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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)

  • 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*.

  • Ian Hill Quintet  

    Fri 20 Mar Symphony Hall Foyer Bars

    Saxophonist Ian Hill marks the 50th anniversary of the recording of _Kind of Blue_, Miles Davis' most influential album. Free Admission


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

    Fri 30 Jan 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 Heyward 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

    Katell Keineg - 7.30pm - 8.00pm Roddy Frame - 8.15pm - 8.45pm Nick Heyward - 9.00pm - 9.30pm *Interval* Wayne Hussey - 10.00pm - 10.30pm Miles Hunt & Erica Nockalls - 10.30pm - 11pm

  • 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

  • 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*

  • 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

  • The Proclaimers Plus support Miles Hunt and Erica Nockalls 

    Mon 26 Oct Symphony Hall

    lt's 22 years since The Proclaimers released their first album _This Is The Story_. Strikingly individual, twin brothers Craig and Charlie Reid have over the years enjoyed huge successes across the globe. They have carved a niche for themselves where pop, folk, new wave and punk collide as the emotional honesty, political fire, wit and sing-along raucousness of their songs and their extensive touring has enlightened and entertained fans new and old. 2007 saw The Proclaimers play their biggest ever UK tour and collaborate for Comic Relief with Peter Kay and their number one fan Matt Lucas, to top the charts with their classic anthem _I'm Gonna Be (500 Miles)_. 2009 sees the twins and band back on the road following the June release for their new album _Notes & Rhymes_.


  • 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 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

  • 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!

  • Branford Marsalis Quartet  

    Tue 26 May Town Hall

    World-renowned saxophonist Branford Marsalis, born in 1960, has always been a man of numerous musical interests, from jazz, blues and funk to such classical music projects as his Fall 2008 tour with Marsalis Brasilianos. The three-time Grammy winner has continued to exercise and expand his skills as an instrumentalist, a composer, and the head of Marsalis Music, the label he founded in 2002 that has allowed him to produce both his own projects and those of the jazz world’s most promising new and established artists. The New Orleans native was born into one of the city’s most distinguished musical families, which includes patriarch/pianist/educator Ellis and Branford’s siblings Wynton, Delfeayo and Jason. Branford gained initial acclaim through his work with Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers and his brother Wynton’s quintet in the early 1980s before forming his own ensemble. He has also performed and recorded with a who’s-who of jazz giants including Miles Davis, Dizzy Gillespie, Herbie Hancock and Sonny Rollins. *Concert lasts approximately 90 minutes, please note there will be no interval*
    *Branford Marsalis* saxophones *Joey Calderazzo* piano *Eric Revis* bass *Justin Faulkner* drums

  • 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 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*

  • 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

  • CBSO Friday Night Classics: Silent Heroes  

    Fri 23 Apr 2010 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’

  • Drummin' Man: Tribute to Gene Krupa and The Swing Era The Gary Allcock All-Stars Big Band with very special guest Eric Delaney 

    Sat 4 Jul Town Hall

    This year we are celebrating 100 years since the birth of the man who almost single handedly brought the drum kit, as we know it today, out from the back of the band and into the limelight. That man was of course the one and only Gene Krupa. This is a tribute to him and the bands of the Swing Era, including; Count Basie, Duke Ellington, Tommy Dorsey, Glenn Miller, Buddy Rich, Benny Goodman and Woody Herman. *Eric Delaney* In 1940 a 16 year old Eric Delaney won the title of _'Britain's Best Swing Drummer'_ - the rest is history. He has played with every name that you can think of and is still as popular as ever. His new book _The Magnificent Eric Delaney_ has just been published. Come along and hear him playing on his double bass drum kit, his timpani and marching snare drum.
    *Garry Allcock & The 'Allstars' Big Band* *Paul Drakeley* director *Eric Delaney* drums *Tina Law* singer

  • 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.


  • 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*

  • 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


  • 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.


  • 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

  • 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*

  • 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’

  • 175TH Birthday Salsa Ball: Grupo X All-Stars in a Tribute to Tito Puente  

    Sat 24 Oct Town Hall

    Dance has always played a prominent part in the life of Town Hall, particulary in the post-war all-night jazz balls. But it’s the hip sounds of salsa that get the joint jumping in 2009, with legendary Grupo X All-Stars and compere Rohan Brown. 7pm-2am


  • 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

  • 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

  • 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)


  • An Evening with Curtis Stigers No support 

    Tue 29 Sep Town Hall

    Curtis Stigers is at the forefront of a new generation of jazz singers. With one of the most distinctive voices in music, the singer/saxophonist/songwriter pushes the boundaries of conventional jazz performers and expands the jazz repertoire creating modern jazz standards. Curtis continues to blaze a path as one of his generation’s finest and most original interpreters of modern songs. “This is my niche, my speciality,” says Stigers. “I have a great love and an eclectic knowledge of a wide array of songwriters and musical genres, and I know how to bring them all together into one cohesive sound. I want to follow in the footsteps of my heroes. This is what Ella and Billie Holiday did. This is what Sinatra and Nat Cole did. This is even what Miles and Coltrane and nearly all of the great jazz artists have done. They’ve taken the popular songs of their generation and created something new from them. I know a lot about Rock music, Alt Country and Urban Blues, Folk music and Punk Rock, so I use that knowledge. That’s what I’m steadily becoming known for.” Curtis Stigers has been called _“one of the best male jazz singers of his generation”_ by JazzTimes. His refusal to stand still, and his consistent desire to grow and evolve musically, has earned him admiration and recognition... and kept critics guessing.


  • 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.


  • 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


  • 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*

  • 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

  • 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.


  • CBSO Symphonic Dances: I  

    Thu 24 Sep Symphony Hall

    It may be his last work, but Rachmaninov’s orchestral showpiece is bursting with energy and great melodies, a tribute to the glamour of Ormandy’s Philadelphia Orchestra. Ravel was also fascinated by recreating dance forms in his orchestral music, and his 1920 ballet La Valse is the most extreme example, the point at which the old Viennese waltz eats itself. Ravel’s love of orchestral colour owes a huge debt to Berlioz, whose beautiful song-cycle completes the programme. Sung in French, with English surtitles. "CBSO Website":http://www.cbso.co.uk
    *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Andris Nelsons* _conductor_ *Charlotte Hellekant* _mezzo soprano_
    *Ravel* _La Valse_ 13’ *Berlioz* _Les Nuits d’Été_ 32’ *Rachmaninov* _Symphonic Dances_ 36’

  • 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'

  • English Originals Weekend 2009  

    15 May - 17 May 2009 Town Hall & Symphony Hall

    Following the success of last year’s festival, we present the second English Originals Weekend: a celebration of music and artists that are uniquely English in character, all with a strong sense of place, identity, time and tradition. By popular request West-Country troubadour Seth Lakeman returns with special guests; we pay tribute to Midlands legend Nick Drake; and we welcome the acclaimed Northumbrian band Rachel Unthank & The Winterset. *Check the individual events for artisits updates* "2009 Line Up Announced":http://www.thsh.co.uk/page/contact-us/press-office/english-originals-folk-festival-2009-line-up-announced/


  • 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

    Mahlers 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 operas 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

  • 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!

  • 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. Click "here":http://www.thsh.co.uk/page/contact-us/press-office/midlands-musicians-join-britain-s-top-youth-orchestra/ for the event press release in our Press Office section.
    *Semyon Bychkov* conductor *London Voices*
    *Berio* Sinfonia 27' *Strauss* An Alpine Symphony 47'

  • 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)

  • 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.
    *Change of Conductor* Sakari Oramo, the CBSO’s Principal Guest Conductor, has unfortunately had to withdraw from this concert through ill health. This concert will now be conducted by Okko Kamu. 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’

  • 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’

  • 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 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’

  • 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'

  • 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

  • CBSO Remembering Nusrat - A Tribute to Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan Saregama presents, in association with the CBSO 

    Fri 2 Oct Symphony Hall

    One of the greatest vocalists of the 20th century, Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan was the undisputed champion of sufi and qawwali music. His virtuosic talent mesmerised audiences from concert halls to cinema theatres and nightclubs worldwide. Today his torch is carried by nephew Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, who teams up with the CBSO on this ambitious project fusing Nusrat’s most loved compositions with the might of the orchestra, and whose last experiment with music from the region was televised in over 100 countries worldwide. With superhits like _Dum Must Qalander_ and _Yeh Jo Halka, Halka_, to stirring love songs like _Afreen, Afreen_ and popular Bollywood tracks like _Zindagi Jhoom Kar_, expect to be astonished by some incredible vocals set against a powerful, hypnotic orchestral backdrop. "CBSO Website":http://www.cbso.co.uk
    *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Michael Seal* _conductor_ *Ustad Rahat Fateh Ali Khan* _lead vocal_ *Fateh Ali Khan Party* _supporting vocals & percussion_ Music arranged by *Tim Pottier*

  • 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

  • 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. *Following the very sad news of Richard Hickox’s recent death, we are pleased to announce that Michael Seal will conduct the concert on 17 December 2008. We are very grateful to Michael for replacing Richard at short notice.The concert will be dedicated to his memory*
    Michael Seal - conductor 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’

  • 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.

  • 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

  • Flatpack Festival presents Curzonora A Celebration of Cinema's Early Days Featuring The Destroyers 

    Wed 11 Mar Town Hall

    A unique evening of film and music, revisiting the days when cinema first came to Birmingham. At the beginning of the 1900s, before cinemas had even been invented, a promoter called Waller Jeffs introduced the people of Birmingham to an amazing new entertainment called moving pictures. Audiences in their thousands crammed into the Curzon Hall on Suffolk Street to see a two-hour programme of films which roamed from exotic places across the world to footage of their own city, along with live music and performers like _Cyrus and Maud and their Educated Donkey_. Even the sound-effects were live, with children off-stage banging on lino to create the sound of gun-shots! A century later, the Flatpack Festival is opening with a tribute to this unique showman, right around the corner from the venue where the original shows took place. The event will be hosted by fifteen-piece band The Destroyers, formed at Birmingham Conservatoire and a hugely popular fixture on the festival circuit. They will playing a live score to the sort of films which you might have found at the ‘Curzonora’ shows, from the very first sci-fi movies (_Trip to the Moon_) and thrillers (_The Great Train Robbery_) to dramatic recreations from the Boer War. The lineup will also include films of Birmingham events from the Mitchell and Kenyon Collection, commissioned by Jeffs himself and not seen in the city for over a hundred years. The third Flatpack Festival runs from 11-15 March, with an eclectic mix of shorts, animation, features, live events and installations in venues across Birmingham. Full programme info is available at "www.flatpackfestival.org.uk":http://www.flatpackfestival.org.uk


  • Orquesta Buena Vista Social Club featuring guajiro Mirabal, Aguaje Ramos, Manuel Galban & Barbarito Torres 

    Thu 8 Oct Symphony Hall

    An extraordinary line-up of Buena Vista Social Club™ stalwarts, together in a 13 piece band direct from Havana present some of the finest Cuban music ever made. This unique concert will take audiences on a musical excursion from the original 1996 Buena Vista Social Club™ recordings up to the present day. Each of these artists has an individual take on the gamut of Cuban Music, and they’ve each put their own stamp on son montunos, danzón, cha cha cha, boleros and Cuban jazz. Having honed their skills over many years, their passion for the music has remained undiminished. Now after ten years as the backbone of the Buena Vista Social Club™ and as Ibrahim Ferrer's live band and Grammy winning albums, this esteemed group finally gets their chance to shine. The heartbeat of the Buena Vista Social Club™, Cuban bass player Orlando 'Cachaíto' López is the only musician who has played on every track on every album in the World Circuit Buena Vista Social Club™ series. Cachaito's groundbreaking debut album on World Circuit, Cachaíto, won a BBC Radio 3 Award for Word Music in 2002 and was hailed by The Independent as a 'masterpiece'. Guajiro Mirabal's distinctive trumpet sound has accompanied virtually every Cuban star you could mention. His blistering tribute to the Su Conjuntos of the great Arsenio Rodriguéz, _Guajiro Mirabal_, has been nominated for a Latin Grammy and its release was met with widespread praise. 'Brilliant' - New York Times. Jesús 'Aguaje' Ramos' trombone has been an integral part of World Circuit's Cuban recordings for the past decade, and both his playing and bandleading skills have made him a key feature on various Buena Vista tours. He is the musical director of the show as he was on many of the past Buena Vista tours led by Ibrahim Ferrer and Rubén González Guitarist, pianist and organist Manual Galbán made his name with seminal Cuban doo-wop group Los Zafiros, and in recent years has appeared on a number of albums in the Buena Vista series. His duets album with Ry Cooder, _Mambo Sinuendo_, won a Grammy in 2004. Barbarito Torres, another of the “original” Buena Vista Social Club lineup, is Cuba’s reigning master of the laud, a twelve string lute. He uses traditional guajiro rhythms to render traditional Cuban music that defies you not to dance. The New York Times called him “the Cuban Chuck Berry”.


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