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• 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)
  

• Shared - Presented by The Wonder Stuff's Miles Hunt  

  Fri 30 Jan 2009 Town Hall

  The Wonder Stuff’s Miles Hunt presents ‘Shared’, an evening of acoustic performances by some of the UK’s finest artists. Miles Hunt & Erica Nockalls of The Wonder Stuff, Nick Heywood formerly of Haircut 100, Wayne Hussey of The Mission/Sisters Of Mercy, Roddy Frame of Aztec Camera, Katell Keineg plus more... “Stripping back a great song can easily pull punches on a grander production. Every artist performing at ‘Shared’ has had a great affect on me, not only as a writer/performer myself, but also as a fan and I take it as an honour that they have accepted my invite.” Miles Hunt £19.50
  
  
  

• Sing the Ultimate Movies with Sing Live Central 

  Sun 20 Jan 2008 Symphony Hall

  Sing Live Central are back with an unforgettable vocal extravaganza. Over 250 local singers hit the Symphony Hall Stage performing songs from _Fame_, _Dirty Dancing_, _Star Wars_, and _The Lion King_ to name just a few. Kevin Miles ‘the voice of Disney’ guides the audience through an evening celebrating some of the biggest and latest hits from the movies.
  
  *Barry Todd* Musical Director *National Festival Orchestra*
  

• 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
  

• 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
  
  

• 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
  
  

• Sci-Fi Symphony II CBSO Summer Concert 

  Tue 11 Sep Symphony Hall

  Symphony Hall: The Final Frontier. Back by popular demand, Carl Davis takes the CBSO on a fantastic journey through the greatest music ever inspired by space, science-fiction and fantasy. From John Williams' unforgettable themes for _ET_ and _Star Wars_ to highlights from Holst's spectacular odyssey through _The Planets_, and whether by Thunderbird or TARDIS, it's an out-of-this-world programme. Begin the count-down, engage warp-drive, and beam on board as Carl and the CBSO boldly go where no orchestra has gone before! (Please note: this concert is not part of the 2006/2007 CBSO Season, therefore tickets cannot be bought as part of a concert package or other promotion.)
  *Carl Davis* Conductor
  Sci-Fi Symphony II
  

• Friday Night Classics: Chaplin’s Circus  

  Fri 3 Apr 2009 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’
  

• Sci-Fi Symphony II CBSO Summer Concert 

  Fri 31 Aug Symphony Hall

  Symphony Hall: The Final Frontier. Back by popular demand, Carl Davis takes the CBSO on a fantastic journey through the greatest music ever inspired by space, science-fiction and fantasy. From John Williams' unforgettable themes for _ET_ and _Star Wars_ to highlights from Holst's spectacular odyssey through _The Planets_, and whether by Thunderbird or TARDIS, it's an out-of-this-world programme. Begin the count-down, engage warp-drive, and beam on board as Carl and the CBSO boldly go where no orchestra has gone before! (Please note: this concert is not part of the 2006/2007 CBSO Season, therefore tickets cannot be bought as part of a concert package or other promotion.) *PERFORMANCE REPEATED ON TUESDAY 11TH SEPTEMBER*
  *Carl Davis* Conductor
  Sci-Fi Symphony II
  

• 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
  
  

• Friday Night Classics: Bernstein on Broadway  

  Fri 3 Jul 2009 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 City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra
  
  

• 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
  
  

• 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
  
  

• Tribute to the Swing Era Garry Allcock & His Midland All-Stars Big Band 

  Sat 5 Jul Town Hall

  Gary Allcock’s “All-Stars” band and singers have built up a magnificent reputation as one of the UK’s most outstanding bands. Their repertoire is a tribute to the big band sounds of the inter war years most notably the music of Glenn Miller. The list of composers whose music is regularly performed by the band is like a roll call of the all time greats: Count Basie, Tony Bennett, Nat King Cole, Ella Fitzgerald, Duke Ellington, Bing Crosby, Frank Sinatra and lots, lots more. Unreserved stalls table seating £12 Reserved circle seating £10 Book for the Tea Dance and this show together for just £15. Part of the Birmingham International Jazz Festival. This event is part of Birmingham Veterans' Day Celebrations taking place on 5 and 6 July.
  *Gary Allcock & His Midland All-Stars Big Band* *With Special guests Jeff Hooper & Tina Law*
  
  

• Rejoice Carol Concert  

  Sun 14 Dec Symphony Hall

  Christmas carols, music and drama with the Salvation Army. Featuring soloists Charlie Green (as seen on _Britain's Got Talent_) and Sue Blyth, guest speaker Trevor Davis and the usual festive music from the Salvation Army's own brass bands, choirs, timbrels and children.
  
  
  

• Rejoice Carol Concert  

  Sun 14 Dec Symphony Hall

  Christmas carols, music and drama with the Salvation Army. Featuring soloists Charlie Green (as seen on _Britain's Got Talent_) and Sue Blyth, guest speaker Trevor Davis and the usual festive music from the Salvation Army's own brass bands, choirs, timbrels and children.
  
  
  

• Schumann & Shostakovich with Schiff  

  Wed 8 Oct Symphony Hall

  High romance and biting sarcasm - the superb Austrian cellist and conductor Heinrich Schiff makes a welcome return to the CBSO with a programme of extremes. Kurt Weill’s Threepenny Opera Suite is the ultimate in musical irony, irresistibly sarcastic, shamelessly sleazy and unforgettably tuneful. In Shostakovich’s First Cello Concerto, though, the satire has teeth - it’s a punchy political drama driven by profound emotion. Schiff himself performs the solo part, before taking the podium to conduct Schumann’s noblest symphony - a world of romantic dreams and classical beauty, a million miles from the 20th century.
  Heinrich Schiff - conductor / cello City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra
  Shostakovich: Cello Concerto No. 1 28’ Weill: Threepenny Opera - Suite 20’ Schumann: Symphony No. 2 36’
  

• Tea Dance  

  Sat 5 Jul Town Hall

  Come along and celebrate Birmingham Veterans' Day with a wonderful dance in the glorious surroundings of Town Hall. With live music from Gary Allcock & His Midland All-Stars Band. £7.50 Book for the Tribute to the Swing Era and this dance together for just £15. This event is part of Birmingham Veterans' Day Celebrations taking place on 5 and 6 July.
  
  
  

• Midland's Festival of Remembrance 25th Anniversary Salute to the Falklands' Campaign 

  Sun 4 Nov Town Hall

  The annual tribute to those who have given their lives in the service of the nation with particular emphasis on the 1982 campaign to recover the Falkland Islands.
  *Minden Band of the Queen’s Division* (by kind permission of Lieutenant General J C McColl, CBE, DSO, Colonel Commandant, the Queen’s Division) *Canoldir Male Choir*
  
  

• 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
  
  

• A Tribute to Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan Rahat Fateh Ali khan and his Qawwali Group 

  Tue 16 Oct Town Hall

  2007 is the 10th anniversary of the death of Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, an artist who reached out to millions of people across the globe by inviting them to eavesdrop on his eloquent communing with God. Following his death, the mantle of Nusrat’s genius fell upon the shoulders of his nephew Rahat. His ecstatic vocals are the result of years of training at the feet of his superstar uncle, and he’s also world-famous for his forays into Bollywood. So expect an unforgettable evening as Rahat and his extraordinary ensemble recreate the memory of the fantastic concerts Nusrat played at Town Hall, and transport us into the rapturous realms of spiritual discovery. Canadian guitarist Michael Brook, one of Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan’s greatest collaborators, will join Rahat Fateh Ali Khan in the tribute concert. Nusrat’s collaborations with Michael Brook resulted in his two most successful worldwide fusion albums, Mustt Mustt and Night Song. Putting the two together was the idea of Peter Gabriel at whose Real World studio they embarked on an intensive four-day session. The ‘East meets West’ album that resulted, Mustt Mustt, was hugely influential, and its title track achieved worldwide popularity when Massive Attack’s remixed version was used as the soundtrack for a Coca-Cola ad during the Cricket World Cup. Their collaboration continued to evolve with Night Song, nominated for a 1997 Grammy Award. Supported by Sampad and BBC Asian Network
  *Rahat Fateh Ali Khan and his Qawwali Group* *Michael Brook* Due to scheduling difficulties, Abida Parveen is now unable to perform at this concert
  
  

• We'll Meet Again  

  Wed 9 Apr Town Hall

  *A Celebration of Wartime Entertainment* A talented cast of singers, comedians and musicians recall the heyday of wartime entertainment with a tribute to the great stars such as Bing Crosby, Donald Peers, George Formby, Max Miller, Gracie Fields, Vera Lynn and Tessie O’Shea. A recollection of the days when the spirit of Britain was at its highest. Voted Britain’s best matinee show and starring Steve Barclay, Andy Eastwood, Shelly James, Tony Leyton, Mervyn Francis and the Martyn St James Band. £12 (£10 per ticket for groups of 10 or more)
  
  
  

• 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
  
  

• Windrush - 60th Anniversary Commemoration  

  Sun 22 Jun Town Hall

  An inspiring evening commemorating 22 June 1948, the date SS Empire Windrush discharged her Caribbean passengers at Tilbury, Essex. The event will feature gospel singing led by Deseta Davis, a reflection by a Christian Aid partner from Jamaica, poetry by Beverley McKenzie of the Black Reading Group, and an extract from _Let my people go- praise, poems and Pentecost_, an upcoming theatre production commissioned by The Churches Racial Justice Network and focusing on the theme of migration. The opening address will be given by the Lord Mayor of Birmingham, Councillor Chauhdry Rashid and the Lady Mayoress, Shafait Begum Rashid will also be present. The evening is hosted by diversity champion and activist Khembe Clarke and the guest speaker is Dr R David Muir, director of public policy, Evangelical Alliance.
  
  
  

• 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
  

• The Music of Andrew Lloyd Webber  

  Sun 22 Mar 2009 Symphony Hall

  Richard Ward-Roden conductor Starring Daniel Boys, Chrissie Hammond, Helen Hobson, Scott Davis For many years the hugely prolific Andrew Lloyd Webberhas dominated the theatre stage, in the West End and Broadway, but enjoyed unrivalled chart and commercial success, too. 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
  
  
  

• Saregama & the CBSO present Rafi Resurrected with Sonu Niigaam  

  Tue 15 Jul Symphony Hall

  *A Tribute to Mohammad Rafi* Sonu Niigaam, the most popular playback singer in India today, and famous as the presenter of hit talent show _SaReGaMa_, teams up with Birmingham’s world-renowned orchestra, to perform 18 legendary hits by Mohammad Rafi, the radiant and nostalgic voice of Bollywood’s golden era. Songs performed will include tracks from the forthcoming _Rafi Resurrected album_, plus several extra tracks specially arranged for the spectacular sounds of a 75-piece orchestra amplified by state of the art audio equipment. Presented by SaReGaMa in association with the CBSO. VIP tickets available from SaReGaMa on 020 8961 3344. Please note that the concert starts promptly at 7.45pm.
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra*
  
  

• Sing Live West Midlands presents Sing Swing  

  Sat 25 Oct Town Hall

  From the Fabulous Forties to the present day revival, Sing Live West Midlands will have you on your feet dancing to the sound of the National Festival Orchestra Big Band and 150 singers from your area. You will instantly recognise the unmistakable Glenn Miller Sound, with the show-stopping Chattanooga Choo-choo, and also our tribute to Ol’ Blue Eyes himself, the Chairman of the Board, Frank Sinatra. Something for everyone as the Sing Live Wall of Sound grabs you and takes you into the era of Swing. £15, £17.50 Under 16s £9 Tickets available from Sing Live Booking office on 01609 780315 or Town Hall and Symphony Hall Box Office. Please note the 3.30pm show has now been cancelled
  
  
  

• Pires Plays Mozart  

  Thu 17 Apr 2008 Symphony Hall

  Trevor Pinnock is famous the world over for his stylish and energetic performances of baroque and classical repertoire. For his CBSO conducting debut he has chosen one of the wittiest of Haydn’s London Symphonies and the first real masterpiece among Mozart’s piano concertos, played by one of today’s greatest Mozart pianists. Each half begins with a work which looks back to an earlier age: Brahms’s delightful variations are a tribute to the high classical period, while John Adams’ orchestration of one of Liszt’s strangest piano pieces looks instead to the future.
  Trevor Pinnock conductor Maria João Pires piano
  Brahms: Variations on a Theme by Haydn 16' Mozart: Piano Concerto No. 9, K. 271 31' Liszt (orch. Adams): The Black Gondola 10' Haydn: Symphony No. 99 26'
  

• Mahler's Fourth Symphony CBSO 

  Thu 26 Apr Symphony Hall

  Mahler's Fourth is on a comparatively modest scale after his enormous first three symphonies. But it still evokes passions along the way to its finale in which we hear a child (voiced today by a superb young Danish soprano) sing of the joys of heaven. Wagner also contrasted visions of heaven with rather earthier delights but in the Prelude to Lohengrin you hear his music at its purest, in a shimmering portrayal of the Holy Grail that is the opera's subject. Sine Bundgaard also offers a further centenary tribute to Grieg via a collection of his most familiar songs. PLEASE NOTE this concert is being performed on Wednesday 25 April, 2.15pm and Thursday 26 April, 7.30pm
  *Manfred Honeck* Conductor *Sine Bundgaard* Soprano
  *Wagner* Lohengrin, Prelude to Act One 10� *Grieg* Songs 20� *Mahler* Symphony No 4 55'
  

• Chant d'Amour  

  Tue 20 May Symphony Hall

  There is nothing else in the whole of classical music to compare with the experience of hearing Messiaen’s amazing Turangalîla Symphony live. A larger-than-life tribute to the cosmic power of love, it features a massive orchestra and major solos for piano and ondes martenot, the other-worldly electronic instrument that was this composer’s speciality. It is conducted in the composer’s centenary year by Ilan Volkov, who has built a very strong reputation in large-scale 20th-century scores. We also begin a three-week Janácek focus with Taras Bulba, his stirring triptych telling of the battles and ultimate death of a Ukrainian Cossack hero. 6.15pm pre-concert talk
  Ilan Volkov conductor Steven Osborne piano Cynthia Millar ondes martenot
  Janácek: Taras Bulba 23' Messiaen: Turangalîla-Symphonie 76'
  

• Chant d'Amour  

  Thu 22 May Symphony Hall

  There is nothing else in the whole of classical music to compare with the experience of hearing Messiaen’s amazing Turangalîla Symphony live. A larger-than-life tribute to the cosmic power of love, it features a massive orchestra and major solos for piano and ondes martenot, the other-worldly electronic instrument that was this composer’s speciality. It is conducted in the composer’s centenary year by Ilan Volkov, who has built a very strong reputation in large-scale 20th-century scores. We also begin a three-week Janácek focus with Taras Bulba, his stirring triptych telling of the battles and ultimate death of a Ukrainian Cossack hero. 6.15pm pre-concert talk
  Ilan Volkov conductor Steven Osborne piano Cynthia Millar ondes martenot
  Janácek: Taras Bulba 23' Messiaen: Turangalîla-Symphonie 76'
  

• Mahler's Fourth Symphony (matinee) CBSO 

  Wed 25 Apr Symphony Hall

  Mahler�s Fourth is on a comparatively modest scale after his enormous first three symphonies. But it still evokes passions along the way to its finale in which we hear a child (voiced today by a superb young Danish soprano) sing of the joys of heaven. Wagner also contrasted visions of heaven with rather earthier delights but in the Prelude to Lohengrin you hear his music at its purest, in a shimmering portrayal of the Holy Grail that is the opera�s subject. Sine Bundgaard also offers a further centenary tribute to Grieg via a collection of his most familiar songs. PLEASE NOTE this concert is being performed on Wednesday 25 April, 2.15pm and Thursday 26 April, 7.30pm
  Manfred Honeck Conductor Sine Bundgaard Soprano
  Wagner Lohengrin, Prelude to Act One 10� Grieg Solveig's Cradle Song, Solveigs sang, Det forste mode, Varen, En Svane Mahler Symphony No 4 55�
  

• Celebrating Nielsen: The Four Temperaments  

  Sat 10 Jan 2009 Symphony Hall

  For Nielsen, music was all about exploring what it means to be human. And this second concert in the CBSO and the Hallé’s joint Nielsen Symphony Cycle does exactly that. Nielsen’s extraordinary Second Symphony, “The Four Temperaments”, is a musical attempt to paint an entire personality in wonderfully colourful music; his deceptively tuneful Sixth is a musical self-portrait as haunting and unforgettable as anything by Mahler. To these masterpieces Oramo adds Nielsen’s picturesque tribute to the sun, and Prokofiev’s equally warm-hearted violin concerto played by an outstanding soloist. 5.45pm Pre-concert talk - Nielsen: The Four Temperaments Find out more about tonight’s symphonies and overture by this great Dane.
  Sakari Oramo - conductor Akiko Suwanai - violin City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra
  Nielsen: Helios Overture 12’ Nielsen: Symphony No. 6 (Semplice) 31’ Prokofiev: Violin Concerto No. 1 22’ Nielsen: Symphony No. 2 (The Four Temperaments) 35’
  

• Symphonic Dances  

  Wed 14 May 2008 Symphony Hall

  Simon Holt’s new Percussion Concerto offers a vivid and quirky portrait of the composer's childhood memories of his great uncle, who was a taxidermist: with movement titles such as ‘fly’, ‘skennin’ Mary’ and ‘a drawer full of eyes’, it is sure to offer up a few surprises! The solo part is taken by a brilliant young Scottish percussionist who has already performed with orchestras all around the world. Martyn Brabbins shows off his special affinity with Russian music in a centenary tribute to Rimsky-Korsakov in the shape of the colourful suite from his fairy-tale opera, and in Rachmaninov’s last orchestral work, the thrilling Symphonic Dances. 6.15pm pre-concert talk
  Martyn Brabbins conductor Colin Currie percussion
  Rimsky-Korsakov: The Golden Cockerel • Suite 24' Holt: A Table of Noises (World premiere) 21' Rachmaninov: Symphonic Dances 36'
  

• Thriller Live in Concert Two-hours of hit songs 

  Mon 7 May Symphony Hall

  THRILLER LIVE is the first multi media spectacular specially created to celebrate the incredible career of the World's Greatest Entertainer - Michael Jackson. This amazing show features over 30 performers including a full company of sensational west end singers, live band, gospel choir and as you'd expect, fantastic dancers paying tribute to the true King of Pop! THRILLER LIVE is above all else a celebration of the music of Michael Jackson and the Jackson 5. This sensational show features specially created choreography and brilliant vocal performances, in a brand new show that brings Michael Jackson's amazing songs and videos to life.
  
  The show includes over two-hours of hit songs including a selection from the following: I Want You Back, I'll Be There, Show You The Way To Go, Can You Feel It, Rock With You, She's Out Of My Life, Thriller, Beat It, Billie Jean, Earth Song, and many more!
  

• Elgar's 150th Anniversary City of Birmingham Choir 

  Sat 19 May Symphony Hall

  Classic fm's dynamic presenter, Natalie Wheen, traces the development of Elgar's compositional genius. Hear about those brilliant creative skills with performances of some of his earlier choral and orchestral compositions, culminating in his late, great and reflective choral ode, "The Music Makers", first performed in the Town Hall at the 1912 Birmingham Festival. Frances McCafferty, internationally acclaimed opera and concert artist, and the CBSO under Adrian Lucas' inspirational baton feature in this anniversary tribute to the Midlands' greatest musical son.
  *Adrian Lucas* Conductor *Natalie Wheen* Presenter *Frances McCafferty* Contralto *City of Birmingham Choir* *City of Birminham Symphony Orchestra*
  Programme includes: Give Unto the Lord Sursum Corda The Music Makers Pomp and Circumstance March No 6 (realised by Payne)
  

• National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain  

  Tue 6 Jan 2009 Symphony Hall

  There is nothing quite like the excitement of an orchestra of young musicians - many of these talented young performers are having their first encounters with great orchestral music, experiencing it onstage at Symphony Hall with a freshness and passion never to be recaptured. They start 2009 with an epic journey across Alpine landscapes with wonderful European conductor Semyon Bychkov, renowned for subtle and revelatory performances of Strauss. Discover Berio’s glorious vocal and orchestral collage, which pays tribute to many composers from Mahler to Bach and exuberantly captures the spirit of the 1960s when it was composed. Tickets £5-£37.50 *SPECIAL OFFER: YOUNG PEOPLE SEE THE NYO FOR A FIVER* £5 tickets available for under 25s. Proof of ID be will required on the night.Call THSH Box Office on 0121 780 333 and quote 'NYO for a fiver'. Offer subject to availability. Limit of 4 tickets per booker.
  *Semyon Bychkov* conductor *London Voices*
  *Berio* Sinfonia 27' *Strauss* An Alpine Symphony 47'
  

• Ashkenazy and Kissin Philharmonia Orchestra 

  Tue 22 Jan 2008 Symphony Hall

  When Ashkenazy accompanies Kissin in Prokofiev's most popular piano concerto, a celebrated pianist from an earlier generation will pay a graceful tribute to one of the young lions of the keyboard. Stand by also for the fascinating perspective revealed by a great pianist's orchestration of Mussorgsky's monumental piano work, Pictures at an Exhibition, a gallery of people, stories and places Classic FM's Anne-Marie Minhall says of tonight's recommended concert: _"Symphony Hall plays host to two outstanding figures in classical music. Vladimir Ashkenazy's distinguished career, as both pianist and conductor, spans forty years. Sharing the stage is one of the best pianists in the world, Evgeny Kissin. Be sure to book early for what promises to be a terrific evening of music."_
  *Vladimir Ashkenazy* Conductor *Evgeny Kissin* Piano
  *Debussy* Prelude a l'apres-midi d'un faune 9' *Roussel* Suite No 1, Bacchus et Ariane 17' *Prokofiev* Piano Concerto No 3 28' *Mussorgsky* (arr Ashkenazy) Pictures at an Exhibition 40'
  

• CBSO Igorfest: Pulcinella 3pm  

  Sat 1 Mar Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

  Today's programme opens with a rare chance to hear some of the composer's orchestral songs: 'The Faun and the Shepherdess', 'Balmont poems' and 'Japanese Lyrics'. The suite from his commedia dell' arte ballet Pulcinella is a typically irreverent, yet affectionate, tribute to the Italian music of the 18th century. This is followed by an example of Stravinsky the arranger, lovingly transforming music by his favourite old master into something that is unmistakably his own. Claire Booth and Lucy Schaufer return for more songs: 'Pribaoutki', 'Berceuses du chat', 'Three Little Songs' and 'Tilimbom', before the concert ends with a miniature masterpiece. £16.50 unreserved 2pm Free Pre-concert Talk
  *Sakari Oramo* Conductor *Claire Booth* Soprano *Lucy Schaufer* Mezzo soprano *Paul Griiffiths* Presenter
  *Stravinsky* The Faun and the Shepherdess 9' *Stravinsky* Balmont poems 3' *Stravinsky* Japanese Lyrics 4' *Stravinsky* Suite from Pulcinella 20' *Tchaikovsky (orch. Stravinsky)* Variation d'Aurore and Pas de Deux, The Sleeping Beauty 10' *Stravinsky* Pribaoutki 6' *Stravinsky* Berceuses du chat 4' *Stravinsky* Three Little Songs 3' *Stravinsky* Tilimbom 3' *Stravinsky* Ode 11'
  

• CBSO Igorfest: Pulcinella 7pm  

  Sat 1 Mar Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

  Today's programme opens with a rare chance to hear some of the composer's orchestral songs: 'The Faun and the Shepherdess', 'Balmont poems' and 'Japanese Lyrics'. The suite from his commedia dell' arte ballet Pulcinella is a typically irreverent, yet affectionate, tribute to the Italian music of the 18th century. This is followed by an example of Stravinsky the arranger, lovingly transforming music by his favourite old master into something that is unmistakably his own. Claire Booth and Lucy Schaufer return for more songs: 'Pribaoutki', 'Berceuses du chat', 'Three Little Songs' and 'Tilimbom', before the concert ends with a miniature masterpiece. £16.50 unreserved 6pm Free Pre-concert Talk
  *Sakari Oramo* Conductor *Claire Booth* Soprano *Lucy Schaufer* Mezzo soprano *Paul Griffiths* Presenter
  *Stravinsky* The Faun and the Shepherdess 9' *Stravinsky* Balmont poems 3' *Stravinsky* Japanese Lyrics 4' *Stravinsky* Suite from Pulcinella 20' *Tchaikovsky (orch. Stravinsky)* Variation d'Aurore and Pas de Deux, The Sleeping Beauty 10' *Stravinsky* Pribaoutki 6' *Stravinsky* Berceuses du chat 4' *Stravinsky* Three Little Songs 3' *Stravinsky* Tilimbom 3' *Stravinsky* Ode 11'
  

• A London Symphony  

  Wed 17 Dec Symphony Hall

  For our final tribute to Vaughan Williams in this 50th anniversary year of his death, we are joined by one of his leading interpreters for a rare hearing of the original 1913 version of his ‘London’ Symphony. This extraordinary work was subsequently dedicated to his friend George Butterworth, who unlike Vaughan Wiliams never returned from the trenches of World War I - as a result we only have a few pieces, of which tonight’s is the best known, to remember him by. The dazzling 1920s concerto by Vaughan Williams’ teacher Ravel completes the programme. 6.15pm Pre-concert talk - “A Symphony by a Londoner” English music specialist Michael Foster explores the genesis of Vaughan Williams’ colourful symphony. *The CBSO, Town Hall and Symphony Hall are very sad to hear of the sudden death of Richard Hickox, who was to have conducted this concert. The concert will now be dedicated to his memory, and a replacement conductor announced in due course.*
  Kirill Gerstein - piano City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra
  Butterworth: Banks of Green Willow 6’ Ravel: Piano Concerto in G major 21’ Vaughan Williams: A London Symphony (original version) 61’
  

• Mozart... Plus Classical Encounters with Orchestra of the Swan 

  Tue 5 Feb 2008 Town Hall

  Mozart has inspired audiences, performers and composers for 200 years and Prokofiev’s ‘Classical’ symphony is a touching tribute to the classical style from the perspective of the 20th century. This alternative view combined with Orchestra of the Swan’s energy will give added freshness to two of Mozart’s greatest works that complete this programme, his sublime clarinet concerto and his triumphant final symphony, the aptly titled ‘Jupiter’. Since winning the woodwind section prize of the BBC Young Musician competition Sarah Williamson is greatly in demand as a soloists performing in the USA, Ireland, France, Germany, United Arab Emirates Austria, Belgium, Spain, Portugal and Switzerland 'a radiant lyrical splendour' The Independent Supported by Arts Council England "www.orchestraoftheswan.org":http://www.orchestraoftheswan.org
  Conductor - David Curtis Clarinet - Sarah Williamson
  Prokofiev Classical symphony Mozart Clarinet concerto Mozart Symphony no41 Jupiter 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
  

• Björn Again 19th (very nearly 20th) Anniversary Tour 

  Mon 10 Dec Symphony Hall

  Björn Again has reached a huge milestone ...... Well ... Almost !! Join in all the fun on the band's 19th Anniversary Tour which promises to be a fantastic night out for everyone. Björn Again was created in 1988 by Australian musician and manager Rod Leissle. The show quickly achieved worldwide cult status and has had 4000 performances in 51 countries in 19 years. ABBA won Eurovision in 1974 with 'Waterloo' at the Brighton Dome. They have celebrated 8 years of the very successful Mamma Mia Musical of which Tom Hanks is to make a cinematic version starring Meryl Streep and Pierce Brosnan. ABBA were once offered a one billion dollar deal to reform for a year long re-union tour but declined because...they didn't really need the 'money money money'. Similarly Björn Again was offered one dollar to perform one billion concerts which Rod carefully considered ...but also declined for...the same reason. "Fans had better make the most out of Björn Again because that's the closest they are going to get to seeing ABBA. ABBA will never reform!" - Benny Andersson "When ABBA broke up, I assumed our music would fall into oblivion so in the early 90's with Björn Again becoming popular and when U2 invited Benny and I on stage to sing Dancing Queen, I just assumed we were being sent up. But now I see both bands were paying tribute to us" - Björn Ulvaeus "Thanks for the great show guys" - Kylie Minogue (New Years Eve 2006) "A wonderful evening in this magnificent setting dancing to Björn Again" - J.K. Rowling - Harry Potter Author (2006 MS Charity Ball) "www.bjornagain.com":http://www.bjornagain.com
  
  
  

• Bach... by Arrangement Classical Encounters with Orchestra of the Swan 

  Tue 29 Apr 2008 Town Hall

  Bach has been an inspiration for 250 years, influencing composers from Mozart to Martland, and this concert opens with a remarkable arrangement of one of Bach’s most well known works, his Toccata and Fugue in d minor for organ. Alexander Goehr is one of the UK’s most distinguished composers and this evening’s world premiere, commissioned by OOTS is inspired by music from China and Bach. The relentless energy of Bach’s Brandenburg concerto no3 was a clear inspiration to Stravinsky and the concert concludes with Dumbarton Oaks, his engaging and witty tribute to the Baroque master 'Curtis directed with style and understanding, dreaming up a fascinating menu of offerings, chatting to the audience as if among friends, drawing colourfully communicative readings' Birmingham Post Supported by KPMG and Arts Council England "www.orchestraoftheswan.org":http://www.orchestraoftheswan.org
  Conductor - David Curtis
  Bach arr.Steve Martland - Toccata and Fugue in d min Copland - Nonet Alexander Goehr - New work** Bach - Brandenburg concerto no3 Stravinsky - Dumbarton Oaks ** Orchestra of the Swan commission and world premiere Pre-concert talk taking place in the auditorium at 6.30pm Post-concert Conversation Club taking place in the Circle Bar 15 minutes after the end of the performance. Entrance free to concert ticket holders
  

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