ The Independent _“He describes himself as a stick insect rather than a sex symbol but the high proportion of women hanging on his every witticism suggests otherwise. He may be thin and weedy but his material certainly is not.”_ Daily Express _“In complete rapport with his capacity audience”_ The Scotsman _“A stunningly original piece of work - a comedy star”_ Irish Times _“The audience went into rapture and insisted on an encore”_ Time Out £17.50
  
  
  

• Kate Rusby At Christmas No support 

  Thu 10 Dec Town Hall

  Kate Rusby has become one of Britain’s foremost music artists, whether performing songs from the country’s rich music tradition or her own intuitive self-penned material. This unmissable evening will take you from Rusby classics and old favourites to a showcase of South Yorkshire Village Carols, complete with brass quintet; a rousing Christmas celebration. Come along to hear new variations of familiar carols mostly unheard outside her area. _“Humanity and intelligence shine from her voice, an instrument of quiet and subtle strength.”_ The Guardian _“An utterly life affirming evening”_ Evening Standard South Yorkshire has a very strong tradition of carol singing starting early November. Sunday lunchtimes sees 100s of carollers cram into various pubs in the locality to join in the unashamedly joyous singing" standing room only! At its heart, it represents an oral tradition, constantly evolving, passed down from generation to generation, with roots dating back over 200 years. Visit Kate's website "here":http://www.katerusby.com/ Visit Kate on MySpace "here":http://www.myspace.com/katerusby
  
  
  

• Russian Spectacular  

  Sat 27 Dec Symphony Hall

  The passion, warmth and romance of Russia is vividly brought to life in this programme of timeless classics with the fiery 1812 Overture as a stunning finale. *1812 OVERTURE - A TRULY EXPLOSIVE FINALE*
  Alexander Sitkovetsky _violin_ Stephen Bell _conductor_ London Concert Orchestra The Guards of the Moscow Militia
  *Glinka* Ruslan and Ludmilla Overture *Borodin* Polovtsian Dances from Prince Igor *Tchaikovsky* Polonaise and Waltz from Eugene Onegin *Khachaturian* Adagio from Spartacus *Mussorgsky* Great Gate of Kiev *Tchaikovsky* Violin Concerto
  

• CBSO Friday Night Classics: The Wild Wild West  

  Fri 20 Nov Symphony Hall

  Big music from a Big Country! Join all-American maestro Carl Davis as he swings into the saddle to round up the very wildest tunes of the old West. From _The Magnificent Seven_ to _Brokeback Mountain_, all the classic Western themes are here - and a few new favourites too. Yee-ha! *Pre-Concert Talk* Friday 20 November, 6.15pm Music from the Movies - Wild Wild West! Film music aficionado Tommy Pearson talks to conductor Carl Davis about tonight’s concert. "www.cbso.co.uk":http://cbso.co.uk
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Carl Davis* _conductor_
  Including Music From: _The Big Country_ _The Magnificent Seven_ _High Noon_ _Blazing Saddles_ _The Lone Ranger_ _Shane_ _Oklahoma!_ _The High Chaparral_ _Little House on the Prairie_ _Brokeback Mountain_ _Dances with Wolves_ _Copland’s Rodeo_ and more!
  

• Valentine's Day Love Classics  

  Thu 14 Feb Symphony Hall

  A perfect evening of enchanting music for the most romantic night of the year. With a free rose for every couple in the audience. £20, £23.50, £27.50, £31.50 Choir £11, £15
  *Stephen Bell* Conductor *Roger Owens* Piano *London Concert Orchestra*
  *Tchaikovsky* The Sleeping Beauty Waltz and Rose Adagio *Debussy* Clair de Lune *Grieg* Piano Concerto *Verdi* Force of Destiny Overture *Tchaikovsky* Romeo & Juliet Fantasy Overture *Delius* The Walk to the Paradise Garden *Elgar* Salut d’amour *Strauss* The Blue Danube Waltz
  

• Tristan und Isolde Birmingham International Concert Season 2010/11 

  Thu 23 Sep Symphony Hall

  _Tristan und Isolde_ provides a groundbreaking opening concert to the "2010/11 Birmingham International Concert Season":http://www.thsh.co.uk/bics-2010-11. Full details of the season will be published in mid-April. _Tristan und Isolde_ co-producers: "Philharmonia Orchestra":http://www.philharmonia.co.uk/, Konzerthaus Dortmund and Lucerne Festival In association with: Southbank Centre London and Symphony Hall, Birmingham Also performed in: KKL, Lucerne (10 September), Konzerthaus, Dortmund (17 September) and Southbank Centre, London (26 September)
  *Philharmonia Orchestra* *Esa-Pekka Salonen* _conductor_ *Gary Lehman* _Tristan_ *Christine Brewer* _Isolde_ *Anne Sofie von Otter* _Brangäne_ *John Relyea* _King Marke_ *Jukka Rasilainen* _Kurwenal_ *Stephen Gadd* _Melot_ *Andrew Kennedy* _Shepherd/Sailor_ *Darren Jeffery* _Helmsman_ *Philharmonia Voices* *Bill Viola* _visual artist_ *Peter Sellars* _artistic collaborator_
  *Wagner* _Tristan und Isolde_ 255’
  

• Brodsky Quartet  

  Sun 16 Nov Town Hall

  Without a doubt, the Brodsky is Britain’s best-known string quartet. With a repertoire stretching from the classics to collaborations with pop artists, this remarkable ensemble is at the very top of its game. The players visit the intimate space of Town Hall with four outright classics of the string quartet repertoire - a masterpiece from Beethoven’s fiery youth, Shostakovich’s most intense and best-known Quartet, Stravinsky’s three ground-breaking miniatures, and the quiet melancholy of Tchaikovsky’s Third and last Quartet. Tickets £5-£20
  
  *Beethoven* Quartet in D Major, op 18, no 3 25’ *Shostakovich* Quartet No 8 in C Minor, op 110 20’ *Stravinsky* Three Pieces for String Quartet 8’ *Tchaikovsky* Quartet No 1 in D Major, op 11
  

• Birmingham Symphonic Winds - December Classics  

  Sat 5 Dec Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

  More details to follow.
  
  
  

• CBSO Bruckner's Romantic  

  Wed 16 Jun Symphony Hall

  Inspired by the same idea of courtly romance as Wagner’s _Lohengrin_, Bruckner’s glorious Fourth is one of the finest of all Austrian symphonies, its evocative horncalls and soaring melodies perfectly suited to Symphony Hall’s cathedral-like acoustics. Henri Dutilleux also summons up ‘a whole distant world’ in his much-played cello concerto, composed for the great Rostropovich and played tonight by one of his greatest successors. It’s a gloriously vivid programme for the CBSO debut of Solihull-born conductor Jonathan Nott, who has established an enviable international reputation both in new music and in the Austro-German classics. Visit the "CBSO website":http://www.cbso.co.uk
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Jonathon Nott* _conductor_ *Truls Mørk* _cello_ Jean-Guihen Queyras replaces Truls Mork who has had to withdraw from this concert due to illness
  *Dutilleux* _Tout un monde lointain..._ 24' *Bruckner* Symphony No 4 (Romantic) 64'
  

• Flamenco Dance Taster Workshop afternoon  

  Sun 11 Nov Town Hall

  Led by Ana Garcia For ages 11 and over. No experience required. Shoes with Cuban heels required, no trainers or flat shoes.
  
  
  

• BBC Big Band with guest Phil Woods (alto saxophone) Classics of Bebop 

  Fri 4 Apr Town Hall

  The band explores the musical language of bop with a collection of newly written scores by Hans Koller. For this, the band will also be joined by bebop legend, alto saxophonist Phil Woods. A four-time Grammy winner, Phil has worked with everyone from Benny Goodman, Thelonious Monk and Dizzy Gillespie to Steely Dan, Paul Simon and Billy Joel (saxophone solo on Just the Way You Are). A jazz great, this is Phil’s only scheduled UK appearance. £12.50, £16.50, £19.50 In association with BBC Radio 2. Concert to be recorded for BBC Radio 2’s Big Band Special. BBC Big Band is a Town Hall Associate Artist.
  
  
  

• Town Hall Welcome Weekend - Carnival Afternoon  

  Sun 7 Oct Town Hall

  2.30pm-4.30pm A carnival-feel, mixed-bill matinee that opens with a potted history of the journey of Reggae, from Africa to Europe, followed by the Destroyers’ own energetic fusion of samba and Balkan gypsy jazz. For anyone who likes to party!
  Special guest: Andy Hamilton
  
  

• Friday Night Classics - Bond: Music To Spy For  

  Fri 12 Oct Symphony Hall

  Whether your quintessential Bond is Connery or Craig, Brosnan or Lazenby, Moore or Dalton, this celebration of the best of 007 is sure to feature your favourites from the Bond themes that have shaken and stirred us for over 40 years. With Burt Bacharach’s The Look of Love from the Casino Royale parody, to Arnold’s You Know My Name from the 2006 Casino Royale, via classic themes to Dr No, From Russia With Love, Goldfinger, Moonraker, For Your Eyes Only, Licence To Kill, You Only Live Twice, Diamonds Are Forever, Live And Let Die, Tomorrow Never Dies, The Spy Who Loved Me, Thunderball, The Living Daylights and GoldenEye, this really is music to die for!
  *Carl Davis* conductor *Mary Carewe* vocalist *Simon Bowman* vocalist
  
  

• Notelets: Global Grooves Afternoon 

  Sun 22 Jun 2008 Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

  Discover music from around the globe in this fun-packed and interactive performance, devised specially for 3-5 year olds and their families, and featuring musicians from the CBSO. Join us for craft workshops one hour before each show, and enjoy post-performance music workshops.
  
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• CBSO Symphonic Dances: II  

  Thu 10 Dec Symphony Hall

  Dynamic conductor Kristjan Järvi brings his love of jazz and classical music together in a highly charged programme that’s intoxicated by dance rhythms. Ravel’s sensual ballet and Bernstein’s New York teen take on Romeo and Juliet are both classics of the repertoire. Ginastera’s earthy ballet is also a riot of Argentine colour, and provides an appropriate prelude to Acoustic Triangle member and leading jazz composer Tim Garland’s new concerto, composed for him and the CBSO’s cello section leader, and paying tribute to the dance rhythms of the latter’s native Argentina. *Pre-concert talk 6.15pm* Premiere! - Tim Garland Saxophonist Tim Garland discusses his new concerto, with CBSO cellist Eduardo Vassallo and Simon Webb. "www.cbso.co.uk":http://cbso.co.uk
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Kristjan Järvi* _conductor_ *Tim Garland* _saxophone_ *Eduardo Vassallo* _cello_
  *Ginastera* Estancia 14’ *Garland* Double Concerto (world premiere) 25’ *Bernstein* West Side Story - Symphonic Dances 24’ *Ravel* Daphnis and Chloé - Suite No. 2 18’
  

• International Dance Festival Birmingham 2010 19 April - 15 May 

  Wednesday 5th May - Saturday 8th May Town Hall

  Following on from its success in 2008, International Dance Festival Birmingham returns this April/May, produced by DanceXchange and Birmingham Hippodrome. With four more weeks of fantastic dance activities planned for traditional theatre venues, shop windows, outdoor spaces, and even a canal barge, there will be hundreds of opportunities to experience and be a part of the action-packed programme! For more information visit the "IDFB website":http://www.idfb.co.uk or email idfb@dancexchange.org.uk. Performances taking place at Town Hall include the contemporary and traditional flamenco of Chanta La Mui and _Gnosis_ - a new solo work exploring the kathak roots of acclaimed choreographer Akram Khan. Produced by DanceXchange and Birmingham Hippodrome, International Dance Festival Birmingham 2010 is funded by Advantage West Midlands, Arts Council England West Midlands, Birmingham City Council, and supported by Media Partner BBC WM and Accommodation Partner Crowne Plaza, Birmingham City Centre. IDFB 2010 is working in partnership with the West Midlands Culture Programme for London 2012.
  
  
  

• Notelets: Music To Dance To Afternoon 

  Sat 23 Feb 2008 Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

  A fun-packed and interactive concert for 3-5 year olds and their families, featuring musicians from the CBSO. This captivating journey through the world of dance will showcase lots of music to inspire little feet! In addition there will be craft workshops one hour before each show, followed by post-performance music workshops
  
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• Valentine's Day Love Classics  

  Sat 14 Feb Symphony Hall

  A superb concert of romantic classics for the day of classic romance, with a free Valentine's Rose for every couple in the audience.
  *London Concert Orchestra* *John Rigby* conductor *Nigel Hutchison* piano
  *Verdi* Prelude to Act 1 from _La Traviata_ *Tchaikovsky* Swan Lake Suite *Strauss* Roses from the South Waltz *Rachmaninov* Piano Concerto No 2 *Mendelssohn* Hebrides Overture *Delius* La Calinda *Offenbach* Overture from _Orpheus in the Underworld_ *Mahler* _Adagietto_ from Symphony 5
  

• Friday Night Classics: John Williams Blockbusters  

  Fri 10 Oct Symphony Hall

  No-one writes a big film theme like John Williams - no wonder he’s the world’s most popular living classical composer. And if you think his music is thrilling on the big screen, just wait until you hear it live at Symphony Hall - as the CBSO plays a blockbuster concert of John Williams’ very greatest themes from his signature edition scores.
  Michael Seal - conductor Tommy Pearson - presenter City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra
  Including music from: Star Wars Schindler’s List Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone Superman Close Encounters of the Third Kind E.T. Raiders of the Lost Ark Olympic Fanfare and Theme JFK Munich Saving Private Ryan Jaws
  

• Ed Byrne ‘DIFFERENT CLASS’ 

  Change of Date

  Thu 19 Mar Town Hall

  *It is with great regret that the Ed Byrne performance from March 4 has been rescheduled to March 19. This is due to Ed being offered the fantastic opportunity of appearing in the opening show in the new series of Graham Norton which transmits Thursday March 5. Ed understands the inevitable inconvenience that this will cause his audience and is very sorry for this.* Half toff, half pikey... All comic! Comedy favourite returns with a blisteringly funny new one man show about marriage, class, the youth of today and anything else that strikes him as humorous. It's hard to say any more than that as this blurb had to be written in April when the new show was barely taking shape. He might end up doing an hour about going to the Opera for all I know. Oh, no he's done that. www.edbyrne.com “_His wit won deafening cheers and feet stomping_” The Guardian “_Dazzling_” The Sunday Times “_Jokes come so fast that hecklers don’t have a chance to get a word in edgeways_” The Times “_Hottest tip this year is Ed Byrne…fluent, assured and wicked_” The Sunday Times “_It is rare for a comic to merit the word “masterful” but in this case it is no overstatement_” The Scotsman “_His set had the audience in stitches for most of the evening - they roared their approval at the end - but he is technically excellent as well, the sure sign of a comic on the cusp of a major career. It does not come much better than this._” The Stage “_Utterly Charming_” The List “_Astoundingly polished material_” The Sunday Telegraph “_This charming man may well be threatening to give stand up a good name_” The List “_Byrne looks set to become a comic who will inspire as many swoons as guffaws_” The List “_A comedian with everything going for him, Ed Byrne has all the attributes to upgrade to the big time…see him_” The Independent “_He describes himself as a stick insect rather than a sex symbol but the high proportion of women hanging on his every witticism suggests otherwise. He may be thin and weedy but his material certainly is not._” Daily Express “_In complete rapport with his capacity audience_” The Scotsman “_A stunningly original piece of work - a comedy star_” Irish Times “_The audience went into rapture and insisted on an encore_” Time Out
  
  
  

• Friday Night Classics: Best of Bond  

  Fri 21 Nov Symphony Hall

  Never mind if you didn’t get invited to the red-carpet premiere of Quantum of Solace - because the CBSO is always licensed to thrill. Whether your favourite Bond is Craig or Connery, Brosnan or Moore, this will be an allaction celebration with the best of 40 years of Bond themes. Featuring such all-time greats as From Russia With Love, Goldfinger, Diamonds Are Forever, Live And Let Die, The Spy Who Loved Me, For Your Eyes Only, Licensed to Kill and Dr No, as well as modern Bond classics including GoldenEye and Casino Royale, this is music guaranteed to leave you both shaken - and stirred. *We are sorry to announce that Carl Davis has reluctantly withdrawn from this concert due to a scheduled minor operation but Carl looks forward to performing with the CBSO on 6 February 2009. We are very grateful to Gareth Hudson who will replace him.*
  Gareth Hudson - conductor Mary Carewe - vocalist City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra
  
  

• Walsall Music Service Afternoon Concert 

  Sun 25 Nov Symphony Hall

  Walsall music service is forming a choir of 500 young voices to sing exciting and well loved seasonal music at tonight’s concert. Also featured will be the winner of the West Midland’s (BBC WM) Pop stars Concert, the Walsall Young Musician of the Year, the Walsall Symphonic Wind Band and World Music groups.
  
  
  

• Sunday Morning Coffee Concert - Andreas Brantelid & Bengt Forsberg  

  Sun 23 Nov Town Hall

  
  
  *Schubert* Sonata for Cello and Piano, D 821 _Arpeggione_ *Janacek* Fairy Tale for Cello and Piano *Franck* Sonata in A major op 13
  

• Celebrity Piano Recital: Paul Lewis  

  Thu 30 Oct Town Hall

  Few other pianists have identified themselves so closely with the great Viennese classics as Paul Lewis. A protégé of the legendary Alfred Brendel, his award-winning recordings of the Schubert Sonatas have been highly acclaimed. Tonight he combines Schubert’s majestic G major Sonata with two of Mozart’s most profound piano works and Ligeti’s scintillating _Musica ricercata_, parts of which were used in Stanley Kubrick’s film _Eyes Wide Shut_. This is a chance to hear at first hand one of today’s most celebrated young pianists. 6.15 Pre-concert talk: Paul Lewis in conversation Tickets £5-£20
  
  *Mozart* Fantasia in C minor, K475 12’ *Ligeti* Musica ricercata-11 Pieces for Piano 27’ *Mozart* Rondo in A minor, K511 9’ *Schubert* Sonata in G major, D894 30’
  

• Ray Davies  

  Tue 29 May Symphony Hall

  Ray Davies is one of the most successful and influential songwriters off all time having founded The Kinks with his brother Dave in 1963. The band�s string of top ten international hits began with You Really Got Me, followed by All Day and All of the Night, Tired of Waiting, Sunny Afternoon, and Dedicated Follower of Fashion among many others. Affectionately referred to as the �Godfather of Brit Pop�, Ray is cited as a major influence on artists such as Pete Townshend, Paul Weller, Morrissey, Damon Albarn of Blur and many more and his influence on the British music scene is as strong today as ever.
  
  
  

• Friday Night Classics: Chaplin’s Circus  

  Fri 3 Apr Symphony Hall

  Conductor, composer and entertainer Carl Davis is world famous for his new scores for classic silent movies; tonight he presents two of Charlie Chaplin’s greatest silent comedies, accompanied live by the CBSO with music that mirrors every action, gesture and emotion on the screen. The Circus was the most successful silent film of all time, and finds Chaplin’s Little Tramp stumbling into a hilarious new profession. And as for The Cure - well, one critic wrote that “in terms of sheer belly-laughs, it may well be the funniest movie Chaplin ever made”. Decide for yourself as Symphony Hall transforms into a giant cinema. One thing’s for sure though - silent movies have never sounded better!
  *Carl Davis* conductor *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra *
  *Davis* The Cure 23’ *Chaplin* The Circus 72’
  

• Bratz in Concert Afternoon 

  Cancelled

  Wed 14 Nov Symphony Hall

  See Yasmin, Sasha, Cloe and Jade with their dazzlin’ dancers strut their stuff in a live fashion and concert spectacular. The coolest concert you’ll ever see also features their dazzlin’ dancers who will show the audience how to pull wicked dance moves so they can dance along with their fave Bratz girl. Featuring the Bratz’ favourite tracks you’ll be singing along before you know it whilst dancing to the Bratz unique groove.
  
  
  

• The Four Seasons By Candlelight  

  Sun 30 Dec Symphony Hall

  Vivaldi’s masterpiece is a fitting finale to this superb concert of beautiful 18th Century classics performed in full period costume in an evocative candle-lit style setting.
  *Steven Devine* Director/Harpsichord *Nicola Stonehouse* Soprano *David Juritz* Violin *Crispian Steele-Perkins* Trumpet *Tom Rainer* Trumpet *Mozart Festival Orchestra* In full period costume
  *Handel* I know that my redeemer liveth, Let the bright Seraphim *Purcell* Trumpet Suite *Bach* Air on the G String *Vivaldi* Concerto for Two Trumpets *Albinoni* Adagio *Pachelbel* Canon *Vivaldi* The Four Seasons
  

• Christmas Eve Classics  

  Wed 24 Dec Symphony Hall

  _A magical matinee to start your Christmas Eve celebrations._ This concert of glorious seasonal and traditional music captures perfectly the true spirit of Christmas.
  John Graham-Hall _tenor_ Paul Beniston _trumpet_ Birmingham Choral Union Staffordshire Childrens Choir Robin Stapleton _conductor_ London Concert Orchestra
  *Bach* Sheep may safely graze *Head* The Little Road to Bethlehem *Handel* Hallelujah Chorus from Messiah *Rutter* Shepherd’s Pipe Carol *Franck* Panis Angelicus *Adam* O Holy Night *Clarke* Trumpet Suite *Keonig* Post Horn Galop *Darke* In the bleak midwinter *Pachelbel* Canon *Bizet* Agnus Dei *Adams* The Holy City _plus_ *CAROLS FOR ALL* O come, all ye faithful God rest you merry, gentlemen Good King Wenceslas O little town of Bethlehem Hark! the herald angels sing
  

• Sunday Morning Coffee Concert: Rising Stars Series Pavel Haas Quartet 

  Sun 9 Mar Town Hall

  Ticket includes a cup of tea or coffee, a soft drink or a glass of sherry.
  
  *Haas* Quartet No 1, Op 3 *Beethoven* Quartet No 11 in F minor, Op 95 *Dvořák* Quartet No 12 in F major Op 96, _American_
  

• Frank Carson plus support  

  Sun 4 Oct Town Hall

  A true British comedy legend, Frank came to the attention of the UK public as one of the stars of ITV's _The Comedians_. Since then he has appeared on nearly every light entertainment programme on TV. A household name and a truly funny and loveable man, maybe it's cus of 'the way he tells em'. This promises to be _a cracker_. This event is part of BIRMINGHAM COMEDY FESTIVAL, Friday 2 October to Sunday 11 October 2009 "www.bhamcomfest.co.uk":http://www.bhamcomfest.co.uk
  
  
  

• CBSO Family Concert: Water World - Matinee  

  Sun 28 Feb 2010 Symphony Hall

  Set sail with the CBSO as we dive into an adventure on the ocean waves. This afternoon will include plenty of splashing good fun, from fish to fishermen, boats to beaches, and sandcastles to starfish. Expect lots of water music such as _Fingal’s Cave, The Sailor’s Hornpipe_, music from _Pirates of the Caribbean_ and much more. Keep a watch out for mermaids, creatures of the deep, pirates, sharks and shipwrecks!
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Michael Seal* _conductor_ *Michael Collie* _presenter_ *CBSO Children's Chorus*
  
  

• Vivaldi's Four Seasons Orchestra of the Swan  

  Wed 28 Apr 2010 Town Hall

  Vivaldi's Four Seasons needs no introduction but this afternoon Tasmin premieres the third of Four new Seasons from Roxanna Panufnik, commissioned by Orchestra of the Swan.
  *Orchestra of the Swan* *David Curtis* conductor *Tasmin Little* violin/director
  *Mozart* Divertimento K136 *Roxanna Panufnik* Indian Summer (world premiére) *Grieg* Holberg Suite *Vivaldi* The Four Seasons
  

• Sunday Morning Coffee Concert ECHO Rising Stars Series 

  Sun 18 Nov Town Hall

  
  *Trio Chausson*
  *Haydn* Piano Trio no. 27 in C major *York Bowen* Piano Trio in E minor Op 118 *Brahms* Piano Trio no. 2 in C major Op 87
  

• Russian Classics CBSO Benevolent Fund Concert 

  Fri 14 Sep Symphony Hall

  Romantic symphonies don’t come more romantic than Rachmaninov’s Second. A sweeping Russian epic, it’s chock-full of great melodies and its slow movement contains some of the most rapturously beautiful music he ever wrote. It’s a glorious way to launch the season, and Russian maestro Vassily Sinaisky has this music in his blood. Three magical musical pictures open this concert the proceeds of which will go to help CBSO musicians, past and present, through the CBSO Benevolent Fund. (Please note: this concert is not part of the 2007/2008 CBSO Season, therefore tickets cannot be bought as part of a concert package or other promotion.) CBSO Benevolent Fund (Reg. Friendly Society 735F)
  *Vassily Sinaisky* Conductor
  Mussorgsky: Night on the Bare Mountain Liadov: The Enchanted Lake Rimsky-Korsakov: Capriccio espagnol Rachmaninov: Symphony No. 2
  

• The Romantic Violin: Tasmin Little Performs Bruch Orchestra of the Swan 

  Wed 17 Mar Town Hall

  Tasmin Little has chosen two favourites works for tonight’s concert. Rossini’s overture, the _Barber of Seville_ will ensure a sparkling opening to the afternoon.
  *Orchestra of the Swan* *David Curtis* conductor *Tasmin Little* violin/conductor
  *Rossini* Overture _Barber of Seville_ *Mozart* Symphony No 35 in D _Haffner_ *Dvorak* Romance for violin *Bruch* Concerto in G minor
  

• Sunday Morning Coffee Concert ECHO Rising Stars Series 

  Cancelled

  Sun 14 Oct Symphony Hall

  
  *Efe Balticigil* Cello *Anna Polonsky* Piano
  *Beethoven* Variations on Mozart's _Ein Machen oder Weibchen_ Op 66 *H Ucarsu* Turku *Brahms* Cello Sonata No 2 in F major Op 99
  

• Cora Burggraaf & Christoph Berner Sunday Morning Coffee Concert ECHO Rising Stars 

  Cancelled

  Sun 15 Nov Town Hall

  Cora Burggraaf performs a varied programme ranging from three rarities by Bizet and a selection of lieder by Richard Strauss to Hugo Wolf (the four _Mignon_ songs) and some numbers by Kurt Weill. A feast for lovers of the human voice.
  *Cora Burggraaf* _mezzo soprano_ *Christoph Berner* _piano_
  
  

• CBSO New Year from Vienna  

  Sat 9 Jan Symphony Hall

  *Please note* this concert will take place. Please allow plenty of time for your journey in the wintry weather and take particular care on foot in the city centre. "Up-to-date travel information":http://www.bbc.co.uk/birmingham/travel/ Tap your toes into 2010 with the CBSO’s effervescent New Year celebrations in traditional Viennese style, featuring much-loved waltzes, arias and polkas. A concert to put a smile on your face and tunes in your heart! "www.cbso.co.uk":http://cbso.co.uk
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Barry Wordsworth* _conductor_ *Elizabeth Atherton* _soprano_
  *Strauss* _Die Fledermaus - Overture & Czardas_ _Tritsch-Tratsch Polka_ _Perpetuum mobile_ _Champagne Polka_ _Emperor Waltz_ _Egyptian March_ _Voices of Spring_ _Cuckoo Polka_ _Pizzicato-Polka_ _Thunder and Lightning Polka_ _The Blue Danube_ *Lehár* _Gold & Silver Waltz_ _The Merry Widow - Vilja Song_ *Suppé* _Overture, Morning, Noon & Night in Vienna_ *Kalman* _Gräfin-Mariza Czardas_
  

• CBSO New Year from Vienna - Matinee  

  Sat 9 Jan Symphony Hall

  *Please note* this concert will take place. Please allow plenty of time for your journey in the wintry weather and take particular care on foot in the city centre. "Up-to-date travel information":http://www.bbc.co.uk/birmingham/travel/ Tap your toes into 2010 with the CBSO’s effervescent New Year celebrations in traditional Viennese style, featuring much-loved waltzes, arias and polkas. A concert to put a smile on your face and tunes in your heart! "www.cbso.co.uk":http://cbso.co.uk
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Barry Wordsworth* _conductor_ *Elizabeth Atherton* _soprano_
  *Strauss* _Die Fledermaus - Overture & Czardas_ _Tritsch-Tratsch Polka_ _Perpetuum mobile_ _Champagne Polka_ _Emperor Waltz_ _Egyptian March_ _Voices of Spring_ _Cuckoo Polka_ _Pizzicato-Polka_ _Thunder and Lightning Polka_ _The Blue Danube_ *Lehár* _Gold & Silver Waltz_ _The Merry Widow - Vilja Song_ *Suppé* _Overture, Morning, Noon & Night in Vienna_ *Kalman* _Gräfin-Mariza Czardas_
  

• Sunday Morning Coffee Concert: Francesco Tristano Schlime - Piano Rising Stars Series 

  Sun 20 Jan Town Hall

  The brilliant young Rising Star from Europe offers an unusual and intriguing programme based around J.S. Bach, Haydn and Frescobaldi, contrasting it with a 1965 Berio composition and immediately playing his own improvisation upon it.
  
  *Frescobaldi* Three Toccatas *Haydn* Sonata in C, Hob XVI:48 *J.S. Bach* French Suite in E flat BWV815
  

• Jason Manford Presented by Phil McIntyre Entertainment  

  Change of Date

  Mon 6 Oct Town Hall

  The multi-award winning Comedian and star of ‘8 Out of 10 Cats’, ‘Live at the Apollo’ and ‘XFM’, embarks on his first live national tour with this exciting and hilarious show, that will have audiences begging for more. ‘Deserves a cult following’ Scotsman ‘Very funny’ Peter Kay ‘Hilarious’ Johnny Vegas ‘Engaging and witty’ Sunday Times
  CHANGE OF DATE Please Note: this event has moved from October 8th 2008 to October 6th 2008.
  
  

• The Hollies  

  Fri 22 Oct Symphony Hall

  In 2010, the Hollies will be honoured by the prestigious American Rock n’ Roll Hall of Fame for their impact on the evolution of popular music. Here in Birmingham, their two hour-plus live performance will be a celebration of all things Hollies. Don’t miss it - With more hits than The Beatles these guys are still a force to be reckoned with.
  
  
  

• Women In Music Festival - Birmingham  

  Cancelled

  Town Hall

  *12.30pm - 7pm* The extended celebration of International Women’s Day, WIMFB offers an array of female performers as they take to the stage this Mothering Sunday to share their artistic talent through entertainment. The marking of this second festival welcomes both local and international artists to the bill, with the special crowning of the new Ambassador for the Women In Music Festival - Birmingham. Admission FREE. (Tickets available on the door.) *This event is now taking place at the Recital Hall at Birmingham Conservatoire from 2-7pm.*
  
  
  

• Akram Khan Company presents Gnosis International Dance Festival 2010 

  Fri 7 May Town Hall

  Directed and choreographed by Akram Khan, _Gnosis_ is a solo show inspired by the Mahabharata story of Queen Ghandari. Akram has always been fascinated by comic-book superheroes and villains, and how these comic-book characters are in some way inspired by real characters that exist in our societies. _Gnosis_ is about the journeys of different characters inspired from myth; whether kings, queens, heroes or gods, they exist in our societies - from the past to present civilisations. “_The wunderkind of Western contemporary dance and classical Indian kathak._” *The Times* Khan’s choregraphy has been developed in collaboration with the internationally renowned Kathak masters Sri Pratap Pawar and Gauri Sharma Tripathi, and the show features a band of musicians including Yoshie Sunahata, a taiko drummer from acclaimed Japanese company KODO. Part of the "International Dance Fesitval Birmingham 2010":http://www.idfb.co.uk produced by DanceXchange and Birmingham Hippodrome.
  
  
  

• Akram Khan Company presents Gnosis International Dance Festival 2010 

  Sat 8 May Town Hall

  Directed and choreographed by Akram Khan, _Gnosis_ is a solo show inspired by the Mahabharata story of Queen Ghandari. Akram has always been fascinated by comic-book superheroes and villains, and how these comic-book characters are in some way inspired by real characters that exist in our societies. _Gnosis_ is about the journeys of different characters inspired from myth; whether kings, queens, heroes or gods, they exist in our societies - from the past to present civilisations. “_The wunderkind of Western contemporary dance and classical Indian kathak._” *The Times* Khan’s choregraphy has been developed in collaboration with the internationally renowned Kathak masters Sri Pratap Pawar and Gauri Sharma Tripathi, and the show features a band of musicians including Yoshie Sunahata, a taiko drummer from acclaimed Japanese company KODO. Part of the "International Dance Fesitval Birmingham 2010":http://www.idfb.co.uk produced by DanceXchange and Birmingham Hippodrome.
  
  
  

• ArtsFest Weekend - Saturday 12 September A Taste of Town Hall 

  Sat 12 Sep Town Hall

  Across the ArtsFest weekend, we're offering FREE showcase performances from the Town Hall Associate Artists and more. *12pm - 7pm* _Town Hall Exhibition_ History of Town Hall exhibition, with free audio guide - capturing Town Hall's energy, radicalism and community spirit, as well as its rich and varied performance history. *12pm - 12.45pm* _Bollywood Workshop_. Put on your dancing shoes and take part in a Bollywood dance workshop - no experience necessary, just enthusiasm and a willingness to have fun. *1.30pm - 2.15pm* _Orchestra of the Swan (string ensemble)_. Join this acclaimed ensemble of youthful classical musicians who have a passion to bring classical music to new audiences in an imaginitive, friendly and informal way. *3pm - 3.45pm* _Ex Cathedra and its Academy of Vocal Music_. Town Hall's associate choir and Early Music ensemble showcases its beautiful and uplifting singing. *4.30pm - 5.15pm* _Organ Demonstration_. Andrew Fletcher shows off the versatility and range of the Town Hall organ, one of England's finest historical instrument. *6pm - 6.45pm* _Soweto Kinch_. Jazz saxophonist and hip-hop MC, Soweto Kinch is one of the most versatile young musicians to hit the British music scene in recent years. Click on the day for more information about "Friday":http://www.thsh.co.uk/view/artsfest-weekend---friday-11-september and "Sunday":http://www.thsh.co.uk/view/artsfest-weekend---sunday-13-september ArtsFest Lineups
  
  
  

• CBSO Schools' Concert - Enigma Variations  

  Thu 21 Jan 2010 Symphony Hall

  Key Stage 3 and 4 Please note that this replaces the previously advertised schools' concerts on 15 April 2010
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Edward Gardner* _conductor_
  *Elgar* _Enigma Variations_
  

• CBSO Schools' Concert - Enigma Variations  

  Thu 21 Jan 2010 Symphony Hall

  Key Stage 2 Please note that this replaces the previously advertised schools' concerts on 15 April 2010
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Edward Gardner* _conductor_
  *Elgar* _Enigma Variations_
  

• The Hollies  

  Fri 16 Nov Symphony Hall

  One of the original classic bands of the sixties, they are also one of the few to retain their status. They have been responsible for a remarkably varied and intriguing catalogue of music and their greatest hits include _Just One Look_, _On a Carousel_, _I’m Alive_ and the classics _The Air That I Breathe_ and _He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother_.
  
  
  

• Reginald D. Hunter Plus Support Steve Hughes 

  Mon 3 May Town Hall

  Reginald D Hunter’s uniquely non-secular approach to comedy continues. _“He shimmers with stage presence and his comic timing is sharp enough to burst balloons.”_ Independent A well-known face on primetime television shows such as _8 Out Of 10 Cats_, _Never Mind The Buzzcocks_ and _QI_, Reginald is also a frequent guest on _Have I Got News For You_ and has just finished starring alongside Andy Hamilton in BBC4’s _It’s Only A Theory_. _“One of the most brilliantly unpredictable comics in the country”_ Sunday Times
  
  
  

• Sunday Morning Coffee Concert - Di Xiao  

  Sun 26 Oct Town Hall

  This brilliant Chinese pianist is already well known in Birmingham’s music circles as a result of being chosen to represent Town Hall and Symphony Hall in the ECHO Rising Stars series. Today’s concert launches a tour that will take her to play at eleven of Europe’s most prestigious concert halls during 2008/9. Come and hear her play sonatas by Mozart and Beethoven and a selection of miscellaneous pieces, and wish her bon voyage. £7.50 (unreserved), Under 16s £3.50 Ticket includes a cup of tea or coffee, a soft drink or a glass of sherry.
  
  
  

• Sunday Morning Coffee Concert: Rising Stars Series Christian Svarfvar & Anders Kilstrom 

  Sun 17 Feb 2008 Town Hall

  Ticket includes a cup of tea or coffee, a soft drink or a glass of sherry.
  *Christian Svarfvar* Violin *Anders Kilstrom* Piano
  *Sjögren* Poem for Violin and Piano in c major Op 40 *Prokofiev* Violin Sonata in D major Op 94 *Sinding* Suite for Violin in A minor Op 10
  

• A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens, Performed by Clive Francis  

  Mon 7 Dec Town Hall

  In December 1853 Dickens chose A Christmas Carol for his first ever public reading, in Town Hall, where “notwithstanding the inclemency of the weather, nearly 2,000 persons had assembled”. Clive Francis recreates the occasion, filling the stage with an entire Dickensian landscape. “Clive Francis as Scrooge is spellbinding” said the Sunday Times.
  
  
  

• Sunday Morning Coffee Concert 13/04/2008 EVENT CANCELLED  

  Sun 13 Apr Town Hall

  All the excitement of a multi-percussion display is promised by this brilliant young Rising Star from Vienna. *Due to circumstances beyond our control this show has been cancelled. Please call the ticket office on 0121 780 3333 for a refund. Apologies for any inconvenience caused.*
  *Martin Grubinger* Multi-percussion *Per Rundberg* Piano
  *Koppel* Concerto No. 3 *Grubinger* Aus dem Leben einer Trommel *Koppel* Toccata *Xenakis* Rebond b *Abe* Prism Rhapsody *Miki* Marimba Spiritual
  

• Johann Strauss Gala Afternoon Concert 

  Tue 1 Jan 2008 Symphony Hall

  All the romance and excitement of the ballrooms of 19th century Vienna is brought to life in this magical show filled with glorious music, dance and song from the Strauss family. With complimentary interval drink.
  *Daniel Rowland* Directer/Violin *Martene Grimson* Soprano *Johann Strauss Orchestra* *Christopher Hampson* Choreography
  *Programme to include* Blue Danube Waltz Radetzky March Pizzicato Polka Perpetuum Mobile Tritsch Tratsch Polka Tales from the Vienna Woods Music of the Spheres Thunder & Lightning Polka and many more.
  

• We'll Meet Again - Hits from the Blitz  

  Mon 1 Mar 2010 Town Hall

  _We’ll Meet Again_ clocks up an amazing ninth year in 2010. With a new programme, here is a show for everyone who wants to be cheered up! Recalling forties favourites Gracie Fields, Vera Lynn, Tessie O’Shea, Max Miller, Bing Crosby and many more, this show is great fun and is sure to leave you with a nostalgic glow.
  
  
  

• Music to lift the spirit Orchestra of the Swan  

  Wed 25 Nov Town Hall

  Rossini’s sunny Italian Girl in Algiers, Mozart’s sparkling Paris Symphony, composed for a discerning Parisian audience and Beethoven’s exuberant Triple Concerto, the perfect afternoon.
  *Orchestra of the Swan* *David Curtis* conductor *Alexander Sitkovetsky* violin *Leonard Elschenbroich* cello *Qian Wu* piano
  *Rossini* Overture Italian Girl in Algiers *Mozart* Symphony No 31 Paris *Beethoven* Triple Concerto for violin, piano and cello
  

• The Magic of Gilbert & Sullivan  

  Sat 29 Dec Symphony Hall

  Stars from the original D’Oyly Carte continue their splendid tradition with an afternoon of the wittiest, funniest and most memorable moments from Gilbert & Sullivan’s Savoy Operas.
  *Fraser Goulding* Conductor *Jill Washington* Soprano *Lorraine Daniels* Mezzo Soprano *Patricia Leonard* Contralto *Barry Clark* Tenor *Bruce Graham* Baritone *Alistair Donkin* Baritone *John Ayldon* Bass *The Magic of Gilbert & Sullivan Chorus and Orchestra*
  *Programme to include highlights from* The Yeomen of the Guard The Gondoliers Patience H.M.S. Pinafore The Sorcerer The Mikado Princess Ida The Grand Duke Utopia Limited Iolanthe Ruddigore The Pirates of Penzance
  

• The RAF in Concert  

  Wed 28 Oct Symphony Hall

  A memorable evening is guaranteed as leading RAF musicians present a magical mix of popular classics from the stage and screen, rousing military music plus big band numbers performed by the legendary swing band The Squadronaires. The 2009 Royal Air Force in Concert tour welcomes back popular soloist Flight Lieutenant Matthew Little and singer Emma Kershaw who will sprinkle the evening with some West End stardust, singing songs from Les Miserables and Cabaret before sharing the stage for a ‘secret’ 007 medley! Compered by Radio 2 broadcaster Lynn Bowles, the Royal Air Force in Concert includes toe-tapping Glenn Miller melodies and an Armed Forces Salute, featuring popular theme tunes from some of the greatest war movies ever including _The Great Escape_ and _A Bridge Too Far_. Add to these timeless classics by _Vivaldi, Elgar_ and _Rossini_ as well as more contemporary pieces from stage and screen and there is all the ingredients for a perfect night out for all the family. The Royal Air Force in Concert is held in support of the Royal Air Force Charitable Trust, which helps fund projects and initiatives that inspire young people to be ‘air-minded’, improve the well-being of current Service personnel as well as assisting the wider RAF family of charities.
  
  
  

• Dorridge Music School 21st Anniversary Concert 

  Symphony Hall

  Over 200 students aged 7 to 70 and teachers will be performing on organ, keyboards, piano, drums, guitar, flute, and violin, with dancers and vocalists. Muisc to suit all tastes including ABBA, Queen and the Beatles, plus music from the shows and popular classics. A great night out for the whole family.
  
  
  

• IDRS 2009 - Across the Pitch International Double Reed Society 

  Wed 22 Jul Town Hall

  300 young performers come together in a world premiere performance featuring cutting-edge technology and live DJ, turning the Town Hall into a buzzing nightclub for the afternoon! This performance is the main event of Across the Pitch - a day devoted to double reed education at IDRS 2009.
  *Roger Redgate* director and composer *Christopher Redgate* soloist (more to be announced) *Paul Archbold* live electronics
  *Roger Redgate* new work for young double reed performers, DJ, VJ and live electronics (World Premiere)
  

• Lunchtime Organ Concert Thomas Trotter Summer Request Concert 

  Mon 14 Jun 2010 Town Hall

  This is your chance to request favourite items that you have enjoyed Thomas playing earlier in the season. Send your selections to: Emily Jones, Organ Requests, Symphony Hall, Broad Street, Birmingham B1 2EA by 3 May 2010.
  
  
  

• Richard Hawley  

  Fri 7 September Symphony Hall

  *Plus support* The man who could well be Britain's finest songwriter tours in support of his new album Lady's Bridge released in August. Named after the famous Sheffield landmark, the album contains 11 classics to add to the already impressive Hawley cannon.
  
  
  

• Sunday Morning Coffee Concert: Morgenstern Trio ECHO Rising Stars Series 15th Season 

  Sun 14 Mar 2010 Town Hall

  Nominated by the ECHO Halls in Cologne and Hamburg, this acclaimed piano trio offers a programme with a perfect balance of classical Haydn, youthful Leonard Bernstein, and an acknowledged masterpiece by Smetana.
  *Morgenstern Trio* *Catherine Klipfel* _piano_ *Stefan Hempel* _violin_ *Emanuel Wehse* _violoncello_
  *Haydn* Piano Trio in E flat *Bernstein* Piano Trio (1937) *Smetana* Piano Trio in G minor
  

• Sunday Morning Coffee Concert - Minetti Quartett ECHO Rising Stars series 

  Sun 8 Feb 2009 Town Hall

  Since its formation in 2003 the Minetti Quartett, consisting of four outstanding young Austrian musicians, has enjoyed considerable success. The Minetti Quartett has been chosen to participate by the European Concert Halls Organisation and will also perform at Amsterdam Concertgebouw, Stockholm Konserthuset, Cité de la musique Paris, and many more prestigious European venues.
  
  *Haydn* String Quartet Op 64 No 4 *Webern* Six Bagatelles Op 3 *Beethoven* String Qurtet in E minor Op 59 No 2
  

• We'll Meet Again  

  Mon 6 Apr Town Hall

  Relive the spirit of the Forties in this wonderful afternoon performance with lots of singalong tunes that will bring back warm memories. The show pays tribute to the legendary stars of the war years - Vera Lynn, Donald Peers, Gracie Fields, George Formby, Bing Crosby, and famous comedians Max Miller and Tessie O’Shea. This special show promises not only to evoke the spirit of wartime Britain, but the music and laughter that kept Britain smiling through her darkest days.
  
  
  

• Spanish for Beginners! Classical Encounters with Orchestra of the Swan 

  Sun 21 Oct Town Hall

  The final concert of our Re-opening Festival is your first chance to enjoy a _Classical Encounter with Orchestra of the Swan_. _Spanish for Beginners_ is the first in a series of friendly and informal afternoon concerts hosted by conductor David Curtis. The centrepiece of the programme is Rodrigo's Guitar Concerto, its haunting slow movement the epitome of Spanish melancholy. "www.orchestraoftheswan.org":http://www.orchestraoftheswan.org
  *David Curtis* Conductor *David Le Page* Violin *Morgan Szymanski* Guitar
  *Elgar*: Suite, _The Spanish Lady_ *Piazzolla*: Four Seasons of Buenos Aires *Rossini*: Overture, _The Barber of Seville_ *Rodrigo*: Concierto de Aranjuez
  

• Family Concert: Steps in Time  

  Sun 9 Nov Symphony Hall

  Time travelling across the musical universe is the theme for today’s family concert! Our own real-life Doctor Who, in the form of popular presenter Alasdair Malloy, will keep the CBSO stepping in time with a selection of dances from across the ages. So forget about two left feet and get with the beat in an afternoon packed with numbers conjuring up twinkling toes for waltzes, courtly dances, marches and sambas, including music by Walton, Mozart, Arnold, Dvorák and Piazzolla. Why not come along dressed as your favourite kind of dancer? FREE CREATIVE WORKSHOPS AND MUSIC in the foyers from 1.30pm
  David Danzmayr - conductor Alasdair Malloy - presenter City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra
  
  

• Black Dyke Band  

  Sun 25 Jan 2009 Symphony Hall

  Spend a delightful afternoon with one of the world's oldest and most famous brass bands as they perform a stunning programme under the baton of Nicholas Childs.
  *Nicholas Childs* Director of Music With soloists *Richard Marshall*, *Alex Kerwin*, *Brett Baker*, *Sandy Smith* and *David Thornton*.
  *Allen* Knight Templar *von Suppé* Poet and Peasant *Simon* Willow Echoes *Rodgers/Hart* The Lady Is a Tramp *Warren* That's Amore *Loesser* Luck be a Lady *Vinter* Spectrum *Wilby* A Breathless Alleluia *Pryor* Fantastic Polka *Arr. Catherall* Evergreen *Lovatt-Cooper* Neath the Dublin Skies *Graham* Cats Tales *Saint-Saëns* Finale from _Organ_ Symphony
  

• Family Concert: All Aboard!  

  Sun 1 Feb 2009 Symphony Hall

  Hop on board as we launch into gear and jet off around the world for an incredible musical journey on planes,trains, automobiles and much more besides. This funpacked afternoon will have you going round the bend and looping the loop, as we thrill and swerve with fast rides and whacky races, and sail on the ocean blue. Be transported by music including Adams’ Short Ride in a Fast Machine, Villa-Lobos’ Little Train of the Caipira, Honegger’s Pacific 231 and more. Don’t miss the boat- buy your return ticket now, and join the CBSO as we go full steam ahead! FREE CREATIVE WORKSHOPS AND MUSIC in the foyers from 1.30pm. Why not come in fancy dress?
  Andris Nelsons -conductor Michael Collie - presenter City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra
  
  

• Centre Stage - El Ultimo Tango  

  Sat 26 Jun Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

  "Bell arte del Tango"
  *El Ultimo Tango*
  "Bell arte del Tango"
  

• Swan Lake Irina Kolesnikova with St Petersburg Ballet Theatre 

  Fri 11 Jan 2008 Symphony Hall

  The spellbinding story of Odette the swan-princess released from the curse of the evil Rothbart when she and Prince Siegfried affirm their love for each other. Lyrical and dramatic, the peerless choreography and Tchaikovsky’s luscious score take us into the imaginary world where love triumphs over evil. "Kolesnikova turned in a performance of such megawatt radiance I swear, as I left the Hall, Albert was blinking on his memorial." Jeffery Taylor Sunday Express www.irinakolesnikova.com Artsworld Presentations - www.arts-world.co.uk
  Irina Kolesnikova
  
  

• An English Rose - Tasmin Little plays the Lark Ascending Orchestra of the Swan 

  Wed 21 Oct Town Hall

  An afternoon celebrating the genius of English composers including the extraordinary flight of fancy from Vaughan Williams inspired by Meredith’s evocative poem. 1.30pm Free pre-concert talk Post-concert Conversation Club, starts 15 minutes after performance ends. Orchestra of the Swan is a Town Hall Associate Artist.
  *Orchestra of the Swan* *David Curtis* conductor *Tasmin Little* violin
  *Elgar* _Serenade for Strings_ *Walton* Two Pieces from Henry V *Holst* _St Paul’s Suite_ *Britten* _Simple Symphony_ *Elgar* _Chanson de Matin, Chanson de Nuit_ *Vaughan Williams* _The Lark Ascending_
  

• Brass Gala Concert  

  Sun 13 Sep Symphony Hall

  Join us for an afternoon of world-class brass band music from Black Dyke Band, Cory Band and Grimthorpe Colliery Band. Black Dyke Band is the most successful contesting band in the world, having won the British Open no fewer than 29 times and the National Championships 21 times. Cory Band visits Symphony Hall fresh from its win at the European Championships under the baton of Dr Robert Childs. Grimethorpe Colliery Band is best known for the soundtrack to British film Brassed Off - which incidently includes scenes filmed in Town Hall.
  *Black Dyke Band* *Cory Band* *Grimethorpe Colliery Band*
  
  

• Centre Stage - Mozart's Divertimento for String Trio  

  Fri 23 Oct Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

  *Mozart* Divertimento for string trio, K.563
  *Laurence Jackson* _violin_ *Christopher Yates* _viola_ *Ulrich Heinen* _cello_
  *Mozart* Divertimento for string trio, K.563
  

• Centre Stage - Jonathan Biss  

  Thu 17 Dec Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

  *Beethoven* Piano Trio in G, Op. 1 No 2
  *CBSO Players* *Jonathan Biss* _piano_
  *Beethoven* Piano Trio in G, Op. 1 No 2
  

• Sunday Morning Coffee Concert ECHO Rising Stars Series 15th Season 

  Sun 17 Jan Town Hall

  In this latest Rising Stars concert these young artists, nominated by the Concert Hall in Stockholm, offer two of the finest and most popular works in the clarinet repertoire, Debussy’s Rhapsody No 1 and the first of Brahms’s two Sonatas, as well as a modern piece by their distinguished countryman Anders Hillborg. *Please note that Lutoslawski's Dance Preludes is also included in the programme.*
  *Emil Jonason* _clarinet_ *Peter Friis Johansson* _piano_
  *Lutoslawski* Dance Preludes *Debussy* Première Rhapsodie *Anders Hillborg* Tampere Raw *Brahms* Sonata No 1 in F minor Op 120
  

• CBSO Rattle's Bach  

  Sat 6 Mar Symphony Hall

  *Please note there will be no admittance for latecomers until the interval* In the whole of music there’s nothing else quite like it: Bach’s dramatic re-telling of the events of Holy Week has a power and expressive beauty that add up to an overwhelming experience. Returning to the CBSO for the first time in four years, our former music director Sir Simon Rattle leads an outstanding international cast and our own acclaimed choruses in what is sure to be one of the hottest tickets of this or any season - be sure to book early! We wanted to bring to your attention a few points that may affect your travel arrangements to and from the concert: Other sell-out events in Birmingham We have been informed that there are other sell-out events in Birmingham this weekend, including a concert on Saturday evening at the National Indoor Arena. Please bear this in mind when considering the time needed to travel to and park in Birmingham. For a full list of parking options in the city, please visit www.birmingham.gov.uk/parking. Change in the advertised timings St. Matthew Passion will be approximately 150 mins long, rather than 131 mins long as previously advertised. Therefore, with the addition of the 20 minute interval, this means that the concert will finish at approximately 10pm. Apologies for any inconvenience this amendment may cause. Maintenance works outside Symphony Hall There is ongoing maintenance work occuring outside Symphony Hall, which means that on Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 March there will be no access for cars, taxis and coaches to drop off outside Symphony Hall. The nearest access for vehicles is Cambridge Street. Walking access to the front entrance via Cambridge Street, Centenary Square or Broad Street is not affected by these works. Please note this performance is currently sold out. Clicking on the below link will take you to the booking page if any returns are available. Alternatively you can call the Box Office on 0121 780 3333 to enquire.
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Sir Simon Rattle* _conductor_ *Camilla Tilling* _soprano_ *Magdalena Kožená* _mezzo soprano_ *Mark Padmore* _tenor_ EVANGELIST *Topi Lehtipuu* _tenor_ *Christian Gerhaher* _baritone_ CHRISTUS *Thomas Quasthoff* _baritone_ *CBSO Chorus & CBSO Children's Chorus*
  *Bach* _St Matthew Passion_ 151' (sung in German with English surtitles)
  

• CBSO Rattle's Bach  

  Sun 7 Mar Symphony Hall

  *Please note there will be no admittance for latecomers until the interval* In the whole of music there’s nothing else quite like it: Bach’s dramatic re-telling of the events of Holy Week has a power and expressive beauty that add up to an overwhelming experience. Returning to the CBSO for the first time in four years, our former music director Sir Simon Rattle leads an outstanding international cast and our own acclaimed choruses in what is sure to be one of the hottest tickets of this or any season - be sure to book early! We wanted to bring to your attention a few points that may affect your travel arrangements to and from the concert: Other sell-out events in Birmingham We have been informed that there are other sell-out events in Birmingham this weekend, including a concert on Saturday evening at the National Indoor Arena. Please bear this in mind when considering the time needed to travel to and park in Birmingham. For a full list of parking options in the city, please visit www.birmingham.gov.uk/parking. Change in the advertised timings St. Matthew Passion will be approximately 150 mins long, rather than 131 mins long as previously advertised. Therefore, with the addition of the 20 minute interval, this means that the concert will finish at approximately 10pm. Apologies for any inconvenience this amendment may cause. Maintenance works outside Symphony Hall There is ongoing maintenance work occuring outside Symphony Hall, which means that on Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 March there will be no access for cars, taxis and coaches to drop off outside Symphony Hall. The nearest access for vehicles is Cambridge Street. Walking access to the front entrance via Cambridge Street, Centenary Square or Broad Street is not affected by these works. Please note this performance is currently sold out. Clicking on the below link will take you to the booking page if any returns are available. Alternatively you can call the Box Office on 0121 780 3333 to enquire.
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Sir Simon Rattle* _conductor_ *Camilla Tilling* _soprano_ *Magdalena Kožená* _mezzo soprano_ *Mark Padmore* _tenor_ EVANGELIST *Topi Lehtipuu* _tenor_ *Christian Gerhaher* _baritone_ CHRISTUS *Thomas Quasthoff* _baritone_ *CBSO Chorus & CBSO Children's Chorus*
  *Bach* _St Matthew Passion_ 151' (sung in German with English surtitles)
  

• Boyz II Men plus guests 

  Tue 9 Jun Symphony Hall

  One of the most successful R&B male vocal groups of all time returns to Symphony Hall. Between 1992 and 1997, the group sold over 60 million records worldwide and earned a host of Grammy’s. For tonight's fantastic show, they will play hits from their most recent album _Motown: A Journey Through Hitsville USA_ plus many of their classics.
  
  
  

• Centre Stage - Andrew Litton  

  Wed 24 Feb 2010 Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

  *Korngold* Piano Quintet
  *CBSO Players* *Andrew Litton* _piano_
  *Korngold* Piano Quintet
  

• The Barbirolli String Quartet Sunday Morning Coffee Concert 

  Sun 18 Oct Town Hall

  The new series of Rising Stars concerts opens with the UK’s nomination as the Barbirolli Quartet begins its concert tour of the great European concert halls. Named after the famous conductor, these young players here include a movement from Delius’s string quartet (1919) in whose earliest performances Sir John Barbirolli played as a young cellist. £7.50 Discounts available, please check when booking Ticket includes a cup of coffee or tea, or a glass of sherry, orange juice or water.
  Please note: This event is now unreserved (stalls seating) only.
  *Haydn* Quartet in G major Op 77 No 1 *Delius* Late Swallows *Brahms* Quartet in C minor Op 51 No 1
  

• Superfreakonomics Live! with Stephen J.Dubner 

  Sun 20 Jun Town Hall

  Author Stephen J. Dubner brings Freakonomics to the stage in a bold, funny and entertaining evening. With super-smart thinking and great storytelling this evening challenges the way we think, explores how people respond to incentives and shows the world for what it really is... superfreaky. _Freakonomics_ was a worldwide sensation, selling in its millions. The _freakquel_ _Superfreakonomics_ has met with similar world-wide attention and praise: '_A humdinger of a book: page-turning, politically incorrect and ever-so-slightly intoxicating, like a large swig of tequila_' The Times '_Great fun_' Sunday Times '_Thrilling_' Financial Times
  
  Please note there is no interval
  

• Centre Stage - Eyeglass  

  Fri 12 Feb 2010 Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

  *Beethoven* _Eyeglass_ Duo *Dittersdorf* Duo for viola and bass *Schulhoff* Concertino
  *Marie-Christine Zupancic* _flute_ *Adam Römer* _viola_ *John Tattersdill* _double bass_
  *Beethoven* _Eyeglass_ Duo *Dittersdorf* Duo for viola and bass *Schulhoff* Concertino
  

• Orchestra of the Swan Season 2008/09  

  Sun 12 Oct to Sun 10 May Town Hall

  A series of friendly and informal afternoon concerts hosted by conductor David Curtis. Orchestra of the Swan - an Explorchestra! Making music - breaking barriers '...a gutsy and versatile group...' The Guardian Orchestra of the Swan gives performances of the highest professional standard, sharing our passion and conveying the spirit with all our audiences. '...a clear, warm-toned performance...a radiant lyrical splendour...' The Independent Supported by Arts Council England "www.orchestraoftheswan.org":http://www.orchestraoftheswan.org
  Conductor David Curtis
  Pre-concert talk taking place in the auditorium at 1.30pm Post-concert Conversation Club taking place in the Circle Bar 15 minutes after the end of the performance. Entrance free to concert ticket holders
  

• Centre Stage - Lars Vogt  

  Thu 13 May 2010 Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

  *Schubert* '_Trout_' Quintet
  *CBSO Players* *Lars Vogt* _piano_
  *Schubert* '_Trout_' Quintet
  

• Sunday Morning Coffee Concert - Alba Ventura (Piano) ECHO Rising Stars Series 15th season 

  Sun 7 Feb Town Hall

  As well as classical Scarlatti, this fine young rising star pianist nominated by L'Auditori Barcelona offers a programme with a strong Spanish flavour, including Granados's exquisite _Lover and the Nightingale_ and de Falla's notorious _Ritual Fire Dance_ - an exciting prospect for all lovers of the piano. Listen to Alba Ventura on the BBC’s _In Tune_ programme on Radio 3 on Friday 5 February at 5pm.
  *Alba Ventura* _piano_
  *Scarlatti* Five Sonatas *Granados* Two movements from _Goyescas_ *Manuel de Falla* Music from the ballets _The Three Cornered Hat_ and _Love The Magician_
  

• Sing The Classics and Classical Rock  

  Sun 24 Jan 2010 Symphony Hall

  Sing Live Central brings classical and rock together in one concert. Featuring time honoured favourites from Mozart and Handel, including the beautiful Ave Verum Corpus, and rock hits from U2, Bon Jovi, Queen, and more. Sing Live are accompanied by The National Festival Orchestra and a rock band.
  
  
  

• Centre Stage - The Berkley Salon Ensemble  

  Mon 21 Dec Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

  *A Palm Court Christmas Party*
  *The Berkley Salon Ensemble* *CBSYC Seniors*
  *A Palm Court Christmas Party*
  

• TINARIWEN plus very special guests Justin Adams & Juldeh Camara 

  Sat 24 May Town Hall

  Tinariwen are a group of former Touareg warriors from the southern Sahara who (to quote the Sunday Times) ‘strode out of the Sahara with the best rock album of the year [2004], suggesting a gathering of the greatest guitars you’ve ever heard, John Lee Hooker, Jimi Hendrix, and electric Bob Dylan burnt into new shapes by the desert sun’. They fought a rebellion in the early 1990s to win greater freedom for the Touareg people, and their fight gave birth to a whole new style of desert music - their roots rock rebellion of the soul is one of the most entrancing sounds to emerge from Africa in years. Standing £17.50 Seating £20
  
  
  

• Rob Brydon plus support 

  Returns Only

  Sat 3 Oct Symphony Hall

  Rob Brydon's credits read like a compendium of modern British comedy. _Marion & Geoff, Human Remains, I'm Alan Partridge, Black Books, The Keith Barret Show, A Cock and Bull Story, Little Britain, Director's Commentary, Have I Got News For You, I'm Sorry I Haven't a Clue, Q.I._ and most recently his highly acclaimed performance as Uncle Bryn in _Gavin and Stacey_. Now this multi award winning writer / performer comes to Symphony Hall with an evening of brand new stand up comedy. This event is part of BIRMINGHAM COMEDY FESTIVAL, Friday 2 October to Sunday 11 October 2009 "www.bhamcomfest.co.uk":http://www.bhamcomfest.co.uk
  
  
  

• Joan Armatrading  

  Sat 1 May Symphony Hall

  Joan Armatrading whose unique voice has deservedly built her a huge fan following, takes to the road again to play a selection of UK dates in 2010. Joan's strong rhythmic acoustic guitar playing and her melodic electric solos help to make her the consummate musician.The 3 times Grammy nominated British singer songwriter has stood the test of time with songs like _Love And Affection, Willow, Drop The Pilot_ and _Lovers Speak._ _“Britain’s first lady of song”_ Daily Mail
  
  
  

• Centre Stage - Innovation Chamber Ensemble  

  Fri 11 Jun 2010 Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

  *Bruckner (arr. Erwin Stein)* Symphony No 7
  *Innovation Chamber Ensemble*
  *Bruckner (arr. Erwin Stein)* Symphony No 7
  

• Elgar's 150th: The Enigma Afternoon 

  Sat 15 Dec Symphony Hall

  Throughout 2007 we have been celebrating the anniversaries of Elgar and Grieg, and Sakari Oramo has chosen to close the year in style with their most popular pieces. Elgar’s music has been an Oramo speciality during his time with the CBSO, and the composer’s affectionate portrait of his Worcestershire friends is as fresh today as when it announced his arrival as a major international composer in 1899. Grieg’s evergreen concerto has retained an equally secure place in our affections, especially when played by the magnificent Norwegian pianist who has become its most famous modern interpreter. Music from Tchaikovsky’s seasonal ballet sets the seal on a perfect Christmas present!
  Sakari Oramo conductor Leif Ove Andsnes piano
  Tchaikovsky: The Nutcracker Suite Grieg: Piano Concerto Elgar: Enigma Variations
  

• Berlioz's Symphonie Fantastique  

  Thu 15 Apr Symphony Hall

  _Symphonie Fantastique_ dramatises unrequited love. In this colourful score Berlioz depicted the fantasies of a spurned lover, ranging through a glittering ball, love in a meadow during the drowsy heat of the afternoon, an execution and a supernatural encounter in a churchyard at night. Classic FM’s Anne-Marie Minhall, says of tonight’s recommended concert: _“Every year Classic FM asks you to vote for your favourite classical works in our Hall of Fame. One of the works I like to vote for each year is the Grieg Piano Concerto and one of my favourite recordings of it is by tonight’s soloist Jean-Yves Thibaudet.”_
  *Luxembourg Philharmonic Orchestra* *Emmanuel Krivine* conductor *Jean-Yves Thibaudet* piano
  Berlioz Overture, _Roman Carnival_ 8’ Grieg Piano Concerto 28’ Berlioz _Symphonie Fantastique_ 50’
  

• A Swinging Christmas featuring the BBC Big Band with special guest Matthew Ford. In association with BBC Radio 2 

  Fri 12 Dec Town Hall

  Seasonal and swinging classics from the BBC Big Band with acclaimed vocalist Matthew Ford. Join the celebration as they perform favourites including _Midnight Sleighride_, _The Christmas Song_, _Let it Snow_, _Winter Wonderland_ and _Santa Claus is Coming to Town_.
  *Jiggs Whigham* Conductor
  
  

• Mahler's First  

  Wed 21 Nov Symphony Hall

  Mahler may have gone on to write nine more symphonies, but it’s all there in his First: a complete musical world that veers from triumph to tragedy and back again, expressed through the supercharged sounds of a gigantic orchestra at full tilt. The Orchestra is directed by an outstanding British conductor in this titan of a symphony, and for Tchaikovsky’s equally emotional concerto he’s joined by a superb violinist making a welcome return to Birmingham. Beethoven’s fiery overture completes a dramatic programme. Free Pre-Concert Talk 21st November 1.15pm The concert is followed by a Members’ Afternoon Tea with conductor Edward Gardner as guest speaker, in conversation with Christopher Morley of The Birmingham Post. For information on how to support the CBSO through one of our membership schemes, please contact Gill Powell on 0121 616 6514, or email gpowell@cbso.co.uk
  *Edward Gardner* Conductor *Christian Tetzlaff* Violin
  *Beethoven*: Overture, Coriolan *Tchaikovsky*: Violin Concerto *Mahler*: Symphony No. 1
  

• English Originals Weekend 2010  

  Fri 14 May Town Hall & Symphony Hall

  Now in its third year, the critically acclaimed English Originals Weekend celebrates English music in all its diversity. From traditional folk to contemporary singer-songwriters; individuals all connected by a strong sense of place, identity and wit as well as possessing some fine musical talent. 'In less than two years, Birmingham’s reborn Town Hall may have already secured its place as the new spiritual home of English folk music' Birmingham Post, on English Originals Weekend 2009.
  
  
  

• XL - In 40 Parts  

  Sun 31 Jan Town Hall

  It had to be! In our 40th year a concert of music written in 40parts, including two works specially written for Ex Cathedra and the iconic model - the soaring, uplifting, remarkable, truly monumental _Spem in alium_!
  *Ex Cathedra Choir* *Jeffrey Skidmore* Conductor
  Thomas Tallis _Spem in alium_ Alessandro Striggio _Ecce beatam lucem_ Gabriel Jackson _Santum est verum lucem (2005)_ Alec Roth _A new work (2010)_ Thomas Tallis _Sing and glorify (1610)_
  

• BBC BIG BAND Seventy Years of Swing - Goodman, Herman & Shaw 

  Fri 14 Dec Town Hall

  The BBC Big Band celebrates seventy years of swing in the company of clarinettist Iain Dixon and vocalist Paul Bentley. Featuring the music of Benny Goodman, Artie Shaw, Woody Herman and swing era classics including Sing, Sing, Sing, Begin the Beguine, Four Brothers, and Don’t Be That Way.
  
  
  

• Yasmin Levy - Sentir Tour  

  Wed 10 Feb Town Hall

  Yasmin Levy is, in the words of The Guardian, ‘the next world music superstar.’ Her exquisite and passionate vocal style combines the purity of Ladino (the Judeo-Spanish music of Spain) and the fiery heart of flamenco. In her new album _Sentir_ (World Village), produced by the acclaimed Javier Limón (who has worked previously with the likes of Portuguese fado star Mariza), she has found a vision that integrates these musical directions. With Sentir, Yasmin’s music truly becomes 'of the world’. _"Aside from her stunning looks, Levy's biggest asset is her voice, which is versatile, sensuous, and brimming with emotion"_ The Independent _“Her magical new album, Sentir, is her most mesmerising accomplishment so far, and will surely find a place on many a ‘record of the year’ list in the coming months.”_ Sunday Times No support, no interval.
  
  
  

• Centre Stage - Haydn & Ravel  

  Thu 15 Oct Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

  *Haydn* Quartet in C, Op 33 No 3 (The Bird) *Ravel* String Quartet
  *CBSO Players*
  *Haydn* Quartet in C, Op 33 No 3 (The Bird) *Ravel* String Quartet
  

• Space Classics A Light and Laser Extravaganza 

  Tue 30 Dec Symphony Hall

  _A Light and Laser Extravaganza_ A fantastic voyage in a galaxy of sight and sound through deep space and beyond! *WITH A DAZZLING LASER DISPLAY*
  Anthony Inglis _conductor_ London Concert Orchestra
  *E.T.* *Star Trek* *Star Wars* *Superman* *Return of the Jedi * *Attack of The Clones * *The Phantom Menace* *Thunderbirds are Go!* *Mars, Jupiter and Mercury from The Planets* *The Empire Strikes Back* *Close Encounters of the Third Kind* *Sunrise from Also Sprach Zarathustra*
  

• Tchaikovsky’s Little Russian  

  Wed 17 Jun 2009 Symphony Hall

  After Hamlet in November, Andris Nelsons offers us another of Tchaikovsky’s responses to Shakespeare, a passionate fantasy overture based on the kind of story of doomed love to which the composer was naturally drawn. But Tchaikovsky is not always doom and gloom, and his Second Symphony uses folk music to create a tuneful work of great charm. Britten, a more openly gay composer than Tchaikovsky, nevertheless suffered his own share of inner torment - but in his Serenade we hear his acutely sympathetic response to great English poems from across the ages. This concert is followed by a Members’ Afternoon Tea with Elspeth Dutch, in conversation with Christopher Morley of The Birmingham Post. 1.15pm Pre-concert talk - The Little Russian Roderic Dunnett of The Independent gives a user’s guide to Tchaikovsky’s Second Symphony
  Andris Nelsons - conductor Elspeth Dutch - horn Toby Spence - tenor City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra
  Tchaikovsky: Romeo and Juliet 21’ Britten: Serenade for Tenor, Horn and Strings 26’ Tchaikovsky: Symphony No. 2 (Little Russian) 33’
  

• CBSO One Thousand and One Nights - Matinee  

  Wed 19 May Symphony Hall

  Soaring violin solos, drama on the high seas and a total mastery of the orchestra: it’s no surprise that Rimsky-Korsakov’s _Scheherazade_ has become one of the most played and best-loved of all Russian pieces. After his thrilling CBSO debut two seasons ago, dynamic Czech conductor Jakub Hrůša returns with this and another Russian masterpiece, Tchaikovsky’s charming _Rococo_ Variations. Tchaikovsky was inspired by his lifelong love of Mozart, and the concert begins with one of the greatest of Mozart’s symphonies, written for a visit to Hrůša’s home city. Visit the "CBSO website":http://www.cbso.co.uk This concert is followed by a Members’ Afternoon Tea with Jakub Hrůša, in conversation with Christopher Morley of The Birmingham Post. For full details contact Eve Smith on 0121 616 6533 or email esmith@cbso.co.uk
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Jakub Hrůša* conductor *Johannes Moser* cello
  *Mozart* Symphony No38 (Prague) 25' *Tchaikovsky* Rococo Variations 18' *Rimsky-Korsakov* Scheherazade 47'
  

• The National Children's Orchestra  

  Sat 23 Aug Town Hall

  If you are looking to see something outstanding and inspiring this summer period then the National Children's Orchestra is the performance to see. The quality of sound produced by such a young orchestra is outstanding. Each year NCO auditions hundreds of talented children to take up the 500 highly sought after places. The sheer passion and enthusiasm of the children adds to the experience making it perfect, for you and your friends and family alike. You have to see it to believe it! £10, £14, £17, Under 16's £5 60 plus/full-time students/unwaged/ disabled patrons £8, £12, £15
  
  
  

• Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Show Please note there is no support 

  Thu 11 Mar Symphony Hall

  This stunning new note-for-note production brings one of rock ‘n’ roll’s greatest landmark albums back to life in truly breathtaking fashion. Featuring some of the best musicians from the Fab Four’s own home town of Liverpool, and backed by a spellbinding new light show, original big screen animations and a host of fun surprises, this show is a must for Beatles fans old and new. The performance of Sgt Pepper in its entirety will be followed by an hour of Beatles classics live.
  
  
  

• Elgar's 150th: The Violin Concerto CBSO 

  Wed 2 May Symphony Hall

  "Herein is enshrined the soul of�". The dedication on the score of Elgar's Violin Concerto, like his Enigma Variations, is a riddle through which this most complex and passionate of characters tried to hide his true feelings behind a bluff, typically 'English' exterior. Unlocking the secrets of this most moving of violin concertos will be an acclaimed young virtuoso and former prot�g� of Yehudi Menuhin, the work's most famous interpreter. Wagner's Tannh�user is also concerned with unattainable love, while Brahms's most graceful symphony completes the programme. The concert on 3 May is followed by a Members' Afternoon Tea with CBSO Music Director Sakari Oramo as guest speaker, in conversation with Christopher Morley of The Birmingham Post. For information on how to support the CBSO through one of its membership schemes, please contact Gill Powell on 0121 616 6514, or email gpowell@cbso.co.uk PLEASE NOTE this concert is being performed on Wednesday 2 May, 7.30pm and Thursday 3 May, 2.15pm
  Sakari Oramo Conductor Daniel Hope Violin
  Wagner Tannh�user Overture 14' Elgar Violin Concerto 45' Brahms Symphony No 2 42'
  

• Centre Stage - Brass Explosion  

  Thu 3 Dec Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

  *Poulenc* Sonata for Horn, Trumpet and Trombone *Nyman* Masque Arias *Mathias* Summer Dances
  
  *Poulenc* Sonata for Horn, Trumpet and Trombone *Nyman* Masque Arias *Mathias* Summer Dances
  

• Centre Stage - Marie-Christine Zupancic  

  Thu 21 Jan 2010 Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

  *Falla* Concerto for harpsichord & five instruments *Mozart* Flute Quartet in C, K.285b
  *Marie-Christine Zupancic* _flute_
  *Falla* Concerto for harpsichord & five instruments *Mozart* Flute Quartet in C, K.285b
  

• Centre Stage - Russian String Quartets CBSO Players 

  Fri 7 May 2010 Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

  *Tchaikovsky* String Quartet No 1 *Shostakovich* String Quartet No 6
  *CBSO Players*
  *Tchaikovsky* String Quartet No 1 *Shostakovich* String Quartet No 6
  

• Orchestra of the Swan: The English Romantic  

  Wed 15 Apr Town Hall

  A perfect afternoon classical treat in the beautiful setting of Town Hall. The renaissance of English music, led by Elgar, saw an astonishing flowering of talent which continues today. Ireland's Piano Concerto is on a large scale, firmly based on the 19th century Romantic model. It provides an ideal counterpart to Brahms's sublime D major symphony, perhaps the most intimate of all his symphonic masterpieces. Orchestra of the Swan is a Town Hall Associate Artist. Please note that the choir area is bench seating, the benches are behind the stage area, and there is limited legroom and no back support. The view of the stage from this area is limited. Book 3 or more OOTS concerts in one transaction and receive a 10% reduction. Book all 6 in one transaction and receive a 20% reduction. Please call the Box Office direct on 0121 780 3333 to take advantage of these offer
  *Mark Bebbington* Piano
  *Vaughan Williams* The Wasps *John Ireland* Piano concerto No 1 *Brahms* Symphony No 2
  

• Elgar's 150th: The Violin Concerto (matinee) CBSO 

  Thu 3 May Symphony Hall

  "Herein is enshrined the soul of�". The dedication on the score of Elgar's Violin Concerto, like his Enigma Variations, is a riddle through which this most complex and passionate of characters tried to hide his true feelings behind a bluff, typically 'English' exterior. Unlocking the secrets of this most moving of violin concertos will be an acclaimed young virtuoso and former prot�g� of Yehudi Menuhin, the work's most famous interpreter. Wagner's Tannh�user is also concerned with unattainable love, while Brahms's most graceful symphony completes the programme. The concert on 3 May is followed by a Members' Afternoon Tea with CBSO Music Director Sakari Oramo as guest speaker, in conversation with Christopher Morley of The Birmingham Post. For information on how to support the CBSO through one of its membership schemes, please contact Gill Powell on 0121 616 6514, or email gpowell@cbso.co.uk PLEASE NOTE this concert is being performed on Wednesday 2 May, 7.30pm and Thursday 3 May, 2.15pm
  Sakari Oramo Conductor Daniel Hope Violin
  Wagner Tannh�user Overture 14' Elgar Violin Concerto 45' Brahms Symphony No 2 42'
  

• BBC Big Band: Duke Ellington's Sounds of Harlem  

  Fri 12 Mar 2010 Town Hall

  The BBC Big Band performs the best of Duke Ellington including his acclaimed Nutcracker and Peer Gynt suites along with Cotton Club classics _The Mooche_ and _East St Louis Toodle Oo_. Guest singer Jaki Graham proves that _It Don’t mean a Thing if it ain’t got that Swing_. Concert to be recorded for BBC Radio 2’s "Big Band Special":http://www.bbc.co.uk/radio2/shows/bigband BBC Big Band is a Town Hall Associate Artist
  *BBC Big Band* *Jaki Graham* _vocalist_ *Jiggs Whigham* _conductor_
  
  

• Centre Stage - The Leo Quartet The Leo Quartet 

  Fri 5 Mar 2010 Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

  *Rachmaninov* Two Movements for String Quartet *Beethoven* String Quartet in C, Op 59 No 3 (Razumovsky)
  *The Leo Quartet*
  *Rachmaninov* Two Movements for String Quartet *Beethoven* String Quartet in C, Op 59 No 3 (Razumovsky)
  

• Al Murray The Pub Landlord Barrel of Fun 

  Sun 24 Oct Symphony Hall

  _Al Murray The Pub Landlord_ is back on the road to roll out his _Barrel of Fun_, a brand new stand-up show for 2010. Britain’s best-known Pub Philosopher will be serving up his own special brew of bar room banter at Symphony Hall this autumn. “_The way he integrates the crowd into the show is awe-inspiring_” The Times In 2009, the People’s Publican left over 230,000 of his regulars over-flowing with laughter, on his one-man crusade to fix "Broken Britain". This year you can expect a whole new _Barrel of Fun_, and one thing is certain - there will be no half measures. “_A national treasure_” ***** Daily Telegraph “_Thoroughly recommended_” ***** The Sun "The Pub Landlord":http://thepublandlord.com
  
  
  

• The Final of the Robert William & Florence Amy Brant International Pianoforte Competition 2008  

  Sat 12 Jul Town Hall

  With an illustrious list of former winners, including Mark Bebbington and Roger Owens, and a first prize of £3000, this prestigious international piano competition provides young pianists with the opportunity to further their careers and perform in world-class venues. In tonight’s concert three finalists, selected at the end of the semi-final stage, will each perform a varied programme of no more than 40 minutes’ duration consisting of their own choice of works by three different composers. £10, 60 plus/full-time students/under 16s/ unwaged £7.50 (unreserved seating) Entry details and more information can be found at www.thsh.co.uk/brantcompetition. The preliminary round and semi-final of the competition will take place at the CBSO Centre (Berkley Street, Birmingham, B1 2LF) on Saturday 5 & Sunday 6 July 2008. Please follow the link below for further details: "CBSO Website":http://cbso.co.uk
  
  
  

• Jack Bruce meets the BBC Big Band In association with BBC Radio 2 

  Fri 14 Nov Town Hall

  A Town Hall and UK exclusive featuring legendary singer, bassist and composer Jack Bruce in concert with the BBC Big Band. This new collaboration features music from Jack’s solo career along with classics from the super group Cream; including Smiles & Grins, The Consul at Sunset, Spoonful, Deserted Cities of the Heart and Sunshine of Your Love.
  *Jorg Achim Keller* Conductor and arranger
  
  

• Joe Brown in concert with Special Guest Dave Edmunds 

  Fri 21 Sep Symphony Hall

  One of the country’s best loved, enduring, and most acclaimed musicians, Joe Brown is back by popular demand. This is your chance to see one of the all time great talents and the UK’s premier rock ‘n’ roll legend. Joe plays timeless classics, rockabilly, gospel, country, folk, and electric rock & roll all interwoven with effervescent delivery and humorous reminiscences. Dave Edmunds has made a place for himself as one of the most respected guitarists, songwriters and producers of the last 30 years. He is responsible for many hits including his solo number 1, _I Hear You Knockin’_.
  
  
  

• Jimmy Webb & The Webb Brothers featuring Romeo Stodart of The Magic Numbers  

  Sun 8 Nov Town Hall

  Jimmy Webb, his father Bob Webb, and his sons, The Webb Brothers - Christiaan, Justin, James and Cornelius - take the stage together for the first time to perform as a three-generation family band. The family will perform Jimmy Webb classics as well as notable Webb Brothers tunes. Tim Walker joins the band on pedal steel, with Cal Campbell on drums. The new outfit combines the rock sensibility and youthful production of the younger Webbs with the timeless Americana grandeur of their father’s symphonic songs. Jimmy Webb is the only artist ever to receive Grammy awards for music, lyrics, and orchestration. He’s been covered by Elvis Presley, Frank Sinatra, Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, James Taylor, Kris Kristofferson, Waylon Jennings, Arlo Guthrie, Barbra Streisand, R.E.M., Linda Ronstadt, Diana Ross and the Supremes, Art Garfunkel, Shawn Colvin and Joe Cocker, and provided instant classics for Glen Campbell in _By The Time I Get To Phoenix_, _Wichita Lineman_, _Galveston_, plus Richard Harris and Donna Summer with _MacArthur Park_, _Didn’t We_ and the Fifth Dimension hit _Up, Up and Away_. As a performer, he blends his swift, biting sense of humor with elegant renditions of his classic songs. The Webb Brothers grew up immersed in music from an early age and were soon recording and performing together. They amassed a loyal cult following while releasing three records on Warner Brothers during the early 2000s. The critically acclaimed _Maroon_ was, according to The Guardian, 2000’s best all round reviewed album in the UK, making numerous top ten lists.
  
  *Please note: This event has moved from Symphony Hall to Town Hall.
  

• Centre Stage - Brahms Piano Quartet CBSO Players 

  Wed 31 Mar 2010 Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

  *Brahms* Piano Quartet in G minor, Op 25
  *CBSO Players*
  *Brahms* Piano Quartet in G minor, Op 25
  

• Centre Stage - The Dadelsen Trio  

  Wed 18 Nov Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

  *Schumann* Fantasy Pieces, Op 88 *Mendelssohn* Piano Trio No 2
  *The Dadelsen Trio*
  *Schumann* Fantasy Pieces, Op 88 *Mendelssohn* Piano Trio No 2
  

• Royal Philharmonic Orchestra plays Symphonic Rock  

  Fri 26 Nov Symphony Hall

  Back by popular demand and following 2009’s sell-out show, the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra returns to Birmingham to perform more legendary rock anthems and classic tracks. Featuring popular hits by: *COLDPLAY, BON JOVI, ERIC CLAPTON, ELBOW, QUEEN, LED ZEPPELIN, TINA TURNER, THE MOODY BLUES* and many more! PLUS! NEW FOR 2010: Symphonic Sgt. Pepper (The Beatles)
  Ken Bruce, BBC Radio 2 _Presenter_ Nick Davies _Conductor_ Metro Voices
  
  

• Centre Stage - Stockhausen  

  Thu 29 Apr 2010 Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

  *Stockhausen* _Tierkreis_ Music by *Miles Davis, Wayne Shorter, Duke Ellington* and *Bruno Heinen*.
  *Ulrich Heinen* _cello_ *Mark Goodchild* _double bass_ *Bruno Heinen* _piano_
  *Stockhausen* _Tierkreis_ Music by *Miles Davis, Wayne Shorter, Duke Ellington* and *Bruno Heinen*.
  

• Teatro Sings The Magic of the Musicals plus very special guests **CANCELLED** 

  Change of Date

  Wed 21 May Symphony Hall

  Take the outstanding vocal talent of four good looking young men and a unique collection of timeless classics from musical theatre and you have all the ingredients for the success of Teatro. Already billed as Theatreland’s first supergroup, they captivated the nation with their stunning rendition of ‘I Dreamed A Dream’ on the 79th Royal Variety Performance and their debut album, simply entitled Teatro has achieved gold disc status. Join them and their special guests as they celebrate great anthems from a century of musicals. £21.50, £24.50, £26.50 *This concert has been postponed with no future date currently confirmed. We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.*
  
  
  

• Sandwell Youth Music  

  Mon 13 Jul Symphony Hall

  Sandwell Youth Music and Arts Service is spearheading a celebration of the vast range of musical talent that exists within the Borough. The July 13 concert will feature a diverse number of groups including world music and rock musicians, dancers and hundreds of young instrumentalists learning under the Wider Opportunities scheme. On July 14 the nationally-recognised Sandwell Youth Music bands, orchestras and choirs will present a varied programme of music including popular classics and music from the hit musical _Hairspray_.
  
  
  

• Sandwell Youth Music  

  Tue 14 Jul Symphony Hall

  Sandwell Youth Music and Arts Service is spearheading a celebration of the vast range of musical talent that exists within the Borough. The July 13 concert will feature a diverse number of groups including world music and rock musicians, dancers and hundreds of young instrumentalists learning under the Wider Opportunities scheme. On July 14 the nationally-recognised Sandwell Youth Music bands, orchestras and choirs will present a varied programme of music including popular classics and music from the hit musical _Hairspray_..
  
  
  

• Meet the Associates  

  Sat 13 Sep Town Hall

  As part of the ArtsFest weekend we’re offering free showcase performances from the Town Hall Associate Artists: 1pm - 2pm *Black Voices* showcase The inspirational female vocal quintet 2.30pm - 3.30pm *BBC Big Band* showcase Conducted by Barry Forgie, Britain’s finest big band is on stage with jazz and swing classics 4pm - 5pm *Ex Cathedra* choir showcase Beautiful and uplifting singing from Birmingham’s premier choir Admission FREE
  
  
  

• The Music of Andrew Lloyd Webber  

  Sun 22 Mar Symphony Hall

  For many years the hugely prolific Andrew Lloyd Webber has not only dominated the theatre stage in the West End and Broadway, but he has also enjoyed unrivalled chart and commercial success. Having written some of the world's most covered compositions, in recent years he has taken on the role of mentor in television's _American Idol_, _How do you solve a problem like Maria_, _Any Dream Will Do_, as well as _I'd Do Anything_ Join The Showbiz Pops Orchestra, and four of the West End’s finest stars in an evening of excerpts from the musicals of the world's most successful composer - hear your favourites from _The Phantom of the Opera_, _Cats, Evita, Jesus Christ Superstar, Starlight Express, Sunset Boulevard, Aspects of Love, Tell me on a Sunday, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat_ and many other Lloyd Webber favourites. £22.50, £26.50, £30
  *Richard Ward-Roden* conductor Starring *Daniel Boys*, *Chrissie Hammond*, *Helen Hobson* and *Scott Davis*
  
  

• Beyond the Barricade 8th record-breaking year 

  Sun 22 Apr Symphony Hall

  *Encore Lounge* - Make your evening at Symphony Hall even more special by enjoying complimentary bar service of champagne, wines and beers both before the concert and during the interval and canap�s designed by our award winning chefs in an exclusive lounge area for �17.90 per person. Please note booking is essential. For further information and to book please contact Emily Waller, Symphony Hall Catering Manager on 0121 644 5102 or email catering@symphonyhall.co.uk (Please note this package is subject to cancellation if demand is insufficient)
  Now in its 8th record-breaking year, the UK�s leading musical theatre concert appears with a new show for 2007, featuring songs from the world�s greatest musicals.
  This cast of past principal performers from Les Miserables perform songs from Miss Saigon, The Lion King, Tell Me on a Sunday, Phantom Of the Opera, We Will Rock You, Chicago, Blood Brothers and many more, climaxing with a spectacular finale from, of course, Les Miserables!
  

• Re-opening Organ Concert Evening  

  Wed 17 Oct Town Hall

  Here is your first chance to see the magnificant 1834 Town Hall Organ in all its refurbished glory. City Organist Thomas Trotter shows off its 6000 pipes with a stunning piece for pedals alone by one of his predecessors and a world premiere by Paul Patterson, specially commissioned for the occasion. Thomas Trotter is a Town Hall Associate Artist. If you are unable to get tickets for this concert, don't despair! You can hear the refurbished Town Hall organ in all it's glory in Ex Cathedra's Spirit of the Age concert on Sunday 14 October at 2.30pm.
  *Thomas Trotter* Organ
  *Handel* Organ Concerto no. 16 in F *Widor* First Movement from Organ Symphony no. 5 *Morandi* Bell-Rondo (arr. W. T. Best) *Paul Patterson* New Work (world premiere) *Elgar* First Movement from Organ Sonata in G *Thalben-Ball* Variations on a Theme of Paganini (for Pedals) *Saint-Saëns* Danse Macabre (arr. E. H. Lemare) *Bizet* Carmen Suite (arr. E. H. Lemare)
  

• Centre Stage - Brahms String Quintet  

  Fri 6 Nov Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

  *Brahms* String Quintet in F minor (based on the Piano Quintet, Op 34)
  *CBSO Players*
  *Brahms* String Quintet in F minor (based on the Piano Quintet, Op 34)
  

• Silver Screen Classics  

  Sat 29 Dec Symphony Hall

  Honor Blackman presents the greatest movie hits of all time from the best of British cinema to Hollywood Blockbusters including selections from _Star Wars_, _Harry Potter_, _Gone With the Wind_, _Gladiator_ and many more.
  *Paul Bateman* Conductor *London Concert Orchestra*
  *Programme to include selections from:* Star Wars Harry Potter Lord of the Rings E.T. The Godfather Star Trek Out of Africa Born Free Superman The Magnificent Seven Lawrence of Arabia Schindler's List Gladiator James Bond Murder on the Orient Express Pirates of the Caribbean The Big Country Indiana Jones
  

• New English Orchestra and Singers Introduce RECREATIO!  

  Sat 17 Jan Town Hall

  A kaleidoscope of music to refresh and inspire from an ensemble which specializes in spiritual music This multi-faceted presentation includes music and dance from Africa, Latin America, Israel and Russia plus Scottish Fiddle Music, whilst also featuring the following classics: African: spiritual music from Uganda including In Tongues of Living Flame and Alleluia! Jesus is alive today! Cuban: Boliviana by Chucho Valdes Israeli: Great and Wonderful by Stuart Dauerman Russian: O Praise the name of the Lord from Vespers by Rachmaninoff
  
  *Monteverdi* ‘Laetatus Sum’ *Vivaldi* Concerto for Two Trumpets *Bach* Wachet Auf
  

• CBSO Youth Orchestra  

  Sun 28 Oct Symphony Hall

  Tonight Michael Seal unleashes the orchestra's youthful energy on Carl Nielsen’s explosive Fourth Symphony. A torrential celebration of the unstoppable power of the life-force, it’s no wonder it’s dubbed _The Inextinguishable_! It should be a thrilling work-out for our superb young players. Seal also steers them through two more 20th-century showpieces - Rachmaninov’s much-loved Rhapsody, and the all-American high-jinks of Leonard Bernstein’s uproarious Divertimento. “A feisty performance from these excellent young players.” The Sunday Times, October 2006 *Please note Sakari Oramo has unfortunately had to withdraw from the concert due to illness. Michael Seal has kindly agreed to step in at short notice and will conduct the whole concert.*
  *Michael Seal* Conductor *Alexander Melnikov* Piano
  *Bernstein*: Divertimento *Rachmaninov*: Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini *Nielsen*: Symphony No. 4 ( _The Inextinguishable_ )
  

• Last Night of the Spring Proms  

  Sat 8 Mar Symphony Hall

  All your Proms favourites including The Dam Busters March, Jerusalem, Nessun Dorma, Rule, Britannia! and Land of Hope and Glory. Don’t miss this wonderful feast of all your favourite classics crowned with an uplifting British finale. £11, £15, £20, £23.50, £27.50, £31.50
  *John Pryce-Jones* Conductor *Philip O’Brien* Tenor *Andrew Rupp* Baritone *London Concert Orchestra*
  *Programme includes:* *Grieg* Morning and in the Hall of the Mountain King *Strauss* Radetzky March *Delibes* Prelude and Mazurka from Coppélia *Elgar* Nimrod *Tchaikovsky* The Sleeping Beauty Waltz
  

• Centre Stage - CBSO Baroque Players  

  Thu 14 Jan Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

  _"From the Court of Frederick the Great"_ Works by C.P.E. Bach, Quantz, Graun and Janitsch.
  *CBSO Baroque Players*
  _"From the Court of Frederick the Great"_ Works by C.P.E. Bach, Quantz, Graun and Janitsch.
  

• Centre Stage - CBSO Players perform Fauré and Bridge  

  Thu 28 Jan 2010 Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

  *Fauré* Piano Quartet No 1 *Bridge* Phantasy Piano Quartet
  *CBSO Players*
  *Fauré* Piano Quartet No 1 *Bridge* Phantasy Piano Quartet
  

• Bellowhead + Jackie Oates English Originals Weekend 2010 

  Sun 16 May Town Hall

  'Best live band we have. No contest' fRoots ‘The biggest, rowdiest and quite possibly, best thing to have happened to English music for a long while’ Q Magazine Bellowhead are a multi-talented group of musicians capable of playing a plethora of styles from around the world - big band to soul; jazz-funk to classical strings, yet retaining a unique sensitivity to English traditional music. Opening the evening is the critically acclaimed young folk singer and fiddler Jackie Oates. ‘Make room for an impeccable starlet-to-be' Word
  
  
  

• Passion for Life Friday Events Phatfish 

  Fri 26 Mar Town Hall

  A Passion for Life is a set of events organised at Easter 2010 by local churches and are an opportunity for people of all faiths and none to consider the relevance of Jesus Christ for today. Rico Tice will be giving a number of talks on various topics. Tonight, well-known Christian band, Phatfish will be playing and Rico will be speaking. Also throughout the weekend there are smaller events aimed different sections of the community such as an interactive Easter Family Praise concert and a pre-school Lost Sheep Party. On the Saturday there will also be a number of talks on issues with opportunities for Q&A. Full info at "A Passion For Life":http://www.apassionforlife-brum.org.uk
  
  
  

• Centre Stage - Andrew Gough & CBSO Players  

  Fri 2 Oct Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

  *Boccherini* Guitar Quintet No 4 (Fandango) *Castelnuono-Tedesco* Guitar Quintet
  *CBSO Players* *Andrew Gough* _guitar_
  *Boccherini* Guitar Quintet No 4 (Fandango) *Castelnuono-Tedesco* Guitar Quintet
  

• The Shaolin Wheel of Life  

  Sun 26 Oct Symphony Hall

  The Ultimate Masters of Kung-Fu return to the UK, following previous sell-out seasons with “Shaolin Wheel Of Life”, a show jam-packed with incredible feats of strength and skill, which will delight the whole family. Twenty Shaolin Monks and five young trainees have travelled all the way from the Shaolin Temple in China, to demonstrate their martial arts expertise. In a crescendo of kung-fu sequences, the Shaolin Monks are lifted aloft on sharpened spears, splinter wooden blocks with their bare hands, break bricks on their heads and fly through the air in a series of incredible back flips and spins. This show is the Shaolin legend made real and is definitely NOT to be tried at home! * The twenty men on stage are not like the rest of us • Sunday Express * It’s a thrilling, uplifting sight. You’ll want to go straight home and shave your head. - Daily telegraph * Hair raising brilliance • Daily Telegraph * Jaw dropping • Evening Standard * The Ultimate Masters Of Kung Fu • Time Out * Near Miraculous feats of strength and endurance • What’s On
  
  
  

• CBSO Nelsons Conducts Shostakovich  

  Tue 27 Apr 2010 Symphony Hall

  Muddle or music? If you had just written the loudest, most ambitious, most terrifying symphony since Mahler, and found your music criticised in the national press on behalf of a leader who enjoyed killing anyone who got in his way, what would you do? Well, Shostakovich decided to withdraw his epic Fourth Symphony in 1936 before its first performance, only for it to resurface decades later and be recognised as one of his greatest masterpieces. An outstanding German violinist joins the Orchestra for a more optimistic 1930s classic.
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Andris Nelsons* _conductor_ *Frank Peter Zimmermann* _violin_
  *Bartók* Violin Concerto No 2 36’ *Shostakovich* Symphony No 4 60’
  

• A Night At The Theatre With Asia  

  Tue 21 Apr Town Hall

  Asia exploded onto the music scene in 1982. This "supergroup", featuring bassist/vocalist John Wetton, drummer Carl Palmer, keyboardist Geoff Downes, and guitarist Steve Howe, was the logical successor to their collective bands of the 70s - Yes, ELP, King Crimson, and The Buggles. Their debut album included classics _Heat Of The Moment, Only Time Will Tell,_ and _Sole Survivor_. Now the original members are reunited: “This is the real Asia,” says Steve Howe. “There have been other versions, but this original line-up is the one that the public truly embraced...it will be nice, finally, to play for audiences all over the world, many of whom never had a chance to see the group in concert.”
  
  
  

• Centre Stage - Elspeth Dutch Elspeth Dutch and CBSO colleagues 

  Fri 23 Apr 2010 Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

  *Glazunov* Idyll for horn and strings *Dunhill* Horn Quintet in F minor
  *Elspeth Dutch* _horn_ *CBSO players*
  *Glazunov* Idyll for horn and strings *Dunhill* Horn Quintet in F minor
  

• Roberto Fonseca  

  Wed 2 Jun Town Hall

  _“Sensuous, fresh, modern - brings the piano dazzlingly to life.”_ The Daily Telegraph _“A genre-busting tour de force."_ The Observer _“Fonseca is a star.”_ The Independent On Sunday _"A fabulously gifted pianist, composer and band leader... a gift for melody that outshines more celebrated peers."_ The Guardian Roberto Fonseca is an extraordinary and charismatic young pianist from Cuba. He wowed audiences as a member of Buena Vista Social Club, where he was successor to Ruben Gonzalez, co-produced Ibrahim Ferrer’s last album, and released his debut album _Zamazu_ to global acclaim. His exuberant pianism draws on Cuban traditions, and his music is a vibrant, sexy and beguiling cocktail of Latin and Jazz, topped off with an unparalleled gift for melody.
  *Roberto Fonseca* _piano/keyboards_ *Joel Hierrezuelo* _percussion_ *Javier Zalba* _clarinet, flute, sax_ *Ramsés Rodriguez* _drums_ *Omar Gonzáles* _double bass_
  
  

• Bach Discovery Day  

  Sat 30 May Symphony Hall

  Preceding Angela Hewitt's performance of the Goldberg Variations, we present a day-long series of talks by guest speakers, with discussions and live music, that will give us a deeper insight into Bach's beautiful mind, as well as the man behind the music. Chaired by BBC Radio 3's Graeme Kay, the Bach Discovery will include sessions on Bach the man, Bach and spirituality, Bach and the magic of numbers, Performing Bach, and a screening of the Bach episode from Simon Russell Beale's BBC 4 series on choral music. Participants include Chris de Souza (radio presenter, record producer and composer), musician and Lutheran liturgical expert Peter Lea-Cox, Kevin Jones (Emeritus Professor of Music, Kingston University), and the acclaimed jazz interpreter of Bach, David Rees-Williams, who plays at Town Hall on the morning of Sunday 31 May. From 1pm to 2.15pm there will be a free 'Come and sing' event on stage in Symphony Hall, based around Bach's motet Lobet den Herrn, conducted by Peter King, Organist of Bath Abbey. This session is open to all, whether or not you are attending the rest of the day.
  
  
  

• The Fron Male Voice Choir  

  Fri 16 May Symphony Hall

  *Voices of the Valley Encore* The Fron Male Voice Choir follow the release of their second album _Encore_ with a UK tour. The Choir’s debut, _Voices of the Valley_, became the best-selling classical album of 2006. Fron’s follow-up presents another carefully selected musical mix. Such indestructible popular classics as _Bridge Over Troubled Water_ and Paul McCartney’s _Yesterday_ nestle alongside _How Great Thou Art_, _Amazing Grace_ and _Guide Me O Thou Great Redeemer_. There’s something for everybody, but always sprinkled with that indefinable Welsh mystique! £20, £27.50
  
  
  

• Grand Organ Gala London Concert Orchestra 

  Sat 28 Jun Symphony Hall

  A magnificent evening of favourite orchestral classics celebrating the power and splendour of the King of Instruments presented by Phillp Scriven. *Philip Scriven* Organ/Presenter *Adrian Partington* Conductor *Fanfare Trumpeters of the Band of the Welsh Guards* *London Concert Orchestra*
  *STRAUSS* Sunrise from Also Sprach Zarathustra *BACH* Toccata and Fugue *SAINT-SAENS* Organ Symphony *WALTON* Crown Imperial *CLARKE* Trumper Voluntary *MASCAGNI* Intermezzo from Cavalleria Rusticana *ALBINONI* Adagio *WIDOR* Toccata *ELGAR* Cockaigne Overture Pomp and Circumstance March No.1
  
  

• Suzanne Vega Plus Support 

  Sat 19 Jun Town Hall

  Pioneering American singer/songwriter, Suzanne Vega returns to Town Hall following last year's superb concert. Songs such as _Marlene on the Wall_, _Luka_ and the hugely successful album _Solitude Standing_ have brought her gentle yet powerfully political acoustic pop to a global audience. She has inspired a generation of musicians - Beth Orton and Alanis Morrisette spring to mind - and tonight is another chance to hear those beautiful songs and Suzanne's hauntingly fragile vocals. 2010 sees the release of her all new acoustic studio recordings, _Suzanne Vega, Close-Up Vol.1: Love Songs_, in which she reinterprets her best-loved songs in imaginative and intimate renderings.
  
  
  

• BBC Big Band: Frank & Ella - A Tribute  

  Fri 3 Apr Town Hall

  Featuring the BBC Big Band An unforgettable evening featuring many of the great songs immortalized by Frank Sinatra and Ella Fitzgerald, with guest vocalists Todd Gordon and Anita Wardell. A host of swing classics including _Pennies from Heaven_, _Something’s Gotta Give_, _Come Fly with Me_, _Lady be Good_, _How High the Moon_ and _The Lady is a Tramp_. The concert is to be recorded for BBC Radio 2’s _Big Band Special_ www.bbc.co.uk/radio2/shows/bigband BBC Big Band is a Town Hall Associate Artist
  
  
  

• Roger McGuinn plus support 

  Thu 18 Jun Town Hall

  Legendary former Byrds frontman and founding member, Roger McGuinn returns for a hotly anticipated solo UK tour. The Byrds' era defining songs like _Eight Miles High_, _Mr Tambourine Man_, _Turn, Turn, Turn_ and _All I Really Wanna Do_ became classics of the new folk rock sound. McGuinn's trademark Rickenbacker 12 string sound has influenced generations of musicians and this superb show will draw from his huge back catalogue, including his Grammy-nominated _Treasures From The Folk Den_, and last year's _22 Timeless Tracks From The Folk Den Project_. _"Music would be a very, very different place if it hadn't been for Roger McGuinn"_ (Rolling Stone) £24.50
  
  
  

• Go West The 25th Anniversary Concert 

  Sat 10 Apr Symphony Hall

  In 2010 Go West will celebrate 25 years since their debut single _We Close Our Eyes_ was released. The song reached number four in the UK charts, and became a top ten hit in the USA. Their debut self-titled album, Go West sold 1.5 million copies worldwide and established the pair not just as a chart force but as one of the great singer/songwriter duos to emerge in the 80s. In 1992 their fourth album _Indian Summer_ was more mellow, justifying more than ever their early description by legendary producer Arif Mardin as _modern Motown_. This album contained their single _The King Of Wishful Thinking_, the opening song in the hugely successful film Pretty Woman as well as the hit _Faithful_.
  
  
  

• Friday Night Classics: The Gershwins in Hollywood  

  Fri 23 Jan 2009 Symphony Hall

  No-one wrote a hit-tune like George and Ira Gershwin. And when the brothers left Manhattan for the bright lights of Hollywood, the results were bound to be showstopping! Conductor John Wilson loves the great movie musicals of the 1930s; join him and star West End vocalists Kim Criswell and Gary Williams for an evening of pure jazz-age glamour. Featuring I Got Rhythm, ’Swonderful, The Man I Love, An American in Paris, Strike Up The Band, Let’s Call the Whole Thing Off, They All Laughed and many more, it’s just hit after hit after hit!
  *John Wilson* conductor *Kim Criswell* vocalist *Gary Williams* vocalist *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra*
  
  

• CBSO Friday Night Classics: Film Music For Lovers  

  Fri 12 Feb 2010 Symphony Hall

  The perfect treat for your Valentine, or simply the chance to snuggle up with the CBSO and enjoy a night of romantic music from some of the most heart-rending moments from the big screen. Featuring soundtracks by Arnold, Barry, Herrmann and others, this evening surely won’t leave a dry eye in the house. Chocolates and hankies not supplied!
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Michael Seal* _conductor_ *Tommy Pearson* _presenter_
  Including music from: _Gone With The Wind_ _Titanic_ _Dr Zhivago_ _Out Of Africa_ _Love Actually_ _Shakespeare in Love_ _Independence Day_ _Casino Royale_ _Vertigo_ _Sense And Sensibility_ _Much Ado About Nothing_ and more
  

• British Classics  

  Fri 8 Aug Town Hall

  The National Youth Orchestra of Wales has the distinction of being the first national youth orchestra in the world. It combines traditional expectations with a contemporary outlook, develops a first-class training experience into performances that are full of energy and passion, and is not afraid to challenge audiences with a repertoire that is bold and adventurous. £10, Full-Times Students & 60 plus £6
  *National Youth Orcehstra of Wales* *Owain Arwel Hughes OBE* conductor
  *Mathias* Celtic Dances *Britten* Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra *Vaughan Williams* Symphony No 2, a London Symphony
  

• The International Pianoforte Competition - The Finals 28th Robert William & Florence Amy Brant International Pianoforte Competition 

  Symphony Hall

  The prestigious competition is open to up to 25 young pianists aged between 20 and 28. There is a first prize of £3,000 and a prize fund of £6,000. The Preliminary and Semi-Final stages will take place at the CBSO Centre (Berkely Street) on Saturday 30 June at 9am and Sunday 1 July at 9.30am. The Final takes place at Symphony Hall on Saturday 7 July at 7pm. The three finalists will select their own varied programmes of up to 40 minutes to include music by three composers drawn from Albeniz, Grieg, Mozart, Brahms, Liszt, Schubert, Chopin, Mendelssohn, Rachmaninov, and Schumann. For further information or an application form please contact Victoria Green, Performnaces Birmingham, Symphony Hall, Broad Street, Birmingham, B1 2EA or send an email headed 'Piano Competition Application Form Request' to pianocompetition@thsh.co.uk The closing date for applications is 13 June 2007.
  
  
  

• Centre Stage - Shostakovich and Brahms Piano Trios CBSO Players 

  Fri 18 Sep Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

  *Shostakovich* Piano Trio No 1 *Brahms* Piano Trio in B major
  *CBSO Players*
  *Shostakovich* Piano Trio No 1 *Brahms* Piano Trio in B major
  

• The Graham Coxon Power Acoustic Ensemble English Originals Weekend 2010 

  Sat 15 May Town Hall

  After last year’s triumphant Blur reunion tour, a range of special guests join outstanding singer-songwriter-guitarist Graham Coxon. The concert is based on his acclaimed solo album _The Spinning Top_, a narrative of a man’s journey from birth to death. The show features special video and projections made by director Chris Hopewell. ‘The Spinning Top is a revelation. A gorgeous album... that cements Coxon as a true icon in a day and age populated by unmagnificence’ BBC Music Magazine
  Featuring guests Martin Carthy and Natasha Marsh, and friends
  
  

• Christmas Eve Classics  

  Thu 24 Dec Symphony Hall

  This concert of joyous seasonal and traditional music for all the family perfectly captures the true spirit of Christmas. Plus carols for all: _The first Nowell, O come, all ye faithful, Hark! the herald angels sing, It came upon the midnight clear_
  *James Edwards* _tenor_ *Crispian Steele-Perkins* _trumpet_ *Birmingham Choral Union* *Staffordshire Children’s Choir* *David Hill* _conductor_ London Concert Orchestra
  BACH Jesu, joy of man’s desiring HANDEL Zadok the Priest FRANCK Panis Angelicus RUTTER The Angels’ Carol VIVALDI Gloria ADAM O Holy Night SCHUBERT Ave Maria BERLIOZ Shepherds’ Farewell ADAMS The Holy City
  

• Rachmaninov’s Second  

  Wed 24 Sep Symphony Hall

  For his second programme as music director, Andris Nelsons has chosen another grand romantic symphony - Rachmaninov’s sweeping, passionate second, which the composer premiered exactly a century ago in 1908. In the first half, the brilliant young Macedonian pianist Simon Trpceski will join the Orchestra for Saint-Saëns’ most popular concerto, and the concert begins with another French favourite, Debussy’s sensuous miniature ballet. The concert on 24 September is followed by a Members’ Afternoon Tea with Andris Nelsons as guest speaker, in conversation with Christopher Morley of The Birmingham Post. Find out how you can support the CBSO through membership by contacting Gill Powell on 0121 616 6514, or email gpowell@cbso.co.uk Pre concert talk 1.15pm - The Players’ Perspective - Rachmaninov’s Second Violinist David Gregory and fellow CBSO musicians present an insider’s angle on Rachmaninov’s best-loved symphony. bq.'PASSION from Birmingham’ is the motto for the CBSO’s current season. And Andris Nelsons, here making his first official appearance before becoming music director in the autumn, is the living incarnation of these words.bq. David Fanning, Daily Telegraph 7 March 2008
  Andris Nelsons - conductor Simon Trpceski - piano City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra
  Debussy: Prélude à l’après-midi d’un faune 10’ Saint-Saëns: Piano Concerto No. 2 23’ Rachmaninov: Symphony No. 2 55’
  

• Hugh Masekela and the CBSO  

  Fri 7 May Symphony Hall

  Hugh Masekela is a legend. Born in South Africa seventy years ago, he quickly emerged as one of his country’s leading musicians, his music reflecting its struggles, sorrows, joys and passions. He returns to Symphony Hall for a unique collaboration with the CBSO and the Town Hall Gospel Choir, for whom he has written a new work, as well as performing Jason Yarde’s Trumpet Concerto. Visit the "CBSO website":http://www.cbso.co.uk
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Michael Seal* conductor *Hugh Masekela* _trumpet_ *Town Hall Gospel Choir* *CBSO Young Voices in partnership with Birmingham Music Service*
  
  

• CBSO Family Concert: Heroes and Villains - Matinee  

  Sun 15 Nov Symphony Hall

  Fly like a super-hero to Symphony Hall, as the battle between good and evil begins. From dashing princes and beautiful maidens in distress, to action heroes such as _Indiana Jones_ and _The Incredibles_, _Doctor Who_ and _Harry Potter_, our man-of-steel Alasdair Malloy will be fighting evil with the CBSO’s musical super-powers. With notes whizzing past faster than a speeding bullet in _The Ride of the Valkyries_, _The Dance of the Knights_ and more, join us to save the day, as we head up, up and away!
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Matthew Coorey* _conductor_ *Alasdair Malloy* _presenter_
  
  

• Brass Gala Concert  

  Sun 16 Sep Symphony Hall

  This year’s Brass Gala concert opens with the current National Champion Brass Band, The Grimethorpe Colliery Band, conducted by Allan Withington. ‘Grimey’ as bandsmen know the band, justly claim to be the most travelled brass band in brass band history and are well known for their involvement in the film Brassed Off. They present us with a magnificent programme from Williams resounding _Henry the Fifth Overture_ to Berlioz’s Overture to _Les Francs Juges_ with which they won the title last year. The British Open Champions, Black Dyke Band, will then take to the stage. Black Dyke are at least a century and a half old and may be the world’s oldest existing brass band, they are certainly the most famous. Led by Nicholas Childs they will lead us through an exciting programme featuring Rimsky-Korsakov’s _Capriccio Espagnol_ arranged by Keith Wilkinson and Peter Graham’s colourful _Renaissance_. The afternoon will conclude with an appearance by the National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain, a hundred brilliant young players aged from twelve to eighteen. Many of the bands members go on to become leading players in great bands and famous orchestras. Conducted by Bramwell Tovey the band will lead you through a varied programme from Rimmer’s popular _Punchinello_, loved by bandsmen everywhere, to Cyril Jenkin’s challenging _Life Divine_.
  *Grimethorpe Colliery Band* *Black Dyke Band* *National Youth Brass Band*
  
  

• Gershwin and Soul featuring the BBC Big Band and Jaki Graham 

  Fri 23 Oct Town Hall

  *Jaki Graham* makes her debut with the BBC Big Band. Join them as they explore the funkier side of Gershwin with a new slant on classics such as _Summertime, They all Laughed, They Can’t Take that away from me, It Ain’t Necessarily So_ and many more. With an instantly recognizable sound, Birmingham soul diva Jaki has achieved international success over the 3 decades of her solo career. Join her, as she and the BBC Big Band give the George & Ira Gershwin songbook a new sound for the 21st Century. Concerts to be recorded for BBC Radio 2’s Big Band Special "more details":http://www.bbc.co.uk/radio2/shows/bigband BBC Big Band is a Town Hall Associate Artist
  Featuring *Jaki Graham* *BBC Big Band*
  
  

• CBSO Biss plays Mozart  

  Wed 16 Dec Symphony Hall

  This young American pianist has already built a formidable reputation for his accounts of classical and early romantic music; here he plays what Brendel calls _‘one of the greatest wonders of the world’_, a miraculous product of the 21-year old Mozart. Sibelius’s sweeping, passionate symphony has long been a Birmingham favourite, and Spano also introduces a work by one of the finest of the current amazing generation of Finnish composers.
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Robert Spano* _conductor_ *Jonathan Biss* _piano_
  *Tiensuu* _False Memories_ (UK premiere) 16’ *Mozart* Piano Concerto No 9, K.271 31’ *Sibelius* Symphony No 2 42’
  

• Friday Night Classics: Silent Heroes Rudolph Valentino stars in The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse 

  Fri 22 Feb 2008 Symphony Hall

  For that authentic Hollywood thrill, nothing beats a classic silent movie accompanied by a live symphony orchestra. The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse is the real deal a tear-jerking saga of love and war spanning continents and generations, it’s the film that made Rudolph Valentino a star. Inspired by the music of Franz Liszt, Carl Davis has written a vibrant new orchestral score for this silent masterpiece. And once you’ve seen Symphony Hall turn into Birmingham’s largest cinema, with the CBSO providing the ultimate in surround-sound, DVDs will never seem the same again!
  Carl Davis conductor
  
  

• CBSO Friday Night Classics: John Williams' Heroes  

  Fri 30 Oct Symphony Hall

  From blockbuster to blockbuster, tonight’s concert is a celebration of great film themes with live symphony orchestra, as you’ve never heard them before. Travel across the stars with an unbeatable line-up featuring the music of John Williams and the amazing film-score writers that influenced him. "www.cbso.co.uk":http://www.cbso.co.uk
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *John Wilson* _conductor_
  Including music from: _Star Wars_ - _The Sea Hawk_ - _The Philadelphia Story_ - _Jaws_ - _Taxi Driver_ - _E.T_. - _Airport_ - _Ben Hur_ - _Catch Me If You Can_ - _Schindler’s List_ - _Close Encounters of the Third Kind_ - _Superman_
  

• Grace and Danger: The Songs of John Martyn English Originals Weekend 2010 

  Fri 14 May Symphony Hall

  It’s just over a year since the death of John Martyn, a musician of genius who walked a tightrope between the grace of his art and the danger of his personal demons. This special show is curated by bassist Danny Thompson, Martyn’s long time friend and collaborator.A range of special guests will pay tribute to the most soulful and innovative singer songwriter of his generation. Check back here for the latest artist updates.
  Featuring special guests: *Badly Drawn Boy, Scott Matthews, Beverley Martyn, Eddi Reader, Beth Orton* and more tbc.
  Curated by Danny Thompson
  

• CBSO Summer Concert - Benevolent Fund Concert  

  Fri 18 Jul Symphony Hall

  Carl Davis treats you to his favourite selection of popular classics for the CBSO Benevolent Fund’s annual fundraising event. Join the CBSO’s musicians for a wonderful evening of much-loved music including Mendelssohn’s Hebrides Overture, Beethoven’s Romance in F for violin, Debussy’s Clair de Lune, Fauré’s Pavane and Grainger’s arrangement of Danny Boy. The music for the BBC’s hugely successful period-drama Cranford was composed by Carl Davis, and you can enjoy a sparkling performance of this Suite in Symphony Hall tonight.
  *Carl Davis* Conductor *Laurence Jackson* Violin
  
  

• Kate Rusby - 27th September 2008  

  Sat 27 Sep Town Hall

  From her Mercury-nominated 1999 album Sleepless to 2007’s acclaimed solo CD _Awkward Annie_ plus collaborations with Idlewild’s Roddy Woomble, Ronan Keating, Eddi Reader, Kris Drever et al, Kate Rusby has been a key figure in England's reinvigorated folk scene. Tonight, Barnsley's leading export lets loose her wit, charm and effervescent folk credentials on a spellbinding set of Rusby classics and brand-new songs from her latest album Awkward Annie. ‘The finest female folk singer to hit the scene in two decades.’ The Times *Please note this performance is currently sold out. Clicking on the below link will take you to the booking page if any returns are available.* Alternatively you can call the Box Office on 0121 780 3333 to enquire
  
  
  

• Carols By Candlelight  

  Sat 19 Dec Symphony Hall

  Carols and seasonal classics performed by the UK’s most elegant ensemble in full period costume in a candle-lit style setting. Programme includes: *Corelli* Allegro and Pastorale from _Christmas Concerto_ *Bach* _Air_ on the G String *Mozart* Alleluia from _Exultate Jubilate_ *Pearsall* _In dulci jubilo_ *Cullen* _Joy to the World_ *Handel* Let the bright Seraphim, Zadok the Priest, Christmas sequence from _Messiah_ CAROLS FOR ALL including: O little town of Bethlehem Hark! the herald angels sing The first Nowell O come, all ye faithful While shepherds watched O come, O come Emmanuel
  *Mozart Festival Orchestra* in full 18th Century costume *Canzonetta* choir *Gail Pearson* soprano *Gareth Hancock* conductor
  
  

• Fascinating Aida  

  Fri 18 Sep Town Hall

  HAPPY BIRTHDAY FASCINATING AIDA! Britain’s top female comedy trio are 25 years old. Well, actually, they’re older than that (Dillie Keane formed FA in 1983), but the girls have decided their Silver Jubilee can be celebrated for a few more years at least. For those of you who thought they’d retired, this isn’t a comeback; it’s a chance for you to help them celebrate this auspicious birthday. They’re doing it for the fun, not the money, which will soon be worthless anyway. Dillie, Adele and Liza look forward to entertaining you with some new songs. Thrill to the beauty of the harmonies, marvel at the intricate rhymes and, if you’re one of their older fans, remember to switch your hearing aid to the theatre’s loop system to avoid unpleasant whistling. “_They are more than ever quite irresistible... simply hilarious_” News of the World “_One of the most exquisitely polished shows you are ever likely to see_” Financial Times “_The glamour is magnetic, the satire razor-sharp, the lyrics brilliant...intensely poignant_” The Guardian “_Hilarious, funny and filthily rude_” Daily Telegraph “_Savor the strong opinions and sharp wits that still make for top-notch entertainment_” New York Times "_See them before you die otherwise your life will have been meaningless_" Mail on Sunday
  
  
  

• Re-opening Organ Concert Matinee  

  Returns Only

  Wed 17 Oct Town Hall

  "This concert is currently sold out. There may be some late tickets released nearer the time, for availability please call the ticket office on 0121 780 3333. Unfortunately it is not possible to operate a waiting list for this event". Here is your first chance to see the magnificant 1834 Town Hall Organ in all its refurbished glory. City Organist Thomas Trotter shows off its 6000 pipes with a stunning piece for pedals alone by one of his predecessors and a world premiere by Paul Patterson, specially commissioned for the occasion. Thomas Trotter is a Town Hall Associate Artist. If you are unable to get tickets for this concert, don't despair! You can hear the refurbished Town Hall organ in all it's glory in Ex Cathedra's Spirit of the Age concert on Sunday 14 October at 2.30pm.
  *Thomas Trotter* Organ
  *Handel* Organ Concerto no. 16 in F *Widor* First Movement from Organ Symphony no. 5 *Morandi* Bell-Rondo (arr. W. T. Best) *Paul Patterson* New Work (world premiere) *Elgar* First Movement from Organ Sonata in G *Thalben-Ball* Variations on a Theme of Paganini (for Pedals) *Saint-Saëns* Danse Macabre (arr. E. H. Lemare) *Bizet* Carmen Suite (arr. E. H. Lemare)
  

• Viennese Classics  

  Wed 19 Nov Symphony Hall

  Schubert and Brahms: their music epitomises all that was best in the Viennese tradition between the death of Beethoven and the arrival of Mahler. Olari Elts has chosen to couple one of Schubert’s sunniest symphonies with Brahms’ supremely dramatic violin concerto, played by an exceptional Norwegian soloist making his first appearance in Birmingham. Shorter works show a different side to both composers' amazingly varied talents.
  Olari Elts - conductor Henning Kraggerud - violin City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra
  Brahms: Variations on a theme by Haydn 19’ Brahms: Violin Concerto 36’ Schubert (orch. Webern): German Dances 8’ Schubert: Symphony No. 5 26’
  

• Dennis Locorriere The True Voice Of Dr Hook 

  Fri 26 Sep Town Hall

  As the lead singer of Dr Hook, one of the biggest bands across the world in the seventies and eighties, Dennis Locorriere’s beautiful voice became instantly recognised the world over and he still has one of the finest voices around. With them Dennis had massive world-wide success with classics like Sylvia’s Mother, When You’re In Love With A Beautiful Woman, A Little Bit More and the original and definitive version of The Ballad Of Lucy Jordan. They clocked up another Gold record last year when Dennis’ concept the Hits and History CD, released to accompany his massively successful Hits and History tour, went Gold in the UK with sales of over 100,000. Dennis returns to the UK this year celebrating the best of his own solo work and the classic songs & recordings of his former band Dr Hook. £18.50
  
  
  

• Masur Conducts Bruckner Orchestre National de France 

  Tue 13 Nov Symphony Hall

  France's premier orchestra visits Birmingham with Kurt Masur, one of the last generation of authoritative conductors rooted in the great tradition of Austro-German classics. Bruckner's Seventh Symphony opens like the hazy dawn of a hot summer's day, gradually moving towards the searing heat of midday. Its slow movement concludes with a moving tribute to Wagner, who died in Venice whilst it was being composed. Hear it next to the haunting serenity of Mozart's Twenty-third Piano Concerto with Louis Lortie as the soloist.
  *Kurt Masur* Conductor *Louis Lortie* Piano
  *Mozart* Piano Concerto No 23 *Bruckner* Symphony No 7
  

• CBSO Festive Favourites with Alan Titchmarsh  

  Tue 22 Dec Symphony Hall

  Join the CBSO for its traditional Christmas concerts, hosted by a British treasure - the broadcaster, novelist and gardener Alan Titchmarsh. The CBSO and its massed choirs provide the perfect way to get into the festive spirit and kick-start your holidays. These celebrations are overflowing with Christmas music and lots of your favourite carols for all to sing - and the icing on the cake will be Alan sharing a selection of Christmas stories and readings from his seasonal anthology _Fill My Stocking_. "www.cbso.co.uk":http://cbso.co.uk
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Simon Halsey* _conductor_ *Alan Titchmarsh* _presenter_ *CBSO Choruses*
  Following each of these concerts, there will be a Christmas collection for a different local charity, as voted for by CBSO employees. To be considered for inclusion, please contact Eve Smith at the CBSO via email at esmith@cbso.co.uk
  

• Friday Night Classics: Hollywood Divas  

  Fri 30 Nov Symphony Hall

  Big stars demand big tunes. Let Broadway diva Kim Criswell and the CBSO sweep you off your feet, as some of the most fabulous melodies ever written carry you back to a golden age of Hollywood glamour. Enjoy hit after hit after hit - from the showtunes made famous by Julie Andrews, Doris Day and Judy Garland, through to the silver-screen torch-songs of Barbara Streisand and Liza Minelli. _Over The Rainbow_, _Diamonds Are A Girl’s Best Friend_, _The Trolley Song_, _Don’t Rain On My Parade_, _I Have Confidence_, _Feed The Birds_, _Maybe This Time_, _The Man That Got Away_ … you’ll never forget these songs - and you can’t resist the emotion.
  *John Wilson* Conductor *Kim Criswell* Vocalist *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra*
  
  

• Maximum Rhythm N' Blues  

  Tue 21 Oct Town Hall

  *The Manfreds* (Paul Jones, Mike D’Abo, Mike Hugg, Tom McGuinness, Rob Townsend, Marcus Cliffe & Simon Currie) *plus special guests Alan Price* (The Animals) & Maggie Bell Following numerous critically acclaimed tours and due to public demand, Maximum Rhythm N’ Blues is back, once again boasting some of the finest quality talent ever assembled on one stage. The tour reunites original Manfred members Paul Jones, Mike D’Abo, Tom McGuinness and Mike Hugg. After the successful reunion of The Manfreds in 1991, the band injects all of the enthusiasm back into classics such as Do Wah Diddy Diddy, 5-4-3-2-1 and Mighty Quinn. £21.50
  
  
  

• New Year's Eve Gala  

  Wed 31 Dec Symphony Hall

  *SEE IN THE HOUR OF MIDNIGHT* Wiuth light-hearted fun from Special Guests *STRINGFEVER*
  John Hudson _tenor_ Richard Morrison _baritone_ Anthony Inglis _conductor_ London Concert Orchestra
  Symphony Hall’s annual celebration to greet the New Year with a burst of opera and an irresistible assortment of popular classics including: *Mendelssohn* The Hebrides Overture *Sousa* Liberty Bell March *Delibes* Prelude and Mazurka from Coppelia *Bizet* The Pearl Fishers Duet *Rossini* Largo al factotum *Walton* Crown Imperial *Vaughan Williams* Fantasia from Greensleeves *Di Capua* O sole Mio *Strauss* Thunder and Lightning Polka *Puccini* Nessun dorma *Elgar* Land of Hope and Glory *Arne* Rule, Britannia!
  

• We'll Meet Again A Musical Salute to The War Years 

  Sat 8 May Symphony Hall

  Over 70 years on, take a nostalgic journey with Gavin Sutherland, special guests and live orchestra. Timeless classics include: _In the Mood, We’ll Meet Again, Don’t Sit Under the Apple Tree, Begin the Beguine, One O’clock Jump, Lili Marlene, Jumpin’ at the Woodside, Goodnight Sweetheart, Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy_ and _A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square._ Plus a toe-tapping tribute to George Formby and a traditional sing-along to forties favourites.
  *London Concert Orchestra* *June Whitfield* _presenter_ *Matt Little* _special guest singer_ *A Tribute to the Andrews Sisters* *The Swingcats* *Chris Marques & Jaclyn Spencer* _world champion dancers_ *Mark Walsh* _ukulele_
  
  

• CBSO Great Romantics  

  Sat 28 Nov Symphony Hall

  Dvorák always insisted that he liked nothing more than listening to a Czech village band. And no wonder, if they sounded anything like the slow movement of his glorious Eighth Symphony. Forget the New World, this is Dvorák celebrating the old world with lilting tunes and utterly irresistible charm. Andris Nelsons sets the mood with another Slavic fairytale; Liadov’s ravishing _Enchanted Lake_, before joining pianist Nikolai Lugansky to scale the Everest of romantic piano concertos - Rachmaninov’s epic Third Concerto, premiered 100 years ago and still as thrilling as ever. "www.cbso.co.uk":http://cbso.co.uk
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Andris Nelsons* _conductor_ *Nikolai Lugansky* _piano_
  *Liadov* _The Enchanted Lake_ 7’ *Rachmaninov* Piano Concerto No. 3 44’ *Dvorák* Symphony No. 8 36’
  

• CBSO Festive Favourites with Alan Titchmarsh - Matinee  

  Tue 22 Dec Symphony Hall

  Join the CBSO for its traditional Christmas concerts, hosted by a British treasure - the broadcaster, novelist and gardener Alan Titchmarsh. The CBSO and its massed choirs provide the perfect way to get into the festive spirit and kick-start your holidays. These celebrations are overflowing with Christmas music and lots of your favourite carols for all to sing - and the icing on the cake will be Alan sharing a selection of Christmas stories and readings from his seasonal anthology _Fill My Stocking_. "www.cbso.co.uk":http://cbso.co.uk
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Simon Halsey* _conductor_ *Alan Titchmarsh* _presenter_ *CBSO Choruses*
  Following each of these concerts, there will be a Christmas collection for a different local charity, as voted for by CBSO employees. To be considered for inclusion, please contact Eve Smith at the CBSO via email at esmith@cbso.co.uk
  

• CBSO Great Romantics - Matinee  

  Wed 2 Dec Symphony Hall

  Dvorák always insisted that he liked nothing more than listening to a Czech village band. And no wonder, if they sounded anything like the slow movement of his glorious Eighth Symphony. Forget the New World, this is Dvorák celebrating the old world with lilting tunes and utterly irresistible charm. Andris Nelsons sets the mood with another Slavic fairytale; Liadov’s ravishing _Enchanted Lake_, before joining pianist Nikolai Lugansky to scale the Everest of romantic piano concertos - Rachmaninov’s epic Third Concerto, premiered 100 years ago and still as thrilling as ever. "www.cbso.co.uk":http://cbso.co.uk
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Andris Nelsons* _conductor_ *Nikolai Lugansky* _piano_
  *Liadov* _The Enchanted Lake_ 7’ *Rachmaninov* Piano Concerto No 3 44’ *Dvorák* Symphony No 8 36’
  

• Friday Night Classics: Bernstein on Broadway  

  Fri 3 Jul Symphony Hall

  Showman, maestro, composer and party animal, Leonard Bernstein was the ultimate musical all-rounder - and he just happened to write some of the best tunes of the 20th century. Carl Davis brings his own brand of Broadway pizzazz to this all-singing, all-dancing salute to Bernstein - from the anarchic comedy of Candide to the urban drama and sheer passion of West Side Story. With a line-up that includes Tonight, America, Overture to Candide - and, of course, New York, New York - it’s just one great tune after another. And with Lennie, Carl and the CBSO, it’s a helluva sound!
  *Carl Davis* conductor *Mary Carewe* vocalist *Sarah Eyden* vocalist *Graham Bickley* vocalist *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra*
  
  

• CBYV 10TH Anniversary Rock and Pop Concert City of Birmingham Young Voices with guest artist Cleveland Watkiss 

  Sun 14 Jun Town Hall

  As one of the centrepieces of its 10th anniversary celebrations, City of Birmingham Young Voice, the CBSO's community youth choir, brings its annual Rock & Pop Concert to Town Hall. In this showcase of classics from across the genre, soloists from amongst CBYV's ranks perform alongside a fabulous guest band, comprising some of the finest session musicians in the business.
  *City of Birmingham Young Voices* with guest artist *Cleveland Watkiss* *David Lawrence* choir leader
  
  

• The Birmingham Foundation Christmas Carol Concert  

  Sat 1 Dec Town Hall

  This classic and fun filled carol concert is one of the first performances to be held at the newly refurbished Town Hall. Compered by broadcaster and journalist Adrian Goldberg and performed by the Birmingham Philharmonic Orchestra, under the baton of conductor, Anthony Bradbury, the programme will feature such popular classics as Deck the Halls, Once in Royal David's City and O Little Town of Bethlehem together with other rousing winter tunes. We do hope that you will be able to join us for this spectacular evening that will raise funds for The Birmingham Foundation. The charity supports over 950 community projects each year, providing assistance to those in need, reducing crime levels and providing fresh lifestyle, support and career opportunities for young and old alike. Find out more at "www.bhamfoundation.co.uk ":http://bhamfoundation.co.uk
  
  
  

• CBSO Friday Night Classics A Night at the Oscars 

  Fri 18 May Symphony Hall

  Charismatic conductor Carl Davis sweeps us through a glamorous evening of Oscar-winning soundtracks from films including An Officer and a Gentleman, The Godfather, West Side Story, The King and I, Fiddler on the Roof, Love Story, Cabaret, Out of Africa, Fame, Born Free, Singing in the Rain, Wizard of Oz, Yentl, Schindler's List, Dr Zhivago and The Lion King. Vocalists Mary Carewe and Simon Bowman return by popular demand to reawaken memories of the soundtracks to our lives.
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Carl Davis* Conductor *Mary Carewe & Simon Bowman* Vocalists
  
  

• The Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain Proudly Presents UKULELESCOPE  

  Sat 5 Jun Town Hall

  The UOGB have collaborated with BFI National Archive to find a host of unusual and little seen gems from the early days of silent film, and have sculpted them into a delightfully eclectic evening of music, film, comedy and pathos. This mixed bill combines short films and clips including adverts, singing pictures, actualities, dramas, Science and nature, hints and hobbies and documentary footage to amaze, amuse and baffle. All of this, of course, presented in the UOGB’s own inimitable style, and set to a programme of original and carefully chosen old favourites from musical history. _"Ukulelescope takes you on a delightful mystery tour into the past, a beautifully judged match of silent-film snippets and evocative tunes, all delivered with the Orchestra's usual wit and panache. Awesome!"_ Helen Hawkins, Sunday Times _“Pound for pound the best musical entertainment in the country”_ The Independent
  Show created and produced by Hester Goodman. All original music by Hester Goodman and George Hinchliffe, and performed by the Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain.
  This is a screening of silent film footage with musical accompaniment, in conjunction with the BFI.
  

• American Classics  

  Tue 17 Jun Symphony Hall

  Andrew Litton has become a firm favourite with CBSO audiences in the last few seasons, and tonight he takes centre stage as both pianist and conductor in a trio of well-known American scores. Gershwin’s Piano Concerto was the composer’s most ambitious work for the concert hall, and features the same ‘symphonic jazz’ style with which he had made his name in Rhapsody in Blue. Copland’s Third Symphony was begun in 1944, and looks ahead to a brighter future, in this case with a finale based on his own hugely successful Fanfare for the Common Man. Bernstein’s fizzing comedy overture gets the evening off to a flying start.
  *Andrew Litton* Conductor / Piano
  *Bernstein* Candide Overture 5' *Gershwin* Piano Concerto 31' *Copland* Symphony No. 3 40'
  

• CBSO Tuned In: Shostakovich Symphony No 4  

  Thu 29 Apr 2010 Symphony Hall

  Shostakovich’s massive Fourth Symphony is a devastating portrait of the most turbulent years in 20th-century history. In this concert with a difference, broadcaster Stephen Johnson explains the many stories behind this extraordinary work, and shows how Shostakovich uses his huge orchestra to such unforgettable effect - with live illustrations from Andris Nelsons and the 110-piece CBSO! Then there’s a chance to hear the whole symphony. Whether you know and love the Fourth - or you’re new to Shostakovich - this concert will help you hear it with new ears.
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Andris Nelsons* _conductor_ *Stephen Johnson* _presenter_
  Introduction to Shostakovich’s Fourth Symphony, with live orchestral examples 45’ _interval_ *Shostakovich* Symphony No 4 60’
  

• Baroque Fireworks City of Birmingham Choir 

  Sat 17 Nov Town Hall

  The City of Birmingham Choir has had a long and distinguished relationship with the Town Hall. It is celebrating its return to this historic musical venue with a programme of sparkling baroque classics, including two of Handel’s ever popular Coronation Anthems. We welcome the outstanding Orchestra of the Swan to join us for what is sure to be a dazzling display of choral and orchestral fireworks. The concert will end at approximately 9.30pm
  *David Newsholme* Organ *Adrian Lucas* Conductor *James Bowman* Counter-tenor *City of Birmingham Choir* *Orchestra of the Swan*
  *Charpentier* Te Deum in D *Handel* Music for the Royal Fireworks *Handel* The King Shall Rejoice *Purcell* Come ye Sons of Art, Away *Purcell* O Sing Unto the Lord *Handel* Zadok the Priest
  

• Oleta Adams  

  Thu 4 Dec Symphony Hall

  The legendary Oleta Adams makes a welcome return to the UK in an evening of Gospel and Christmas classics. In a rare concert appearance outside of the US, this unforgettable artist combines her perennial hits with uplifting gospel favourites and soulful ballads, bringing her own soul-stamped signature to the festive season with _Winter Wonderland_ and _Let It Snow_ together with special arrangements of traditional carols. Oleta also shares new material from her eagerly anticipated Gospel album, and sings her renowned interpretation of _Don’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me_ together with the hauntingly beautiful _Get Here_ from the platinum selling _Circle of One_. Backed by some of America’s finest musicians and The Kingdom Choir, Oleta’s unique vocal style effortlessly blends Gospel with Jazz, and Soul with Rhythm & Blues in an evening not to be missed! "www.oletaadams.com":http://oletaadams.com
  
  
  

• Takács Quartet  

  Wed 14 Nov Town Hall

  "They are currently the greatest string quartet in the world", raved the critic of _The Guardian_ last September. The Takacs Quartet play with intense immediacy and consistently burnished tone, creating performances that are probing, revealing and constantly engaging. Two classics by Haydn and Dvorak frame Janacek's passionate Second Quartet which vividly conveys his love for a woman thirty-eight years his junior. Classic FM's Anne-Marie Minhall says of tonight's recommended concert: "Don't miss an opportunity to see the award-winning Takacs Quartet. One of the highlights this evening promises to be Dvorak's Quartet No 12 in F, nicknamed the American, undoubtedly one of the best-loved chamber works by any composer."
  
  *Haydn* String Quartet, Op 74, No 1 *Janacek* String Quartet No 2, Intimate Letters *Dvorak* String Quartet Op 96, American
  

• CBSO Viennese Classics - Matinee  

  Thu 11 Feb 2010 Symphony Hall

  Light and shade in old Vienna. Schubert’s friends bet him that he couldn’t write an overture as good as one of Rossini’s, so he simply ran one off there and then! His sunny “little C major” symphony took rather more work, but you’d hardly know it; it positively bubbles with happiness - and, of course, those unforgettable Schubert melodies. It’s all a world away from Beethoven’s darkest and most powerful piano concerto - though you can certainly hear why Schubert hero-worshipped Beethoven above all his contemporaries. Expect conductor Andrew Manze, and hugely respected soloist Ronald Brautigam, to bring out all its drama and emotion.
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Andrew Manze* _conductor_ *Ronald Brautigam* _piano_
  *Schubert* _Overture in the Italian Style_ 8’ *Beethoven* Piano Concerto No 3 34’ *Schubert* Symphony No 6 35’
  

• Passion for Life Saturday Events Henry Olonga, Stilltime, Rico Tice 

  Sat 27 Mar Town Hall

  A Passion for Life is a set of events organised at Easter 2010 by local churches and are an opportunity for people of all faiths and none to consider the relevance of Jesus Christ for today. Rico Tice will be giving a number of talks on various topics. Saturday features an evening with Henry Olonga, the Zimbabwean cricket captain who made a stand against President Mugabe. There's also a jazz group, Stilltime and a talk by Rico Tice. Also throughout the weekend there are smaller events aimed different sections of the community such as an interactive Easter Family Praise concert and a pre-school Lost Sheep Party. On the Saturday there will also be a number of talks on issues with opportunities for Q&A. Full info at "A Passion For Life":http://www.apassionforlife-brum.org.uk
  
  
  

• ArtsFest Weekend - Sunday 13 September A Taste of Town Hall 

  Sun 13 Sep Town Hall

  *1pm - 7pm* _Town Hall Exhibition_ History of Town Hall exhibition, with free audio guide - capturing Town Hall's energy, radicalism and community spirit, as well as its rich and varied performance history. *1pm - 1.45pm* _Black Voices & Town Hall Gospel Choir_ Birmingham's premier a cappella female vocal quintet and Town Hall's Gospel Choir. *2.15pm - 2.45pm* _Surinder Sandhu_ The Surinder Sandhu Band present music from The Fictionist - details at "www.surindersandhu.com":http://www.surindersandhu.com *3.15pm - 3.45pm* _Weisnancy Polish Folk Song & Dance Group_ Lively singing and acrobatic dancing. *4.15pm - 4.45pm* _The Company from Dudley Performing Arts_ Fun lively contemporary dance for all. *5.15pm - 5.45pm* _Street Wize DC_ A celebration of the Motown Street Style. *6.15pm - 6.45pm* _Hina & Co Bollywood Dance Academy_ Click on the day for more information about "Friday":http://www.thsh.co.uk/view/artsfest-weekend---friday-11-september and "Saturday":http://www.thsh.co.uk/view/artsfest-weekend---saturday-12-september ArtsFest Lineups
  
  
  

• Silent Comedy Classics: Laurel & Hardy and Buster Keaton Improvised organ accompaniment by NIGEL OGDEN 

  Sun 6 Jun Town Hall

  *Laurel & Hardy* _You’re Darn Tootin’_ (1928) 20’ *Buster Keaton* _The General_ (1927) Two of the greatest of all silent comedies. Stan and Ollie’s short film includes classic sequences and an uproarious final pant-ripping scene, while Buster Keaton’s masterpiece is filled with hilarious gags and ingenious, perfectly timed stunts. Maestro Nigel Ogden tickles the ivories of the Town Hall’s mighty organ, revealing its lighter side as he improvises a freshly-minted accompaniment to the afternoon’s jollity.
  With improvised organ accompaniment by *Nigel Ogden*
  
  

• CBSO Family Concert: Young Person's Guide to the Orchestra - Matinee  

  Sun 16 May Symphony Hall

  This is your chance to discover all you wanted to know about a symphony orchestra! What are all those instruments and the amazing sounds they make? Travel through time on this magical musical journey as the CBSO’s top conductor, Andris Nelsons, and musicians Catherine Arlidge and Peter Hill let you into lots of musical secrets, with _The Sorcerer’s Apprentice_, The Elephant (from _The Carnival of the Animals_), Britten’s _Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra_ and more. FREE CRAFT WORKSHOPS AND MUSIC in the foyers from 1.30pm. Why not come dressed up in a music inspired costume? Visit the "CBSO website":http://www.cbso.co.uk
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Andris Nelsons* _conductor_ *Catherine Arlidge* _presenter_ *Peter Hill* _presenter_
  
  

• Last Night of The Spring Proms  

  Sat 28 Mar Symphony Hall

  A feast of uplifting classics crowned with a jubilant Proms finale.
  *London Concert Orchestra* *Stephanie Corley* soprano *John Marshall* tenor *John Pryce-Jones* conductor
  *Strauss* Die Fledermaus Overture *Verdi* Prelude to Act 1 & Brindisi from _La Traviata_; La donna è mobile from _Rigoletto_ *Dvorák* Slavonic Dance *Rossini* Galop from _William Tell_ *Puccini* O soave fanciulla from _La Bohème_ *Coates* Calling All Workers *Sousa* Semper Fidelis *Denza* Funiculi, funicula *Goodwin* Those Magnifient Men in Their Flying Machines *Tchaikovsky* Waltz of the Flowers from _The Nutcracker_ *Sullivan* _HMS Pinafore_ Overture
  

• CBSO-Friday Night Classics: The Magic of MGM  

  Fri 4 Jul Symphony Hall

  Escape from it all this Friday - into the technicolour world of the legendary MGM musicals. The young British conductor John Wilson loves this music, so much so that MGM itself has hired him to restore some of these fabulous movies to their former glory. Tonight he shares his passion, with a night of sheer tuneful indulgance from the golden age of the Hollywood musical. Star vocalists Kim Criswell and Gary Williams join Wilson and the band for a show that features such hits as _Singin' In The Rain, Ten Cents A Dance, Somewhere Over The Rainbow, Get Happy, Can't Help Lovin' That Man, You Were Meant For Me, The Heather On The Hill_ - and, of course, _That's Entertainment_. Go on, spoil yourself!
  John Wilson - conductor Kim Criswell - vocalist Gary Williams - vocalist City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra City of Birmingham Symphony Chorus City of Birmingham Young Voices
  
  

• Last Night Of The Spring Proms  

  Sat 27 Mar Symphony Hall

  Welcome the new season with this superb concert bursting with popular classics and a rousing finale of all your Proms favourites. With Proms Favourites including Rule, Britannia! Nessun Dorma Land of Hope and Glory Colonel Bogey March Those Magnificent Men in their Flying Machines There’ll Always Be An England
  Jonathan Stoughton _tenor_ James McOran-Campbell _baritone_ Stephen Bell _conductor_ LONDON CONCERT ORCHESTRA
  *ROSSINI* Barber of Seville Overture Largo al factotum *BIZET* Duet _from The Pearl Fishers_ Farandole _from L’Arlesienne_ *SUPPE* Light Cavalry Overture *ELGAR* Chanson de Matin *GRIEG* Morning and In the Hall of the Mountain King *STRAUSS* Blue Danube Waltz *MENDELSSOHN* Spring Song *DI CAPUA* O Sole Mio *TCHAIKOVSKY* Polonaise _from Eugene Onegin_
  

• Carols by Candlelight  

  Sat 20 Dec Symphony Hall

  Herald Christmas in the most elegant way with this joyous concert of carols and seasonal classics presented with all the grace and charm of the 18th Century in an evocative candle-lit style setting. CAROLS FOR ALL including _Good King Wenceslas_, _God Rest You Merry Gentlemen_, _Once in Royal David’s City_, _Away in a Manger_, _Hark! The Herald Angels Sing_, _It Came Upon The Midnight Clear_, _O Little Town of Bethlehem_, _Unto Us Is Born A Son_, _The First Noel_.
  *Steven Devine* conductor *Laura Parfitt* soprano *MOZART FESTIVAL ORCHESTRA* in full period costume *MOZART FESTIVAL CHORUS*
  *Handel* Zadok the Priest, Let the bright Seraphim, Christmas sequence from Messiah *Mozart* Laudate Dominum *Corelli* Allegro and Pastorale from Christmas Concerto *Vivaldi* Gloria (Opening Chorus)
  

• CBSO An Alpine Symphony  

  Thu 28 Jan 2010 Symphony Hall

  Richard Strauss once boasted that he could depict a knife and fork in music - so when he sets out to paint the Alps themselves, you’d expect the results to be spectacular! His _Alpine Symphony_ is a vast, sun-drenched musical panorama - with everything from a trickling mountain stream to a mighty glacier, painted in music of dazzling colour and breathtaking power. Hear why Andris Nelsons has such a passion for this extraordinary score. Mozart was Strauss’s favourite composer, so his spirited 33rd Symphony and 24th Piano Concerto make the perfect musical _hors d’oeuvre_.
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Andris Nelsons* _conductor_ *Martin Helmchen* _piano_
  *Mozart* Symphony No 33 19' *Mozart* Piano Concerto No 24, K491 31' *Strauss* An Alpine Symphony 51'
  

• CBSO An Alpine Symphony  

  Tue 2 Feb 2010 Symphony Hall

  Richard Strauss once boasted that he could depict a knife and fork in music - so when he sets out to paint the Alps themselves, you’d expect the results to be spectacular! His _Alpine Symphony_ is a vast, sun-drenched musical panorama - with everything from a trickling mountain stream to a mighty glacier, painted in music of dazzling colour and breathtaking power. Hear why Andris Nelsons has such a passion for this extraordinary score. Mozart was Strauss’s favourite composer, so his spirited 33rd Symphony and 24th Piano Concerto make the perfect musical _hors d’oeuvre_.
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Andris Nelsons* _conductor_ *Martin Helmchen* _piano_
  *Mozart* Symphony No 33 19' *Mozart* Piano Concerto No 24, K491 31' *Strauss* An Alpine Symphony 51'
  

• CBSO Jansen plays Sibelius  

  Sat 7 Nov Symphony Hall

  Mendelssohn was one of music's great travellers - he even made it to Birmingham! And there's no better way to launch a concert than with his _Calm Sea and Prosperous Voyage_: all the fun of his _Hebrides_ overture, but with none of the seasickness. And then we're off - first to the brooding northern landscape of Sibelius' impassioned Violin Concerto (with the stunning Janine Jansen as soloist), then to the sunlit Alipne meadows of Brahms' happiest symphony. Lullabies, horn-calls and jubilant trumpets all come together in some of the loveliest music Brahms ever wrote; charismatic guest-conductor Ilan Volkov should make an entertaining guide. "www.cbso.co.uk":http://www.cbso.co.uk
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Ilan Volkov* _conductor_ *Janine Jansen* _violin_
  *Mendelssohn* _Calm Sea and Prosperous Voyage_ *Sibelius* Violin Concerto 31’ *Brahms* Symphony No 2 39’
  

• CBSO Friday Night Classics: The Best of the West End  

  Fri 9 Oct Symphony Hall

  Roll out the red carpet for this indulgent evening featuring some of the best-loved numbers in showbiz from across the decades, as the CBSO treads the boards with top West End artists. Produced in association with West End International Ltd. "CBSO Website":http://www.cbso.co.uk *We are sorry to announce that Simon Bowman has unfortunately had to withdraw from the concert on Friday 9 October due to a conflicting professional engagement.* *We are very grateful to Rohan Tickell who replaces him.*
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Martin Yates* _conductor_ *Rachel Barrell* _vocalist_ *Jacqui Scott* _vocalist_ *Rohan Tickell* _vocalist_ *Tim Rogers* _vocalist_
  Including hits from: _Les Misérables_ - _The Lion King_ - _Cats_ _Phantom of the Opera_ - _Guys and Dolls_ _Oklahoma!_ - _Miss Saigon_ - _South Pacific_- _Oliver_ - _Carousel_ - _Sunset Boulevard_ and more!
  

• CBSO Tuned In: The Firebird  

  Thu 25 Mar 2010 Symphony Hall

  The CBSO presents a performance of _The Firebird_ with a difference, as broadcaster Stephen Johnson gives a guided tour of Stravinsky’s famous score. Discover how the composer creates his astonishing sounds, hear how the music works, and learn the story of how Stravinsky only got the gig because his teacher Liadov was too lazy! - all illustrated with live music from Andris Nelsons and the full CBSO. Then, after the interval, enjoy a complete performance of _The Firebird_. A real eye (and ear) opener - perfect for aficionado and novice alike.
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Andris Nelsons* _conductor_ *Stephen Johnson* _presenter_
  *Liadov* Baba Yaga 3’ Introduction to _The Firebird_ - with live orchestral examples 45’ _interval_ *Stravinsky* _The Firebird_ (1910 version) 44’
  

• CBSO Favourite Mozart - Matinee  

  Wed 21 Apr Symphony Hall

  Robert Schumann just couldn’t help himself. He knew he was meant to be writing serious symphonies, but emotion kept getting in the way. With its heroic opening, imposing slow movement and beer-festival finale, his _Rhenish_ Symphony is more than just a joyous musical postcard from the sunny hills of the Rhineland - it’s an irresistibly exuberant self-portrait of one of music’s supreme Romantics. Mozart’s best-loved piano concerto makes a perfect complement. Call it the “Elvira Madigan”, call it Piano Concerto No. 21; the fact remains that it’s one of the most eloquent, most stirring and - yes - most romantic concertos Mozart ever wrote. In the hands of the acclaimed young Finnish pianist Antii Siirala, you’ll know it.
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Karl-Heinz Steffens* _conductor_ *Antti Siirala* _piano_
  *Schumann* _Manfred_ Overture 12’ *Mozart* Piano Concerto No 21, K.467 31’ *Schumann* Symphony No 3, _Rhenish_ 32’
  

• Here Come the Classics Royal Philharmonic Orchestra 

  Sun 6 May Symphony Hall

  Join the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra for a spectacular evening of classical favourites - the best of the best! Programme to include classic gems from the most popular orchestral and opera works ever written.
  Conductor - Nick Davies Piano - Lucy Parham Tenor - Wynne Evans
  MUSSORGSKY - Night on the Bare Mountain COATES - Knightsbridge March BARBER - Adagio for Strings GRIEG - In the Hall of the Mountain King (from Peer Gynt) DI CAPUA - O Sole Mio RACHMANINOV - Adagio (from Piano Concerto No.2) ELGAR - Pomp and Circumstances March No.1 SUPPÉ - Light Cavalry Overture TCHAIKOVSKY - Allegro (from Piano Concerto No.1) KHACHATURIAN - Sabre Dance ELGAR - Nimrod (from Enigma Variations) MASCAGNI - Intermezzo (from Cavalleria Rusticana) PUCCINI - Nessun Dorma (from Turandot) RAVEL - Boléro
  

• Michel Legrand and his orchestra with special guest Alison Moyet  

  Mon 2 Feb 2009 Symphony Hall

  Michel Legrand has charmed audiences for generations with his music. He is the winner of three Oscars, five Grammy awards, and two Palmes d’Or. He has written the scores for numerous movie classics which include Yentl, The Thomas Crown Affair and The Umbrella’s of Cherbourg. Michel is an accomplished and innovative musician as gifted in the jazz milieu as he is with classical music and is one of the giants of popular song. Accompanying Michel will be the mellifluous Alison Moyet famed for her strong blues voice and award winning music career spanning 26 years; from mainstream pop group YAZOO, to solo artist, and more recently acting in the musical CHICAGO and the play SMALLER both in the West End. Winner of three BRIT awards and Grammy nominee, her latest album THE TURN was released in the UK in 2007 and the US in 2008.
  
  
  

• CBSO Pictures at an Exhibition  

  Wed 14 Apr Symphony Hall

  When Maurice Ravel arranged Mussorgsky’s _Pictures at an Exhibition_ for orchestra, he created one of the few adaptations that’s better than the original! From its famous opening _Promenade_ to the roof-raising final _Great Gate of Kiev_, it’s one of the all-time great orchestral showpieces, a glittering Russian jewel-box full of spicy tunes and unforgettable images. It’s a real CBSO favourite - and Dvorák's riotous _Carnival Overture_ is every bit as colourful. The great open spaces of Beethoven’s noble violin concerto will be like an oasis of calm - especially in the masterly hands of the young German virtuoso Isabelle Faust.
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Andrew Grams* _conductor_ *Isabelle Faust* _violin_
  *Dvořák* _Carnival_ Overture 8’ *Beethoven* Violin Concerto 42’ *Mussorgsky (orch. Ravel)* _Pictures at an Exhibition_ 32’
  

• CBSO Pictures at an Exhibition  

  Sat 17 Apr 2010 Symphony Hall

  When Maurice Ravel arranged Mussorgsky’s _Pictures at an Exhibition_ for orchestra, he created one of the few adaptations that’s better than the original! From its famous opening _Promenade_ to the roof-raising final _Great Gate of Kiev_, it’s one of the all-time great orchestral showpieces, a glittering Russian jewel-box full of spicy tunes and unforgettable images. It’s a real CBSO favourite - and Dvorák’s riotous _Carnival Overture_ is every bit as colourful. The great open spaces of Beethoven’s noble violin concerto will be like an oasis of calm - especially in the masterly hands of the young German virtuoso Isabelle Faust.
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Andrew Grams* _conductor_ *Isabelle Faust* _violin_
  *Dvořák* _Carnival_ Overture 8’ *Beethoven* Violin Concerto 42’ *Mussorgsky (orch. Ravel)* _Pictures at an Exhibition_ 32’
  

• CBSO Nelsons Conducts Bruckner's Third  

  Wed 25 Nov Symphony Hall

  Bruckner dedicated his Third Symphony to Richard Wagner - and there’s more than a hint of the _Ride of the Valkyries_ about this stirring, powerfully romantic symphony. Vast musical landscapes, hymns of triumph and moments of heart-breaking poetry - if you heard Andris Nelsons conducting Wagner and Strauss last season, you won’t want to miss his Bruckner. But the evening begins with the serene beauty of Wagner’s _Parsifal_ prelude - while Magnus Lindberg’s sparky Clarinet Concerto (played by the artist who inspired it) is like a dazzling firework display amidst all this teutonic grandeur. *Pre-Concert Talk at 6.15pm* Bruckner and Lindberg BBC Radio 3’s Stephen Johnson introduces tonight’s programme. "www.cbso.co.uk":http://cbso.co.uk
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Andris Nelsons* _conductor_ *Kari Kriikku* _clarinet_
  *Wagner* _Parsifal_ - Prelude 14’ *Lindberg* Clarinet Concerto 25’ *Bruckner* Symphony No. 3 54’
  

• CBSO A Soirée with the Labèques  

  Thu 18 Feb Symphony Hall

  It’s a real pleasure to welcome back to Birmingham the amazing Labèque sisters, for one of the most sparkling of all French pieces, Poulenc’s delightful double concerto. They also bring their uniquely gallic flair to Debussy’s masterpiece for two pianos and Ravel’s sumptuous Spanish fantasy brings the evening to an exuberant finish. *We are sorry to announce that Lionel Bringuier has been obliged to withdraw from tonight’s concert as he has had a fall and injured his arm. We are very grateful to Gilbert Varga who replaces him at short notice. This replacement has led to a change in the advertised programme, which is now as listed below.*
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Gilbert Varga* _conductor_ *Katia & Marielle Labèque* _piano_
  *Berlioz* Overture, _Le Corsaire_ 9’ *Debussy* _En blanc et noir_ 16’ *Poulenc* Concerto for two pianos 20’ *Ravel* _Mother Goose_ Suite *Ravel* Boléro
  

• CBSO Festive Favourites with Alan Titchmarsh  

  Sun 20 Dec Symphony Hall

  Join the CBSO for its traditional Christmas concerts, hosted by a British treasure - the broadcaster, novelist and gardener Alan Titchmarsh. The CBSO and its massed choirs provide the perfect way to get into the festive spirit and kick-start your holidays. These celebrations are overflowing with Christmas music and lots of your favourite carols for all to sing - and the icing on the cake will be Alan sharing a selection of Christmas stories and readings from his seasonal anthology _Fill My Stocking_. "www.cbso.co.uk":http://cbso.co.uk
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Simon Halsey* _conductor_ *Alan Titchmarsh* _presenter_ *CBSO Chorus* *CBSO Youth Chorus* *CBSO Children's Chorus* *CBSO Young Voices in partnership with Birmingham Music Service* *CBSO Boys' Choir in partnership with Barclays Wealth*
  Following each of these concerts, there will be a Christmas collection for a different local charity, as voted for by CBSO employees. To be considered for inclusion, please contact Eve Smith at the CBSO via email at esmith@cbso.co.uk
  

• CBSO Festive Favourites with Alan Titchmarsh  

  Mon 21 Dec Symphony Hall

  Join the CBSO for its traditional Christmas concerts, hosted by a British treasure - the broadcaster, novelist and gardener Alan Titchmarsh. The CBSO and its massed choirs provide the perfect way to get into the festive spirit and kick-start your holidays. These celebrations are overflowing with Christmas music and lots of your favourite carols for all to sing - and the icing on the cake will be Alan sharing a selection of Christmas stories and readings from his seasonal anthology _Fill My Stocking_. "www.cbso.co.uk":http://cbso.co.uk
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Simon Halsey* _conductor_ *Alan Titchmarsh* _presenter_ *CBSO Chorus* *CBSO Youth Chorus* *CBSO Children's Chorus* *CBSO Young Voices in partnership with Birmingham Music Service* *CBSO Boys' Choir in partnership with Barclays Wealth*
  Following each of these concerts, there will be a Christmas collection for a different local charity, as voted for by CBSO employees. To be considered for inclusion, please contact Eve Smith at the CBSO via email at esmith@cbso.co.uk
  

• Jeff Beck plus support Imelda May 

  Thu 25 Jun Symphony Hall

  Jeff Beck burst onto the music scene in 1966 after joining the Yardbirds. Although his stint with the band lasted only 18 months, Beck played on almost all of the group’s hits. More importantly, Beck’s innovative style heard on classics like _Heart Full of Soul_ and _Shapes of Things_ helped influence the psychedelic sound of the ‘60s. At the height of the Yardbirds’ popularity in 1967, Beck left the group and embarked upon an unpredictable journey of musical discovery that has lasted over four decades. During that time, Beck has left his distinctive mark on hard rock, jazz-fusion and modern music history. Don't miss the chance to see this authentic guitar legend. Dublin-born Imelda May has the rare kind of raw talent and timeless glamour that truly illuminates the stage. You don't just watch Imelda perform, you experience it. Imelda will support Jeff Beck in this evening of fantastic music.
  
  
  

• The Armed Man Featuring The Black Dyke Band and The Halifax and Sheffield Choral Societies 

  Sun 18 Apr Symphony Hall

  An evening of music from the world's most successful brass band. A first half of wonderful classics including Walton's _Crown Imperial_, Suppé's _Poet and Peasant_, Rossini's _Largo Al Factotum_ featuring Tuba virtuoso Joseph Cook, and, as finale to the first half, Wagner's _Procession to the Minster_. Black Dyke are joined in the second half by two of the finest choral societies in Britain, conducted by John Pryce-Jones, in Karl Jenkins’s acclaimed _The Armed Man_.
  *Black Dyke Band* *Dr Nicholas J. Childs* and *John Pryce-Jones* _conductors_ *Halifax Choral Society* *Sheffield Philharmonic Chorus*
  
  

• CBSO Festive Favourites with Alan Titchmarsh - Matinee  

  Sun 20 Dec Symphony Hall

  Join the CBSO for its traditional Christmas concerts, hosted by a British treasure - the broadcaster, novelist and gardener Alan Titchmarsh. The CBSO and its massed choirs provide the perfect way to get into the festive spirit and kick-start your holidays. These celebrations are overflowing with Christmas music and lots of your favourite carols for all to sing - and the icing on the cake will be Alan sharing a selection of Christmas stories and readings from his seasonal anthology _Fill My Stocking_. "www.cbso.co.uk":http://cbso.co.uk
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Simon Halsey* _conductor_ *Alan Titchmarsh* _presenter_ *CBSO Chorus* *CBSO Youth Chorus* *CBSO Children's Chorus* *CBSO Young Voices in partnership with Birmingham Music Service* *CBSO Boys' Choir in partnership with Barclays Wealth*
  Following each of these concerts, there will be a Christmas collection for a different local charity, as voted for by CBSO employees. To be considered for inclusion, please contact Eve Smith at the CBSO via email at esmith@cbso.co.uk
  

• New Year's Eve Matinee Gala  

  Mon 31 Dec Town Hall

  Avoid the crowds of the city centre on New Year's Eve evening and celebrate earlier in the glorious surroundings of Town Hall. The London Concert Orchestra will mark the New Year with a feast of popular classics. Please note that this performance does not include complimentary interval refreshments.
  *Anthony Inglis* Conductor *Paul O'Neill* Tenor *Grant Doyle* Baritone *London Concert Orchestra*
  *Strauss* Die Fledermaus Overture *Sousa* Stars and Stripes Forever *Elgar* Nimrod *Tchaikovsky* Swan Lake Finale *Bizet* The Pearl Fishers Duet *Porter* Brush up your Shakespeare *Ponchielli* Dance of the Hours *Rossini* William Tell Overture *Mascagni* Intermezzo from Cavalleria Rusticana *Sibelius* Finlandia *Mozart* Champagne Aria *Denza* Funiculi, funicula *Arne* Rule Britannia *Parry* Jerusalem *Puccini* Nessun dorma *Elgar* Pomp & Circumstance March No 1
  

• k.d. lang Plus support Duston O'Halloran 

  Fri 1 Aug Symphony Hall

  k.d. lang has announced a series of European tour dates in July and August as part of her continuing worldwide Watershed Tour. The tour follows sold out concerts in Glasgow and London earlier this year. Of January’s London concert, the Daily Telegraph declared, ‘lang’s voice remains a wonder to behold. Many pass themselves off as “proper” singers, but lang is one of the few who can really, really sing. Glorious.’ The Times echoed, ‘With the pop world suddenly in thrall to a bevy of young, female torch singers, here is a star who really knows the stylistic and emotional ropes of the genre.’ k.d.’s latest album is the acclaimed bestseller, _Watershed_, which was released by Nonesuch Records in January and saw k.d. achieve some of the best chart success of her 25-year career, including her highest ever debut on the US Billboard chart at no.8. The album comprises 11 new songs written and produced by k.d., including the first single _I Dream Of Spring_ and the forthcoming single _Coming Home_. It is the first album of newly written material from the four-time Grammy winner since 2000's _Invincible Summer_, and her first studio album since 2004's Canadian songbook, _Hymns Of The 49th Parallel_. It is also the first self-produced collection of her career. The Sunday Times Magazine called it a ‘masterpiece’, and in a four-star review Q proclaimed it ‘The best thing she’s done since 1992’s _Ingénue_.’
  
  
  

• CBSO The Planets  

  Tue 10 Nov Symphony Hall

  Midland composers have always aimed high. Worcestershire lad Edward Elgar dreamed of making it big in the capital, and it shows: his Cockaigne overture positively glitters with the pageantry and bustle of Edwardian London. Gustav Holst, meanwhile, headed for the stars! His Planets suite isn’t just famous for great tunes like Jupiter and Mars; it’s a tremendous musical odyssey towards the infinite, written for a super-size orchestra and filled with sounds of jaw-dropping strangeness and beauty. Amidst all this grandeur, Grieg’s ever-popular Piano Concerto offers gentler charms - but with Leon McCawley at the keyboard, it will be every bit as spectacular.
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *John Wilson* _conductor_ *Leon McCawley* _piano_ *City of Birmingham Symphony Youth Chorus (Seniors)*
  *Elgar* _Cockaigne_ 15' *Grieg* Piano Concerto 30' *Holst* _The Planets_ 48'
  

• CBSO Friday Night Classics: Rodgers & Hammerstein  

  Fri 2 Jul Symphony Hall

  July is bustin’ out all over - so celebrate the summer with the supreme masters of the Broadway Musical. Everyone knows the sound of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s music, and all your favourite melodies are here - sung by two modern legends of musical theatre. From _Climb Ev’ry Mountain_, _Oh What a Beautiful Morning_ and _You’ll Never Walk Alone_ to _Some Enchanted Evening_ and _The Lonely Goatherd_, one thing’s for sure, John Wilson and the CBSO will send you home whistling a merry tune! Pre-concert event 6.15pm: CBSO Boys' Choir gives a free performance in the hall. Visit the "CBSO website":http://www.cbso.co.uk
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *John Wilson* coductor *Kim Criswell* vocalists *Brent Barrett* vocalist
  Including music from: Carousel South Pacific The King and I The Sound of Music Oklahoma! State Fair Flower Drum Song Pipe Dream Cinderella and more!
  

• Friday Night Classics: You Call The Tunes  

  Fri 7 Mar Symphony Hall

  Tonight the CBSO plays the people's favourites in a concert packed with Midlanders' most-loved classical music. From the shortlist of 20 of the most popular pieces that were nominated by the public, 10 spectacular choices have now been voted into the concert: 6' *Borodin Prince Igor: Polovtsian Dances (from figure 1: Presto)* 11' Elgar: Cello Concerto: 1st movement 13' Vaughan Williams: The Lark Ascending (complete) 15' Gershwin: Rhapsody in Blue 15' Vaughan Williams: Fantasia on a Theme by Thomas Tallis (complete) 3' Rachmaninoff: Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini: Variation 18 11' Rachmaninoff: Piano Concerto No. 2: 3rd movement 8' Bruch: Violin Concerto No. 1: 3rd movement 5' Elgar: Enigma Variations: Nimrod 8' Holst: The Planets: Jupiter Tommy Pearson presents this countdown performance in Symphony Hall on 7 March, culminating in the Midlands' Favourite Classic for 2008.
  *Michael Seal* Conductor
  
  

• CBSO The Planets - Matinee  

  Thu 12 Nov Symphony Hall

  Midland composers have always aimed high. Worcestershire lad Edward Elgar dreamed of making it big in the capital, and it shows: his Cockaigne overture positively glitters with the pageantry and bustle of Edwardian London. Gustav Holst, meanwhile, headed for the stars! His Planets suite isn’t just famous for great tunes like Jupiter and Mars; it’s a tremendous musical odyssey towards the infinite, written for a super-size orchestra and filled with sounds of jaw-dropping strangeness and beauty. Amidst all this grandeur, Grieg’s ever-popular Piano Concerto offers gentler charms - but with Leon McCawley at the keyboard, it will be every bit as spectacular.
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *John Wilson* _conductor_ *Leon McCawley* _piano_ *City of Birmingham Symphony Youth Chorus (Seniors)*
  *Elgar* _Cockaigne_ 15' *Grieg* Piano Concerto 30' *Holst* _The Planets_ 48'
  

• British Classics  

  Wed 23 Jan 2008 Symphony Hall

  After last year’s sold-out matinée featuring well-loved and less-familiar works from both sides of the serious / light music divide, CBSO favourite John Wilson is back with another selection of great tunes to conjure up a spirit of nostalgia. From Vaughan Williams’ serene countryside portrait to Eric Coates’ splendid Dam Busters March, by way of Bax’s stirring take on the Arthurian legend and a delightful miniature by Birmingham tunesmith Albert W Ketèlbey, there is something for everyone with an interest in the best of British music. 1.15pm pre-concert talk
  John Wilson conductor Laurence Jackson violin
  Walton: Scapino A Comedy Overture Vaughan Williams: The Lark Ascending Bax: Tintagel Sullivan: The Yeomen of the Guard Overture Coates: Footlights Ketèlbey: In a Monastery Garden Farnon: Derby Day Binge: Elizabethan Serenade Coates: Four Centuries Suite Coates: The Dam Busters March
  

• CBSO Alfie Boe with the CBSO  

  Tue 30 Mar Symphony Hall

  Whether as the composer of theme tunes from _Blackadder_ to _The Vicar of Dibley_, or as a wonderfully accessible TV champion of classical music in all its forms, Howard Goodall is one of Britain’s best-loved composers. And his new tuneful and deeply moving Requiem, _Eternal Light_, has already become a bestseller. This performance, with star soloists Alfie Boe and Natasha Marsh, will show you why. Alfie Boe also sings Finzi’s radiant masterpiece. 6.15pm. Free pre-concert talk: *Howard Goodall* The popular conductor, composer and broadcaster introduces his new Requiem.
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Simon Halsey* _conductor_ *Natasha Marsh* _soprano_ *Alfie Boe* _tenor_ *William Berger* _baritone_ *CBSO Youth Chorus*
  *Holst* Choral Hymns from the _Rig Veda_ 12’ *Finzi* _Dies Natalis_ 25’ *Howard Goodall* _Eternal Light_ (Requiem) 45’
  

• Scott Matthews and band plus support from Jo Hamilton 

  Fri 11 Dec Town Hall

  Scott Matthews released his debut album _Passing Stranger_ on the San Remo label, through Island Records to widespread acclaim in Oct 2006. His celebrated performance on Later With Jools Holland, had Damon Albarn and Gary Lightbody from Snow Patrol among countless others, singing his praises. Scott has recently toured with Robert Plant, Alison Krauss, Rufus Wainwright, Bert Jansch and The Foo Fighters. He has also recently covered Bob Marley's _Is This Love_ for the album _Island Life_ celebrating the 50th anniversary of Island Records. Scott was presented with the highly prestigious Ivor Novello Award for his track _Elusive_ and also had the honour of presenting the much-loved John Martyn with his 2008 Mojo Honours Les Paul award. _“Plugs into the same creative socket that powered the more pastoral Led Zep work of his fellow Midlander Robert Plant. File beside Nick Drake, John Martyn, Ray Lamontagne”_ Sunday Times _“Scott Matthews is following in a grand tradition of cosmic wailers like fellow midlander Robert Plant and the Buckleys before him”_ The Guardian Guide _"Big sound, big production, big tune!”_ Zane Lowe, BBC Radio 1 _“The most promising home-grown singer songwriter to emerge in years”_ Q magazine _"He’s fantastic..an absolute genius"_ Janice Long, BBC Radio 2
  
  8pm James Summerfield 8.30pm Jo Hamilton 9.20pm Scott Matthews
  

• CBSO Haydn 200: II  

  Wed 18 Nov Town Hall

  One of the stars of the period instrument music scene and now a leading opera conductor, Corsican-born Jean- Christophe Spinosi makes his CBSO debut with a sparkling programme featuring this year’s anniversary composers, Handel and Haydn. Two of the latter’s splendid Paris symphonies are separated by arias by Handel and Rossini, sung by one of today’s leading mezzos, acclaimed for her ‘Carmen’ at Glyndebourne. "www.cbso.co.uk":http://cbso.co.uk
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Jean-Christophe Spinosi* _conductor_ *Rinat Shaham* _mezzo-soprano_
  At Rinat Shaham's request, the programme has been altered as follows: *Mozart* Overture to Cosi fan tutte, K. 588 *Mozart* Voi Che Sapete (Marriage of Figaro) *Mozart* Recit & Smanie Implacabile (Cosi Fan Tutti) *Haydn* Symphony No. 83 "La Poule" Interval *Rossini* Overture to Il barbiere di Siviglia *Rossini* Cruda sorte (L'Italiana in Algeri) *Rossini* Una Voce Poco fa (Barber of Seville) 26' *Haydn* Symphony No. 82 "The Bear" We are sorry for any disappointment this may cause.
  

• CBSO Elgar's Enigma  

  Sat 23 Jan 2010 Symphony Hall

  To begin our series featuring the amazing musical decade leading up to the CBSO’s birth in 1920, we have one of the jewels of English music - Vaughan Williams’ luminous Tallis Fantasia, premiered in 1910. Britten’s late work for viola and strings also draws on older English music, while James Macmillan’s striking trumpet concerto is a prayer inspired by the composer’s Christian faith. This concert of deeply personal British music ends with Elgar’s brilliant tribute to his friends. *Pre-concert talk 5.45pm* Elgar to MacMillan Conductor Edward Gardner introduces tonight’s concert, in conversation with Stephen Maddock. "www.cbso.co.uk":http://cbso.co.uk
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Edward Gardner* _conductor_ *Alison Balsom* _trumpet_ *Christopher Yates* _viola_
  *Vaughan Williams* Fantasia on a Theme by Thomas Tallis 15’ *Macmillan* Epiclesis 25’ *Britten* Lachrymae 15’ *Elgar* Enigma Variations 29’
  

• CBSO Elgar's Enigma  

  Wed 20 Jan 2010 Symphony Hall

  To begin our series featuring the amazing musical decade leading up to the CBSO’s birth in 1920, we have one of the jewels of English music - Vaughan Williams’ luminous Tallis Fantasia, premiered in 1910. Britten’s late work for viola and strings also draws on older English music, while James Macmillan’s striking trumpet concerto is a prayer inspired by the composer’s Christian faith. This concert of deeply personal British music ends with Elgar’s brilliant tribute to his friends. *Pre-concert talk 6.15pm* Elgar to MacMillan Conductor Edward Gardner introduces tonight’s concert, in conversation with Stephen Maddock. "www.cbso.co.uk":http://cbso.co.uk
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Edward Gardner* _conductor_ *Alison Balsom* _trumpet_ *Christopher Yates* _viola_
  *Vaughan Williams* Fantasia on a Theme by Thomas Tallis 15’ *Macmillan* Epiclesis 25’ *Britten* Lachrymae 15’ *Elgar* Enigma Variations 29’
  

• CBSO - Viennese Masterpieces  

  Thu 24 May Symphony Hall

  The CBSO are delighted to welcome back one of the world's greatest violinists for a programme of Viennese classics. Beethoven's Fourth is one of his wittiest creations and there is also plenty of humour in this Haydn symphony, one of a set of six composed to please the elegant tastes of Parisian audiences. The last of Mozart's five Violin Concertos is full of dazzling display for the soloist, not least in the ever-surprising finale with its 'Turkish' episodes. Today's programme offers music of elegance, charm and sophistication in abundance! Please Note this concert is being performed on Wednesday 23 May, 2.15pm and Thursday 24 May, 7.30pm *Pre-Concert Talk* Wednesday 23 May, 1.15pm & Thursday 24 May, 6.15pm Beethoven's brightest symphony - as seen from inside the orchestra by violinist David Gregory.
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Leonidas Kavakos* Conductor/Violin
  *Haydn* Symphony No 82, The Bear 26' *Mozart* Violin Concerto No 5 31' *Beethoven* Symphony No 4 34'
  

• CBSO - Viennese Masterpieces (matinee)  

  Wed 23 May Symphony Hall

  The CBSO are delighted to welcome back one of the world's greatest violinists for a programme of Viennese classics. Beethoven's Fourth is one of his wittiest creations and there is also plenty of humour in this Haydn symphony, one of a set of six composed to please the elegant tastes of Parisian audiences. The last of Mozart's five Violin Concertos is full of dazzling display for the soloist, not least in the ever-surprising finale with its 'Turkish' episodes. Today's programme offers music of elegance, charm and sophistication in abundance! Please Note this concert is being performed on Wednesday 23 May, 2.15pm and Thursday 24 May, 7.30pm Pre-Concert Talk Wednesday 23 May, 1.15pm & Thursday 24 May, 6.15pm Beethoven's brightest symphony - as seen from inside the orchestra by violinist David Gregory.
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Leonidas Kavakos* Conductor/Violin
  *Haydn* Symphony No 82, The Bear 26' *Mozart* Violin Concerto No 5 31' *Beethoven* Symphony No 4 34'
  

• CBSO Alfie Boe with the CBSO  

  Thu 1 Apr Symphony Hall

  Whether as the composer of theme tunes from _Blackadder_ to _The Vicar of Dibley_, or as a wonderfully accessible TV champion of classical music in all its forms, Howard Goodall is one of Britain’s best-loved composers. And his new tuneful and deeply moving Requiem, _Eternal Light_, has already become a bestseller. This performance, with star soloists Alfie Boe and Natasha Marsh, will show you why. Alfie Boe also sings Finzi’s radiant masterpiece. 1.15pm. Free pre-concert talk: *A Century of British Choral Music* Chorus Director Simon Halsey introduces today's choral matinee.
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Simon Halsey* _conductor_ *Natasha Marsh* _soprano_ *Alfie Boe* _tenor_ *William Berger* _baritone_ *CBSO Youth Chorus*
  *Holst* Choral Hymns from the _Rig Veda_ 12’ *Finzi* _Dies Natalis_ 25’ *Howard Goodall* _Eternal Light_ (Requiem) 45’
  

• Russian Romantics Tchaikovsky Symphony Orchestra of Moscow Radio 

  Tue 9 Oct Symphony Hall

  However familiar a piece of music might be, it takes on a vibrant new intensity when played by musicians who spring from the same soil as the composer. Vladimir Fedoseyev conducts four Russian classics crowned by the spontaneous melodic outpouring of Tchaikovsky's Violin Concerto, whilst the pain and struggle of young love is vividly portrayed in the bittersweet lyricism of Prokofiev's great ballet _Romeo and Juliet_. Classic FM's Anne-Marie Minhall says of tonight's recommended concert: _" It's often said that you can't beat hearing Russian musicians play the music of their homeland. Tonight you can put the theory to the test. Not to be missed is the Tchaikovsky Violin Concerto one of the so called big four concertos that every violinist should have under their belt."_
  *Vladimir Fedoseyev* Conductor *Nemanja Radulovic* Violin *Irina Mataeva* Soprano
  *Borodin* Overture, Prince Igor 10' *Tchaikovsky* Violin Concerto 35' *Tchaikovsky* Letter Scene (from _Eugene Onegin_) 13' *Prokofiev (arr. Fedoseyev)* Four excerpts from _Romeo and Juliet_ 20'
  

• CBSO Benevolent Fund Concert The Organ Symphony 

  Fri 18 Sep Symphony Hall

  Pure colour. Elgar’s _In the South_ opens with a glorious burst of sound - the composer’s response to the spectacular scenery and brilliant sunshine of the Italian Riviera. Mozart’s most famous horn concerto fairly bubbles over with high-spirits. And Saint-Saëns’ popular Organ Symphony ends in a blaze of glory, as the mighty Symphony Organ joins the full CBSO to raise the roof. With city organist Thomas Trotter at the keyboard, it’ll be a triumphant finish to this irresistibly tuneful concert - with all proceeds going to the CBSO Benevolent Fund (Reg. Friendly Society 735F).
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Michael Seal* _conductor_ *Thomas Trotter* _organ_ *Elspeth Dutch* _horn_
  *Elgar* _In the South_ 19' *Mozart* Horn Concerto No 4, K495 16' *Widor* Toccata from Organ Symphony No 5 6' *Saint-Saëns* Symphony No 3 (_Organ_) 34'
  

• Roger Hodgson NO SUPPORT 

  Thu 11 Oct Symphony Hall

  Roger Hodgson has been recognized as one of the most gifted composers, songwriters and lyricists of our time. His trademark way of setting introspective lyrics to upbeat melodies has resonated and has found it's way into hearts of over three generations around the world. As the legendary voice of Supertramp's greatest hits, he gave us 'Breakfast In America', 'Give a Little Bit', 'The Logical Song', 'Dreamer', 'Take the Long Way Home', 'School' and other classics that have become the soundtrack of our lives. Hodgson co-founded the progressive rock band Supertramp, with his timeless songs being both critically acclaimed and instrumental in driving worldwide sales of Supertramp albums to a staggering 60 million. His songs have remarkably stood the test of time and have earned Roger and Supertramp an adoring worldwide following. Roger is a multi-talented musician, performing on keyboards, guitar and piano and he is currently touring and playing solo concerts worldwide. He has just released his first DVD, entitled 'Roger Hodgson, Take the Long Way Home, Live in Montreal' which hit #1 in Canada within months and is scheduled for worldwide release this fall. http://www.rogerhodgson.com/documents/store.html www.RogerHodgson.com
  
  
  

• CBSO Brahms and Sibelius  

  Thu 14 Jan Symphony Hall

  *Please note* this concert will take place. Please allow plenty of time for your journey in the wintry weather and take particular care on foot in the city centre. "Up-to-date travel information":http://www.bbc.co.uk/birmingham/travel/ Lots of composers have been given honorary degrees - but only Johannes Brahms responded by writing an overture full of student drinking songs! His _Academic Festival Overture_ is a hilarious one-in-the-eye for those who think of Brahms as stuffy - and so is his gorgeous, deeply romantic Double Concerto. And then, conductor Vassily Sinaisky tackles two real CBSO trademarks. _The Swan of Tuonela_ is a darkly beautiful meditation on mortality; the mighty Fifth Symphony, meanwhile is one of 20th century’s most dynamic and life-affirming masterpieces - with a finale that will stay with you forever. "www.cbso.co.uk":http://cbso.co.uk
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Vassily Sinaisky* _conductor_ *Laurence Jackson* _violin_ *Ulrich Heinen* _cello_
  *Brahms* _Academic Festival Overture_ 10’ *Brahms* Double Concerto 31’ *Sibelius* _The Swan of Tuonela_ - Legend No. 2 10’ *Sibelius* Symphony No. 5 31’
  

• Emoción Flamenco A Passionate Weekend of Dance, Music and Voice 

  Fri 9 Nov Town Hall

  Driving energy, pulsing rhythms, joy and tears - the fiery magic of flamenco and tango comes to Town Hall in a foot-stamping, whirling frenzy of dance, live music and spine-tingling theatre. The autumn might be drawing in, but over three intense nights, the Emoción festival is set to light up the city with contrasting flamenco events from some of Spain’s finest artists. From its gypsy roots, authentic, contemporary Flamenco has evolved its own language of music, song and dance. A total theatrical experience that thrills audiences, it’s a uniquely traditional art form that is still living and growing, both on the streets and barrios as well as in the Flamenco Schools of Spain. *Pepa Molina and Company - Friday 9 November* Joy, pain, and pulsing energy, Pepa Molina produces that heart-racing rush you yearn for in any great flamenco performance. *Los Arrieritos in ‘13 Rosas’ - Saturday 10 November* Spectacular dance, live music and a recorded soundtrack create an emotionally searing performance that has scooped top awards in Spain and throughout Europe. *Último Tango Fusión - Sunday 11 November* A unique artistic event, Ultimo Tango Fusión is a dance of joy and liberation, yearning and hope, menace and suppressed violence. Featuring El Último Tango - the UK’s acclaimed tango ensemble - plus voice, flamenco and tango dance, lovers of all things Latin are promised a fiery evening of pure passion. *Find out about Flamenco and Get Involved!* www.emociondance.eu For all things Flamenco - dance performances, gigs, workshops and taster sessions • visit the official Emoción Flamenco web site and join the mailing list.
  
  
  

• CBSO Russian Classics  

  Thu 27 May 2010 Symphony Hall

  Music director of Moscow’s legendary Bolshoi Theatre since 2001, Alexander Vedernikov makes his CBSO debut with a trio of very different Russian masterpieces. Rimsky’s colourful overture celebrates the Russian Orthodox Easter in a riot of bells and orchestral brilliance, while Prokofiev’s superb post-war symphony strikes a more serious mood in music of great intensity and power. His sometime friend Shostakovich is also famous for his serious symphonies, but this tuneful piano concerto finds him in a lighter mood, and is played for us by the versatile Scottish pianist who has entertained CBSO audiences in music from Mozart to Messiaen. Visit the "CBSO website":http://www.thsh.co.uk Pre-concert Talk, 6.15pm: *Soviet Symphonists* Russian music expert David Fanning, of the University of Manchester, introduces Prokofiev's Sixth Symphony.
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Alexander Vedernikov* conductor *Steven Osborne* piano
  *Rimsky-Korsakov* Russian Easter Festival Overture 16' *Shostakovich* Piano Concerto No 2 20' *Prokofiev* Symphony No 6 45'
  

• CBSO Schools Concert: The Firebird  

  Cancelled

  Thu 15 Apr Symphony Hall

  Stravinsky’s music transports you to a world of glittering colours, enchanted melodies and nightmarish, bloodcurdling thrills. Discover the orchestra from the inside out with one of the best-loved pieces of music in the classical repertoire, which shows off the full symphony orchestra in all its brilliance and splendour. The ballet score is based on a Russian folk tale telling the story of Prince Ivan who enters the garden of the evil Kastchei and rescues 13 princesses with the help of the magical firebird. 11.30am performance: specially devised for Key Stage 2 (Years 5 & 6); 1.30pm performance: for Key Stages 3 & 4. *Special prices apply: £4 per ticket for children and teachers, and home-schooling* children and parents. To book please call Group Bookings on 0800 358 7070.* For information on pre-concert support packages and other opportunities available for schools with the CBSO, please contact the CBSO’s Education Department by email (education@cbso.co.uk) or telephone (0121 616 6546). *proof of eligibility, eg registration with your Local Authority, required
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Michael Seal* _conductor_ *Tommy Pearson* _presenter_
  
  

• CBSO Schools Concert: The Firebird  

  Cancelled

  Thu 15 Apr Symphony Hall

  Stravinsky’s music transports you to a world of glittering colours, enchanted melodies and nightmarish, bloodcurdling thrills. Discover the orchestra from the inside out with one of the best-loved pieces of music in the classical repertoire, which shows off the full symphony orchestra in all its brilliance and splendour. The ballet score is based on a Russian folk tale telling the story of Prince Ivan who enters the garden of the evil Kastchei and rescues 13 princesses with the help of the magical firebird. 11.30am performance: specially devised for Key Stage 2 (Years 5 & 6); 1.30pm performance: for Key Stages 3 & 4. *Special prices apply: £4 per ticket for children and teachers, and home-schooling* children and parents. To book please call Group Bookings on 0800 358 7070.* For information on pre-concert support packages and other opportunities available for schools with the CBSO, please contact the CBSO’s Education Department by email (education@cbso.co.uk) or telephone (0121 616 6546). *proof of eligibility, eg registration with your Local Authority, required
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Michael Seal* _conductor_ *Tommy Pearson* _presenter_
  
  

• CBSO Beethoven's Pastoral  

  Thu 24 Jun 2010 Symphony Hall

  It’s summer - so it must be Beethoven’s _Pastoral_ Symphony. From its dewy-fresh opening to the serene _Shepherd’s Hymn_ with which it closes, no composer has ever captured the healing power of nature more timelessly. Two centuries on, it’s still a candidate for the most relaxing piece of music ever written. Guest conductor Ludovic Morlot brings a uniquely Gallic lightness of touch to Beethoven’s inspiration - and plenty of colour for Bartók’s folk-flavoured miniatures. They’ll stand him in good stead for the amazing sound-world of Ligeti’s Violin Concerto. French virtuoso Renaud Capuçon brings all his skill to bear on the ravishing colours, child-like humour and crackling energy of this true modern classic. Pre-concert talk, 6.15pm: *Ligeti's Violin Concerto* Writer and Broadcaster Anthony Burton on this 20th century masterpiece.
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Ludovic Morlot* _conductor_ *Renaud Capuçon* _violin_
  *Bartók* Two Pictures 17' *Ligeti* Violin Concerto 28' *Beethoven* Symphony No 6 (_Pastoral_) 40'
  

• A Night at The Opera  

  Tue 18 Nov Symphony Hall

  *A Spectacular Celebration of the Worlds favourite Opera Classics* At last, an event to celebrate the universal love for some of the most enduring music ever created! A Night at the Opera starring Jonathan Ansell, special guests and the Night at the Opera Orchestra is a glorious celebration of the most famous and best loved arias from the world’s favourite operas Jonathan Ansell, the charismatic young singer with the sensational tenor voice who shot to fame three years ago with pop opera group G4 on the X Factor, has now established himself as a bona fide solo star. Jonathan achieved amazing success with the classically-trained group G4, whose final performance as a group was a sensational sold out show at the Royal Albert Hall. But surpassing this, he has now achieved a debut solo album that topped the classical charts and also hit the top ten of the pop charts. Including Aida, The Barber of Seville, La Boheme, Carmen, Cosi Fan Tutte, Don Giovanni, The Marriage of Figaro, Madame Butterfly, The Magic Flute, Rigoletto Tosca, La Traviata and many more.
  
  
  

• Feast of Fiddles  

  Mon 5 Apr Town Hall

  This concert is part of Feast of Fiddles’ 17th Spring Tour since the band first formed in 1994. What started as an informal get-together for Nettlebed Folk Club has gone from strength to strength with festival appearances at Cropredy, Broadstairs, Jersey, The Great British Beer Festival, Gosport and Marvellous in the Park. The line-up of fiddlers is a compendium of British folk stars: Phil Beer, Garry Blakeley, Ian Cutler, Tom Leary, Chris Leslie, Peter Knight and Brian McNeill are once again joined by Dave Mattacks, Hugh Crabtree, Dave Harding, John Underwood and Martin Vincent. Ticket holders are entitled to a third off the new CD _Walk Before You Fly_, when it is purchased at Town Hall on 5 April 2010.
  Phil Beer, Garry Blakeley, Ian Cutler, Tom Leary, Chris Leslie, Peter Knight, Brian McNeill, Dave Mattacks, Hugh Crabtree, Dave Harding, John Underwood and Martin Vincent
  
  

• We'll Meet Again A Salute to the War Years 

  Thu 3 Sep Symphony Hall

  60 years on, take a Sentimental Journey with Gavin Sutherland and a live orchestra performing commemorative classics to remember the World War II years. _In the Mood_ _A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square_ _Dam Busters March_ _Sing, Sing, Sing_ _One O’clock Jump_ _Moonlight Serenade_ _The White Cliffs of Dover_ _Goodnight Sweetheart_ _Pack Up Your Troubles_ _It’s a long way to Tipperary_ _Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy_ _When I’m Cleaning Windows_ _We’ll Meet Again_ Plus a special Radio Days Medley featuring the popular requests from the day and a traditional singalong to forties favourites such as: _Hang out the Washing on the Siegfried Line_ _Underneath the Arches_ _Run Rabbit Run_
  Introduce by *June Whitfield* Featuring … Guest Singer *Flight Lieutenant Matt Little* Plus a tribute to the Andrews Sisters with *The Swing Cats* *London Concert Orchestra* *Gavin Sutherland* conductor *Chris Marques & Jaclyn Spencer* World Champion Dancers *Mark Walsh* ukelele
  
  

• Symphonie Fantastique Orchestre de la Suisse Romande 

  Sat 26 Jan 2008 Symphony Hall

  From dark incantations to supernatural beings, sinister gatherings of spectres and witches, the funereal tolling knell and drug-induced fantasies, Weber and Berlioz both vividly embraced the fashionably chilling Gothic horror of their day in _Der Freischutz_ and the _Symphonie Fantastique_. Marek Janowski and the Orchestre de la Suisse Romande frame these two classics with Mozart's majestic Piano Concerto No 21, its exquisitely lyrical slow movement featured in the film _Elvira Madigan._ Classic FM's Anne-Marie Minhall says of tonight's recommended concert: "Weber's Overture to Der Freischutz and Berlioz's Symphonie Fantastique, were both landmark works. Weber moved away from the accepted operatic norm of elaborate plots and went instead for Germanic legends with a healthy helping of supernatural intrigue. Berlioz also went down the magical, ghostly route in telling the story of a desperate young musician who falls in love."
  *Marek Janowski* Conductor *Nicolai Lugansky* Piano
  *Weber* Overture, Der Freischütz 8' *Mozart* Piano Concerto No 21 30' *Berlioz* Symphonie Fantastique 50'
  

• CBSO Brahms and Sibelius - Matinee  

  Wed 13 Jan Symphony Hall

  *Please note* this concert will take place. Please allow plenty of time for your journey in the wintry weather and take particular care on foot in the city centre. "Up-to-date travel information":http://www.bbc.co.uk/birmingham/travel/ Lots of composers have been given honorary degrees - but only Johannes Brahms responded by writing an overture full of student drinking songs! His _Academic Festival Overture_ is a hilarious one-in-the-eye for those who think of Brahms as stuffy - and so is his gorgeous, deeply romantic Double Concerto. And then, conductor Vassily Sinaisky tackles two real CBSO trademarks. _The Swan of Tuonela_ is a darkly beautiful meditation on mortality; the mighty Fifth Symphony, meanwhile is one of 20th century’s most dynamic and life-affirming masterpieces - with a finale that will stay with you forever. *Pre-concert talk 1.15pm* The Player’s Perspective - Sibelius’s Fifth Introduced by CBSO violinist David Gregory.
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Vassily Sinaisky* _conductor_ *Laurence Jackson* _violin_ *Ulrich Heinen* _cello_
  *Brahms* _Academic Festival Overture_ 10’ *Brahms* Double Concerto 31’ *Sibelius* _The Swan of Tuonela_ - Legend No 2 10’ *Sibelius* Symphony No 5 31’
  

• Gergiev, Mariinsky and the CBSO  

  Wed 14 Oct Symphony Hall

  Two great orchestras and choruses come together for a once-in-a lifetime event when East meets West under conductor Valery Gergiev - memorably described as “so highly charged that you could probably run the National Grid from a cable attached to his baton” (The Times). Berlioz’s Requiem is one of the most gigantic works in the repertoire, with four extra brass bands; and Prokofiev’s Cantata includes an accordion ensemble, alarm bells, cannon-shots, sirens and a speaker with megaphone who is the voice of Lenin. BBC Music magazine’s Editor Oliver Condy explains why he has recommended tonight’s concert: _“Concert-goers who spy Russian conductor Valery Gergiev on the programme need never hesitate, particularly if repertoire like this is involved! This concert is sure to be the ultimate roof-raiser.”_ Listen to the Classic FM podcast "here":http://www.classicfm.co.uk/on-air/podcasts/classic-fm-arts-daily/e103548-classic-fm-arts-daily-210809/
  *Orchestra and Chorus of the Mariinsky Theatre* *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra and Chorus* *Valery Gergiev* _conductor_ *Sergei Semishkur* _tenor_
  *Prokofiev* Cantata for the 20th Anniversary of the October Revolution *Berlioz* _Grande messe des morts_ (Requiem)
  

• Gergiev, Mariinsky and the CBSO  

  Thu 15 Oct Symphony Hall

  Two great orchestras and choruses come together for a once-in-a lifetime event when East meets West under conductor Valery Gergiev - memorably described as “so highly charged that you could probably run the National Grid from a cable attached to his baton” (The Times). Berlioz’s Requiem is one of the most gigantic works in the repertoire, with four extra brass bands; and Prokofiev’s Cantata includes an accordion ensemble, alarm bells, cannon-shots, sirens and a speaker with megaphone who is the voice of Lenin. BBC Music magazine’s Editor Oliver Condy explains why he has recommended tonight’s concert: _“Concert-goers who spy Russian conductor Valery Gergiev on the programme need never hesitate, particularly if repertoire like this is involved! This concert is sure to be the ultimate roof-raiser.”_ Listen to the Classic FM podcast "here":http://www.classicfm.co.uk/on-air/podcasts/classic-fm-arts-daily/e103548-classic-fm-arts-daily-210809/
  *Orchestra and Chorus of the Mariinsky Theatre* *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra and Chorus* *Valery Gergiev* _conductor_ *Sergei Semishkur* _tenor_
  *Prokofiev* Cantata for the 20th Anniversary of the October Revolution *Berlioz* _Grande messe des morts_ (Requiem)
  

• New Year's Eve Gala  

  Mon 31 Dec Symphony Hall

  See in the hour of midnight at Symphony Hall’s sensational annual celebration with an explosive indoor firework finale.With a wealth of popular classics, complimentary interval refreshments and Britain’s answer to Victor Borge, Rainer Hersch. Enjoy complimentary interval refreshments *Please note this concert is now sold out but we have an earlier performance at Town Hall so you don't have to miss out!* "Matinee performance at Town Hall":http://www.thsh.co.uk/new-years-eve-matinee-gala
  *Paul O’Neill* Tenor *Grant Doyle* Baritone *Anthony Inglis* Conductor *London Concert Orchestra* Lots of fun and laughter from Britain’s answer to Victor Borge RAINER HERSCH
  VERDI The Force of Destiny Overture MASCAGNIi Intermezzo from Cavalleria Rusticana SIBELIUS Finlandia TCHAIKOVSKY Swan Lake Finale BIZET The Pearl Fishers Duet CHABRIER España ROSSINI William Tell Overture All your proms favourites NIMROD JERUSALEM NESSUN DORMA RULE, BRITANNIA LAND OF HOPE AND GLORY
  

• Glenn Miller Orchestra  

  Sat 26 Jun Symphony Hall

  The UK's most renowned big band pays tribute to the 65th Anniversary of VE Day in this nostalgic journey back to the forties. Legendary bandleader Ray McVay swings in to Birmingham with chart topping war time hits including _You Made Me Love you_, _Stairway To The Stars_, _Moonlight Becomes You_, _In The Mood_, _Tuxedo Junction_, _Pennsylvania 65000_, _St. Louis Blues March_, plus a special medley tribute to forces sweetheart - Vera Lynn. For this special summertime performance The Glenn Miller Orchestra are joined on stage by Jan Messeder, Colin Anthony, The Uptown Hall Gang, The Moonlight Serenaders and very special guest Dennis Lotis remembering the magnificent Ted Heath Band with classics _Get Happy_, _Mack the Knife_ and _Georgia_. The orchestra will perform the second half of the concert in the World War II uniforms of the US Army Air Force.
  *Glenn Miller Orchestra* Plus special Guests: *Jan Messeder* *Colin Anthony* *The Uptown Hall Gang* *The Moonlight Serenaders*
  
  

• CBSO Haydn 200: The Creation  

  Thu 3 Dec Symphony Hall

  _“When I think of God, I can’t help writing cheerful music,”_ admitted Joseph Haydn. So it’s no wonder that his great oratorio _The Creation_ is one of the freshest, happiest and most unstuffy pieces of religious music ever written. Fizzy operatic arias, blockbuster choruses and a visionary musical depiction of the birth of the Universe itself - they’re all part of Haydn’s shamelessly tuneful version of the Book of Genesis. Adam and Eve even get their own love-duet! There’s no more enjoyable way to celebrate the 200th anniversary of Haydn’s death - and to hear the CBSO’s magnificent chorus in full, resplendent voice. Tonight’s concert is supported by the Tolkien Trust. Pre-concert talk - 6.15pm - *Haydn's Creation in a post-Darwinian World* Lord Harries of Pentregarth, the former Bishop of Oxford, gives his perspective on the significance of the Creation story in the Eighteenth Century. "www.cbso.co.uk":http://cbso.co.uk
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Andris Nelsons* _conductor_ *Ailish Tynan* _soprano_ *Toby Spence* _tenor_ * *Vuyani Mlinde* _bass_ *CBSO Chorus* *We are sorry to announce that Joel Prieto is unable to perform in the concert on Thursday 3 December. We are very grateful to Toby Spence who replaces him.
  *Haydn* _The Creation_ 109’ (sung in English)
  

• Motorcity Roots An Anniversary Tribute to the Motown Legacy featuring Jazz Jamaica 

  Fri 17 Apr Town Hall

  _“Jazz Jamaica, the raucously vivacious British band that mixes reggae with all manner of other idioms, played Caribbean bebop Tamla Motown . . . Jazz Jamaica puts a reggae bounce under just about every soul classic you’ve ever heard of . . . irresistible.”_ The Guardian Motown Records, named after hometown Detroit’s nickname of Motor City, was founded in January 1959. To celebrate the anniversary, put on those flares for an unforgettable feel-good evening with a party atmosphere as Jazz Jamaica’s ska-jazz-reggae band dusts down your favourite Motown Classics. This band really rocks, and with their big, bold, brassy horns and skanking rhythm section, we guarantee they’ll have you _Dancing in the Street_!
  Jazz Jamaica’s world-class line-up : *Gary Crosby* double bass *Rod Youngs* drums *Robin Banerjee* guitar *Ben Burrell* piano / organ *Pete Eckford* percussion *Denys Baptiste* tenor sax *Camilla George* alto sax *Ashley Howard* trombone *Abram Wilson* trumpet *Zara Mcfarlane* vocals *J’'nay* vocals *Baby So* vocals
  Presented in association with The Drum.
  

• Sharleen Spiteri Start Time: 8pm 

  Sun 8 Feb Symphony Hall

  Sharleen Spiteri, one of the most successful women in British music over the last 25 years, makes her solo debut at Symphony Hall this February - hot on the heels of her solo album ‘Melody’ which went straight into the album charts at No 3, and has already been declared Gold for 100,000 sales. The release of 'Melody' has seen Sharleen back in huge demand with performances on a range of massive UK TV shows from Later with Jools Holland to the Andrew Marr Show, via Graham Norton, The Charlotte Church Show and Transmission. Debut single ‘All The Times I Cried’ received a Neilson award for over 10,000 plays on UK Radio, including a coveted Radio 2 ‘A’ Playlisting. Follow up single ‘Stop I Don’t Love You Anymore’ is also climbing the Airplay Top 20. Sharleen has also performed radio sessions for Radio 2 and Virgin as well as slotting in a triumphant main stage surprise performance at hometown festival T in the Park. She also starred at the recent BBC Proms in the Park, when she performed to over 30,000 people in London’s Hyde Park. Press plaudits include the NME who called Melody ‘a succulent record of Dusty Springfield-isms’. The 2009 tour will see Sharleen perform tracks from Melody for the first time, along with a few Texas classics and, as always with Sharleen, some musical surprises - all delivered by one of the best and most distinctive voices in British music.
  Please note: the start time for this event is 8pm. The runtimes will now be as follows: 8pm �" 8.30pm Kizzy Star 9pm �" 10.30pm Sharleen Spiteri
  
  

• Bat For Lashes plus special guests School of Seven Bells 

  Sun 12 Apr Town Hall

  With her dazzling second album, _Two Suns_, Bat For Lashes is set to assume the mantle of the most dynamic and intriguing pop performer in the UK right now. Natasha Khan’s debut _Fur And Gold_ was nominated for the 2007 Mercury Music Prize, and earned two Brit Award nominations for Best Breakthrough and Best Female in 2008. The album’s blend of spooky childhood reveries and magical piano balladry caught the imagination of everyone and not just in the music world. Natasha was feted by the fashion crowd, appearing everywhere from Vogue to Dazed & Confused and she recently collaborated with Alexander McQueen’s McQ label on several one-off pieces featured on the _Two Suns_ artwork. As if that weren’t enough, Bat For Lashes has inspired the making of a fantasy film-musical based on the songs from Fur And Gold. Natasha went on to be chosen by The Guardian as one of 2007’s women of the year - the only musician to appear on their list that year. Bat for Lashes was also asked to support Radiohead on their European tour last summer at the band’s personal request, where she assembled a new live band to explore fresh musical forms, before heading out to New York and the Californian desert to write what has now become _Two Suns_. _Two Suns_ sees Natasha exploring her creative personas and the world around her in a very different way. Envisioning herself as two separate yet ultimately attached beings, we discover her inner character Pearl, the destructive blonde femme fatale that represents one extreme of her personality. Pearl’s troubled obsession with childlike escapism and self-absorption opposes the wild and mystical desert being who represents Natasha’s more spiritual self. Through the songs on the album, Natasha and Pearl take us on a journey as they intertwine and overflow into each other’s realms, struggling to reconcile with each other, love and the forces of the outside world. _“Bat For Lashes has clearly and equivocally her own voice..entrancing. One of the year’s most exciting debuts”_ Music Week _“there’s something unique on this debut. Her voice floats over electronics, handclaps, piano and autoharp, while her mystically-shaped lyrics feature weeping seals and ghostly horses..otherworldly”_ Q Magazine _“Tim Burton flavoured chamber-pop”_ Sunday Telegraph
  
  
  

• Ray Davies with his band & the Crouch End Festival Chorus  

  Sat 12 Dec Symphony Hall

  Ray Davies, one of the most successful and influential songwriters to emerge from the British Invasion of the 1960s, founded the rock band The Kinks with his brother Dave in London in 1963. The band’s string of top ten international hits began with _You Really Got Me_, followed by _All Day and All of The Night, Tired of Waiting, Set Me Free, See My Friends, Till The End of The Day, A Well Respected Man, Lola, Sunny Afternoon, Dedicated Follower of Fashion, Apeman_, and _Come Dancing_ among many others. Davies also composed several pioneering rock operas including _Arthur, The Village Green Preservation Society, Preservation_ and _Soap Opera_. Following the initial British Invasion, further state-side success continued with The Kinks becoming a major act over the next two decades. Ray then played the lead in the television play _The Long Distance Piano Player_ and was resident composer for the topical BBC television series _The 11th Hour_ and _Where Was Spring_ produced by Ned Sherrin. In 1983 Ray directed his first film for Channel 4, _Return to Waterloo_ and in 1994 directed and produced _Weird Nightmare_, a portrait of Charles Mingus for Channel 4’s jazz series. Davies collaborated with Barrie Keeffe in 1981 on his first stage musical, Chorus Girls, and in 1988 wrote _80 Days_ with Snoo Wilson, which was produced and directed by Des McAnuff at the La Jolla Playhouse. He composed and performed the song _Quiet Life_ for the film _Absolute Beginners_ directed by Julien Temple. In 1995 Davies published his unauthorized autobiography, X-Ray, to critical acclaim and since then has been touring internationally with his one-man show, _The Storyteller_. His live album, also entitled _Storyteller_ was released in March of 1998. In 1998 Ray was commissioned to compose a fifty-minute choral piece, Flatlands, for the Norwich and Norfolk Festival featuring the Britten Symphonia. He also co-directed for Anglia Television a program featuring this music which won a regional television award the following year. In 1990 The Kinks were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Summer 2003 saw Ray playing in front of millions at Buckingham Palace for the Jubilee celebrations. Ray was also awarded the CBE at the beginning of 2004. Affectionately referred to as the “Godfather of Brit Pop”, Ray Davies is cited as a major influence on artists such as Pete Townshend, Paul Weller, Morrissey, Damon Albarn of Blur and many more. Ray Davies’ songs have become hits for bands including The Jam, Van Halen, The Pretenders and The Stranglers.
  *Ray Davies with his band and the Crouch End Festival Chorus*
  
  

• In the Spirit of Gil and Miles Britten Sinfonia 

  Tue 27 Nov Town Hall

  Britten Sinfonia, renowned for its bold approach to music-making, pays homage to two of the musical giants of the 20th century: Gil Evans and Miles Davis. Legendary American pianist and band leader Gil Goldstein, who worked closely with both jazz legends in the 1980s, brings his own unique style to this tribute, featuring classics from _Sketches of Spain_ and _Miles Ahead_, while the rich textures of Britten Sinfonia’s strings, woodwind and brass recreate this most evocative of repertoire. The concert also has a pronounced Brazilian flavour - echoing another of Goldstein’s musical fascinations - in the form of guitarist Romero Lubambo, ex Weather Report drummer Alex Acuña and Luciana Souza, one of Brazil’s most celebrated vocalists, whose brilliantly elastic voice gives a stunning interpretation of the distinctive Miles Davis sound. *6.15pm Free Pre-concert Talk*
  *Britten Sinfonia* *Gil Goldstein* Music Director *Luciana Souza* vocals *Romero Lubambo* guitar *Alex Acuña* percussion
  Programme to include: *Rodrigo/Gil Evans arr. Gil Goldstein* Concierto de Aranjuez, second movement (from Sketches of Spain) *Weill/Gil Evans arr. Gil Goldstein* My Ship (from Miles Ahead) *MacGregor and Mercer/Evans arr. Gil Goldstein* Moon Dreams from (Birth of the Cool) *Cleo Henry arr. Gil Goldstein* Boplicity (from Birth of the Cool) *Cleo Henry arr. Gil Goldstein* Concorvado (from Quiet Nights) *Cleo Henry arr. Gil Goldstein* Aos Pez Daz Cruz (from Quiet Nights) *Egberto Gismonti* Frevo; Forrobodo *Da Falla* Ritual Fire Dance: Psyche *Gwilym Simcock* New work (world première)
  

• The Imagined Village  

  Thu 21 Jan Town Hall

  Englishness is the final frontier of world music! *The Imagined Village* is a stunning project interweaving traditional folk with the sounds and voices of today's multicultural England. An outstanding line-up includes Martin Carthy, Eliza Carthy, and Chris Wood backed by a band featuring Grammy Award-winning musician and producer Simon Emmerson, Johnny Kalsi, Ali Friend, Andy Gangadeen, Simon Richmond, Sheema Mukherjee and Barney Morse Brown. Traditional instruments are interwoven with the sounds of today. Fiddles and squeezebox sit alongside electronica and ambient effect, with the line-up completed by members of world beat troupe Transglobal Underground and live electronic band, The Bays. This tour marks the release of the second Imagined Village album _Empire & Love_ due for release in early 2010, recorded in Emmerson's garage, converted to a studio by the band. The basic concept remains the same: traditional material interpreted by a band who are _not_ the usual suspects and a front line of English folk musicians. The album includes famous tracks like _Scarborough Fair_ alongside little-known gems such as Ewan MacColl's _Space Girl_. Praise for the first album: Winner- ‘Best Traditional Song’ BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards 2008 Nominee- ‘Best Album’- BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards 2008 _“There was a sense of being in on the birth of something new and exciting”_ The Telegraph review of the WOMAD live show July 2007 _“It’s mischievous and tender, wry and wise, sad and surreal, but a folk that could only have been made in the 21st century”_ Observer Music Magazine _"A swirling, English ceilidh, stitched together by electric guitar and Indian drums and angry lyrics about current rural life, has righteous fire."_ The Independent. Supported by Moseley Folk Festival "Watch clips from songs featured on Empire and Love":http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EJv-Mj9cs9U "Watch the Space Girl video":http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dRfisYxfOyg "Watch the fully animated version of Space Girl":http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w7ZgShUIfQc "Watch My Son John video":http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-K3bHpmKpKs
  *Martin Carthy*, *Eliza Carthy*, *Chris Wood*, *Simon Emmerson*, *Johnny Kalsi*, *Ali Friend*, *Andy Gangadeen*, *Simon Richmond*, *Sheema Mukherjee*, *Barney Morse Brown*, plus members of *Transglobal Underground* and *The Bays*
  
  

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Show me events at: Pick a venue Botanical Gardens BrindleyPlace CBSO Centre Highbury Hall ICC Hall 1 ICC Hall 5 St Paul's Church Symphony Hall Symphony Hall Foyer Bars The Oratory Town Hall Town Hall & Symphony Hall Victoria Square