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Centre Stage at CBSO Centre

Thu 25 Sep to Sun 14 Jun Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

Devised and performed by the musicians of the CBSO, Centre Stage provides a series of intimate chamber concerts designed to complement the music being performed at Symphony Hall. Centre Stage events start at 1.10pm and normally last about 50 minutes. Snacks and a licenced bar are available before every performance.
Centre Stage Lunchtime concerts at the CBSO Centre

Wed 26 Sep Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

Devised and performed by the musicians of the CBSO, Centre Stage provides a series of intimate chamber concerts designed to complement the music being performed at Symphony Hall. With a ‘close enough to touch’ atmosphere, these concerts put the talents of our musicians in the spotlight, and provide the perfect setting in which to get near to the performers and the music they’ve chosen. All Centre Stage events are held at CBSO Centre, a landmark building in the heart of Birmingham between The Mailbox and Symphony Hall. Centre Stage events start at 1.10pm and normally last about 50 minutes. Snacks and a licenced bar are available before every performance.
Centre Stage A Palm Court Christmas Party!

Mon 22 Dec Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

A Palm Court Christmas Party! Berkley Salon Ensemble City of Birmingham Symphony Youth Chorus (Seniors)
Centre Stage CBSO Players

Fri 6 Mar 2009 Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

CBSO Players Schubert: String Quartet in G, D.887
Centre Stage Elliott Carter’s 100th Birthday

Thu 18 Dec Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

Elliott Carter’s 100th Birthday Marie-Christine Zupancic (flute) and CBSO colleagues Carter: Enchanted Preludes Carter: Scrivo in Vento Mozart: Flute Quartet No. 4 in A, K.298 Villa-Lobos: The Jet Whistle Bax: Elegiac Trio
Centre Stage Cellos Across the Ocean

Wed 10 Jun Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

The massed cellos of the CBSO perform classic Americana from Copland, Barber, Gershwin, Bernstein and Glass.
Centre Stage Baiba Skride (violin) and CBSO Players

Thu 27 Nov Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

Baiba Skride (violin) and CBSO Players Brahms: Clarinet Quintet
Centre Stage Sakari Oramo (violin) and CBSO Players

Tue 9 Dec Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

Sakari Oramo (violin) and CBSO Players Mozart: Horn Quintet K.407 Bruckner: String Quintet
Centre Stage CBSO Players

Wed 18 Mar 2009 Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

CBSO Players Mozart: String Quintet in C, K.515
Centre Stage

Thu 23 Apr Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre
Centre Stage CBSO Players

Thu 6 Nov Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre
Centre Stage Haydn and Handel in London

Thu 15 Jan 2009 Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre
Centre Stage Eduardo Vassallo and Laurence Jackson

Fri 6 Feb 2009 Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre
Centre Stage

Fri 4 May Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre
Centre Stage

Sunday 20 May Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre
Centre Stage

Tue 5 Jun Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre
Centre Stage

Thu 24 May Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre
Centre Stage

Wed 13 Jun Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre
Centre Stage Simon Trpceski and CBSO players

Thu 25 Sep 2008 Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

*Brahms* Horn Trio *Prokofiev* Overture on Hebrew Themes
Centre Stage The Leo Quartet

Fri 3 Apr Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

*Schubert* Quartet No 7 in D *Shostakovich* Quartet No 2
Centre Stage A Pepys Portrait

Sun 8 Mar 2009 Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

A Pepys Portrait on period instruments CBSO Baroque Ensemble & Emily van Evera (soprano) Including music by Purcell, Locke and Mattheis
Centre Stage CBSO Players

Tue 24 Feb 2009 Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

CBSO Players Rossini: String Sonatas Nos. 1, 3 and 4 Barrière: Sonate à Deux
Centre Stage - Marie-Christine Zupancic CBSO Players

Wed 21 Jan Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

CBSO Players Boccherini: Quintet in C Op. 28 No. 4 Glazunov: String Quintet
Centre Stage - Latin Cellos

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

Popular classics with a Latin flavour - including music by *Falla, Pablo Casals* and *Dave Brubeck.*
*CBSO Cellos*
Centre Stage Haydn 200

Thu 28 May Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

*CBSO Players*
*Haydn* String Quartet in D Op 20 No4 *Haydn* String Quartet in B minor Op 33 No 1
Centre Stage - El Ultimo Tango

Sat 26 Jun Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

"Bell arte del Tango"
*El Ultimo Tango*
"Bell arte del Tango"
Centre Stage - Mozart's Divertimento for String Trio

Fri 23 Oct Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

*Mozart* Divertimento for string trio, K.563
*Laurence Jackson* _violin_ *Christopher Yates* _viola_ *Ulrich Heinen* _cello_
*Mozart* Divertimento for string trio, K.563
Centre Stage - Jonathan Biss

Thu 17 Dec Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

*Beethoven* Piano Trio in G, Op. 1 No 2
*CBSO Players* *Jonathan Biss* _piano_
*Beethoven* Piano Trio in G, Op. 1 No 2
Notelets Fairytales 11am

Sun 29 Mar Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

Fairytales - a mini concert for 3-5 year olds and their families at CBSO Centre

PLEASE NOTE TICKETS ARE NOW AVAILABLE ON THE DOOR SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY
Centre Stage - Andrew Litton

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

*Korngold* Piano Quintet
*CBSO Players* *Andrew Litton* _piano_
*Korngold* Piano Quintet
Centre Stage - Eyeglass

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

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

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

*Schubert* '_Trout_' Quintet
*CBSO Players* *Lars Vogt* _piano_
*Schubert* '_Trout_' Quintet
Centre Stage Briony Shaw, Richard Jenkinson & Robert Markham

Fri 15 May Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

*Briony Shaw* violin *Richard Jenkinson* cello *Robert Markham* piano
*Schubert* Piano Trio in B flat Op 99
Centre Stage - The Berkley Salon Ensemble

Mon 21 Dec Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

*A Palm Court Christmas Party*
*The Berkley Salon Ensemble* *CBSYC Seniors*
*A Palm Court Christmas Party*
Centre Stage Byron Parish & Owen Cox (violins), Ella Brinch (viola)

Wed 8 Oct Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

Byron Parish & Owen Cox (violins), Ella Brinch (viola) Mozart: Duo in G major, K.423 Prokofiev: Sonata for Two Violins Dvorák: Terzetto
Centre Stage Elspeth Dutch (horn) and CBSO colleagues

Fri 24 Oct Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

Elspeth Dutch (horn) and CBSO colleagues Beethoven: Sextet for two horns and strings Ireland: Sextet for horn, clarinet and strings
Centre Stage Rainer Gibbons and the Montpellier String Trio

Fri 1 May Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

*Rainer Gibbons* oboe *Montpellier String Trio*
*Mozart* Oboe Quartet *JC Bach* Oboe Quartet *Beethoven* Serenade in D Op 8
Centre Stage - Innovation Chamber Ensemble

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

*Bruckner (arr. Erwin Stein)* Symphony No 7
*Innovation Chamber Ensemble*
*Bruckner (arr. Erwin Stein)* Symphony No 7
Sinatra - 8pm The West End Smash comes to Birmingham!

Fri 2 May Symphony Hall

Legendary performer Frank Sinatra's latest, greatest and most ambitious comeback, captured at the peak of his career, singing his greatest hit songs direct to the audience in ultra-rare and some never-before seen footage. Ground-breaking creative use of cutting-edge technology puts him centre stage, larger than life on multiple moving screens, and lets him perform with a brilliant company of dancers and singers, supported by a live orchestra- together performing some of the greatest music ever recorded.
Sinatra - 8pm The West End Smash comes to Birmingham!

Sat 3 May Symphony Hall

Legendary performer Frank Sinatra's latest, greatest and most ambitious comeback, captured at the peak of his career, singing his greatest hit songs direct to the audience in ultra-rare and some never-before seen footage. Ground-breaking creative use of cutting-edge technology puts him centre stage, larger than life on multiple moving screens, and lets him perform with a brilliant company of dancers and singers, supported by a live orchestra- together performing some of the greatest music ever recorded.
Sinatra - 8pm The West End Smash comes to Birmingham!

Sun 4 May Symphony Hall

Legendary performer Frank Sinatra's latest, greatest and most ambitious comeback, captured at the peak of his career, singing his greatest hit songs direct to the audience in ultra-rare and some never-before seen footage. Ground-breaking creative use of cutting-edge technology puts him centre stage, larger than life on multiple moving screens, and lets him perform with a brilliant company of dancers and singers, supported by a live orchestra- together performing some of the greatest music ever recorded.
Sinatra - 2.30pm The West End Smash comes to Birmingham!

Sat 3 May Symphony Hall

Legendary performer Frank Sinatra's latest, greatest and most ambitious comeback, captured at the peak of his career, singing his greatest hit songs direct to the audience in ultra-rare and some never-before seen footage. Ground-breaking creative use of cutting-edge technology puts him centre stage, larger than life on multiple moving screens, and lets him perform with a brilliant company of dancers and singers, supported by a live orchestra- together performing some of the greatest music ever recorded.
Sinatra - 2.30pm The West End Smash comes to Birmingham!

Sun 4 May Symphony Hall

Legendary performer Frank Sinatra's latest, greatest and most ambitious comeback, captured at the peak of his career, singing his greatest hit songs direct to the audience in ultra-rare and some never-before seen footage. Ground-breaking creative use of cutting-edge technology puts him centre stage, larger than life on multiple moving screens, and lets him perform with a brilliant company of dancers and singers, supported by a live orchestra- together performing some of the greatest music ever recorded.
Centre Stage - Haydn & Ravel

Thu 15 Oct Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

*Haydn* Quartet in C, Op 33 No 3 (The Bird) *Ravel* String Quartet
*CBSO Players*
*Haydn* Quartet in C, Op 33 No 3 (The Bird) *Ravel* String Quartet
Centre Stage - Brass Explosion

Thu 3 Dec Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

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

*Poulenc* Sonata for Horn, Trumpet and Trombone *Nyman* Masque Arias *Mathias* Summer Dances
Centre Stage - Marie-Christine Zupancic

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

*Falla* Concerto for harpsichord & five instruments *Mozart* Flute Quartet in C, K.285b
*Marie-Christine Zupancic* _flute_
*Falla* Concerto for harpsichord & five instruments *Mozart* Flute Quartet in C, K.285b
Centre Stage - Russian String Quartets CBSO Players

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

*Tchaikovsky* String Quartet No 1 *Shostakovich* String Quartet No 6
*CBSO Players*
*Tchaikovsky* String Quartet No 1 *Shostakovich* String Quartet No 6
Centre Stage - The Leo Quartet The Leo Quartet

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

*Rachmaninov* Two Movements for String Quartet *Beethoven* String Quartet in C, Op 59 No 3 (Razumovsky)
*The Leo Quartet*
*Rachmaninov* Two Movements for String Quartet *Beethoven* String Quartet in C, Op 59 No 3 (Razumovsky)
Centre Stage - Brahms Piano Quartet CBSO Players

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

*Brahms* Piano Quartet in G minor, Op 25
*CBSO Players*
*Brahms* Piano Quartet in G minor, Op 25
Centre Stage - The Dadelsen Trio

Wed 18 Nov Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

*Schumann* Fantasy Pieces, Op 88 *Mendelssohn* Piano Trio No 2
*The Dadelsen Trio*
*Schumann* Fantasy Pieces, Op 88 *Mendelssohn* Piano Trio No 2
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*.
Centre Stage - Brahms String Quintet

Fri 6 Nov Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

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

Thu 14 Jan Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

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

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

*Fauré* Piano Quartet No 1 *Bridge* Phantasy Piano Quartet
*CBSO Players*
*Fauré* Piano Quartet No 1 *Bridge* Phantasy Piano Quartet
Centre Stage - Andrew Gough & CBSO Players

Fri 2 Oct Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

*Boccherini* Guitar Quintet No 4 (Fandango) *Castelnuono-Tedesco* Guitar Quintet
*CBSO Players* *Andrew Gough* _guitar_
*Boccherini* Guitar Quintet No 4 (Fandango) *Castelnuono-Tedesco* Guitar Quintet
Centre Stage - Elspeth Dutch Elspeth Dutch and CBSO colleagues

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

*Glazunov* Idyll for horn and strings *Dunhill* Horn Quintet in F minor
*Elspeth Dutch* _horn_ *CBSO players*
*Glazunov* Idyll for horn and strings *Dunhill* Horn Quintet in F minor
Centre Stage - Shostakovich and Brahms Piano Trios CBSO Players

Fri 18 Sep Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

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

Tue 17 Jun Symphony Hall

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

Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre
The Final of the Robert William & Florence Amy Brant International Pianoforte Competition 2008

Sat 12 Jul Town Hall

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

Fri 13 Mar Symphony Hall

Strap on your safety goggles, boys and girls: Science's greatest and most volatile show is arriving here with a vengeance. Sky One’s multi award-winning Brainiac arrives with a bang live on stage more mischievous than ever seen before on a breathless ride through the wild world of the weird and wonderful. Watch live as we delve fearlessly into the mysteries of science and do all of those things on stage that you’re too scared to do at home!
Presented by *Brainiac Joe*
Tchaikovsky and Philip Glass

Wed 5 May 2010 Symphony Hall

The Moscow State Symphony Orchestra is one of Russia’s leading orchestras. At the very heart of its repertoire lies Tchaikovsky’s Fifth Symphony - a journey from dark and brooding tragedy to an overwhelming sense of energy and fulfilment. Young British violinist Chloë Hanslip takes centre stage for the clean, pulsating lines of Philip Glass’s unforgettable Violin Concerto. Classic FM’s Anne-Marie Minhall, says of tonight’s recommended concert: _“Philip Glass is one of America’s best-known living composers. His Violin Concerto is a Classic FM favourite. The second movement in particular manages to be both haunting and moving at the same time.”_ 6.15pm Pre-concert talk with Lyndon Jenkins
*Moscow State Symphony Orchestra* *Pavel Kogan* _conductor_ *Chloë Hanslip* _violin_
*Borodin* Overture, _Prince Igor_ 11’ *Philip Glass* Violin Concerto 30’ *Tchaikovsky* Symphony No 5 50’
2.30pm Birmingham City University - Technology Innovation Centre and Business School 2.30pm

Mon 11 Feb Symphony Hall

There is now no restriction on the ticket limit for this graduation
CBSO Players Lunchtime concerts at the CBSO Centre

Thu 29 Nov Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

Revueltas: Ocho por Radio Saint-Saëns: Septet for trumpet, piano and strings
The Treorchy Male Voice Choir In Concert

Sat 21 Jun Town Hall

Treorchy was the first male choir to venture into the uncharted territory of popular music and subsequently the choir has made more than fifty commercial recordings, making it probably the most recorded in the world. The choir has also shared the stage with some of the world’s greatest entertainers during its long and illustrious history including Sir Tom Jones, Ella Fitzgerald, Dame Shirley Bassey, Katherine Jenkins, Ozzy Osbourne, Jon Bon Jovi and McFly. (Please note that the choir area is bench seating, the benches are behind the stage area, and there is limited leg room and no back support.)
*Jan Ball* Conductor *Iona Jones* Soprano
Britten Sinfonia at Lunch

Fri 1 Feb 2008 Town Hall

For this concert, Britten Sinfonia’s quintet of virtuoso wind players take centre stage, joined by pianist Imogen Cooper for a delightful programme of works from three centuries. Beethoven’s Quintet in E flat for Piano and Wind is a wonderful piece, showing Beethoven as a master of classical forms in a work that is at times witty and high-spirited, at times lyrical and expansive. Ravel’s Mother Goose whisks us away to an enchanted land of fairy tales, with a colourful and magical portrayal of characters such as Sleeping Beauty and the Empress of the Pagodas. The 21st century is represented by Cambridge composer Robin Holloway, whose new work is premièred on this tour. "Britten Sinfonia":http://www.brittensinfonia.co.uk
Imogen Cooper piano Michael Cox flute Nicholas Daniel oboe Joy Farrall clarinet Sarah Burnett bassoon Stephen Bell horn
Ravel: Mother Goose Suite Robin Holloway: New Work (world première tour) Beethoven: Quintet for Piano & Winds in E flat Op.16
Notelets Fairytales 2pm

Sun 29 Mar Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

Fairytales - a mini concert for 3-5 year olds and their families at the CBSO Centre. PLEASE NOTE TICKETS ARE NOW AVAILABLE ON THE DOOR SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY
'AND NOW, THE NEWS'

Thu 5 Jun Town Hall

What soundtrack would you choose to accompany the news? Have you wondered about the music behind the headlines? A new commission by New Guide to Opera (Michael Wolters and Marcus Dross) explores this idea in our increasingly media-driven society, with original music performed to a live broadcast of the BBC News. The performance features students from Birmingham Conservatoire alongside cellist Julian Lloyd Webber, one of the most creative musicians of his generation. Julian will also perform a new work written specifically for him by Howard Goodall. The concert launches both the New Generation Arts Festival and Integra 2008, taking place at Birmingham Conservatoire. Integra works take centre stage in the second half, with the performance of a second commission, by Ed Bennett and Juneau Projects as well as a performance by renowned swedish ensemble Ars Nova and works by Pierre Jodlowski and Kent Oloffson. £10, 60 Plus/Under 16’s/Unwaged £8, Students £2.50 Please note that, owing to the live link with the BBC News, this concert will start promptly at 7pm. Please be seated by 6.55pm.
*Launch of New Generation Arts Festival and Integra 2008* *Julian Lloyd Webber* _cello_
The Leo Quartet Lunchtime concerts at the CBSO Centre

Fri 7 Mar 2008 Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

Dove: Out of Time Elgar: String Quartet
Julia Beisswanger violin, Jacqueline Tyler cello, Caroline Palmer piano Lunchtime concerts at the CBSO Centre

Tue 18 Mar 2008 Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

Beethoven: Kakadu Variations Saint-Saëns: Piano Trio No. 1
We're Going On A Bear Hunt Live on Stage!

Tue 21 Dec 2010 until Wed 12 January 2011 Town Hall

Adapted from the picture book written by Michael Rosen and illustrated by Helen Oxenbury Michael Rosen’s award-winning book We’re Going On A Bear Hunt is brought vividly and noisily to the stage in director Sally Cookson’s fun-filled adaptation set to Benji Bower’s versatile lively score. Join our intrepid adventurers on their quest to find a bear; as they wade through the gigantic swishy swashy grass, the splishy splashy river and the thick oozy, squelchy mud! Expect catchy songs, interactive scenes and plenty of hands-on adventure - plus a few special surprises! Watch the official trailer online at "www.bearhuntlive.com":http://www.bearhuntlive.com
The RAF in Concert

Wed 28 Oct Symphony Hall

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

Sun 21 Jun Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

Music for the Screen - a mini concert for 3-5 year olds and their families, featuring favourite tunes from children’s television and film.
Sakari Oramo violin and CBSO Players Lunchtime concerts at the CBSO Centre

Fri 14 Dec Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

R. Strauss: Capriccio sextet Tchaikovsky: Souvenir de Florence
Notelets Music for the Screen 11am

Sun 21 Jun Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

Music for the Screen - a mini concert for 3-5 year olds and their families, featuring favourite tunes from children’s television and film.
CBSO Season 2009-10

Wed 9 Sep Town Hall & Symphony Hall

*Public booking opens on Monday 15 June.* For list of concerts please see "www.cbso.co.uk/concerts":http://www.cbso.co.uk/concerts DISCOUNTS FOR CBSO CONCERTS Please note that only one discount can be applied to any ticket. Special offers, discounts and concessions cannot be combined. Concerts which are not promoted by the CBSO may have different discounting policies please check with the Ticket Office at time of booking. CONCERT PACKAGES Buy tickets for 3 or more CBSO concerts at Symphony Hall/Town Hall to start saving and receiving package benefits. GROUP BOOKERS are entitled to a 20% discount for parties of 11 or more and receive one FREE ticket for the group organiser. Groups also benefit from a reservation facility - please call the Group Booking Department on Freephone 0800 358 7070. There is also the opportunity to meet CBSO musicians at concerts; please call Eva Wuestum at the CBSO on 0121 616 6513. FAMILY TICKETS FROM £20: (for Symphony Hall & Town Hall) To qualify for a family ticket, one or two adults must be accompanied by one or more children aged 16 or under, up to a maximum group of six people. Family tickets are available in all areas, and will be allocated subject to availability. Adult family ticket: £15; child family ticket: £5. STUDENTS & YOUNG PEOPLE From 1pm on the day of each evening performance and from 10am for matinée concerts, anyone in fulltime education and young people aged 25 and under can purchase remaining tickets at the discounted price of £4. Proof of eligibility may be required. Please note: the CBSO reserves the right to allocate these tickets in certain areas of the hall. Under our ‘Audiences for Tomorrow’ scheme, the CBSO offers a limited number of tickets at special prices for secondary school groups, subject to availability. Teachers should call Heather Brannan on 0121 616 6546 for information. STANDBY TICKETS Available from 1pm on the day of each evening performance and from 10am for matinée concerts (Symphony Hall & Town Hall concerts), and from CBSO Centre one hour before CBSO Centre performances. Please come early to avoid queues. All standby tickets are issued subject to availability and on production of valid and suitable identification. Please note the CBSO reserves the right to allocate standby tickets in certain areas of the hall. Patrons aged 60+ (Symphony Hall & Town Hall only) receive 10% discount. Patrons who are benefit recipients can purchase tickets for £4 at all venues (qualifying benefits: Income Support, Pension Tax Credit, Job Seekers Allowance and Disability Tax Credit). Holders of ‘Passport to Leisure’ cards can purchase Circle tickets for £21.50, and seats on all other levels for £14 at Symphony Hall and Town Hall (one ticket per Passport holder), and receive £1 off a full-price ticket at CBSO Centre. DISABLED PATRONS: If you have a disability you are entitled to receive 50% discount off full price seats. Should you need the service of a companion, their ticket is also half price. Proof of eligibility may be required. NB Disabled patrons can combine their 50% discount with the additional Concert Package discounts. For further information on facilities for patrons with disabilities, including the infra-red system for the hearing impaired, please contact Symphony Hall (for Symphony Hall/Town Hall) on 0121 780 4949 or CBSO Centre on 0121 616 6532. Receivers are available from the Performance Manager at the concert. Guide dogs welcome. WHEELCHAIR POSITIONS Spaces for patrons who need to remain in their wheelchair during the performance are located on the stalls and upper circle levels of Symphony Hall, stalls & circle levels of Town Hall and are available at CBSO Centre. Please book in advance for Symphony Hall & Town Hall by calling 0121 780 4949 during opening hours. CAR PARKING: Limited space is available at all three venues for Blue Badge holders driving their own vehicles. When reserving a space you will be asked for your Blue Badge number, vehicle registration, concert date and contact details. Symphony Hall: please contact the Box Office on 0121 780 3333. For requests of three or more dates, please obtain a booking form from the Box Office (call 0121 780 3333). Town Hall: please contact Stage Door on 0121 644 5039. CBSO Centre: call 0121 616 6532 to reserve parking in advance. For concerts at Town Hall, wheelchair users may also be dropped off outside the building by Paradise Circus. Blue badge parking bays in the vicinity of Town Hall can be found on Margaret Street, Edmund Street and Pinfold Street. This brochure is available free of charge on audio-cassette. Please call 0121 616 6513. RETURNS & RESALES Tickets are accepted at the discretion of the Ticket Office but all CBSO sales take priority. There is a service charge of 10% of the face value and money resulting from a resale will be forwarded by cheque. NB only cash or cheques will be accepted in payment for returns. LOST TICKETS Please note there is a £2 charge for printing duplicate tickets.
Tristan und Isolde Birmingham International Concert Season 2010/11

Thu 23 Sep Symphony Hall

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

Wed 3 Mar 2010 Town Hall

Saxophonist Courtney Pine, who was awarded a C.B.E for services to music in the 2009 New Year Honours is back touring with his critically acclaimed Transition in Tradition album set. Courtney’s 12th album and his debut release on his own label Destin-e World, not only pays tribute to the first great saxophone star Sidney Bechet, but also marks several new forays into sound for the groundbreaking Jazz Warrior. Pulling together a heavyweight musical line-up that draws influences from Africa, the Caribbean, South America and Europe, the set is as deep as the legacy of jazz, as it is reflective of their collective musical heritage. A change in instrumentation sees Pine's Bass Clarinet take centre stage on many occasions, alongside Harmonium, Castanets and Mandolin and the resulting sound is like no other Courtney Pine record. _"Of course I pay respect to the great Bechet by playing a silver soprano saxophone like his, but there are other flavours like my Alto Flute playing on The Tale Of Joe Harriott and of course that Caribbean groove"_. 4* "..Laden with memorable melodies, his best album since his 1986 debut" *Observer Music Monthly* 5/5 "Pine is superb..." *The Guardian* "....top of his form..." *The Independent*
*Courtney Pine* _saxophones_ *Cameron Pierre* _guitar_ *Robert Fordjour* _drums_ *Zoe Rahman* _piano_ *Darren Taylor* _bass_ *Omar Puente* _electric violin_
Notelets Action Stations! 2pm

Sat 7 Feb 2009 Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

Action Stations! - a mini concert for 3-5 year olds and their families. Come and get active with action songs and music to make you move, for all those fidgety feet!
We're Going On A Bear Hunt Live on Stage!

Tue 21 Dec Town Hall

Adapted from the picture book written by Michael Rosen and illustrated by Helen Oxenbury Michael Rosen’s award-winning book We’re Going On A Bear Hunt is brought vividly and noisily to the stage in director Sally Cookson’s fun-filled adaptation set to Benji Bower’s versatile lively score. Join our intrepid adventurers on their quest to find a bear; as they wade through the gigantic swishy swashy grass, the splishy splashy river and the thick oozy, squelchy mud! Expect catchy songs, interactive scenes and plenty of hands-on adventure- plus a few special surprises! Watch the official trailer online at "www.bearhuntlive.com":http://www.bearhuntlive.com

For children aged 3 and above. Running time: Approx. 55 minutes
We're Going On A Bear Hunt Live on Stage!

Tue 21 Dec Town Hall

Adapted from the picture book written by Michael Rosen and illustrated by Helen Oxenbury Michael Rosen’s award-winning book We’re Going On A Bear Hunt is brought vividly and noisily to the stage in director Sally Cookson’s fun-filled adaptation set to Benji Bower’s versatile lively score. Join our intrepid adventurers on their quest to find a bear; as they wade through the gigantic swishy swashy grass, the splishy splashy river and the thick oozy, squelchy mud! Expect catchy songs, interactive scenes and plenty of hands-on adventure- plus a few special surprises! Watch the official trailer online at "www.bearhuntlive.com":http://www.bearhuntlive.com

For children aged 3 and above. Running time: Approx. 55 minutes
We're Going On A Bear Hunt Live on Stage!

Mon 27 Dec Town Hall

Adapted from the picture book written by Michael Rosen and illustrated by Helen Oxenbury Michael Rosen’s award-winning book We’re Going On A Bear Hunt is brought vividly and noisily to the stage in director Sally Cookson’s fun-filled adaptation set to Benji Bower’s versatile lively score. Join our intrepid adventurers on their quest to find a bear; as they wade through the gigantic swishy swashy grass, the splishy splashy river and the thick oozy, squelchy mud! Expect catchy songs, interactive scenes and plenty of hands-on adventure- plus a few special surprises! Watch the official trailer online at "www.bearhuntlive.com":http://www.bearhuntlive.com

For children aged 3 and above. Running time: Approx. 55 minutes
We're Going On A Bear Hunt Live on Stage!

Wed 22 Dec Town Hall

Adapted from the picture book written by Michael Rosen and illustrated by Helen Oxenbury Michael Rosen’s award-winning book We’re Going On A Bear Hunt is brought vividly and noisily to the stage in director Sally Cookson’s fun-filled adaptation set to Benji Bower’s versatile lively score. Join our intrepid adventurers on their quest to find a bear; as they wade through the gigantic swishy swashy grass, the splishy splashy river and the thick oozy, squelchy mud! Expect catchy songs, interactive scenes and plenty of hands-on adventure- plus a few special surprises! Watch the official trailer online at "www.bearhuntlive.com":http://www.bearhuntlive.com

For children aged 3 and above. Running time: Approx. 55 minutes
We're Going On A Bear Hunt Live on Stage!

Wed 22 Dec Town Hall

Adapted from the picture book written by Michael Rosen and illustrated by Helen Oxenbury Michael Rosen’s award-winning book We’re Going On A Bear Hunt is brought vividly and noisily to the stage in director Sally Cookson’s fun-filled adaptation set to Benji Bower’s versatile lively score. Join our intrepid adventurers on their quest to find a bear; as they wade through the gigantic swishy swashy grass, the splishy splashy river and the thick oozy, squelchy mud! Expect catchy songs, interactive scenes and plenty of hands-on adventure- plus a few special surprises! Watch the official trailer online at "www.bearhuntlive.com":http://www.bearhuntlive.com

For children aged 3 and above. Running time: Approx. 55 minutes
We're Going On A Bear Hunt Live on Stage!

Tue 28 Dec Town Hall

Adapted from the picture book written by Michael Rosen and illustrated by Helen Oxenbury Michael Rosen’s award-winning book We’re Going On A Bear Hunt is brought vividly and noisily to the stage in director Sally Cookson’s fun-filled adaptation set to Benji Bower’s versatile lively score. Join our intrepid adventurers on their quest to find a bear; as they wade through the gigantic swishy swashy grass, the splishy splashy river and the thick oozy, squelchy mud! Expect catchy songs, interactive scenes and plenty of hands-on adventure- plus a few special surprises! Watch the official trailer online at "www.bearhuntlive.com":http://www.bearhuntlive.com

For children aged 3 and above. Running time: Approx. 55 minutes
We're Going On A Bear Hunt Live on Stage!

Thu 23 Dec Town Hall

Adapted from the picture book written by Michael Rosen and illustrated by Helen Oxenbury Michael Rosen’s award-winning book We’re Going On A Bear Hunt is brought vividly and noisily to the stage in director Sally Cookson’s fun-filled adaptation set to Benji Bower’s versatile lively score. Join our intrepid adventurers on their quest to find a bear; as they wade through the gigantic swishy swashy grass, the splishy splashy river and the thick oozy, squelchy mud! Expect catchy songs, interactive scenes and plenty of hands-on adventure- plus a few special surprises! Watch the official trailer online at "www.bearhuntlive.com":http://www.bearhuntlive.com

For children aged 3 and above. Running time: Approx. 55 minutes
We're Going On A Bear Hunt Live on Stage!

Thu 23 Dec Town Hall

Adapted from the picture book written by Michael Rosen and illustrated by Helen Oxenbury Michael Rosen’s award-winning book We’re Going On A Bear Hunt is brought vividly and noisily to the stage in director Sally Cookson’s fun-filled adaptation set to Benji Bower’s versatile lively score. Join our intrepid adventurers on their quest to find a bear; as they wade through the gigantic swishy swashy grass, the splishy splashy river and the thick oozy, squelchy mud! Expect catchy songs, interactive scenes and plenty of hands-on adventure- plus a few special surprises! Watch the official trailer online at "www.bearhuntlive.com":http://www.bearhuntlive.com

For children aged 3 and above. Running time: Approx. 55 minutes
We're Going On A Bear Hunt Live on Stage!

Fri 24 Dec Town Hall

Adapted from the picture book written by Michael Rosen and illustrated by Helen Oxenbury Michael Rosen’s award-winning book We’re Going On A Bear Hunt is brought vividly and noisily to the stage in director Sally Cookson’s fun-filled adaptation set to Benji Bower’s versatile lively score. Join our intrepid adventurers on their quest to find a bear; as they wade through the gigantic swishy swashy grass, the splishy splashy river and the thick oozy, squelchy mud! Expect catchy songs, interactive scenes and plenty of hands-on adventure- plus a few special surprises! Watch the official trailer online at "www.bearhuntlive.com":http://www.bearhuntlive.com

For children aged 3 and above. Running time: Approx. 55 minutes
We're Going On A Bear Hunt Live on Stage!

Fri 24 Dec Town Hall

Adapted from the picture book written by Michael Rosen and illustrated by Helen Oxenbury Michael Rosen’s award-winning book We’re Going On A Bear Hunt is brought vividly and noisily to the stage in director Sally Cookson’s fun-filled adaptation set to Benji Bower’s versatile lively score. Join our intrepid adventurers on their quest to find a bear; as they wade through the gigantic swishy swashy grass, the splishy splashy river and the thick oozy, squelchy mud! Expect catchy songs, interactive scenes and plenty of hands-on adventure- plus a few special surprises! Watch the official trailer online at "www.bearhuntlive.com":http://www.bearhuntlive.com

For children aged 3 and above. Running time: Approx. 55 minutes
We're Going On A Bear Hunt Live on Stage!

Tue 28 Dec Town Hall

Adapted from the picture book written by Michael Rosen and illustrated by Helen Oxenbury Michael Rosen’s award-winning book We’re Going On A Bear Hunt is brought vividly and noisily to the stage in director Sally Cookson’s fun-filled adaptation set to Benji Bower’s versatile lively score. Join our intrepid adventurers on their quest to find a bear; as they wade through the gigantic swishy swashy grass, the splishy splashy river and the thick oozy, squelchy mud! Expect catchy songs, interactive scenes and plenty of hands-on adventure- plus a few special surprises! Watch the official trailer online at "www.bearhuntlive.com":http://www.bearhuntlive.com

For children aged 3 and above. Running time: Approx. 55 minutes
We're Going On A Bear Hunt Live on Stage!

Wed 29 Dec Town Hall

Adapted from the picture book written by Michael Rosen and illustrated by Helen Oxenbury Michael Rosen’s award-winning book We’re Going On A Bear Hunt is brought vividly and noisily to the stage in director Sally Cookson’s fun-filled adaptation set to Benji Bower’s versatile lively score. Join our intrepid adventurers on their quest to find a bear; as they wade through the gigantic swishy swashy grass, the splishy splashy river and the thick oozy, squelchy mud! Expect catchy songs, interactive scenes and plenty of hands-on adventure- plus a few special surprises! Watch the official trailer online at "www.bearhuntlive.com":http://www.bearhuntlive.com

For children aged 3 and above. Running time: Approx. 55 minutes
We're Going On A Bear Hunt Live on Stage!

Wed 29 Dec Town Hall

Adapted from the picture book written by Michael Rosen and illustrated by Helen Oxenbury Michael Rosen’s award-winning book We’re Going On A Bear Hunt is brought vividly and noisily to the stage in director Sally Cookson’s fun-filled adaptation set to Benji Bower’s versatile lively score. Join our intrepid adventurers on their quest to find a bear; as they wade through the gigantic swishy swashy grass, the splishy splashy river and the thick oozy, squelchy mud! Expect catchy songs, interactive scenes and plenty of hands-on adventure- plus a few special surprises! Watch the official trailer online at "www.bearhuntlive.com":http://www.bearhuntlive.com

For children aged 3 and above. Running time: Approx. 55 minutes
We're Going On A Bear Hunt Live on Stage!

Thu 30 Dec Town Hall

Adapted from the picture book written by Michael Rosen and illustrated by Helen Oxenbury Michael Rosen’s award-winning book We’re Going On A Bear Hunt is brought vividly and noisily to the stage in director Sally Cookson’s fun-filled adaptation set to Benji Bower’s versatile lively score. Join our intrepid adventurers on their quest to find a bear; as they wade through the gigantic swishy swashy grass, the splishy splashy river and the thick oozy, squelchy mud! Expect catchy songs, interactive scenes and plenty of hands-on adventure- plus a few special surprises! Watch the official trailer online at "www.bearhuntlive.com":http://www.bearhuntlive.com

For children aged 3 and above. Running time: Approx. 55 minutes
We're Going On A Bear Hunt Live on Stage!

Thu 30 Dec Town Hall

Adapted from the picture book written by Michael Rosen and illustrated by Helen Oxenbury Michael Rosen’s award-winning book We’re Going On A Bear Hunt is brought vividly and noisily to the stage in director Sally Cookson’s fun-filled adaptation set to Benji Bower’s versatile lively score. Join our intrepid adventurers on their quest to find a bear; as they wade through the gigantic swishy swashy grass, the splishy splashy river and the thick oozy, squelchy mud! Expect catchy songs, interactive scenes and plenty of hands-on adventure- plus a few special surprises! Watch the official trailer online at "www.bearhuntlive.com":http://www.bearhuntlive.com

For children aged 3 and above. Running time: Approx. 55 minutes
We're Going On A Bear Hunt Live on Stage!

Fri 31 Dec Town Hall

Adapted from the picture book written by Michael Rosen and illustrated by Helen Oxenbury Michael Rosen’s award-winning book We’re Going On A Bear Hunt is brought vividly and noisily to the stage in director Sally Cookson’s fun-filled adaptation set to Benji Bower’s versatile lively score. Join our intrepid adventurers on their quest to find a bear; as they wade through the gigantic swishy swashy grass, the splishy splashy river and the thick oozy, squelchy mud! Expect catchy songs, interactive scenes and plenty of hands-on adventure- plus a few special surprises! Watch the official trailer online at "www.bearhuntlive.com":http://www.bearhuntlive.com

For children aged 3 and above. Running time: Approx. 55 minutes
We're Going On A Bear Hunt Live on Stage!

Fri 31 Dec Town Hall

Adapted from the picture book written by Michael Rosen and illustrated by Helen Oxenbury Michael Rosen’s award-winning book We’re Going On A Bear Hunt is brought vividly and noisily to the stage in director Sally Cookson’s fun-filled adaptation set to Benji Bower’s versatile lively score. Join our intrepid adventurers on their quest to find a bear; as they wade through the gigantic swishy swashy grass, the splishy splashy river and the thick oozy, squelchy mud! Expect catchy songs, interactive scenes and plenty of hands-on adventure- plus a few special surprises! Watch the official trailer online at "www.bearhuntlive.com":http://www.bearhuntlive.com

For children aged 3 and above. Running time: Approx. 55 minutes
We're Going On A Bear Hunt Live on Stage!

Sat 8 Jan 2011 Town Hall

Adapted from the picture book written by Michael Rosen and illustrated by Helen Oxenbury Michael Rosen’s award-winning book We’re Going On A Bear Hunt is brought vividly and noisily to the stage in director Sally Cookson’s fun-filled adaptation set to Benji Bower’s versatile lively score. Join our intrepid adventurers on their quest to find a bear; as they wade through the gigantic swishy swashy grass, the splishy splashy river and the thick oozy, squelchy mud! Expect catchy songs, interactive scenes and plenty of hands-on adventure- plus a few special surprises! Watch the official trailer online at "www.bearhuntlive.com":http://www.bearhuntlive.com

For children aged 3 and above. Running time: Approx. 55 minutes
We're Going On A Bear Hunt Live on Stage!

Sat 8 Jan 2011 Town Hall

Adapted from the picture book written by Michael Rosen and illustrated by Helen Oxenbury Michael Rosen’s award-winning book We’re Going On A Bear Hunt is brought vividly and noisily to the stage in director Sally Cookson’s fun-filled adaptation set to Benji Bower’s versatile lively score. Join our intrepid adventurers on their quest to find a bear; as they wade through the gigantic swishy swashy grass, the splishy splashy river and the thick oozy, squelchy mud! Expect catchy songs, interactive scenes and plenty of hands-on adventure- plus a few special surprises! Watch the official trailer online at "www.bearhuntlive.com":http://www.bearhuntlive.com

For children aged 3 and above. Running time: Approx. 55 minutes
We're Going On A Bear Hunt Live on Stage!

Sun 9 Jan 2011 Town Hall

Adapted from the picture book written by Michael Rosen and illustrated by Helen Oxenbury Michael Rosen’s award-winning book We’re Going On A Bear Hunt is brought vividly and noisily to the stage in director Sally Cookson’s fun-filled adaptation set to Benji Bower’s versatile lively score. Join our intrepid adventurers on their quest to find a bear; as they wade through the gigantic swishy swashy grass, the splishy splashy river and the thick oozy, squelchy mud! Expect catchy songs, interactive scenes and plenty of hands-on adventure- plus a few special surprises! Watch the official trailer online at "www.bearhuntlive.com":http://www.bearhuntlive.com

For children aged 3 and above. Running time: Approx. 55 minutes
We're Going On A Bear Hunt Live on Stage!

Sun 9 Jan 2011 Town Hall

Adapted from the picture book written by Michael Rosen and illustrated by Helen Oxenbury Michael Rosen’s award-winning book We’re Going On A Bear Hunt is brought vividly and noisily to the stage in director Sally Cookson’s fun-filled adaptation set to Benji Bower’s versatile lively score. Join our intrepid adventurers on their quest to find a bear; as they wade through the gigantic swishy swashy grass, the splishy splashy river and the thick oozy, squelchy mud! Expect catchy songs, interactive scenes and plenty of hands-on adventure- plus a few special surprises! Watch the official trailer online at "www.bearhuntlive.com":http://www.bearhuntlive.com

For children aged 3 and above. Running time: Approx. 55 minutes
We're Going On A Bear Hunt Live on Stage!

Mon 10 Jan 2011 Town Hall

Adapted from the picture book written by Michael Rosen and illustrated by Helen Oxenbury Michael Rosen’s award-winning book We’re Going On A Bear Hunt is brought vividly and noisily to the stage in director Sally Cookson’s fun-filled adaptation set to Benji Bower’s versatile lively score. Join our intrepid adventurers on their quest to find a bear; as they wade through the gigantic swishy swashy grass, the splishy splashy river and the thick oozy, squelchy mud! Expect catchy songs, interactive scenes and plenty of hands-on adventure- plus a few special surprises! Watch the official trailer online at "www.bearhuntlive.com":http://www.bearhuntlive.com

For children aged 3 and above. Running time: Approx. 55 minutes
We're Going On A Bear Hunt Live on Stage!

Tue 11 Jan 2011 Town Hall

Adapted from the picture book written by Michael Rosen and illustrated by Helen Oxenbury Michael Rosen’s award-winning book We’re Going On A Bear Hunt is brought vividly and noisily to the stage in director Sally Cookson’s fun-filled adaptation set to Benji Bower’s versatile lively score. Join our intrepid adventurers on their quest to find a bear; as they wade through the gigantic swishy swashy grass, the splishy splashy river and the thick oozy, squelchy mud! Expect catchy songs, interactive scenes and plenty of hands-on adventure- plus a few special surprises! Watch the official trailer online at "www.bearhuntlive.com":http://www.bearhuntlive.com

For children aged 3 and above. Running time: Approx. 55 minutes
We're Going On A Bear Hunt Live on Stage!

Tue 11 Jan 2011 Town Hall

Adapted from the picture book written by Michael Rosen and illustrated by Helen Oxenbury Michael Rosen’s award-winning book We’re Going On A Bear Hunt is brought vividly and noisily to the stage in director Sally Cookson’s fun-filled adaptation set to Benji Bower’s versatile lively score. Join our intrepid adventurers on their quest to find a bear; as they wade through the gigantic swishy swashy grass, the splishy splashy river and the thick oozy, squelchy mud! Expect catchy songs, interactive scenes and plenty of hands-on adventure- plus a few special surprises! Watch the official trailer online at "www.bearhuntlive.com":http://www.bearhuntlive.com

For children aged 3 and above. Running time: Approx. 55 minutes
We're Going On A Bear Hunt Live on Stage!

Wed 12 Jan 2011 Town Hall

Adapted from the picture book written by Michael Rosen and illustrated by Helen Oxenbury Michael Rosen’s award-winning book We’re Going On A Bear Hunt is brought vividly and noisily to the stage in director Sally Cookson’s fun-filled adaptation set to Benji Bower’s versatile lively score. Join our intrepid adventurers on their quest to find a bear; as they wade through the gigantic swishy swashy grass, the splishy splashy river and the thick oozy, squelchy mud! Expect catchy songs, interactive scenes and plenty of hands-on adventure- plus a few special surprises! Watch the official trailer online at "www.bearhuntlive.com":http://www.bearhuntlive.com

For children aged 3 and above. Running time: Approx. 55 minutes
We're Going On A Bear Hunt Live on Stage!

Wed 12 Jan 2011 Town Hall

Adapted from the picture book written by Michael Rosen and illustrated by Helen Oxenbury Michael Rosen’s award-winning book We’re Going On A Bear Hunt is brought vividly and noisily to the stage in director Sally Cookson’s fun-filled adaptation set to Benji Bower’s versatile lively score. Join our intrepid adventurers on their quest to find a bear; as they wade through the gigantic swishy swashy grass, the splishy splashy river and the thick oozy, squelchy mud! Expect catchy songs, interactive scenes and plenty of hands-on adventure- plus a few special surprises! Watch the official trailer online at "www.bearhuntlive.com":http://www.bearhuntlive.com

For children aged 3 and above. Running time: Approx. 55 minutes
The Leo Ensemble Lunchtime concerts at the CBSO Centre

Fri 6 Jun Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

Shostakovich: Two Pieces for String Octet, Op.11 Enescu: String Octet
Notelets Beasts, Bugs & Butterflies! 2pm

Sun 17 May Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

Beasts, Bugs & Butterflies! - a mini concert for 3-5 year olds and their families. Meet our musical selection of weird and wonderful creatures and creepy-crawlies.
Notelets Noël Notelets 2pm

Sun 7 Dec Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

Noël Notelets - a mini concert for 3-5 year olds and their families. ’Tis the season to be jolly, with festive music and children’s Christmas songs. Please note this performance is currently sold out. Clicking on the below link will take you to the booking page if any returns are available. Alternatively you can call the Box Office on 0121 780 3333 to enquire.
Notelets Beasts, Bugs & Butterflies! 11am

Sun 17 May Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

Beasts, Bugs & Butterflies! - a mini concert for 3-5 year olds and their families. Meet our musical selection of weird and wonderful creatures and creepy-crawlies.
Andrew Taylor: The Public City

Mon 16 Jun Town Hall

Andrew Taylor, with an invited panel, will discuss the nature of cities as public places, showing how European cities, from Venice to Barcelona, have achieved their greatness through their parks and public spaces. Andrew is a founding partner of Patel Taylor, a practice distinguished by its commitment to particularity of place and a passion to make the urban fabric more human. The practice has gained recognition for projects, including thames barrier park and Old Market Square Nottingham, where architecture, landscape and urban design are integrated into a seamless whole. In 2006, from an international shortlist of 6, Patel Taylor won Birmingham City Council’s competition to design the Eastside Urban Park which will be Birmingham’s first city park for over a century. Tickets £5 The talk will be for 30 minutes then Philip Singleton, Acting Assistant Director city centre development and design will chair a 30 minute panel discussion with questions from the audience. Talking cities is organised between Birmingham City University, School of Architecture and made, the Regional Aarchitecture Centre in the West Midlands. Sponsored by Atkins.
*Talking Cities Urban Design Public Lecture Series*
CBSO Cellos Lunchtime concerts at the CBSO Centre

Thu 10 Apr 2008 Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

Lollipops for Cello Quartet including Pachelbel’s Canon, Albinoni’s Adagio, and Rachmaninov’s Vocalise.
National Festival of Music for Youth - 8th July

Tue 8 Jul Symphony Hall

Admission subject to availability on arrival at the venue.
Please Note: Day tickets are not valid for Singposium at the CBSO Centre & the Rock, Pop and Urban Festival at the Carling Academy 2.
Events are taking place at Symphony Hall, Town Hall & Adrian Boult Hall
Talking Cities: Urban Design Lecture Series Robert West: People Shaping Places, Kings Cross Central

Mon 20 Oct Town Hall

Birmingham’s Big City Plan is set to transform the city centre. As the regeneration goes ahead, should the citizen’s of Birmingham be involved in the shaping of its city’s public spaces? Learning from the experiences of Kings Cross, one of London’s most ambitious regeneration schemes, Bob West, Head of Urban Design and Renewal at Camden Council will reflect on the award-winning community engagement process. Bob will talk for 45 minutes followed by 15 minutes for discussion. Bob is the winner of the Mayor of London Planning Award 2008 for Best Personal Contribution to Planning for his commitment to the regeneration of the Kings Cross Area. The ambitious masterplan will deliver a mixed use development with new office buildings, the restoration and refurbishment of 20 historic buildings and structures, 2,000 homes, 20 new streets, and 10 new major public spaces. Talking Cities is the 2008 Urban Design Public Lecture series organised between Birmingham City University, School of Architecture and MADE, the Regional Architecture Centre in the West Midlands. £5 with concessions for students. Sponsored by Aitkins
Notelets Noël Notelets 11am

Sun 7 Dec Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

Noël Notelets - a mini concert for 3-5 year olds and their families. ’Tis the season to be jolly, with festive music and children’s Christmas songs. Please note this performance is currently sold out. Clicking on the below link will take you to the booking page if any returns are available. Alternatively you can call the Box Office on 0121 780 3333 to enquire.
The Nutcracker Irina Kolesnikova with St Petersburg Ballet Theatre

Sat 12 Jan Symphony Hall

Clara and her Nutcracker doll journey to a fantasy Kingdom,where they meet the Mouse King, the Snow Queen and visit the Land of the Sweets. Containing some of his most memorable music in the Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy and the Arabian Dance,Tchaikovsky’s memorable score evoking a winter enchantment accompanies them on their magical journey. "The jewel in the crown of SPBT is the ravishingly beautiful Irina Kolesnikova, who rivals any star of the Bolshoi or Kirov in technique and stage artistry.” Mike Dixon, The Stage www.irinakolesnikova.com Artsworld Presentations - www.arts-world.co.uk *SPECIAL OFFER* *The first 50 personal callers at the Town Hall or Symhony Hall Ticket Offices after 10am on Saturday 22 December who buy tickets for The Nutcracker will get one free ballerina mouse toy per transaction.*
Irina Kolesnikova
CBSO Players: Der Getreue Musik Meister Lunchtime concerts at the CBSO Centre

Thu 15 Nov Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

CBSO players (on period instruments)
Chamber music by Georg Philipp Telemann (including his Gulliver suite)
Maria João Pires Lunchtime concerts at the CBSO Centre
Cancelled
Fri 18 Apr 2008 Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

Maria João Pires piano and CBSO Players
Programme to be announced
CBSO Players Lunchtime concerts at the CBSO Centre

Wed 26 Sep Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

Dag Wirén: String Quartet No. 4 Sibelius: String Quartet in D minor (Voces Intimae)
Laurence Jackson violin, Ulrich Heinen cello, Robert Markham piano Lunchtime concerts at the CBSO Centre

Thu 22 May 2008 Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

Schubert: Nocturne, D. 897 Beethoven: Piano Trio in B flat (Archduke)
CBSO Players Lunchtime concerts at the CBSO Centre

Thu 8 Nov Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

Hummel: Quintet in E flat, Op. 87 Schubert: Quintet in A (The Trout)
Montpellier String Trio Lunchtime concerts at the CBSO Centre

Wed 10 Oct Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

Haydn: Trio in G Hob.XVI: 40 Kodály: Intermezzo Joubert: String Trio
Peter Donohoe piano and CBSO Players Lunchtime concerts at the CBSO Centre

Thu 21 Feb 2008 Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

Bartók: Contrasts Bridge: Piano Quintet
Town Hall, Birmingham and World War II

Mon 2 Nov Town Hall

During the wars, Town Hall was used as an army recruitment centre, sandbagged against enemy action, and hosted patriotic meetings featuring Churchill and Chamberlain. Professor Carl Chinn presents an illustrated talk, with live music from the period provided by Garry Allcock and his All-Stars Band.
Town Hall, Birmingham and World War II

Mon 2 Nov Town Hall

During the wars, Town Hall was used as an army recruitment centre, sandbagged against enemy action, and hosted patriotic meetings featuring Churchill and Chamberlain. Professor Carl Chinn presents an illustrated talk, with live music from the period provided by Garry Allcock and his All-Stars Band.
National Festival of Music for Youth Open/Music Centre; National Jazz Festival

Saturday 14 July 07 Symphony Hall

Admission subject to availability on arrival at the venue
Marie-Christine Zupancic flute, Richard Jenkinson cello, Benjamin Frith piano Lunchtime concerts at the CBSO Centre

Thu 29 May 2008 Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

Weber: Flute Trio Martinu : Flute Trio Kapustin: Flute Trio (In Jazz Style)
DEVO

Fri 22 Jun Symphony Hall

DEVO the American rock group formed in Akron, Ohio in 1972. They are best known for their 1980 hit "Whip It", which made it to #14 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart. Their style has been variously classified as punk, art rock and post-punk, but they are most often remembered for their late 1970s and early 1980s New Wave music which, along with others (such as Gary Numan, Oingo Boingo, and The B-52's) ushered in the synth pop sound of the 1980s. Devo's music and stage show mingle kitsch science fiction themes, deadpan surrealist humor, and mordantly satirical social commentary via sometimes-discordant pop songs that often feature unusual synthetic instrumentation and time signatures, and their work has proved hugely influential on subsequent popular music, particularly New Wave and alternative rock artists. DEVO were also pioneers of the music video, creating many memorable clips that were popular in the early days of MTV, although their use of the video medium dates right back to their very first appearance on stage at Kent State University in 1973, which was recorded with an early b/w portable video system.
CBSO Players Lunchtime concerts at the CBSO Centre

Tue 1 Apr 2008 Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

Walton: String Quartet Beethoven: String Quartet in C minor, Op. 18, No. 4
CBSO Players Lunchtime concerts at the CBSO Centre

Thu 8 May 2008 Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

Haydn: String Quartet in D minor, Op. 42 Brahms: String Quartet No. 1
A Palm Court Christmas Party! Lunchtime concerts at the CBSO Centre

Fri 21 Dec Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

The Berkley Salon Ensemble & City of Birmingham Symphony Youth Chorus (Seniors)
Semi-Finals of the Robert William and Florence Amy Brant International Pianoforte Competition

Sun 21 Jun Town Hall

An annual event, which is open to pianists of any nationality who are between 20 and 28 years old and resident in Great Britain. The Semi-Finals comprise up to eight competitors (selected at the CBSO Centre on Saturday 20 June) who will play a Beethoven Sonata and a work composed after 1960. See 27 June (page 17) for the Finals.
Orchestra of the Swan: The English Romantic

Wed 15 Apr Town Hall

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

Fri 19 Oct Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

Mozart: Flute Quartet No. 1, K. 285 Debussy: Sonata for flute, viola and harp Ravel: Introduction and Allegro
CBSO Schools' Concert - Enigma Variations

Thu 21 Jan 2010 Symphony Hall

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

Thu 21 Jan 2010 Symphony Hall

Key Stage 2 Please note that this replaces the previously advertised schools' concerts on 15 April 2010
*City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Edward Gardner* _conductor_
*Elgar* _Enigma Variations_
Town Hall 175TH Anniversary A short series of events celebrating Town Hall's heritage

Sat 3 Oct Town Hall

2009 marks the 175th Anniversary of Town Hall, which has been at the centre of British musical life since the day it opened in October 1834. Join us in celebrating the Hall's magnificent heritage.
The Frith Piano Quartet Lunchtime concerts at the CBSO Centre

Wed 30 Jan 2008 Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

Walton: Piano Quartet Schumann: Piano Quartet
The Brindley Quartet Lunchtime concerts at the CBSO Centre

Thu 7 Feb 2008 Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

Shostakovich: String Quartet No. 7 Tchaikovsky: String Quartet No. 1
Alina Pogostkina violin and CBSO Players Lunchtime concerts at the CBSO Centre

Fri 11 Jan 2008 Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

Brahms: String Quintet No. 2
An Evening with Art Garfunkel

Thu 9 Oct Symphony Hall

Art Garfunkel has made an incredible mark on the music world, both as a solo artist and as half of the unrivaled Simon & Garfunkel. He has enjoyed a successful film career, published a book of poetry and has also released several solo albums. Symphony Hall is hugely excited to be welcoming this musical legend to the stage. £35
An Evening of Music & Dance with the Royal Ballet Sinfonia and Birmingham Royal Ballet

Fri 18 Apr Symphony Hall

*The Royal Ballet Sinfonia (The Orchestra of Birmingham Royal Ballet) with Principals from Birmingham Royal Ballet* The Royal Ballet Sinfonia take centre stage for this concert, presenting a one-night-only evening of ballet music. Guests from Birmingham Royal Ballet join the musicians onstage to perform selected previews of the forthcoming summer and autumn seasons, as well as pieces being presented exclusively for this event. Danced extracts include movements from Giselle (Adolphe Adam and Marius Petipa), Card Game (Igor Stravinsky and John Cranko) and Concerto (Dmitri Shostakovich and Kenneth Macmillan). Other music being performed includes Pavane pour une enfant défunte (Maurice Ravel) and Candide: Overture (Leonard Bernstein). With presenter Brian Kay. Adults £9, £13.50, £17.50, £21.50, £25, 28.50 60 plus/students £9, £12.50, £16, £20, £22.50, £26

Candide: Overture Music: Leonard Bernstein Card Game: Third Deal Music: Igor Stravinsky Choreography: John Cranko Concerto: Pas de deux Music: Dmitri Shostakovich Choreography: Kenneth MacMillan Elgen a Maygar! polka Music: Johann Strauss II English Folksong Suite: March Music: Ralph Vaughan-Williams Giselle: Act II pas de deux Music: Adolphe Adam Choreography: Marius Petipa London Suite: Knightsbridge March Music: Eric Coates Pavane pour une enfant défunte Music: Maurice Ravel Raymonda Act III pas de trois and solos Music: Alexander Glazunov Choregraphy: Rudolf Nureyev Spring Waters pas de deux Music: Sergey Rachmaninov Choreography: Asaf Messerer Tchaikovsky pas de deux Music: Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky Choreography: George Balanchine Valse de concert Music: Alexander Glazunov Voices of Spring Music: Johann Strauss II Choreography: Frederick Ashton Lighting: Mark Jonathan Wasps Overture Music: Ralph Vaughan-Williams
Tori Amos plus support One Eskimo

Mon 7 Sep Symphony Hall

Tori Amos is known for her emotionally charged hits including _Crucify, Silent All These Years, Cornflake Girl, Spark,_ and _A Sorta Fairytale_. She visits Symphony Hall to mark the release of her stunning new album _Abnormally Attracted To Sin_. Like all Tori’s albums since _Boys For Pele_, it was recorded in Cornwall, England (where she lives). The centre of the album is Amos’s voice, and her Bösendorfer piano, locking in with her touring and recording band of the past five years: guitarist Mac Aladdin, bassist Jon Evans and her longtime drummer and rhythmic foil, Matt Chamberlain.
Imelda May plus support by Pete Williams

Wed 16 Dec Town Hall

Dublin-born Imelda May has the rare kind of raw talent and timeless glamour that truly illuminates the stage. You don’t just watch Imelda perform, you experience it. The rockabilly/blues singer has recently toured with Jeff Beck, appeared at Glastonbury and received acclaimed for album Love Tattoo.
Only Men Aloud! plus special guests

Mon 4 May Symphony Hall

In 2008 Only Men Aloud! entered what was to be the UK's biggest choir competition to date, with UK choirs battling to become voted the best choir in the UK on BBC 1 hit Saturday night show _Last Choir Standing_. After battling through the rounds, OMA! gave some incredible performances and after an all Welsh Final, were crowned the winners and the nation’s favourite choir. After selling out 2 shows at the Wales Millennium Centre in December, Only Men Aloud! are embarking on a 12 date spring 2009 UK tour. Please note this performance is currently sold out. Clicking on the below link will take you to the booking page if retuns are available. Alternatively you can call the Box Office on 0121 780 3333 to enquire.
Jethro Tull In Concert

Wed 24 Mar 2010 Symphony Hall

After forty one years at the bottom, at the top and various points in between, Tull are still performing typically more than a hundred concerts each year. Ian Anderson and Martin Barre remain at the centre of a group of sometimes changing but highly capable " indeed excellent " musicians. Currently, Doane Perry, veteran Tull drummer of some 24 years experience, together with John O’Hara on piano and accordion, and David Goodier on bass guitar are to be found in the line-up, delighting audiences and continuing the legacy of Tull’s music with its rich variety and depth of expression wherever fans, young and old, want to hear Rock, Folk, Jazz and Classical-inspired music for grown-ups.
An Evening With Larry Lamb
Cancelled
Wed 17 Feb Town Hall

An evening of entertainment and stories from Larry’s life on and off- stage. From selling encyclopedias in Germany to corrosion control technician in America, Larry has a large repertoire of anecdotes to share. After answering an “Actors Wanted” advert, he has gone on to TV stardom, most recently as Archie Mitchell in EastEnders and Michael “Mick” Shipman, in Gavin and Stacey.
Please note: This event has been cancelled.
Barbara Dickson Live in Concert

Wed 27 Feb 2008 Town Hall

2008 will see Barbara Dickson celebrating 40 years as a professional musician. As a multimillion selling recording artist with an equally impressive Olivier award-winning acting career, Barbara has firmly established herself as one of the most versatile performers in the UK. Don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy her tremendous talent live on stage.
David Essex

Mon 19 Oct Symphony Hall

Relive the magic of David Essex live in concert at Symphony Hall. Since the 70s right up to the current day, David has been a national treasure and has captured many thousands of hearts as an accomplished stage and screen star as well as a chart topping singer. This concert brings together all the favourite hits including _Hold Me Close, Gonna Make You A Star_ and his debut hit _Rock On_, together with tracks from his latest album.
Jason Donovan The Greatest Hits and More Tour

Sat 26 May Symphony Hall

Jason Donovan is fresh out of the Jungle and on tour in the UK! After a varied and successful career, acting on both stage and screen and as a solo artist with over 13 million sales, Jason is back doing what he does best. With his new material and classic hits Nothing Can Divide Us and Especially For You, you'll realise all over again why Jason was the biggest selling artist in both the UK and Europe in the nineties.
10.30am Birmingham City University - Law, Humanities, Development and Society 10.30am

Fri 15 Feb Symphony Hall

Due to an unprecedented demand all guest tickets for this ceremony have now sold out. In addition to the internet broadcast of the Awards Ceremonies, the University has arranged for this Award Ceremony to be broadcast live to Hall 8 within the International Convention Centre. This is in the same building as Symphony Hall and friends and family will be able to watch the ceremony as it is broadcast live. Entry to this Hall is free of charge. Please contact Academic Registry on 0121 331 6509 to confirm the number of guests that you wish to attend the broadcast. Alternatively you may wish to email natasha.cochrane@bcu.ac.uk with the name of the graduating student, the ceremony broadcast that you will be attending and the number of guests that you will be bringing.
Will Young plus special guests

Mon 8 Dec Symphony Hall

Will's performance, as well as featuring many favourites from his enviable back-catalogue, will centre around his stunning new album. Released September 29th, _Let It Go_ plays to Will's strengths whilst also pushing him in exciting new directions, melding soul, disco and that extraordinary voice with good old-fashioned pop to create his most arresting record to date. The effervescent new single _Changes_ (released September 14th) provides an excellent introduction to his new material and whets the appetite for what will surely become the soundtrack to winter 2008. *Please note this performance is currently sold out. Clicking on the below link will take you to the booking page if any returns are available.* Alternatively you can call the Box Office on 0121 780 3333 to enquire.
Will Young plus special guests

Sun 7 Dec Symphony Hall

Will's performance, as well as featuring many favourites from his enviable back-catalogue, will centre around his stunning new album. Released September 29th, _Let It Go_ plays to Will's strengths whilst also pushing him in exciting new directions, melding soul, disco and that extraordinary voice with good old-fashioned pop to create his most arresting record to date. The effervescent new single _Changes_ (released September 14th) provides an excellent introduction to his new material and whets the appetite for what will surely become the soundtrack to winter 2008. *Please note this performance is currently sold out. Clicking on the below link will take you to the booking page if any returns are available.* Alternatively you can call the Box Office on 0121 780 3333 to enquire.
Back to the Musicals

Sun 18 Jan 2009 Symphony Hall

300 singers from around the region present a spectacular evening's entertainment from the West End and Broadway, celebrating 10 years of the very best of Sing Live UK. Featuring hits from the timeless _Les Miserables, My Fair Lady, Sweet Charity_ and _Chess_ - to the new sensational stage successes _Wicked, Hairspray, Tarzan_ and _Spamalot_ plus many more.
*Sing Live Central* *Steven Roberts* musical director
2.30pm Birmingham City University - Faculty of Health

Mon 4 Feb Symphony Hall

Due to an unprecedented demand all guest tickets for this ceremony have now sold out. In addition to the internet broadcast of the Awards Ceremonies, the University has arranged for this Award Ceremony to be broadcast live to Hall 8 within the International Convention Centre. This is in the same building as Symphony Hall and friends and family will be able to watch the ceremony as it is broadcast live. Entry to this Hall is free of charge. Please contact Academic Registry on 0121 331 6509 to confirm the number of guests that you wish to attend the broadcast. Alternatively you may wish to email natasha.cochrane@bcu.ac.uk with the name of the graduating student, the ceremony broadcast that you will be attending and the number of guests that you will be bringing. PLEASE NOTE THIS GRADUATION STARTS AT 2.30PM
Jason Donovan Greatest Hits & More Tour

Mon 30 Apr Symphony Hall

Jason Donovan is fresh out of the Jungle and on tour in the UK! After a varied and successful career, acting on both stage and screen and as a solo artist with over 13 million sales, Jason is back doing what he does best.
Jason Donovan
With his new material and classic hits Nothing Can Divide Us and Especially For You, you'll realise all over again why Jason was the biggest selling artist in both the UK and Europe in the nineties.
David Essex plus support

Wed 18 Jun Symphony Hall

Relive the magic of David Essex live in concert at Symphony Hall. Since the 70s right up to the current day, David has been a national treasure and has captured many thousands of hearts as an accomplished stage and screen star as well as a chart topping singer. This concert brings together all the favourite hits including _Hold Me Close_, _Gonna Make You A Star_ and his debut hit _Rock On_, together with tracks from his latest album.
Russell Watson No Support

Sun 15 Jun Symphony Hall

Russell Watson will be making an emotional and welcome return to the stage on a brand new UK tour. Russell will be performing a mixture of his well-loved songs and new material from his latest album _Outside In_, a release which sees him tackling iconic repertoire with a maturing singing voice. With a voice which is now better and more powerful than ever, Russell continues to prove that he can imbue popular songs as well as classical arias with his own unique style and grace.
Rush Hour Blues - Annual Poll Winner's Concert

Fri 26 Mar Symphony Hall Foyer Bars

The annual audience poll celebrates the diverse range of artists who perform at Rush Hour Blues. The winner's concert sees one lucky group take to the stage for a second time. Presented in association with Birmingham Jazz.
Symphony Ballroom!

Sat 16 May Symphony Hall

*Please note that, due to the 'National March for Jobs', the following road closures are planned in Birmingham City Centre on Saturday 16 May:* *Highfield Rd from 09.00 until 13.00* *Hagley Rd and Broad St (up to Sheepcote St) from 10.00 to 15.00* *Broad Street (from Sheepcote St to Paradise Circus) 11.00 to 15.00* Dust off those sequins, put on your dancing shoes... after last year’s sell-out performances, Symphony Ballroom is back! The CBSO’s symphonic big band, together with inspirational arranger/conductor John Wilson, will once again be joined by dancers from BBC1’s Strictly Come Dancing for a show that combines great music, great dancing and is bound to get your toes tapping.
John Wilson - conductor Camilla Dallerup - dancer Ian Waite - dancer
Crowded House plus special guests

Mon 24 May Symphony Hall

The Australian band led by singer Neil Finn, featuring Nick Seymour [bass] Mark Hart [keys/guitar] and Matt Sherrod [drums], return to the stage. Best known for hits such as _Don’t Dream It’s Over_, _Fall At Your Feet_, _Weather with You_ and _4 Seasons In One Day_, Crowded House are set to release a sixth studio album later this year.
BROLLY & FRIENDS 2008

Sun 29 Jun Symphony Hall

Bob Brolly, BBC Radio, T.V. presenter and singer brings his popular charity event to Symphony Hall. Joining Brolly on stage will be a whole host of friends including Sean O'Farrell, who joined Bob at the Ricoh last year, comic genius Jimmy Cricket, country star Shawn Cuddy and all the way from Nashville, Tennessee - Scott Shipley who appeared on Brolly's latest album. As usual, the Birmingham Irish Pipes and Drums will start this great night out.
John Barrowman

Tue 19 Oct Symphony Hall

John Barrowman returns to Symphony Hall to mark the release of his third solo album, the self-titled _John Barrowman_. His previous appearances have sold out, so book now. John Barrowman is easily one of the most familiar faces on British television and the West End stage. He is best known for playing Captain Jack Harkness in _Torchwood_ and _Doctor Who_. He has also been a judge on the award-winning BBC1 entertainment shows _How Do You Solve A Problem Like Maria?_, _Any Dream Will Do_ and _I’d Do Anything_.
Anton & Erin Steppin' Out

Sat 16 Jan 2010 Symphony Hall

Step out with *Anton Du Beke* and *Erin Boag* as they return with their sensational new show, following last year's sold out UK tour. National treasures from the BBC 's _Strictly Come Dancing_, Anton and Erin will charm you with the glamour of ballroom, as they are joined on stage by a dance ensemble, special guest vocalist and a dazzling live orchestra. From Cole Porter to Irving Berlin and Gershwin, this fabulous evening celebrates the very best of music, song and dance in an all-new show.
Crowded House - 2nd Date plus special guests

Tue 25 May Symphony Hall

The Australian band led by singer Neil Finn, featuring Nick Seymour [bass] Mark Hart [keys/guitar] and Matt Sherrod [drums], return to the stage. Best known for hits such as _Don’t Dream It’s Over_, _Fall At Your Feet_, _Weather with You_ and _4 Seasons In One Day_, Crowded House are set to release a sixth studio album later this year.
Liza Minnelli

Wed 4 Jun Symphony Hall

The world famous Liza Minnelli brings her incredible voice and stage presence to Symphony Hall for one night only. Liza will perform a range of her most successful hits along with a selection of her new releases. Made so famous for roles in _Cabaret_ (1972) and her signature song '_New York, New York_' this will be a truly memorable evening with one of the greatest voices in music. Tickets will not be posted until 7-10 days before the event.

Production seats just released, there is now availablity in various areas.
Women In Music Festival - Birmingham
Cancelled
Town Hall

*12.30pm - 7pm* The extended celebration of International Women’s Day, WIMFB offers an array of female performers as they take to the stage this Mothering Sunday to share their artistic talent through entertainment. The marking of this second festival welcomes both local and international artists to the bill, with the special crowning of the new Ambassador for the Women In Music Festival - Birmingham. Admission FREE. (Tickets available on the door.) *This event is now taking place at the Recital Hall at Birmingham Conservatoire from 2-7pm.*
Changing Lifestyles Exhibition - 3 Day Ticket

Mon 2 Feb Town Hall

Take control of your lifestyle changes at this one-stop ecological event. Changing Lifestyles brings together challenges and solutions in food, fashion, fuel, finance, so that in turbulent times you can make environmentally sound choices without sacrificing quality or style. The future is local and looks and tastes good! Special guests include, Seiji Mukai, director of the Nagoya carbon & technology exchanges and advisor to the Japanese government on environmental matters, and Nicola Giuggioli, CEO to Colin Firth’s eco age centre in Chiswick. Special events include the launch of the midlands eco partnership for business on 3 February and the launch of food DVD .A Taste of Six Counties on 4 February. There will also be daily food and energy saving demonstrations and eco fashion displays each evening.
Anton & Erin Steppin' Out

Sat 16 Jan 2010 Symphony Hall

Step out with *Anton Du Beke* and *Erin Boag* as they return with their sensational new show, following last year's sold out UK tour. National treasures from the BBC 's _Strictly Come Dancing_, Anton and Erin will charm you with the glamour of ballroom, as they are joined on stage by a dance ensemble, special guest vocalist and a dazzling live orchestra. From Cole Porter to Irving Berlin and Gershwin, this fabulous evening celebrates the very best of music, song and dance in an all-new show.
A Debate on Climate Change

Tue 14 Oct Town Hall

*The Lunar Society* *Sir Michael Lyons* Chair
Should Birmingham be planning a radical response to climate change? Sir Michael Lyons will chair a Question Time-style discussion between the audience and an invited panel on the impacts of climate change. The panel includes David Henderson, former OECD Chief Economist, Nigel Lawson, former Chancellor of the Exchequer, Professor Jacquie McGlade, Executive Director of the European Environmental Agency, Kevin Anderson of the Tyndall Centre, Michael Meacher MP and Julian Morris of the International Policy Network. £5, 60 plus/full-time students/unwaged £3.50 This debate is hosted by the Lunar Society and sponsored by Martineau Johnson.
Reginald D. Hunter Plus Support Steve Hughes

Mon 3 May Town Hall

Reginald D Hunter’s uniquely non-secular approach to comedy continues. _“He shimmers with stage presence and his comic timing is sharp enough to burst balloons.”_ Independent A well-known face on primetime television shows such as _8 Out Of 10 Cats_, _Never Mind The Buzzcocks_ and _QI_, Reginald is also a frequent guest on _Have I Got News For You_ and has just finished starring alongside Andy Hamilton in BBC4’s _It’s Only A Theory_. _“One of the most brilliantly unpredictable comics in the country”_ Sunday Times
Free Piano Recital
Cancelled
Fri 14 Nov Symphony Hall

Ahead of this evening’s concert at 7.30pm the successful finalist in this year’s Symphony Hall-Birmingham Conservatoire Competition takes the stage to give her prize-winning recital. This annual prize is open to advanced music students of the Conservatoire and invariably produces top-quality performers. Tatiana’s programme will include music by Rachmaninov, Chopin and Brahms. Admission FREE
Richard Hawley plus support The Smoke Fairies

Wed 7 Oct Town Hall

Richard Hawley visits Town Hall with music from his brand new album _Truelove's Gutter_. In the two years since his universally acclaimed Top Ten album _Lady’s Bridge_, Richard has flexed his musical muscles on numerous projects from playing with Arctic Monkeys and Elbow, to co-producing and co-writing Tony Christie’s impeccable 2008 album Made In Sheffield. But nothing in his illustrious career so far has sounded quite as rich, dark and exquisitely melancholy as Truelove’s Gutter. Richard calls it his most honest, adult album yet. *IMPORTANT INFORMATION:* *A traffic management system will be in place at the lower end of Broad Street (towards the city centre, outside the House of Sport) from 6.30pm until approximately 8.30pm to allow for filming of the BBC's _Hustle_. Although full access to the street will be available please allow for possible delays.*
David Guest Is Nuts ***CANCELLED***
Cancelled
Wed 12 Mar Symphony Hall

*Due to circumstances beyond our control this show has been cancelled. Please call the ticket office on 0121 780 3333 for a refund. Apologies for any inconvenience caused.* Television star and producer David Gest stars in his first musical play/concert encompassing the story of his life with comedy and music. He became a national treasure after his appearance on _I’m A Celebrity . . . Get Me Out Of Here_ and his appearance as host of _The Friday Night Project_ showed that he can easily hold his own on stage.
Newton Faulkner Plus Support Charlotte O’Connor

Fri 12 Mar Symphony Hall

Acoustic-guitar virtuoso Newton Faulkner visits Symphony Hall to mark the release of his second album, _Rebuilt by Humans_, the follow-up to _Hand Built by Robots_. He says _“I had brilliant fun making this album, and hopefully it sounds that way.”_ Don’t miss the chance to hear it live. Please note this performance is currently sold out. Clicking on the below link will take you to the booking page if any returns are available. Alternatively you can call the Box Office on 0121 780 3333 to enquire.

Please note that Newton Faulkner is due on stage at approximately 8.30pm
A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens, Performed by Clive Francis

Mon 7 Dec Town Hall

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

Sat 20 Feb Town Hall

A family event introducing percussion instruments and music from around the world, with participation and audience involvement. This fun programme includes rhythm and improvisation games based on music from Africa, the chance to explore the marimba, and the opportunity for children to be part of their own on-stage ensemble, based on an explosive work for nine drums by Scandinavian composer Per Norgaard. Part of Town Hall Drumming Day
An Evening with Steve Earle with special guest Allison Moorer

Tue 29 Jan 2008 Town Hall

The American singer-songwriter comes to Town Hall following the release of his new album _Washington Square Serenade_. The album follows _Jerusalem_ and _The Revolution Starts...Now_, two masterpieces that show that Earle is as much a master at capturing the current political mood as he is writing powerful rock and country music. PLEASE NOTE: DUE TO DEMAND TICKETS ARE NOW AVAILABLE IN THE CHOIR BENCHES WHICH ARE BEHIND THE STAGE. THESE SEATS HAVE A RESTRICTED VIEW AND ARE PRICED AT £17.50 EACH. All seats £22.50
Dorridge Music School In Concert

Sun 19 Oct Symphony Hall

A night of music, song and dance presented by Dorridge Music School. Following the success of last year’s 21st anniversary concert, students and staff will perform music to suit all tastes live on stage using drums, guitars, flutes, violins, pianos, saxes plus the Symphony Hall Organ. With a guest choir and 3 local dance schools, music includes everything from Land of Hope and Glory to Michael Jackson’s Thriller! Varied entertainment for the whole family.
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*
Chris Rea - The Return Of The Fabulous Hofner Bluenotes With support Paul Casey

Sun 23 Mar Symphony Hall

Symphony Hall will certainly be ‘rocking’ as Chris Rea brings back his guitar and vocal prowess to the stage once again with a newly formed quintet. This one off ‘blues rock’ performance is inspired by Rea’s idol, sixties legend BB King. Rea explains ‘That is the music that I have always wanted to play: real, genuine guitar music.’ After selling more than 30 million CD’s worldwide make sure you don’t miss one of his last sell-out tours when the fittingly dubbed ‘smoky-voice’ of eighties rock visits Birmingham this March.
Chris Rea - The Return Of The Fabulous Hofner Bluenotes With support Paul Casey

Sat 22 Mar Symphony Hall

Symphony Hall will certainly be ‘rocking’ as Chris Rea brings back his guitar and vocal prowess to the stage once again with a newly formed quintet. This one off ‘blues rock’ performance is inspired by Rea’s idol, sixties legend BB King. Rea explains ‘That is the music that I have always wanted to play: real, genuine guitar music.’ After selling more than 30 million CD’s worldwide make sure you don’t miss one of his last sell-out tours when the fittingly dubbed ‘smoky-voice’ of eighties rock visits Birmingham this March.
Meet the Associates

Sat 13 Sep Town Hall

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

Wed 17 Oct Symphony Hall

An enchanting evening of musical magic is guaranteed when the Bands of the Royal Air Force take to the stage as part of their prestigious annual tour. See some of the UK’s finest ensemble musicians - and soloists - perform a richly textured programme featuring stirring sounds from yesteryear, building up to a rousing Last Night of the Proms-style finale. TV soap star William Roache MBE, a former Captain in the Royal Welsh Fusiliers, will compere.
*The Royal Air Force Bands and its Squadronnaires* *Wing Commander Stuart Stirling* Conductor *William Roache* (Coronation Street) Compere
Jamie Cullum Plus special guests

Thu 13 May Symphony Hall

Jamie Cullum is set to play a full UK tour for the first time since 2006. Jamie recently wowed New York with a sold out Carnegie Hall show and has been country hopping around the European Festival circuit all summer. These dates included a headline show at Holland’s North Sea Jazz Festival, rocking the Jazz World stage at Glastonbury, and an appearance at the famous Montreux Jazz Festival. Please note this performance is currently sold out. Clicking on the below link will take you to the booking page if any returns are available. Alternatively you can call the Box Office on 0121 780 3333 to enquire.
Frankie Boyle I would happily punch every one of you in the face

Thu 22 Apr Symphony Hall

Following his epic record-breaking tour in 2008, Frankie Boyle, star of BBC2’s _Mock the Week_ and one of the hottest and most controversial comedians of the moment, visits Symphony Hall with the all new live show, _I Would Happily Punch Every One of You in the Face_. In the last four years, Frankie has propelled himself into the premiere league with a host of brilliant performances, both on stage and screen, including every episode of _Mock the Week_ and _8 out of 10 Cats, Live at the Apollo_ and _Would I Lie to You_ to name but a few. Visit Frankie's website "here":http://www.frankieboyle.com/ Not suitable for under 16s
Frankie Boyle (extra date) I would happily punch every one of you in the face

Wed 21 Apr Symphony Hall

Following his epic record-breaking tour in 2008, Frankie Boyle, star of BBC2’s _Mock the Week_ and one of the hottest and most controversial comedians of the moment, visits Symphony Hall with the all new live show, _I Would Happily Punch Every One of You in the Face_. In the last four years, Frankie has propelled himself into the premiere league with a host of brilliant performances, both on stage and screen, including every episode of _Mock the Week_ and _8 out of 10 Cats, Live at the Apollo_ and _Would I Lie to You_ to name but a few. Visit Frankie's website "here":http://www.frankieboyle.com/ Not suitable for under 16s
New Year's Eve Matinee Gala

Mon 31 Dec Town Hall

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

Mon 8 Mar Symphony Hall

Peter Andre makes his debut at Symphony Hall this March. Hot off the back of his top 3 album _Revelations_ the tour will see Peter performing live with his band and the audience will be treated to tracks from his new album including top five single _Behind closed doors_ as well a number of his previous classic hits. Peter’s album has shown how he has developed as an artist and has really shown a more musically mature approach to his lyrics. The tour will give Peter the chance to prove to everyone that he is not only a brilliant studio artist but also a talented live vocalist and musician.

Please note that Peter Andre is due on stage at approximately 8.45pm
Festival of Polish Folklore

Sun 1 Mar Symphony Hall

All over the world where there are Polish people, they keep to their old traditions and encourage a sense of belonging and roots. One of the most colourful and fun ways of doing this is through song and dance. The colour, excitement and spectacle of Polish dance and music can be seen at Symphony Hall: over two days the UK's largest gathering of Polish folk performers, featuring 12 groups and over 300 performers from across the UK, will take to stage to bring Polish culture alive. From the fiery elegance and grandeur of national dance, the Krakowiak, to the acrobatic feats of strength found in the rural dances of the Carpathian Mountains, the 7th Festival of Polish Folklore in Great Britain has it all. £15
Chris Rea plus special guests

Tue 9 Mar Symphony Hall

*Still So Far To Go* Revisit the musical journey of one of the UK’s foremost singers and songwriters as he hits the road once again in support of his greatest hits album. Chris’s greatest hits collection _Still So Far To Go - The Best Of Chris Rea_ (released October 2009), includes his hit tracks _Road To Hell_, _Fool (If You Think It’s Over)_, _On The Beach_, _Let’s Dance_ among many more. Chris’s career spans thirty years and he has sold over 30 million albums; both _The Road To Hell_ (1989) and _Auberge_ (1991) debuted at No 1 in the UK, cementing his position as one of the country’s finest musicians and songwriters.

Please note that Chris Rea is due on stage at approximately 8.45pm
Chris Rea plus special guests

Wed 10 Mar Symphony Hall

*Still So Far To Go* Revisit the musical journey of one of the UK’s foremost singers and songwriters as he hits the road once again in support of his greatest hits album. Chris’s greatest hits collection _Still So Far To Go - The Best Of Chris Rea_ (released October 2009), includes his hit tracks _Road To Hell_, _Fool (If You Think It’s Over)_, _On The Beach_, _Let’s Dance_ among many more. Chris’s career spans thirty years and he has sold over 30 million albums; both _The Road To Hell_ (1989) and _Auberge_ (1991) debuted at No 1 in the UK, cementing his position as one of the country’s finest musicians and songwriters.

Please note that Chris Rea is due on stage at approximately 8.45pm
Changing Lifestyles Exhibition - 1 Day Ticket. Valid for one day between Mon 2nd Feb - Wed 4th Feb

Mon 2 Feb Town Hall

Take control of your lifestyle changes at this one-stop ecological event. Changing Lifestyles brings together challenges and solutions in food, fashion, fuel, finance, so that in turbulent times you can make environmentally sound choices without sacrificing quality or style. The future is local • and looks and tastes good! Special guests include, Seiji Mukai, director of the Nagoya carbon & technology exchanges and advisor to the Japanese government on environmental matters, and Nicola Giuggioli, CEO to Colin Firth’s eco age centre in Chiswick. Special events include the launch of the midlands eco partnership for business on 3 February and the launch of food DVD • A Taste of Six Counties • on 4 February. There will also be daily food and energy saving demonstrations and eco fashion displays each evening.

Please Note: If you would like to purchase tickets for the other 2 days of this event (once you have purchase a 1 day ticket) a top up ticket is available from the venue Box Office on Monday February 2nd 2009. This ticket is only available on production of a valid 1 day ticket.
Talking Cities: Annual Urban Design Lecture Series 2008

Mon 18 Feb Town Hall

Sunand Prasad, President of the RIBA, the Royal Institute of British Architects, will discuss his vision for cities and explore relationships between architecture, cities and the diverse communities who live and work in them. Born in India, Prasad came to England with his family in the early 60s and in 1988 co-founded Penoyre and Prasad LLP, now an internationally renowned architectural practice. As well as an architect he is also and a writer on subjects including, Le Corbusier, North Indian Urbanism, cultural diversity and the value of design. He has written the eight essays in ‘Transformation’- the Architecture of Penoyre & Prasad and is the editor of a forthcoming book on hospital design. The Annual Urban Design public lecture series is organised between Birmingham City University School of Architecture and MADE* the Regional Architecture Centre in the West Midlands, in association with RIBA West Midlands. The talk will be for 45 minutes without an interval, followed by questions from the audience. Sponsored by Atkins.
Changing Lifestyles Exhibition - 1 Day Ticket. Valid for one day between Mon 2nd Feb - Wed 4th Feb copy

Tue 3 Feb Town Hall

Take control of your lifestyle changes at this one-stop ecological event. Changing Lifestyles brings together challenges and solutions in food, fashion, fuel, finance, so that in turbulent times you can make environmentally sound choices without sacrificing quality or style. The future is local • and looks and tastes good! Special guests include, Seiji Mukai, director of the Nagoya carbon & technology exchanges and advisor to the Japanese government on environmental matters, and Nicola Giuggioli, CEO to Colin Firth’s eco age centre in Chiswick. Special events include the launch of the midlands eco partnership for business on 3 February and the launch of food DVD • A Taste of Six Counties • on 4 February. There will also be daily food and energy saving demonstrations and eco fashion displays each evening.

Please Note: If you would like to purchase tickets for the other 2 days of this event (once you have purchase a 1 day ticket) a top up ticket is available from the venue Box Office on Monday February 2nd 2009. This ticket is only available on production of a valid 1 day ticket.
Festival of Polish Folklore

Sat 28 Feb Symphony Hall

All over the world where there are Polish people, they keep to their old traditions and encourage a sense of belonging and roots. One of the most colourful and fun ways of doing this is through song and dance. The colour, excitement and spectacle of Polish dance and music can be seen at Symphony Hall: over two days the UK's largest gathering of Polish folk performers, featuring 12 groups and over 300 performers from across the UK, will take to stage to bring Polish culture alive. From the fiery elegance and grandeur of national dance, the Krakowiak, to the acrobatic feats of strength found in the rural dances of the Carpathian Mountains, the 7th Festival of Polish Folklore in Great Britain has it all.
Changing Lifestyles Exhibition - 1 Day Ticket. Valid for one day between Mon 2nd Feb - Wed 4th Feb copy copy

Wed 4 Feb Town Hall

Take control of your lifestyle changes at this one-stop ecological event. Changing Lifestyles brings together challenges and solutions in food, fashion, fuel, finance, so that in turbulent times you can make environmentally sound choices without sacrificing quality or style. The future is local • and looks and tastes good! Special guests include, Seiji Mukai, director of the Nagoya carbon & technology exchanges and advisor to the Japanese government on environmental matters, and Nicola Giuggioli, CEO to Colin Firth’s eco age centre in Chiswick. Special events include the launch of the midlands eco partnership for business on 3 February and the launch of food DVD • A Taste of Six Counties • on 4 February. There will also be daily food and energy saving demonstrations and eco fashion displays each evening.

Please Note: If you would like to purchase tickets for the other 2 days of this event (once you have purchase a 1 day ticket) a top up ticket is available from the venue Box Office on Monday February 2nd 2009. This ticket is only available on production of a valid 1 day ticket.
The Sound of the Musicals

Fri 28 Dec Symphony Hall

World famous hits from the greatest Broadway and West End Shows.
*Richard Balcombe* Conductor London's West End stage vocalists; *Maria Kesselman* *Sally Ann Triplett* *Martin Crewes* *James Graeme* *London Concert Chorus* *London Concert Orchestra*
*Programme to include hits from;* Evita Chicargo The Sound of Music Barnum Jesus Christ Superstar Guys and Dolls West Side Story Les Miserables A Chorus Line The Phantom of the Opera Annie Get you Gun My Fair Lady Kiss Me Kate Caberet Mack and Mable Chess High Society Oklahoma
Superfreakonomics Live! with Stephen J.Dubner

Sun 20 Jun Town Hall

Author Stephen J. Dubner brings Freakonomics to the stage in a bold, funny and entertaining evening. With super-smart thinking and great storytelling this evening challenges the way we think, explores how people respond to incentives and shows the world for what it really is... superfreaky. _Freakonomics_ was a worldwide sensation, selling in its millions. The _freakquel_ _Superfreakonomics_ has met with similar world-wide attention and praise: '_A humdinger of a book: page-turning, politically incorrect and ever-so-slightly intoxicating, like a large swig of tequila_' The Times '_Great fun_' Sunday Times '_Thrilling_' Financial Times

Please note there is no interval
I'm Sorry I Haven't A Clue Special Guest host Jack Dee

Mon 28 Sep Symphony Hall

Following two sell-out tours in 2007 and 2008, BBC Radio’s multi award-winning antidote to panel games starts an all-new touring stage show for 2009. Join Barry Cryer, Graeme Garden, Tim Brooke-Taylor, Jeremy Hardy and special guest host Jack Dee for an unmissable evening of inspired nonsense. Colin Sell provides piano accompaniment. _“Whether the teams are singing the words of one song to the tune of another, making up serial rhymes or entering the mythic maze of Mornington Crescent, they have now become the National Theatre of fun”_ Gillian Reynolds, Daily Telegraph
CBSO Schools Concert: Tales of the Arabian Nights

Fri 25 Jun 2010 Symphony Hall

Rimsky-Korsakov’s most popular work is the music for today’s Schools Concert, specially devised for Key Stage 2 (Years 3 & 4) students. Based around the ancient tales of the Arabian Nights, the colourful sounds of the full symphony orchestra will transport young imaginations to far-off lands. We conjure up the world of a skilful storyteller - the clever and beautiful Sultana Scheherazade - for adventures at sea with Sinbad the sailor, festivals in Baghdad, and young Princes and Princesses falling in love. Visit the "CBSO website":http://www.cbso.co.uk
*City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra*
CBSO Schools Concert: Tales of the Arabian Nights

Fri 25 Jun 2010 Symphony Hall

Rimsky-Korsakov’s most popular work is the music for today’s Schools Concert, specially devised for Key Stage 2 (Years 3 & 4) students. Based around the ancient tales of the Arabian Nights, the colourful sounds of the full symphony orchestra will transport young imaginations to far-off lands. We conjure up the world of a skilful storyteller - the clever and beautiful Sultana Scheherazade - for adventures at sea with Sinbad the sailor, festivals in Baghdad, and young Princes and Princesses falling in love. Visit the "CBSO website":http://www.cbso.co.uk
*City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra*
The Sound of the Musicals

Sun 28 Dec Symphony Hall

_Following last year’s huge success!_ Another selection of greatest hits from some of the most colourful shows from Broadway and the West End.
With dazzling stars from London’s West End Stage *Deborah Myers* *James Graeme* *Sally Ann Triplett* *Mike Sterling* Richard Balcombe _conductor_ Metro Voices London Concert Orchestra
Jesus Christ Superstar Phantom of the Opera The Sound of Music Annie Get Yer Gun Mack and Mabel West Side Story Guys and Dolls Les Miserables A Chorus Line Kiss Me Kate My Fair Lady High Society Oklahoma Carousel Cabaret Chicago Barnum Joseph Chess Evita
Schools Concert: The Planets

Fri 1 Feb 2008 Symphony Hall

Head for the stars in this concert with some of the best moments from Holst’s The Planets Suite, including Mars: The Bringer of War, Jupiter: The Bringer of Jollity and Mercury: The Winged Messenger. Today’s performances are devised especially to introduce Key Stage 2 students (years 5 and 6) to the spectacular sights and sounds of a symphony orchestra. For information on pre-concert support packages for schools, please contact the CBSO’s Education Department by email (education@cbso.co.uk) or telephone (0121 616 6500). Teachers are also invited to contact the CBSO for details of other opportunities for schools available under our Education and Community programme.
Michael Seal conductor Tommy Pearson presenter
Schools Concert: The Planets

Fri 1 Feb 2008 Symphony Hall

Head for the stars in this concert with some of the best moments from Holst’s The Planets Suite, including Mars: The Bringer of War, Jupiter: The Bringer of Jollity and Mercury: The Winged Messenger. Today’s performances are devised especially to introduce Key Stage 2 students (years 5 and 6) to the spectacular sights and sounds of a symphony orchestra. For information on pre-concert support packages for schools, please contact the CBSO’s Education Department by email (education@cbso.co.uk) or telephone (0121 616 6500). Teachers are also invited to contact the CBSO for details of other opportunities for schools available under our Education and Community programme.
Michael Seal conductor Tommy Pearson presenter
The Sleeping Beauty Irina Kolesnikova with St Petersburg Ballet Theatre

Sun 4 Jan 2009 Symphony Hall

Irina Kolesnikova stars as Princess Aurora as this classic tale is brought to life on Symphony Hall stage. The cast of gifted young dancers hail from St Petersburg, the city where Tchaikovsky first presented this work to the public. The ballet contains the glorious _Rose Adagio_, and _Grand Pas de deux classique_, Tchaikovsky himself called his masterpiece ‘a dancing symphony’. “_Irina Kolesnikova embodies the role of Aurora almost perfectly_” *The Irish Times* Click "here":http://www.thsh.co.uk/page/contact-us/press-office/a-new-year-treat-for-ballet-fans/ for the event press release in our Press Office section.
CBSO Schools' Concert Sleeping Beauty

27 June 2007 Symphony Hall

The CBSO presents a concert specially devised for Key Stage 2 students in years 3 and 4, based around Tchaikovsky's timeless ballet music for _The Sleeping Beauty_. The classic fairy tale features the beautiful Princess Aurora, sentenced to sleep for one hundred years by the evil fairy Carabosse having been pricked by a poisoned needle, but awakened by a kiss from the handsome Prince Florimund. For information on pre-concert support packages for schools, please email education@cbso.co.uk or call 0121 616 6500.
*Joseph Wolfe* Conductor *Tommy Pearson* Presenter
Times: 11:30 AM and 1:30 PM
Schools Concert: Pictures At An Exhibition

Thu 26 Jun 2008 Symphony Hall

Mussorgsky’s epic tour through a Russian picture gallery provides the inspiration for this introduction to the symphony orchestra, specially devised for Key Stage 2 students (years 3 and 4). From old castles and catacombs, through farm carts and bustling markets, to the Great Gate of Kiev, this colourful music should set young imaginations on fire. For information on pre-concert support packages for schools, please contact the CBSO’s Education Department by emai(education@cbso.co.uk) or telephone (0121 616 6500). Teachers are also invited to contact the CBSO for details of other opportunities available to schools under our Education and Community programme.
Xian Zhang conductor Tommy Pearson presenter
Schools Concert: Pictures At An Exhibition

Thu 26 Jun 2008 Symphony Hall

Mussorgsky’s epic tour through a Russian picture gallery provides the inspiration for this introduction to the symphony orchestra, specially devised for Key Stage 2 students (years 3 and 4). From old castles and catacombs, through farm carts and bustling markets, to the Great Gate of Kiev, this colourful music should set young imaginations on fire. For information on pre-concert support packages for schools, please contact the CBSO’s Education Department by emai(education@cbso.co.uk) or telephone (0121 616 6500). Teachers are also invited to contact the CBSO for details of other opportunities available to schools under our Education and Community programme.
Xian Zhang conductor Tommy Pearson presenter
My First Carol Concert With Milkshake Live!

Sat 13 Dec Symphony Hall

This Christmas treat your little ones to a unique yuletide concert hosted by their favorite Milkshake TV characters and presenters. For the first time ever, Milkshake Live brings together classic Christmas songs and festive fun in an enchanting concert for the whole family to enjoy. The popular Milkshake TV characters and presenters are joined by a fantastic 30 piece orchestra LIVE on stage! This is a magical opportunity to introduce your children to their first live Christmas concert hosted by one of the most successful children’s TV experiences ever • Milkshake! Including classic Christmas music such as Nutcracker to sing-a-long fun Frosty The Snowman, Jingle Bells, Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer and many more….
Igorfest: Persephone

Tue 26 Feb Symphony Hall

In his latest contribution to Birmingham’s unique IgorFest project, performances of Stravinsky’s complete works, CBSO Music Director Sakari Oramo is joined by a favourite British pianist for the Capriccio, the most brilliant and extrovert of his three works for piano and orchestra. One of several pieces Stravinsky wrote for the extraordinary actress-cum-dancer Ida Rubinstein, Perséphone, a story of the Greek Underworld, is among the most ravishing of the composer’s works, and features exquisite writing for adult and children’s choruses. 6.15pm pre-concert talk ***Please note the programme has changed***. Part of the orginal programme will be played at the CBSO Centre 1 Mar 08 at 3pm & 7pm. Original programme includes Stravinsky Pulcinella.
*Sakari Oramo* Conductor *Peter Donohoe* Piano *Peter Wedd* Tenor *City of Birmingham Symphony Chorus & Youth Chorus*
*Chopin (orch. Stravinsky)* Nocturne and Grand Valse Brillante 13' *Stravinsky* Capriccio for Piano & Orchestra 17' *Stravinsky* Perséphone 56'
Boogie Pete Live! With Peter Hillier from the BBC show Boogie Beebies

Fri 18 Sep Town Hall

Are you ready to Boogie with Pete from CBeebies Boogie Beebies? The much-loved Peter Hillier will take to the stage this Spring with his new show Boogie Pete Live! Join Pete as he shows you some moves, some magic and some silliness in this fun packed show! Come and join in with all your favourite songs and dances; _GO, GO MANGO, HEY MONKEY, OCEAN MOTION_ and many, many more. _“... it is in short, perfect television. What makes it is the presenter Pete Hillier, engaging and warm and the children love him”_ *The Guardian* _“A children’s television presenter at his best”_ *Daily Express*
CBSO Summer Concert - CBSO Youth Orchestra Academy

Sun 10 Aug Town Hall

When the CBSO Youth Orchestra Academy, the virtuoso chamber orchestra drawn from the CBSO’s acclaimed Youth Orchestra, gave its first concert last September, the critics were unanimous. “Rapture was really the only natural response,” declared The Birmingham Post, going on to describe the Academy as “this jaw-droppingly brilliant group”. Now it steps onto a bigger stage: past meets present, as the stars of tomorrow raise the roof in Birmingham’s most historic music venue.
*Michael Seal* Conductor *Morgan Szymanski* Guitar
*Part* Cantus in Memoriam Benjamin Britten *Ligeti* Concert Romanesc *Rodrigo* Concierto de Aranjuez *Beethoven* Symphony No.7
The International Pianoforte Competition - The Finals 28th Robert William & Florence Amy Brant International Pianoforte Competition

Symphony Hall

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

Tue 21 Oct Town Hall

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

Sat 5 Jun Town Hall

Are you ready to boogie with Pete from _Boogie Beebies_? Catch star of the BAFTA award-winning CBeebies TV show _Boogie Beebies_, the much-loved Pete Hillier in his hit stage show _Boogie Pete Live_! Join Pete as he shows you some moves, some magic and some silliness in this fun-packed show for children of all ages (2 +) - featuring all your favourite songs and dances including _Go, Go Mango_, _Hey Monkey_ and _Ocean Motion_! MEET BOOGIE PETE! Cameras and pens at the ready, Pete will be coming to meet, greet and sign autographs after the show! _“What makes it is the presenter Pete Hillier, engaging and warm and the children love him”_ *The Guardian* "Boogie Pete website":http://www.boogiepete.com
Late-Night Light Night

Fri 12 Sep Town Hall

In a thrilling evening of sound and light, Town Hall throws open the doors for an exclusive event showcasing some of the freshest musical talent from around the West Midlands. The party gets underway inside the iconic landmark with beats from Manga (Shaanti, Funkshaan), live hip hop and jazz with Soweto Kinch plus performances courtesy of Maylight and The Sub Ensemble. Expect a mix of beats, bass, brass and amazing vocals for a funky ArtsFest Friday. Outside Town Hall, spectacular illuminations and visuals will present the iconic building in a whole new light as part of Light Night Birmingham, a project featuring innovative architectural lighting of city centre landmarks. Free entry and a dazzling late-night audiovisual experience offers an opportunity to see the restored venue as never before. Admission FREE Presented in association with "Birmingham Jazz":http://www.birminghamjazz.co.uk/ Soweto Kinch is a Town Hall Associate Artist.
*Soweto Kinch* *Manga* *The Sub Ensemble* *Maylight*
An Evening With Stephen Stills No Support

Wed 15 Oct Symphony Hall

Legendary guitarist/singer-songwriter Stephen Stills is one of the most influential and enduring figures in rock and roll. He’s the only artist ever to be inducted twice in the same night into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame - for The Buffalo Springfield and Crosby, Stills & Nash. His work spans five decades, four iconic groups (Manassas and CSN&Y in addition to the two already mentioned), two era-defining anthems - For What It’s Worth and Love The One You’re With, and a rich canon of solo material. Ranked #28 on Rolling Stone’s list of the 100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time, Stills also has a trio of album masterpieces on their compendium of The 500 Greatest Albums Of All Time: Buffalo Springfield Again, Crosby, Stills & Nash and Déjà Vu.
Please note: Stephen Stills will be accompanied by a band on stage.
CBSO New Year from Vienna

Sat 9 Jan Symphony Hall

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

Wed 13 May Town Hall

The winner of this year's Symphony Hall-Birmingham Conservatoire Competition takes the Town Hall stage to give her prize-winning recital (postponed from last November). This annual prize is open to advanced music students of the Conservatoire and invariably produces top-quality performers. Tatiana is certainly that, and her programme offers a feast of music for lovers of the piano.
*Tatiana Dardykina* piano
*Beethoven* Sonata No 32 in C minor, Op111 *Chopin* Scherzo in C sharp minor,Op 39 *Rachmaninov* Prelude No 6 in E flat, Op 23 *Rachmaninov* Etude-Tableau No 5, Op 39 *Rachmaninov* M oments Musicaux Nos 5 and 6, Op 16
Russian Romantics

Wed 7 Oct Symphony Hall

Three sumptuous Russian works performed by an orchestra which has this music firmly implanted in its DNA. Tchaikovsky’s unforgettable ballet music complements his First Piano Concerto, which opens with one of the world’s best-known melodies, whilst Rachmaninov’s Third Symphony is suffused with glowing autumnal colours and nostalgic passion. Classic FM’s Anne-Marie Minhall, says of tonight’s recommended concert: _“Two giants of Russian Romanticism dominate proceedings tonight, neither afraid to wear their hearts on their sleeves. Tchaikovsky’s First Piano Concerto still packs out concert halls around the world.”_ *IMPORTANT INFORMATION:* *A traffic management system will be in place at the lower end of Broad Street (towards the city centre, outside the House of Sport) from 6.30pm until approximately 8.30pm to allow for filming of the BBC's _Hustle_. Although full access to the street will be available please allow for possible delays.*
*St Petersburg Symphony Orchestra* *Alexander Dmitriev* _conductor_ *Barry Douglas* _piano_
*Tchaikovsky* Excerpts from _Sleeping Beauty_ *Tchaikovsky* Piano Concerto No 1 *Rachmaninov* Symphony No 3
CBSO New Year from Vienna - Matinee

Sat 9 Jan Symphony Hall

*Please note* this concert will take place. Please allow plenty of time for your journey in the wintry weather and take particular care on foot in the city centre. "Up-to-date travel information":http://www.bbc.co.uk/birmingham/travel/ Tap your toes into 2010 with the CBSO’s effervescent New Year celebrations in traditional Viennese style, featuring much-loved waltzes, arias and polkas. A concert to put a smile on your face and tunes in your heart! "www.cbso.co.uk":http://cbso.co.uk
*City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Barry Wordsworth* _conductor_ *Elizabeth Atherton* _soprano_
*Strauss* _Die Fledermaus - Overture & Czardas_ _Tritsch-Tratsch Polka_ _Perpetuum mobile_ _Champagne Polka_ _Emperor Waltz_ _Egyptian March_ _Voices of Spring_ _Cuckoo Polka_ _Pizzicato-Polka_ _Thunder and Lightning Polka_ _The Blue Danube_ *Lehár* _Gold & Silver Waltz_ _The Merry Widow - Vilja Song_ *Suppé* _Overture, Morning, Noon & Night in Vienna_ *Kalman* _Gräfin-Mariza Czardas_
CBSO Season 2008-09

Wed 17 Sep to Fri 3 Jul Town Hall & Symphony Hall

DISCOUNTS FOR CBSO CONCERTS Please note that only one discount can be applied to any ticket. Special offers, discounts and concessions cannot be combined. Concerts which are not promoted by the CBSO may have different discounting policies please check with the Ticket Office at time of booking. *CONCERT PACKAGES* Buy tickets for 3 or more CBSO concerts at Symphony Hall/Town Hall to start saving and receiving package benefits. *GROUP BOOKERS* are entitled to a 20% discount for parties of 11 or more and receive one FREE ticket for the group organiser. Groups also benefit from a reservation facility - please call the Group Booking Department on Freephone 0800 358 7070. There is also the opportunity to meet CBSO musicians at concerts; please call Amy Poyser at the CBSO on 0121 616 6513. *FAMILY TICKETS* (for Symphony Hall & Town Hall) To qualify for a family ticket, one or two adults must be accompanied by one or more children aged 16 and under, up to a maximum group of six people. Family tickets are available in all areas, and will be allocated subject to availability. Adult family ticket: £17; child family ticket: £8.50. *STUDENTS & YOUNG PEOPLE* From 1pm on the day of each evening performance and from 10am for matinée concerts, anyone in fulltime education and young people aged 25 and under can purchase remaining tickets at the discounted price of £4. Proof of eligibility may be required. Please note: the CBSO reserves the right to allocate these tickets in certain areas of the hall. Under our ‘Audiences for Tomorrow’ scheme, the CBSO offers a limited number of tickets at special prices for secondary school groups, subject to availability. Teachers should call Katy Russell on 0121 616 6530 for information. *STANDBY TICKETS* Available from 1pm on the day of each evening performance and from 10am for matinée concerts (Symphony Hall & Town Hall concerts), and from CBSO Centre one hour before CBSO Cntre performances. Please come early to avoid queues. All standby tickets are issued subject to availability and on production of valid and suitable identification. Please note the CBSO reserves the right to allocate standby tickets in certain areas of the hall. Patrons aged 60+ (Symphony Hall & Town Hall only) receive 10% discount. Patrons who are benefit recipients can purchase tickets for £4 at all venues (qualifying benefits: Income Support, Pension Tax Credit, Job Seekers Allowance and Disability Tax Credit). Holders of ‘Passport to Leisure’ cards can purchase Circle tickets for £21, and seats on all other levels for £13.50 at Symphony Hall and Town Hall (one ticket per Passport holder), and receive £1 off a full-price ticket at CBSO Centre. *DISABLED PATRONS* If you have a disability you are entitled to receive 50% discount off full price seats. Should you need the service of a companion, their ticket is also half price. Proof of eligibility may be required. N.B. Disabled patrons can combine their 50% discount with the additional Concert Package discounts. For further information on facilities for patrons with disabilities, including the infra-red system for the hearing impaired, please contact Symphony Hall on 0121 780 4949. Receivers are available from the Performance Manager at the concert. Guide dogs welcome. *WHEELCHAIR POSITIONS* Spaces for patrons who need to remain in their wheelchair during the performance are located on the stalls and upper circle levels of Symphony Hall, stalls & circle levels of Town Hall and are available at CBSO Centre. Please book in advance for Symphony Hall & Town Hall by calling 0121 780 4949 during opening hours. *CAR PARKING* Limited space is available for Blue Badge holders driving their own vehicles. To reserve free parking, please contact the Ticket Office on 0121 780 3333. You will be asked for your Blue Badge number, vehicle registration, concert date and contact details when booking a space. Please put requests for more than three dates in writing to Performances Birmingham Ticket Office, Symphony Hall, Broad Street, Birmingham B1 2EA. For concerts at Town Hall, wheelchair users may be dropped off outside the building by Paradise Circus. Blue badge parking bays in the vicinity of Town Hall can be found on Margaret Street, Edmund Street and Pinfold Street. *This brochure is available free of charge on audio-cassette. Please call 0121 616 6513.* *RETURNS & RESALES* Tickets are accepted at the discretion of the Ticket Office but all CBSO sales take priority. There is a service charge of 10% of the face value and money resulting from a resale will be forwarded by cheque. NB only cash or cheques will be accepted in payment for returns. *LOST TICKETS* Please note there is a £2 charge for printing duplicate tickets.
Schools Concert: Romeo and Juliet

Fri 19 Jun Symphony Hall

*The CBSO schools' concerts will feature a presentation and performance of Tchaikovsky's Fantasy Overture, _Romeo and Juliet_. Music from _West Side Story_ mentioned in earlier publicity will not now be included in the programme. Each concert will last for one hour* Shakespeare’s tragic love-story inspired many composers as well as young imaginations! Today’s concert specially devised for Key Stage 2 children (Years 3 & 4) features two pieces written in Russia and the USA almost a century apart. Tchaikovsky’s fantasy overture retains Shakespeare’s characters, while Bernstein’s musical West Side Story updates Romeo and Juliet to modern times and the streets of New York.
Andris Nelsons - conductor Tommy Pearson - presenter City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra
Schools Concert: Romeo and Juliet

Fri 19 Jun Symphony Hall

*The CBSO schools' concerts will feature a presentation and performance of Tchaikovsky's Fantasy Overture, _Romeo and Juliet_. Music from _West Side Story_ mentioned in earlier publicity will not now be included in the programme. Each concert will last for one hour* Shakespeare’s tragic love-story inspired many composers as well as young imaginations! Today’s concert specially devised for Key Stage 2 children (Years 3 & 4) features two pieces written in Russia and the USA almost a century apart. Tchaikovsky’s fantasy overture retains Shakespeare’s characters, while Bernstein’s musical West Side Story updates Romeo and Juliet to modern times and the streets of New York.
Andris Nelsons - conductor Tommy Pearson - presenter City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra
Andy Hamilton's 90th Birthday Concert

Wed 26 Mar Town Hall

Join us for a very special concert to celebrate the 90th birthday of a remarkable man and a remarkable musician. Jazz legend Andy Hamilton is still playing sax like a dream. He’ll be joined by some of the galaxy of fantastic musicians he’s worked with during his UK career. Keep an eye on this website for more details as the artists are announced. Seats are priced at £10 and £6.50 in the choir area. Please note that the choir area is bench seating, the benches are behind the stage area, and there is limited legroom and no back support. Supported by the Patrick Trust
*Featuring:* *Andy Hamilton and the Blue Notes* *Courtney Pine* *Will Gaines* *Omar Puente* *Nana Tsiboe* *Lekan Babalola* *Black Voices* *Graeme Hamilton* *Mark Hamilton* *The Notebenders*
The Hollies

Sun 15 Mar Symphony Hall

Tony Hicks, Ray Stiles, Peter Howarth, Steve Lauri, Ian Parker and Bobby Elliott. According to a certain Guinness Book of British Hit Singles, throughout the 1960’s and 1970’s, The Hollies had more hit records than The Beatles. From _Just One Look_ and _Bus Stop_ to their power anthems:- _He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother_ and _Air That I Breathe_. On stage, their five decades of music is, as always, driven by Bobby Elliott’s powerful drumming and led by Tony Hicks' incisive guitar playing, vocals and narrative: the inside story on how The Hollies classic recordings were created, occasionally seasoned with the odd morsel of backstage gossip. The live performance is pure Hollies. Trademark harmonies, coupled with sheer musical prowess - each song spectacularly showcased by its own brilliant lightshow. Cast aside any prejudices that you may have about Rock‘n’Pop being the domain of youngsters, The Hollies still hack it in a major way. £18.50, £25
Noah and the Whale - Club Silencio Tour plus support by Jay Jay Pistolet

Fri 13 Mar Town Hall

*Noah and the Whale* head out on the road this March for a very special headline tour, *Club Silencio.* The band, whose Gold-selling debut album, _“Peaceful, The World Lays Me Down”_ was released to deserved acclaim last year, are currently in the studio recording that album’s follow-up. Returning to the stage, the Club Silencio tour will be an evening of film and music curated by the band. The blending of moving-image, projection and live sets will create a complete evening of entertainment from doors to coats replete with programme and compere. The name of the tour is an allusion to the David Lynch film scene but also to the show’s unifying themes of real, surreal and illusion.
Antony and The Johnsons

Fri 22 May Symphony Hall

Antony and the Johnsons have revealed the cover art and track listing for the forthcoming full-length, The Crying Light. Following a natural progression from the Another World EP, the album art features a 1977 portrait of renowned Butoh dancer, Kazuo Ohno, taken by Naoya Ikegami in Tokyo. Ohno is shown reaching towards light, his striking visage and reclined posture simultaneously invoking the cradle, the grave, and transcendence. Antony says, _"The Crying Light is dedicated to the great dancer Kazuo Ohno. In performance I watched him cast a circle of light upon the stage, and step into that circle, and reveal the dreams and reveries of his heart. He seemed to dance in the eye of something mysterious and creative; with every gesture he embodied the child and the feminine divine. He's kind of like my art parent."_
CBSO Brahms and Sibelius

Thu 14 Jan Symphony Hall

*Please note* this concert will take place. Please allow plenty of time for your journey in the wintry weather and take particular care on foot in the city centre. "Up-to-date travel information":http://www.bbc.co.uk/birmingham/travel/ Lots of composers have been given honorary degrees - but only Johannes Brahms responded by writing an overture full of student drinking songs! His _Academic Festival Overture_ is a hilarious one-in-the-eye for those who think of Brahms as stuffy - and so is his gorgeous, deeply romantic Double Concerto. And then, conductor Vassily Sinaisky tackles two real CBSO trademarks. _The Swan of Tuonela_ is a darkly beautiful meditation on mortality; the mighty Fifth Symphony, meanwhile is one of 20th century’s most dynamic and life-affirming masterpieces - with a finale that will stay with you forever. "www.cbso.co.uk":http://cbso.co.uk
*City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Vassily Sinaisky* _conductor_ *Laurence Jackson* _violin_ *Ulrich Heinen* _cello_
*Brahms* _Academic Festival Overture_ 10’ *Brahms* Double Concerto 31’ *Sibelius* _The Swan of Tuonela_ - Legend No. 2 10’ *Sibelius* Symphony No. 5 31’
Clare Teal The Paradisi Carousel Tour
Cancelled
Sun 18 Nov Town Hall

Sadly, this concert has been postponed but we hope to be able to announce a future date at some stage. To receive a full refund please forward your tickets along with a note of your name and address to the following address (no postage required): Ticket Office (Clare Teal) Symphony Hall FREEPOST BM 812 Birmingham B1 1BR If you originally purchased your tickets by credit/charge card we will credit that account. If you have recently cancelled the credit/charge card that you used to purchase your Clare Teal tickets, please advise the Ticket Office of your new card details as we would like to ensure that we credit the correct account. If you paid by cash or cheque we will forward a cheque refund in due course. Please accept our sincere apologies for this postponement and we hope it hasn't caused you too much inconvenience.
An Evening with Jack Jones

Thu 19 Nov Symphony Hall

Jack Jones is the double Grammy-winning easy listening giant nominated by Frank Sinatra as _“one of the major singers of our time.”_ His consistently sold-out world tours and fifty recorded albums are a testimony to the breadth and quality of his remarkable talent, which has been admired by - among others - Sinatra, Mel Torme and legendary composers Sammy Cahn and Michel Legrand. With his own star on the Hollywood Walk Of Fame, Jones' impressive CV includes film and television roles, an internationally syndicated TV variety show, guest performances at Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Centre and the White House. His swinging renditions of contemporary pop and rock, as well as classic standards have packed out UK tour dates time and time again, with Jones charming audiences with his wit, sensitivity and vocal power. With the music industry witnessing a new golden era of stars from the easy listening tradition, Jones’ 2009 tour is set to be a giant success. _“Jack is one of the major singers of our time”_ Frank Sinatra _“The greatest ‘pure’ singer in the world”_ Mel Torme _“Jones is a bona fide legend”_ The Guardian
ZAPPA plays ZAPPA no support

Mon 15 Jun Symphony Hall

Guitarist Dweezil Zappa has cocooned himself away in the studio this past year engineering his own metamorphosis. In order for me to play my father's music correctly I needed to understand the fundamentals of his music more thoroughly, which meant a lot of studying." His goal was to emerge as a "better musician" as well as a "better guitarist" The autodidactic Zappa utilized the fruits of his labour to startling effect on his first album project in more than six years _Go With What You Know_ featuring a unique guitar rendition of the elder Zappa's classic instrumental, _Peaches En Regalia_. The album will be independently released to coincide with the *Zappa Plays Zappa* tour. This is the first official live concert event of Frank Zappa's Music since his untimely passing in 1993. Joining Dweezil on stage will be a hand-picked band of new, young musicians.
Bach to Beethoven

Tue 27 Nov Symphony Hall

British violinist-turned-conductor Andrew Manze is one of the stars of the period-instrument movement, acclaimed internationally for his original and dynamic interpretations of a wide range of music. For his CBSO debut he has chosen to perform, and to introduce from the stage, Beethoven’s delightfully witty Eighth, one of the few later works in which the composer seems entirely untroubled by his difficult life. Another leading British artist, Michael Chance, joins the Orchestra for one of Bach’s greatest solo cantatas, while the concert opens in extrovert style with Bach’s joyous Suite - the original home of the Air on a G String.
*Andrew Manze* Conductor *Michael Chance* Counter-Tenor
*Bach*: Orchestral Suite No. 3 *Bach*: Cantata No. 170 - Vergnügte Ruh’, beliebte Seelenlust *J C Bach*: Ach, Dass Ich Wassers gnug hätte *Beethoven*: Symphony No. 8
Buena Vista Social Club™ presents Guajiro Mirabal, Cachaito Lopez, Manuel Galban, Aguaje Ramos

Fri 23 May Symphony Hall

*Due to demand. The Choir benches behind the stage are now on sale priced at £22.50* An extraordinary line-up of Buena Vista Social Club™ stalwarts, together in a 12 piece band direct from Havana, returns to Symphony Hall to 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, which sold over 7 million copies, up to the present day, and transport you to the heat of Cuba’s clubs and dancehalls. "..taking the atmosphere up to a breathless level" The Independent "..left audiences awe-struck" Financial Times "This was a pulsating display" The Times "A truly memorable evening from some genuinely inspirational musical stars" Cambridge Evening News
International Dance Festival Birmingham 2010 19 April - 15 May

Wednesday 5th May - Saturday 8th May Town Hall

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

Wed 13 Jan Symphony Hall

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

Mon 21 Dec Town Hall

*We have great pleasure in announcing that Camilla Kerslake will be making a surprise guest appearance with Thomas Spencer-Wortley in this concert at Town Hall.* Described by The Sunday Express as _'The solo version of Il Divo'_, classical crossover tenor, Thomas Spencer-Wortley, is bringing his spectacular Christmas concert to Town Hall, Birmingham. Joining him on stage as his special guests will be Classical Brit nominated and platinum selling All Angels, sensational Irish soprano Mairead Carlin and guests from the west end. The all female string quartet Midnight lead the fantastic instrumental ensemble. The evening will include popular classics to songs from the shows and festive favourites. This has something for everyone..... not to be missed! _The hottest Christmas show in town_
Thomas Spencer-Wortley with Special Guests All Angels
Change of Date
Fri 27 Mar Town Hall

Bridging the divide between Classical and West End music, new singing sensation Thomas Spencer-Wortley, described as the _English Josh Groban_ is building a reputation as one of the country’s leading crossover artists. Thomas is well known for presenting a diverse repertoire which undoubtedly offers a unique experience for every audience. His tenor voice is both powerful and sensitive and leaves you truly inspired. Joining him on stage is Platinum and Classical Brit nominated *All Angels*, the female group that shot to fame in 2006 and recent guests on _Songs of Praise_, West End star *Natalie Hope* and from the BBC's show 'How do you solve a problem like Maria' *Abi Finley* They are accompanied by his fantastic ensemble which includes the string quartet _Midnight Strings_ and the City of Birmingham Young Voices. With hits from top shows and well known classical favourites this is sure to delight and is not to be missed
Jeff Beck plus support Imelda May

Thu 25 Jun Symphony Hall

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

Sun 15 Feb Symphony Hall

The first lady of musical theatre, the sensational Elaine Paige, performs at Symphony Hall for one performance only as part of her UK-wide 40th Anniversary Tour. Celebrating four decades of an extraordinary career on the stage, Elaine shares many of her best-loved musical memories and performs an unmissable collection of her favourite songs from the shows she has starred in since her West End debut in 1968. The multi award-winning Elaine Paige has become a household name, bringing to life some of the greatest female roles in musical theatre history and has released 21 platinum selling albums. Supported by a twelve-piece band, Elaine performs songs from Evita, Hair, Sunset Boulevard, Jesus Christ Superstar, Les Miserables, Chess and many more including I Don’t Know How to Love Him, Don’t Cry for Me Argentina, As If We Never Said Goodbye, I Dreamed a Dream, With One Look, I Know Him So Well and, of course, one of Elaine’s most powerful anthems, Memory, from the international smash-hit musical Cats. £27.50, £32.50, £35
Talking Cities: Urban Design Public Series

Wed 26 Nov Town Hall

DAVID WEST of STUDIO EGRET-WEST talking on Strategy to Specificity The future of Birmingham’s Big City Plan will be defined by courage, cultural change and commitment to see ideas through. David West will discuss the challenges faced in translating “big ideas” through the scales - from Strategy to Specificity. David is a partner of Studio Egret West and a planner and urban designer specialising in urban visions and strategic framework plans. Since graduating from Manchester University / TU Delft, Holland, David has worked on a number of diverse projects all over the world. At Atkins, he worked on large scale masterplans in China, Portugal, Abu Dhabi, and Brazil. Then at Alsop, he established and led the ‘Big Architecture’ team, formulating radical urban strategies that challenged conventional thinking about places. Having set up Studio Egret West with Christophe Egret in 2004, David has pursued a passion for delivering place specific strategies and solutions. David sits on the CABE London 2012 Design Review Panel. Talking Cities is the 2008 Urban Design Public Lecture series organised between Birmingham City University, School of Architecture and MADE, the Regional Architecture Centre in the West Midlands. £5 and concessionary rates for students This event is sponsored by Atkins.
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*
The Shaolin Wheel of Life

Sun 26 Oct Symphony Hall

The Ultimate Masters of Kung-Fu return to the UK, following previous sell-out seasons with “Shaolin Wheel Of Life”, a show jam-packed with incredible feats of strength and skill, which will delight the whole family. Twenty Shaolin Monks and five young trainees have travelled all the way from the Shaolin Temple in China, to demonstrate their martial arts expertise. In a crescendo of kung-fu sequences, the Shaolin Monks are lifted aloft on sharpened spears, splinter wooden blocks with their bare hands, break bricks on their heads and fly through the air in a series of incredible back flips and spins. This show is the Shaolin legend made real and is definitely NOT to be tried at home! * The twenty men on stage are not like the rest of us • Sunday Express * It’s a thrilling, uplifting sight. You’ll want to go straight home and shave your head. - Daily telegraph * Hair raising brilliance • Daily Telegraph * Jaw dropping • Evening Standard * The Ultimate Masters Of Kung Fu • Time Out * Near Miraculous feats of strength and endurance • What’s On
Steeleye Span 40th Anniversary Tour

Fri 27 Nov Town Hall

*Part of Town Hall 175th Anniversary Series.* In a world where bands come and go in the blink of an eye, the enduring success of Steeleye Span is one of the great stories in rock music. 2009 will see them celebrate an incredible forty years together, an achievement made all the more remarkable by the fact that the band has seldom been more active in its career. The current line-up of Maddy Prior, Peter Knight, Liam Genockey, Ken Nicol and Peter Zorn will come to the stage for this very exciting year in the history of Steeleye. At a period in their career when most bands are happy to settle down to rehashing past glories, Steeleye Span have pushed on with a succession of acclaimed albums, each seeing them re-define their classic sound. Their fortieth anniversary year will be spent in much the same way as every other; they will play live (two UK tours, plus visits to Australia and USA) and make music, releasing a new album that will typically see them buck their own trend and go back to their roots, the interpretation of traditional song. This though, has always been the Steeleye way. Tied not to the past, the present or the future - simply timeless.
Bach Discovery Day

Sat 30 May Symphony Hall

Preceding Angela Hewitt's performance of the Goldberg Variations, we present a day-long series of talks by guest speakers, with discussions and live music, that will give us a deeper insight into Bach's beautiful mind, as well as the man behind the music. Chaired by BBC Radio 3's Graeme Kay, the Bach Discovery will include sessions on Bach the man, Bach and spirituality, Bach and the magic of numbers, Performing Bach, and a screening of the Bach episode from Simon Russell Beale's BBC 4 series on choral music. Participants include Chris de Souza (radio presenter, record producer and composer), musician and Lutheran liturgical expert Peter Lea-Cox, Kevin Jones (Emeritus Professor of Music, Kingston University), and the acclaimed jazz interpreter of Bach, David Rees-Williams, who plays at Town Hall on the morning of Sunday 31 May. From 1pm to 2.15pm there will be a free 'Come and sing' event on stage in Symphony Hall, based around Bach's motet Lobet den Herrn, conducted by Peter King, Organist of Bath Abbey. This session is open to all, whether or not you are attending the rest of the day.
ArtsFest Weekend - Friday 11 September Free events at Town Hall for ArtsFest

Fri 11 Sep Town Hall & Symphony Hall

Kicking off the ArtsFest we have two fantastic free events: 5.30PM - 7.30PM, Symphony Hall *Rush Hour Blues Extended ArtsFest Special!* Double bill with Tim Amann's X-Tet and Zappajazz. In this special event, Rushour Blues moves from the foyer onto the main stage at Symphony Hall for ArtsFest. 8PM - 9.30PM, Town Hall *BBC Big Band* featuring *Matthew Ford* In this Big Band Special 30th Anniversary Concert for BBC Radio 2, Britain’s finest big band is joined by singing star Matthew Ford for a night of swing classics, conducted by Jiggs Whigham. Click on the day for more information about "Saturday":http://www.thsh.co.uk/view/artsfest-weekend---saturday-12-september and "Sunday":http://www.thsh.co.uk/view/artsfest-weekend---sunday-13-september ArtsFest Lineups
Schools Concert: New World Symphony 11.30am and 1.30pm

Fri 13 Feb Symphony Hall

Set sail for America with the CBSO, to hear the New World as the Czech Antonín Dvorák experienced it in 1893 - full of promise and new sounds. The slow movement of this most popular of symphonies is renowned for featuring on the Hovis advertisement, and today’s performances - devised especially for Key Stage 2 children (years 5 & 6) - make this a perfect introduction to the sights and sounds of symphony orchestra. “I might be able to play as good as you, if I keep practising.” Child at The Planets Schools Concert, February 2008 Special prices apply: £4 per ticket for children and teachers, and home-schooling* children and parents. To book please call Group Bookings on 0800 358 7070. For information on pre-concert support packages and other opportunities available for schools with the CBSO, please contact the CBSO’s Education Department by email (education@cbso.co.uk) or telephone (0121 616 6530). *proof of eligibility, eg registration with your Local Authority, will be required.
Michael Seal - conductor Tommy Pearson - presenter City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra
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'
Camille O'Sullivan The Dark Angel

Wed 3 Jun Town Hall

After stunning performances on “Later. . .with Jools Holland” and five star sell-out shows at the Edinburgh Fringe, Camille O’Sullivan returns to Town Hall. Camille has recently performed sell out seasons in Ireland, New York, Australia (Sydney Opera House) and been a special guest star of the Broadway hit show La Clique. Camille will be joined on the road with her 5 piece band. “. . .it's as though her breath is soaked in paraffin; one spark, and the whole room would ignite.” Daily Telegraph “We gave her five stars last year; after this performance we’d give her six if we could” FIVE STARS Metro “She smears her face white, slashes her lips with red and makes like a discarded doll. Her wine-soaked voice cracks with emotion, or ennui: it's as if she is summoning her last dregs of energy to utter each syllable. Even letting down her hair becomes an event; another icon of scuzzy glamour, to set against her fishnets and fulsome decolletage, and the fairy lights and shimmering frocks that decorate the stage...' FOUR STARS Brian Logan, The Guardian "Click here":http://www.youtube.com/camilleosullivan to see Camille on YouTube
An Evening with Barbara Dickson

Sat 14 Feb 2009 Town Hall

For over four decades, Barbara Dickson has continued to deliver songs to the public in her own incomparable fashion. As a multi-million selling recording artist with an equally impressive Olivier award-winning acting career, Barbara Dickson OBE has firmly established herself as one of the most enduring and popular entertainers in Britain today. Globally known for hits which include _Caravans_, _Another Suitcase in Another Hall_ and her chart-topping duet with Elaine Paige, _I Know Him So Well_, Barbara Dickson is also a two-time Olivier Award-winning actress with roles including Anita Braithwaite in TV's Band of Gold and the original Mrs Johnstone in Willy Russell's long-running musical Blood Brothers. Barbara Dickson now brings her sensational show to Birmingham providing audiences with a musical treat; as she performs her classic hits, as well as other material in her own inimitable style. '_The chance to hear her sing a personal choice of favourite good songs should not be missed_' *The Times* '_Barbara Dickson shows what true class is all about_' *The Stage* £22.50, £24.50
Birmingham’s Brightest

Sat 11 Oct Symphony Hall

Everyone knows that Birmingham has the brightest and most vibrant youth music scene in the UK; hear why in this jam-packed gala concert! Feel the sheer visceral thrill of the famous Birmingham Schools’ Azaad Dhol Ensemble, before the acclaimed CBSO Youth Orchestra Academy makes its Symphony Hall debut in Ligeti’s flamboyant Concert Romanesc. Two show-stopping young choirs raise the roof before the CBSO proper takes the stage alongside one of Britain’s best-loved young soloists • teenager clarinettist Julian Bliss • in Malcolm Arnold’s irresistibly jazzy concerto. Throw in a couple of John Williams’ blockbuster movie soundtracks including music from Star Wars, with the CBSO, and you’ve got a concert that celebrates both the young - and the young at heart! This concert coincides with the National Association of Music Educators Conference at the ICC.
Michael Seal - conductor Tommy Pearson - presenter Julian Bliss - clarinet CBSO Youth Orchestra Academy City of Birmingham Young Voices Birmingham Schools’ Azaad Dhol Ensemble Sing For All Massed Choir
CBSO Schools Concert: The Firebird
Cancelled
Thu 15 Apr Symphony Hall

Stravinsky’s music transports you to a world of glittering colours, enchanted melodies and nightmarish, bloodcurdling thrills. Discover the orchestra from the inside out with one of the best-loved pieces of music in the classical repertoire, which shows off the full symphony orchestra in all its brilliance and splendour. The ballet score is based on a Russian folk tale telling the story of Prince Ivan who enters the garden of the evil Kastchei and rescues 13 princesses with the help of the magical firebird. 11.30am performance: specially devised for Key Stage 2 (Years 5 & 6); 1.30pm performance: for Key Stages 3 & 4. *Special prices apply: £4 per ticket for children and teachers, and home-schooling* children and parents. To book please call Group Bookings on 0800 358 7070.* For information on pre-concert support packages and other opportunities available for schools with the CBSO, please contact the CBSO’s Education Department by email (education@cbso.co.uk) or telephone (0121 616 6546). *proof of eligibility, eg registration with your Local Authority, required
*City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Michael Seal* _conductor_ *Tommy Pearson* _presenter_
CBSO Schools Concert: The Firebird
Cancelled
Thu 15 Apr Symphony Hall

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

Mon 13 Oct Symphony Hall

Cyndi Lauper has announced a rare live tour of the UK. Having burst onto the world stage as the quintessential girl who wants to have fun and after more than 20 sterling years and global record sales in excess of 25 million, Cyndi Lauper has proven that she has the heart and soul to keep her legion of fans compelled by her every creative move with world famous hits such as _Girls Just Want To Have Fun_, _Time After Time_, _True Colours_ and _I Drove All Night_. With her recently released, newly minted collection, _Bring Ya To The Brink_, Cyndi firmly asserts her position as one of the most beguiling, innovative, and downright exciting recording artists of this - and any other - generation, she has been nominated for 13 Grammy Awards, 2 Emmy Awards, 2 American Music Awards, 7 American Video Awards, 18 MTV awards. But it's as a master craftsman of her own recordings that give Cyndi her greatest sense of accomplishment. With _Bring Ya To The Brink_, she has raised the creative bar, hitting what is destined to mark another career watermark of success. "I still have so much to say and share," says Cyndi. "I'm grateful for each and everyday that I get to make music. As long as there's a corner of the world where people want to hear me, I'll be there... singing my heart out."

Please Note: Show starts at 7:30pm *Please note that the NIA car park will be particularly busy tonight as Oasis are playing there, so please allow extra time if travelling by car.*
Malcolm Gladwell The author of Outliers, The Tipping Point and Blink - Live on stage

Thu 25 Jun Town Hall

"The most influential thinker of the ipod generation" _Observer_ Brilliant and entertaining, the best-selling author of _Outliers, Blink_ and _The Tipping Point_ is normally paid huge sums to speak at conferences for corporations like Google. His West End performances were a sell-out sensation in 2008. Now British theatregoers have a unique opportunity to see him in action. Malcolm now brings his extraordinary alchemy of story-telling and intuitive thinking on a UK tour. It's time to forget conventional notions of how society works and get ready for a brand new way of seeing the world! Reviews of Malcolm Gladwell's sell-out London appearances: "Malcolm Gladwell is a global phenomenon, one of the most brilliant and influential writers of his generation." _Observer_ "A brilliant story-teller ... immense fun" _Guardian_ "The writer as rock star? Well, why not?...Malco-mania about to break out!" _Telegraph_ "Enormous charm...I wanted more" _Telegraph_ "London's HOT TICKET...Gladwell makes the world seem fresh and exciting again" _Standard_ "An entrancing story-teller" _Times_ Malcolm will also be signing copies of the paperback edition of his new book _OUTLIERS_.
Glenn Miller Orchestra

Sat 26 Jun Symphony Hall

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

Thu 18 - Sat 20 Mar Symphony Hall

After numerous critically acclaimed national tours since 2000 and FOUR years in London’s West End, the Olivier award nominated Frank, Sammy & Dean *The Rat Pack Live From Las Vegas* comes to Symphony Hall This spectacular production celebrates the incredible singing talent of three world famous entertainers and performers and some of the finest music and song that has ever been recorded. Back when the famous rubbed shoulders with the politicians and partied hard, Frank, Sammy & Dean, all singing, all dancing, all round entertainers, injected not only their songs into the 50s and 60s, but a lifestyle that everyone wanted. With a talented cast and 15-piece orchestra, take a trip back to the glamorous, hot, glitzy nights of Las Vegas. Experience Frank, Sammy & Dean’s world famous classic recordings and more in this sensationally staged production that brings the music and lives of these legendary characters together again. _‘The Lady is a Tramp, ‘Mr Bojangles’, ‘I’ve Got You Under My Skin’, ‘That’s Amore’, ‘For Once In A Lifetime’, ‘Everybody Loves Somebody Sometime’, ‘New York, New York’, ‘My Kinda Town’ , ‘Fly Me to the Moon’, ‘Sway’, ‘Volare’, ‘Me And My Shadow’, ‘My Way’, ‘Memories Are Made Of This’, ‘What Kind of Fool’_ are just some of the songs that will be featured. If you wish you’d swung with the hardest partying pack in town, now’s your chance!

Please note this show includes smoking on stage
Boy George: Up Close and Personal

Mon 19 Apr Town Hall

As the front man of one of the UK’s biggest ever bands Boy George needs little introduction... he has sold millions of albums worldwide and secured top 10 hits in every country. He remains one of the world’s most recognisable pop and fashion icons. Culture Club was the first band since The Beatles to achieve three top 10 hits from their debut album _Kissing to Be Clever_ on the US Billboard charts. His 2008 tour proved he is still top of his game... _'Outstanding voice... his solo set proved who really was the star of Culture Club.'_ The Scottish Sun With a new album George returns to the live stage performing all the hits from Culture Club, his solo career and some great covers. Don’t miss one of the best soul voices and most colourful personalities Britian has ever produced. _‘... a great British soul voice. Church Of The Poisoned Mind was delivered at breakneck speed and overflowed with joie de vivre. Do You Really Want To Hurt Me? was the very epitome of dreaminess and the beloved Karma Chameleon gained a new layer of loveliness in a new, stately incarnation’_ The Evening Standard _'His unmistakable voice was as solid as ever, his raunchy moves revved up the crowd and confidence simply oozed. A great showman.'_ South End Echo _'A thoroughly entertaining concert that embodied all that should continue to be treasured about Boy George.'_ Newcastle Evening Chronicle "Boy George - Amazing Grace : The Official Video":http://youtube.com/watch?v=_jkVfSznw5Q
An Evening with Joan Baez

Thu 1 Oct Symphony Hall

Joan Baez has just marked 50 years since she began her legendary residency at Boston’s famed Club 47. She remains a musical force of nature whose influence is incalculable - marching on the front line of the civil rights movement with Martin Luther King, inspiring Vaclav Havel in his fight for a Czech Republic, singing on the first Amnesty International tour and just this year, standing alongside Nelson Mandela when the world celebrated his 90th birthday in London’s Hyde Park. Joan Baez visited the UK in late June 2008 to headline the Glastonbury Acoustic Stage and followed that up with a completely sold out concert at The Royal Albert Hall garnering some superb reviews Joan Baez’s 24th studio album, _Day After Tomorrow_ is her first studio album since 2003’s _Dark Chords On a Big Guitar_ and follows her acclaimed 2005 live album _Bowery Songs_. Produced by Steve Earle, _Day After Tomorrow_ continues Baez’s role as a musical curator and interpreter of songs and includes material by Tom Waits, Elvis Costello, Patty Griffin and Earle himself. "Simply astounding" _The Times_ "A royal presence" _The Independent_

Please note: There is no support act or interval for this performance.
Brass Gala Concert

Sun 16 Sep Symphony Hall

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

Thu 14 May Symphony Hall

Somewhere in London a musician lives who carries the keys to the musical kingdom. In his Technicolor sonic scope are all kinds of sounds, from rock to country to soul to pop. Nothing is off limits, as long as it has a groove and goodness based in reality. The musician has been performing for 40 years, but is as fresh today as the first time he stepped on stage. There are no tricks or short cuts here. Far from it. His songs are as solid as the earth, yet carry no lingering hype or heaviness. The musician is Nick Lowe, the headmaster of British rock, and his new album, _At My Age_, is such a cause for certain celebration that fans and neophytes alike should mark its release as a date to remember. Special guest, Ron Sexsmith, is a major contemporary writer/artist who has amassed a sizable and consistently enthralling body of work since making his major label debut in 1995 with his self-titled album on Interscope, followed by such eloquent musical gems as _Other Songs_ (1997), _Blue Boy_ (2001), _Retriever_ (2004) and _Time Being_ (2006). Each has its own particular character but is connected to the rest by the overarching intelligence, impeccable taste and understated emotionality of this single-minded voice in the pop-cultural wilderness. As one new fan put it in a comment on iTunes, Sexsmith’s music _“wins you over with a silk punch.”_ Well put.
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
Sharleen Spiteri Start Time: 8pm

Sun 8 Feb Symphony Hall

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

Thu 19 Nov Town Hall

Half toff, half pikey....All comic! Comedy favourite returns with a blisteringly funny new one man show about marriage, class, the youth of today and anything else that strikes him as humorous. It’s hard to say any more than that as this blurb had to be written in April when the new show was barely taking shape. He might end up doing an hour about going to the Opera for all I know. Oh, no he’s done that. www.edbyrne.com _“His wit won deafening cheers and feet stomping”_ The Guardian _“Dazzling”_ The Sunday Times _“Jokes come so fast that hecklers don’t have a chance to get a word in edgeways”_ The Times _“Hottest tip this year is Ed Byrne - fluent, assured and wicked”_ The Sunday Times _“It is rare for a comic to merit the word “masterful” but in this case it is no overstatement”_ The Scotsman _“His set had the audience in stitches for most of the evening - they roared their approval at the end - but he is technically excellent as well, the sure sign of a comic on the cusp of a major career. It does not come much better than this.”_ The Stage _“Utterly Charming”_ The List _“Astoundingly polished material”_ The Sunday Telegraph _“This charming man may well be threatening to give stand up a good name”_ The List _“Byrne looks set to become a comic who will inspire as many swoons as guffaws”_ The List _“A comedian with everything going for him, Ed Byrne has all the attributes to upgrade to the big time - see him”_ The Independent _“He describes himself as a stick insect rather than a sex symbol but the high proportion of women hanging on his every witticism suggests otherwise. He may be thin and weedy but his material certainly is not.”_ Daily Express _“In complete rapport with his capacity audience”_ The Scotsman _“A stunningly original piece of work - a comedy star”_ Irish Times _“The audience went into rapture and insisted on an encore”_ Time Out £17.50
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
World's Greatest Drummer 2008

Sat 15 Nov Town Hall

In the 29th September 2007, Palmerlive held the sell-out concert 'The World's Greatest Drummer' to celebrate the music and the man who most agree was the world's greatest drummer, Buddy Rich. ''A top quality band playing 'full-on' accompanying each drummer, and so many legendary figures on one stage, made my night. The finale was astounding." Kevin Thomas, audience member. This year, six of the UK's leading drummers from a variety of musical backgrounds and fresh from touring all over the world, perform the music made famous by Buddy Rich. They are joined by the superb 'The World's Greatest Drummer Big Band', where only the best UK session musicians have been selected. Featuring UK leading drummers... *Steve White* Paul Weller, The Players *Gary Husband* John McLaughlin, Level 42 *Karl Brazil* James Blunt, Bodyrockers, James Morrison *Darrin Mooney* Primal Scream *Pete Cater* Pete Cater Big Band *Ian Palmer* Georgie Fame, The Liquid Theory Experience a very unique show, the only of its kind to appear in Town Hall to date. It's full of passion with quality drumming at its very best. See drummers perform Buddy Rich's music and then join forces to perform a heart stopping finale. We guarantee you will be on your feet and inspired by The World's Greatest Drummer, suitable for all the family and all musical tastes! Supported by Drummer and Rhythm Magazine and raising awareness for Teenage Cancer Trust
*Unfortunately, Jon Brookes of The Charlatans is unable to perform in The World's Greatest Drummer. This is because he now has commitments with The Charlatans.* *We are pleased to announce that Darrin Mooney of Primal Scream will now be performing .*
Jimmy Webb & The Webb Brothers featuring Romeo Stodart of The Magic Numbers

Sun 8 Nov Town Hall

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

*Please note: This event has moved from Symphony Hall to Town Hall.
Ed Byrne ‘DIFFERENT CLASS’
Change of Date
Thu 19 Mar Town Hall

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

Thu 8 Oct Symphony Hall

*IMPORTANT INFORMATION:* *A traffic management system will be in place at the lower end of Broad Street (towards the city centre, at Centenary Square) from 6.30pm until approximately 9.30pm to allow for filming of the BBC's _Hustle_. Although full access to the street will be available please allow for possible delays.* *_____* 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. 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”.

The concert will be 100 minutes long with no interval
English Originals Weekend Festival Exploring the rich and diverse traditions of English Music

Fri 25 Apr - Sun 27 Apr Town Hall & Symphony Hall

Much has been made recently of the musical traditions of Ireland and Scotland and more recently Welsh music has begun to assert itself. But what of our own English traditions? In the week of St George’s Day, three special concerts at Birmingham Town Hall and Symphony Hall celebrate Englishness, in all it’s diversity, from traditional folk to contemporary singer-songwriters, individuals all connected by a strong sense of place, identity and wit, as well as possessing some fine musical talent. National treasure and renowned singer-songwriter *Billy Bragg* opens the weekend (25 Apr) at Town Hall with an evening of exploration, looking at his own English roots and performing songs from his splendid new album _Mr Love and Justice_. Expect some special guests appearing on stage for a memorable night of inspired musical offerings from the ‘Baird of Barking’. Town Hall welcomes the fresh sound of emerging talent with an evening of Rising Folk (26 Apr), featuring *Seth Lakeman*, hot on the heels of his double 2007 BBC Radio 2 Folk Award success for ‘Best Album’ and ‘Singer of the Year’. A former band mate of Kate Rusby and Cara Dillon and now sharing a record label with KT Tunstall and Joss Stone, Seth is one of the rising stars of English folk. Organic shape shifting folk-electronica collective *Tunng* will also be performing, twisting familiar folk soundscapes with their stunning and unique blend of experimental production, live vocals and music along with more artists to be confirmed soon. Exploring the rich tradition of English female song and singers, the Festival presents the celebrated sounds of *Daughters of Albion* at Town Hall (27 Apr). Promising a night of dark wit interwoven with melancholy and passion, and featuring the talents of *Norma Waterson, June Tabor, Kathryn Williams, Bishi, Lou Rhodes and Lisa Knapp* this is a unique opportunity to let some of the finest female voices in this country take you on an exhilarating journey through English music traditions both past and present.
Transatlantic Sessions

Fri 5 Feb Symphony Hall

Long established among the jewels in the crown of Glasgow’s Celtic Connections' final weekend, and the fastest annual sellouts - even extended over two nights - the Transatlantic Sessions continue to revisit shared roots and forge new common ground between today's finest Celtic and Americana musicians. The show hits the road for the first time, with an adroit balance between old hands at the format - both on stage and in the ongoing BBC TV version - and new faces. In an array of eight outstanding singers, at least half will also be joining in on the tunes - Nickel Creek vocalist/fiddler Sara Watkins; O Brother Where Art Thou? soundtrack star Dan Tyminski (aka the voice of George Clooney), on guitar and mandolin; Bruce Molsky (fiddle) and festival favourite Tim O'Brien returns - with another of Americana’s great interpreters - his sister Mollie O’Brien, for her debut Transatlantic appearance. Further gracing the song department will be three of the most sublime female voices, between them spanning a rich and varied spectrum of traditional and contemporary styles: Scotland's Eddi Reader and Karen Matheson (Capercaillie) alongside Ireland's Cara Dillon. On the instrumental side, expect bravura solos, jaw-dropping ensemble medleys and gorgeous song accompaniment from a mouthwatering house-band line up including such familiar - and formidable - figures as Danny Thompson, Darrell Scott, John Doyle, Russ Barenberg, Phil Cunningham MBE, Donald Shaw, Michael McGoldrick and James Mackintosh, plus joint musical directors Aly Bain MBE and dobro legend Jerry Douglas. Book your tickets now for the show that continues to affirm its founding reputation as "the ultimate back-porch session". _“If you had to choose only one show to see at the festival this would be it”_ ***** The Herald
*Sara Watkins* *Dan Tyminski* *Bruce Molsky* *Tim O'Brien* *Mollie O’Brien* *Eddi Reader* *Karen Matheson* *Cara Dillon* House band: *Danny Thompson* *Darrell Scott* *John Doyle* *Russ Barenberg* *Phil Cunningham MBE* *Donald Shaw* *Michael McGoldrick* *James Mackintosh* *Aly Bain MBE* *Jerry Douglas*
Ray Davies with his band & the Crouch End Festival Chorus

Sat 12 Dec Symphony Hall

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

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Notelets Fairytales 2pm

The Leo Quartet Lunchtime concerts at the CBSO Centre

Julia Beisswanger violin, Jacqueline Tyler cello, Caroline Palmer piano Lunchtime concerts at the CBSO Centre

We're Going On A Bear Hunt Live on Stage!

Notelets Music for the Screen 2pm

Sakari Oramo violin and CBSO Players Lunchtime concerts at the CBSO Centre

Notelets Music for the Screen 11am

Tristan und Isolde Birmingham International Concert Season 2010/11

Courtney Pine presents Transition in Tradition, with support from Omar Puente

Notelets Action Stations! 2pm

We're Going On A Bear Hunt Live on Stage!

We're Going On A Bear Hunt Live on Stage!

We're Going On A Bear Hunt Live on Stage!

We're Going On A Bear Hunt Live on Stage!

We're Going On A Bear Hunt Live on Stage!

We're Going On A Bear Hunt Live on Stage!

We're Going On A Bear Hunt Live on Stage!

We're Going On A Bear Hunt Live on Stage!

We're Going On A Bear Hunt Live on Stage!

We're Going On A Bear Hunt Live on Stage!

We're Going On A Bear Hunt Live on Stage!

We're Going On A Bear Hunt Live on Stage!

We're Going On A Bear Hunt Live on Stage!

We're Going On A Bear Hunt Live on Stage!

We're Going On A Bear Hunt Live on Stage!

We're Going On A Bear Hunt Live on Stage!

We're Going On A Bear Hunt Live on Stage!

We're Going On A Bear Hunt Live on Stage!

We're Going On A Bear Hunt Live on Stage!

We're Going On A Bear Hunt Live on Stage!

We're Going On A Bear Hunt Live on Stage!

We're Going On A Bear Hunt Live on Stage!

We're Going On A Bear Hunt Live on Stage!

We're Going On A Bear Hunt Live on Stage!

We're Going On A Bear Hunt Live on Stage!

We're Going On A Bear Hunt Live on Stage!

The Leo Ensemble Lunchtime concerts at the CBSO Centre

Notelets Beasts, Bugs & Butterflies! 2pm

Notelets Noël Notelets 2pm

Notelets Beasts, Bugs & Butterflies! 11am

CBSO Cellos Lunchtime concerts at the CBSO Centre

Talking Cities: Urban Design Lecture Series Robert West: People Shaping Places, Kings Cross Central

Notelets Noël Notelets 11am

The Nutcracker Irina Kolesnikova with St Petersburg Ballet Theatre