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• LIVE NATION presents OMD plus special guests 

  Mon 6 Oct Symphony Hall

  After appearing on the music scene in the late 1970's OMD are back!The critically acclaimed Electronic Pop Gurus OMD are set to embark on their natonal tour this Autumn. Fresh from embarking on a UK and European tour in 2007 to showcase their classic Architecture & Morality album it proved just how much of an engaging band OMD were live. With a new album to be released shortly OMD continue to delight and entertain audiences globally. So don't miss the chance not to witness one of the greatest bands in history performing in one of the greatest venues in the world!
  
  
  

• 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
  
  
  

• Sing the Musicals 2008 Sing Live West Midlands Present 

  Sun 30 Mar Symphony Hall

  Sing Live presents this exciting concert with 180 singers from the local area performing favourite songs from the smash hit musicals including _Les Miserables_, _Phantom of the Opera_, _West Side Story_ and many more. Sing Live Ticket Office 01609 780315 £15, £17.50, £19.50, £21.50 Under 16’s £9
  
  
  

• Paul Potts Plus Support Elizabeth Marvelly 

  Sun 18 Oct Symphony Hall

  _Britain's Got Talent_ winner Paul Potts brings his fantastic god given gift to Symphony Hall. Paul wowed the nation with his amazing operatic skills, lifetime passion for singing and down to earth nature. He has described his new found success as, "like a fairy tale and I'm terrified I'm going to wake up soon and find I've dreamt it all”. Don’t miss your chance to see him live!
  
  
  

• Jane McDonald - Live!  

  Sun 4 Oct Symphony Hall

  Brian Shaw presents a magical evening of music and laughter, starring Britain’s best loved diva, international recording artiste and television star the incomparable *Jane McDonald*. An amazing event featuring many of the best loved songs from Jane’s fabulous repertoire. A warm and compelling evening’s entertainment which is proving a smash hit throughout the UK. Jane, together with her brilliant musicians and backing singers, brings the audience to their feet night after night.
  
  
  

• Sing Live West Midlands presents Sing Swing  

  Sat 25 Oct Town Hall

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

• Rush Hour Blues: Alcyona Mick Quintet & Blink  

  Fri 12 Jun Symphony Hall Foyer Bars

  Conservatoire graduate Alcyona presents two of her bands on the same bill.
  
  
  

• Lesley Garrett Plus Special Guest Artist Cortes 

  Thu 1 Nov Symphony Hall

  Lesley Garrett, Britain’s most popular soprano presents a gala evening with a programme of opera and classical favourites and songs from her new album _When I Fall in Love_. Lesley will be joined by the Manchester Camerata (conducted by Philip Ellis) and a special guest artist in this romantic evening of music and song.
  
  
  

• Rush Hour Blues - Soweto Kinch presents The Live Box  

  Fri 24 Oct Symphony Hall Foyer Bars

  This Friday, the hugely popular weekly Friday jazz session welcomes award winning saxophonist and lyricist Soweto Kinch with The Live Box - a funk fuelled jazz, hip-hop and freestyle jamming session with guest artists...the perfect antidote to a long week at work. Presented in association with Birmingham Jazz. Level 3 foyer 5.30pm - 7.00pm. Free - you are advised to arrive early!
  
  
  

• 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
  
  
  

• Pankaj Udhas Live in Concert Presented by Sitara Promotions 

  Fri 28 Mar Symphony Hall

  The legendary ghazal maestro, Pankaj Udhas, the man with the golden voice returns to the UK for a live concert celebrating the release of his new album _Yaara_. This will truly be an evening to remember, with performances of many of his classic hits along with new releases. For more information go to "Sitara Promotions"://www.sitarapromotions.co.uk
  
  
  

• Dominic Kirwan In Concert  

  Fri 29 May Town Hall

  Although Dominic enjoys superstar status today with chart-topping albums and phenomenally successful concert tours, his Irish roots and early musical influences can still be seen in his live shows. Join Dominic and his band for an unforgettable evening of music delivered in his own inimitable style!
  
  
  

• Town Hall presents Bellowhead with support In association with Moseley Folk Festival 

  Tue 16 Dec Town Hall

  Bellowhead have taken the festival scene by the scruff of the neck over the past couple of years. Voted best group and best live band in the 2007 BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards, their euphoric live shows are much more than just folk, taking traditional songs to modern places with a wild invention, wit and energy that defies categorisation. _“Wild, joyous, perverse, bold, crazed, full-blooded, intricate, fearless, funny, epic and mostly BIG . . . Bellowhead don't disappoint. Prepare to be amazed.”_ fRoots _“They sweep all before them into a heady mix of great tunes, innovative arrangements, rampant imagination and brazen front . . . Extraordinary.”_ Mojo
  The support acts are as follows: *The Old Dance School* and *Dave Swarbrick*
  
  

• 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.
  
  
  

• 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.
  
  
  

• Evening Organ Concert - Thierry Escaich  

  Tue 7 Apr Symphony Hall

  One of the most outstanding organists of his generation, Thierry Escaich presents a programme that pits some of the greatest composers of German Romantic music against those of the French school, including Brahms, Mendelssohn, Dupré and Franck. As organist of St Étienne-du-Mont, where one of his predecessors was the great Maurice Duruflé, Escaich’s playing is steeped in the French organ tradition, central to which is the art of improvisation; bring your own themes along to experience the excitement of a live re-working of selected material.
  
  *Dupre* Le Monde dans l'attente du Sauveur *Brahms* Herzlich tut mir erfreuen *Brahms* Herzliebster Jesu *Brahms* Prélude et fugue en sol mineur *Mendelssohn* Récitatif et final de la Sonate n°1 en fa mineur *Mendelssohn* Prélude et fugue improvisé en style romantique sur un thème donné *Franck* Pièce héroïque *Escaich* III Poèmes pour orgue 1) Eaux natales 2) le Masque 3) vers l'espérance *Alain* Litanies *Alain* Improvisation libre sur un thème donné
  

• International Dance Festival Birmingham: International Raw Energy  

  Sun 4 May Town Hall

  In this collaboration with sampad South Asian Arts, the International Dance Festival presents an evening showcasing the fantastic talent of youth dance companies from across the West Midlands. Each company will perform new work made by international choreographers especially for the Festival, ending in a huge Bollywood finale! £5.50, £7.50
  
  
  

• Elkie Brooks - Live in Concert  

  Sat 7 Nov Town Hall

  Elkie Brooks is one of the most successful and popular singers the UK has ever produced and is still proving to be one of the most powerful and versatile vocal talents of our generation. With numerous hit singles, million selling albums and awards, her annual tours regularly attract over 30,000 fans. Performing some of her classic hits, blues, jazz and perhaps a song or two from her forthcoming album, an electric evening with Elkie is guaranteed to leave you begging for more. Elkie is a stunning performer and whatever she does, she does it best live. Don't miss the chance to see a truly great artist in action. Book early to avoid disappointment. £21.50 "Elkie Brooks Official Site":http://www.elkiebrooks.com "Elkie Brooks on MySpace":http://www.myspace.com/elkiebrooksofficial
  
  
  

• The Journey Solihull Music Service 

  Symphony Hall

  Solihull Music Service presents a grand concert, involving perfromers from some of the Borough's top ensembles. The second half of the concert will feature a massed choir of around 400 singers, accompanied by a live band, performing a work called _The Journey_ by Chris Hazell. Tickets available from Solihull Muisc Service on 0121 743 2483 from 21 May.
  *Solihull Youth Wind Ensemble* *Jazz Matter* *Song Squad* *Con Brio Strings* *Tacet FF*
  
  

• Elkie Brooks - Live In Concert  

  Fri 13 Jun Town Hall

  Elkie Brooks is one of the most successful and popular singers the UK has ever produced and is still proving to be one of the most powerful and versatile vocal talents of our generation. With numerous hit singles, million selling albums and awards, her annual tours regularly attract over 30,000 fans. Performing some of her classic hits, blues, jazz and perhaps a song or two from her forthcoming album, an electric evening with Elkie is guaranteed to leave you begging for more. Elkie is a stunning performer and whatever she does, she does it best live. Don't miss the chance to see a truly great artist in action.
  
  
  

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

  Sun 4 Nov Town Hall

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

• 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
  
  
  

• CBSO Tuned In: The Firebird  

  Thu 25 Mar 2010 Symphony Hall

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

• 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*
  

• Let's Sing presents The World's Greatest No.1 Hits  

  Sun 29 Jun Town Hall

  The ever-popular Let’s Sing company brings their exciting new production to Town Hall. With choral and solo renditions of some of the world’s greatest No. 1 hits, including Unchained Melody, Sailing, You Raise Me Up, Mull of Kintyre, Fields of Gold, Bridge Over Troubled Water, and many, many more. This is truly an outstanding evening of entertainment for all the family. £18, 60 plus/Under 16’s £15
  
  *Nigel Hopkins* Conductor *Let’s Sing Chorus* *Let’s Sing Youth* *Midlands Festival Band*
  

• resonance events presents The Herbaliser plus special guest Chris Read  

  Sun 25 May Town Hall

  "resonance events":http://www.myspace.com/resonanceevents will be throwing a party with funky edges for the discerning hip hop heads, plus a little dirty, slinky, live jazz groove...LIVE bands, MCs and DJs rock in the glorious surroundings of the 175 year old venue. With a late licence, free drink with every ticket plus giveaways, the huge launch night at Birmingham's tastiest venue features 7-piece DJ/live collective and London beat maniacs The Herbaliser plus special guest DJ "Chris Read":http://www.myspace.com/chrisreadsubstance (Substance), guest MC Mad Flow, funky DJ Maxwell and sweet visuals from Chromatouch... All this on a May Bank Holiday too! With new album _Same As It Never Was_ waiting in the wings, one of the UKs foremost live hip hop acts The Herbaliser land in Birmingham for a rare and memorable night of pure turntablist wizardry. Supported by a five piece band plus new female vocalist Jessica Darling, Ollie Teeba and Jake Wherry will be both tearing it up and chilling it out with a heavy mix of beats and treats. Laced with pure soul, a strictly dancehall ethos and an arsenal of music to get you moving, Ninja Tune's most famous export will be playing fresh fresh material and taking you back to the old... We welcome back to Brum the mixologist, Substance promoter and all round hip hopper Chris Read behind the decks for some party beats with Mad Flow, PLUS DJ Maxwell AND visuals from Chromatouch. Presented in association with "Birmingham Jazz":http://birminghamjazz.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*
  
  

• Stephen Bishop Plus John O'Connell (Groundpig) 

  Thu 18 Sep Town Hall

  The acclaimed American singer / songwriter and composer of _On and On_, _Save It for a Rainy Day_, _Everybody Needs Love_, and _It Might Be You_, the theme from the movie _Tootsie_. Bishop is an American singer and guitarist who has been nominated for two Grammys and an Oscar. As well as writing and singing on numerous film scores, Phil Collins, Eric Clapton, Barbra Streisand, Art Garfunkel, Kenny Loggins, Johnny Mathis, Phoebe Snow, David Crosby and The Four Tops have all recorded songs penned by Bish. Jonny O'Connell was half of the well-known Liverpool band Groundpig and is now making a name for himself as a popular singer/songwriter.
  
  
  

• Julian Cope lecture- Ancient Worship of the Gods Beyond Rome plus screening of Haxan accompanied by live soundtrack 

  Mon 26 May Town Hall

  Capsule present an event at Town Hall as part of Fierce Festival, featuring an evening of the occult with visionary rock musician and hip archaeologist Julian Cope. Cope will present one of his infamous lectures, based on his years of study of the occult, mythology and Britain’s pre-history. Followed by a screening of cult film Haxan (1922 dir: Benjamin Christensen)-an other worldly vision of grave robbing, torture, possessed nuns, baby sacrifices and satanic Sabbath, with a live soundtrack by art house electronix outfit Bronnt Industries Kapital. "Capsule":http://capsule.org.uk
  
  
  

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

  Change of Date

  Wed 21 May Symphony Hall

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

• INXS plus The English Beat  

  Mon 18 Jun Symphony Hall

  With sold-out UK shows under their belts this autumn, INXS are undoubtedly re-stamping their authority as one of the tightest live draws on the planet as they garner the best live reviews the band has ever received in Britain. Their Switched On world tour, which supports their much acclaimed 11th studio album, has already clocked half a million ticket sales across Australasia, Canada, Asia and the USA with new lead singer J.D. Fortune at the helm. *Encore Lounge* Enjoy pre-concert and interval drinks and canap�s in an exclusive lounge area on selected evening concerts for �17.90 per person. Advance booking is essential. For further information and to book, please contact Emily Waller, Symphony Hall Catering Manager on 0121 644 5102 or email catering@symphonyhall.co.uk. (Concert tickets are not included in the price of the dining packages.)
  
  
  

• 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.
  
  
  

• Valentine's Day Social Ballroom Dance  

  Thu 14 Feb Town Hall

  Celebrate the most romantic evening of the year in the delightful settings of Town Hall. Enjoy elegant dancing, our remarkable live band Gary Allcock and his Midland All Stars and a gift rose for every lady. All tickets £16 _(Please note there is also a Valentine's Tea Dance at 2.30pm)_
  
  
  

• Sing the Legends of the 60s and 70s Sing Live West Midlands 

  Sun 7 Jun Town Hall

  Sing the Legends of the 60s and 70s fuses together two great eras of music and you will know every one of the fabulous songs from _Ain't No Mountain High Enough_ to _Bridge Over Troubled Water_, _Tiger Feet_, _Waterloo_, _Space Oddity_ and many more. Come and witness the sounds and 'sights' as the company of singers dress up for the occasion.Treat yourself to an evening of fun and nostalgia - oh and dress up too!
  
  
  

• 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….
  
  
  

• Lesley Garrett Christmas Gala Concert  

  Wed 9 Dec Symphony Hall

  Lesley Garrett, Britain's most popular soprano, presents a gala evening of favourite carols and seasonal songs to celebrate Christams as well as opera and classical arias from her most recent album _Amazing Grace_. Lesley will be accompanied by the English Chamber Orchestra and Manchester Camerata, conducted by Philip Ellis. The programme will include music by composers such as Mozart, Vivaldi, Puccini, John Rutter, Karl Jenkins, Bach, Verdi as well as some seasonal songs and carols for Christmas. Lesley has recently starred in _Carousel_ and _The Sound of Music_, appeared on television in _Strictly Come Dancing_, _Loose Women_ and _Comic Relief Does Fame Academy_ and sung with the National and Welsh Opera.
  
  
  

• Friday Night Classics: Chaplin’s Circus  

  Fri 3 Apr Symphony Hall

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

• An Evening with Ludovico Einaudi The Nightbook Tour 

  Tue 27 Oct Symphony Hall

  Ludovico Einaudi presents his new project _Nightbook_ which is a musical meditation on the transition between light and darkness, the known and the unknown. Expressive and with a more open compositional structure, sonic colours are created through the close blending of the piano with the strings and percussion, and from the use of electronics which amplifies the sound of the piano, projecting it like a shadow in all directions. The project grew out of the ideas and ‘musical sketches’ that Einaudi jotted down in a notebook whilst on tour around the world. Einaudi describes the project as _“A night-time landscape. A garden faintly visible under the dull glow of the night sky. A few stars dotting the darkness above, shadows of the trees all around. Light shining from a window behind me. What I can see is familiar, but it seems alien at the same time. It’s like a dream - anything may happen.”_ The album _Nightbook_ will be released in the Autumn.
  
  
  

• Bratz in Concert Evening 

  Cancelled

  Wed 14 Nov 2007 Symphony Hall

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

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

  Fri 30 Jan Town Hall

  The Wonder Stuff’s Miles Hunt presents ‘Shared’, an evening of acoustic performances by some of the UK’s finest artists. Miles Hunt & Erica Nockalls of The Wonder Stuff, Nick Heyward formerly of Haircut 100, Wayne Hussey of The Mission/Sisters Of Mercy, Roddy Frame of Aztec Camera, Katell Keineg plus more... “Stripping back a great song can easily pull punches on a grander production. Every artist performing at ‘Shared’ has had a great affect on me, not only as a writer/performer myself, but also as a fan and I take it as an honour that they have accepted my invite.” Miles Hunt £19.50
  
  Katell Keineg - 7.30pm - 8.00pm Roddy Frame - 8.15pm - 8.45pm Nick Heyward - 9.00pm - 9.30pm *Interval* Wayne Hussey - 10.00pm - 10.30pm Miles Hunt & Erica Nockalls - 10.30pm - 11pm
  

• Thriller Live in Concert Two-hours of hit songs 

  Mon 7 May Symphony Hall

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

• Las Vegas Power Cut  

  Fri 23 Nov Symphony Hall

  This group is co-led by keyboard player Mark Lockett and bass player Trevor Lines and presents an interesting groove-based funky style. This event will take place in the Level 3 Bar at Symphony Hall. Presented in association with Birmingham Jazz
  
  
  

• An Evening with Kenny G  

  Mon 20 Apr Symphony Hall

  Over the past two decades Kenny G has established himself as the biggest-selling instrumental musician of the modern era, with global sales totaling more than 75 million albums, with 45 million albums sold in the U.S. alone. He has collaborated with the likes of Aretha Franklin, Whitney Houston, Natalie Cole and Frank Sinatra. With each new recording, Kenny begins from a personal place - the sounds that move him. It brings him great joy to introduce new material to a live audience. For the past twenty years he has been a fixture in arenas, amphitheatres and concert halls and has performed for millions of people all over the world.
  
  
  

• Jazz Line Up  

  Sat 6 Oct Symphony Hall

  A live edition of BBC Radio 3’s Jazz Line Up presented by Claire Martin, to celebrate the Re-Opening Weekend festival of Town Hall. Featuring live music from Andy Hamilton and the Blue Notes and the Phil Robson Quartet. Plus the latest jazz news, interviews and recordings. This event will take place in the Level 3 Bar at Symphony Hall.
  
  
  

• 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.
  
  
  

• IDRS 2009 - Across the Pitch International Double Reed Society 

  Wed 22 Jul Town Hall

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

• 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
  
  

• An Evening With Michael Portillo  

  Wed 6 Feb 2008 Town Hall

  Michael Portillo, controversial former MP for Kensington and Chelsea and TV regular and columnist, shares his experiences and his many fascinating stories and takes audience questions. All seats £16
  
  
  

• Jagjit Singh Live in Concert  

  Fri 12 Sep Symphony Hall

  Jagjit Singh's unique compositions and etheral voice have acquired him a legendary stature among millions of fans worldwide. He is the leading exponent of Ghazal singing, a form of a Indian classical music that he is credited to have given a new lease of life to, and he is often referred to as the 'Ghazal King'. His mesmerising live performances have enthralled millions so don't miss out. Please Note: Tickets will not be sent out until closer to the date of the performance.
  
  
  

• Town Hall Dances - Grand Festival Ballroom Dance  

  Returns Only

  Tue 9 Oct Town Hall

  "This concert is currently sold out. There may be some late tickets released nearer the time, for availability please call the ticket office on 0121 780 3333. Unfortunately it is not possible to operate a waiting list for this event". Doors open 7.30pm, dancing 8pm-11pm Be whisked off your feet in Town Hall's outstandingly beautiful and historical setting. Join us for an evening of elegance, entertainment and the very best of social dancing with our fabulous live band Midland All Stars. To rest those weary feet, there’ll be exhibition dancing from Keith and Kay Hateley, Jonathan Jones and Lisa Branigan. *Please note that there is a Christmas Ballroom Dance at 8pm, Tuesday 4th December.*
  
  
  

• Fairport Convention plus support  

  Fri 29 Feb Town Hall

  Enjoy an evening of great music with Fairport Convention, the legendary originators of British folk-rock. The 2008 Fairport lineup features founder member Simon Nicol (guitar, vocals) with Gerry Conway (drums), Chris Leslie (fiddle, mandolin, vocals), Dave Pegg (bass, vocals) and Ric Sanders (violin). The band’s greatest strength has always been live performance and Fairport Convention’s Winter Tour 2008 will present an exciting mix of the old and new. Longstanding favourites such as _Matty Groves_ will share the bill with new songs from the band’s fortieth anniversary album _Sense of Occasion_. All seats £20
  
  
  

• Jason Manford Presented by Phil McIntyre Entertainment  

  Change of Date

  Mon 6 Oct Town Hall

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

• An Evening of Song and Laughter with Foster & Allen  

  Sun 19 Apr Town Hall

  The beautiful melodies of Foster and Allen have made them a phenomenal success all over the world. Since their first hit record in 1978 they have gone on to record 18 gold award-winning albums and tour the world many times. Don’t miss this opportunity to spend a wonderful evening being serenaded by this well-loved Irish duo.
  
  
  

• An Evening With Tony Benn  

  Thu 20 Mar 2008 Town Hall

  The veteran Labour politician, Tony Benn, will be talking about his life in politics and what he thinks about the changes in the Labour party. Expect an evening of frank responses and entertaining political anecdotes. “I get quite excited by this opportunity of bringing politics back to the people.” Tony Benn All seats £16
  
  
  

• The Blue Planet Live  

  Thu 24 Apr Symphony Hall

  Following the amazing success of the 2006 shows, The Blue Planet Live!- based on the award-winning BBC documentary _The Blue Planet_ comes to Symphony Hall on a breathtaking scale. These truly captivating performances allow you to enter the dramatic underwater world of the oceans with a unique 2 hour show of the awe inspiring scenes from the much loved programme. The 2008 The Blue Planet Live! tour is a truly unique opportunity for audiences to see these stunning sequences synchronised impeccably with George Fenton’s emotional and epic score for which he has been awarded BAFTA, Emmy and Ivor Novello awards. The beautiful and atmospheric music will be brought to life by Manchester Camerata and presented by BBC Wildlife presenter Kate Humble “The Blue Planet Live! offers a unique and emotional ride, experiencing the story of life beneath the oceans on a theatrical scale. The show is presented in a way that heightens the drama, the fascination and, ultimately, the awareness and I very much look forward to the opportunity of taking the show to new audiences in the UK”. George Fenton "The Blue Planet Live's website":http://www.theblueplanetlive.com
  *Manchester Camerata* *Kate Humble* Presenter
  
  

• The Blue Planet Live  

  Fri 25 Apr Symphony Hall

  Following the amazing success of the 2006 shows, The Blue Planet Live!- based on the award-winning BBC documentary _The Blue Planet_ comes to Symphony Hall on a breathtaking scale. These truly captivating performances allow you to enter the dramatic underwater world of the oceans with a unique 2 hour show of the awe inspiring scenes from the much loved programme. The 2008 The Blue Planet Live! tour is a truly unique opportunity for audiences to see these stunning sequences synchronised impeccably with George Fenton’s emotional and epic score for which he has been awarded BAFTA, Emmy and Ivor Novello awards. The beautiful and atmospheric music will be brought to life by Manchester Camerata and presented by BBC Wildlife presenter Kate Humble “The Blue Planet Live! offers a unique and emotional ride, experiencing the story of life beneath the oceans on a theatrical scale. The show is presented in a way that heightens the drama, the fascination and, ultimately, the awareness and I very much look forward to the opportunity of taking the show to new audiences in the UK”. George Fenton "The Blue Planet Live's website":http://www.theblueplanetlive.com
  *Manchester Camerata* *Kate Humble* Presenter
  
  

• Town Hall Dances - Festival Tea Dance  

  Returns Only

  Tue 9 Oct Town Hall

  This concert is currently sold out. There may be some late tickets released nearer the time, for availability please call the ticket office on 0121 780 3333. Unfortunately it is not possible to operating a waiting list for this event 2.30pm-5pm Re-live those Tea Dance memories and take your partner for a twirl round the Town Hall floor, with live music from Gary Allcock and his Midland All Stars Band. *Please note that there is a Christmas Tea Dance at 2.30pm, Tuesday 4th December.*
  
  
  

• Raymond Froggatt and Band- Birmingham Rain Tour 2008 No Support 

  Sat 22 Nov Town Hall

  *Birmingham Rain Tour* His concerts are sold out across the country and abroad and the Froggie followers arriving at the shows clutching their frogs and waving their green scarves are certainly a sight to behold! Froggie writes and sings his own songs mesmerizing his audience, as well as making them laugh with one of his many stories. An evening with Raymond Froggatt is pure magic, an evening not to be missed.
  
  
  

• Social Ballroom Dance Doors open at 7:30pm and dancing from 8-11pm 

  Fri 6 Feb Town Hall

  The very best of social dancing in the elegant setting of Town Hall. With ballroom exhibition dancers and live music provided by Garry Allcock and his All-Stars Band. The evening will feature exhibition Ballroom Dancing by current British Amateur Champions Jack Beale and Vyktorija Triscuka.
  Garry Allcock and his All-Stars Band Jack Beale and Vyktorija Triscuka IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT At the present time it is planned that tonights Dance at Town Hall will go ahead. However, in the event of a deterioration in weather conditions please contact the Box Office on 0121 780 3333 before beginning your journey.
  
  

• BBC Radio 3: Mendelssohn Live!  

  Fri 8 May Town Hall

  BBC Radio 3 celebrates the 200th anniversary of Mendelssohn's birth with a live broadcast of its drivetime show _In Tune_ presented by Sean Rafferty. The BBC Philharmonic and Nicholas Kraemer take to the platform joined by international talent. Violinist *Tai Murray* performs Mendelssohn's Violin Concerto in E minor, organist *Thomas Trotter* plays the very same instrument Mendelssohn used when he visited Town Hall in 1837, and the BBC Chorister of the Year, *Alice Halstead*, sings his _O for the Wings of a Dove_.
  *BBC Philharmonic* *Nicholas Kraemer* conductor
  
  

• Kate Rusby  

  Fri 28 Sep Symphony Hall

  Voted Best Live Act at the 2006 BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards, Kate is one of a few folk singers enjoying a wider success. She is opening up folk music to a new audience and a whole new generation, while retaining the loyalty of her huge fan base. Subtly maturing, a decade into her professional career, she blends the traditional songs learned in her childhood with her own intuitive song-writing. _A great singer, not just a great folk singer_ The Guardian _Have seen many bands live over the years- anything from Deep Purple to Mozart - but rarely have I enjoyed one as much._ Daily Telegraph www.katerusby.com
  
  
  

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

  Fri 9 Nov Town Hall

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

• Jimmy Webb & The Webb Brothers  

  Sun 8 Nov Symphony 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.
  
  
  

• Sampad Presents: Asian Spring  

  Sun 6 Apr Town Hall

  Asian Spring is an annual showcase for local and youth dance groups from Sampad, which this year comes together for the eleventh time. This Asian Spring showcase will feature music performances for the first time as well as the usual glimpse of work from youth dance groups who have been working with professional dance artists. Rhythms and routines from traditional Kathak and Bharatnatyam to Bollywood and contemporary will bring together dancers and musicians of all ages. £7
  
  
  

• 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.
  
  
  

• National Youth Wind Orchestra of Great Britain  

  Sat 8 Aug Town Hall

  The National Youth Wind Orchestra of Great Britain presents some of the finest young wind, brass and percussionists in the country, performing music by English composers.
  *Glenn Price* conductor *David Campbell* clarinet
  *Kenneth Hesketh* _Masque_ *Holst* _Hammersmith_ *Malcolm Arnold* _Solitaire_ *Edward Gregson* _Sword and the Crown_ *Woolfenden* _Gallimaufrey_ *Turnbull* _African Dances_ *Philip Sparke* _Year of the Dragon_
  

• 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
  
  
  

• Vox Populi Vox Populi presents  

  Friday 8th June Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

  Vox Populi are celebrating 10 years of community music making by working with exiled musicians to develop an anniversary concert. With financial support from "Awards for All", a new programme of traditional English, western popular, world music and newly commissioned songs will explore the themes of earth, air, water and fire.
  
  
  

• The Royal Opera: Britten's War Requiem  

  Sat 21 Mar Symphony Hall

  The War requiem is one of Britten’s most powerful works, born out of his fiercely held pacifism. Composed at the height of the Cold War, it spoke directly to a nation living under the threat of nuclear war. The work mixes powerful settings of the poems of Wilfred Owen, describing the horrors of war, with the words of the Requiem mass, and ultimately offers the hope of reconciliation. No tenor is more associated with Britten’s music at the moment than Ian Bostridge, heard here alongside the warm baritone of Simon Keenlyside and leading young soprano Emma Bell. *BBC music magazine’s editor, Oliver Condy, explains why he has recommended tonight’s concert:* _"This unsettling work is a powerful anti-war oratorio, written for the re-consecration of nearby Coventry Cathedral in 1962. Bringing this searing piece to life are three of the most gifted British singers alive today accompanied by Covent Garden’s orchestra - an ensemble currently at the height of its powers. This will be a highly emotional, haunting concert - full of drama and pathos.”_ "BBC Music Magazine":http://www.bbcmusicmagazine.com *5.45pm pre-concert talk*
  *The Royal Opera Chorus* *The Orchestra of the Royal Opera House* *Antonio Pappano* conductor *Emma Bell* soprano *Ian Bostridge* tenor *Simon Keenlyside* baritone *Tiffin Boys’ Choir*
  *Britten* War Requiem 90’
  

• Friday Night Classics - Bond: Music To Spy For  

  Fri 12 Oct Symphony Hall

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

• Guillemots with CBSO  

  Thu 11 Oct Town Hall

  Nominated for the 2006 Mercury Music Prize for their debut album _Through The Windowpane_, and the 2007 Brits Best British Live Act, Guillemots are pioneering the future, inspired by the vision and voice of their lead singer, Birmingham-born Fyfe Dangerfield. This unique event features the Guillemots working live with CBSO. It includes the world premiere of a specially commissioned piece by Fyfe, alongside songs for the band with orchestra and music chosen by Fyfe as influential upon him. Commission supported by the John Feeney Charitable Trust.
  *Guillemots* *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Nick Ingman* Conductor
  
  

• 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*
  
  
  

• Silver Screen Classics  

  Sat 29 Dec Symphony Hall

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

• CBSO Friday Night Classics: Silent Heroes  

  Fri 23 Apr 2010 Symphony Hall

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

• Camille O'Sullivan: La Fille Du Cirque  

  Fri 5 Sep Town Hall

  Following sell out seasons in New York, UK and Australia, Camille sings the music of Nick Cave, Jacques Brel, Tom Waits, David Bowie and more. Her recent shows were awarded Spirit of the Edinburgh Fringe Festival 2007, Best Music at the Brighton Festival 2006 and garnered a host of 5 star reviews. Camille has recently appeared in Stephen Frears Oscar winning film Mrs Henderson Presents opposite Judi Dench, Bob Hoskins and Will Young, and has sung with Duke Special, Damien Rice and Shane McGowan. £17.50
  La Fille Du Cirque
  
  

• Fairport Convention Winter Tour 2009 plus special guest 

  Sat 7 Mar Town Hall

  Enjoy an evening of great music with Fairport Convention, the legendary originators of British folk-rock, featuring Simon Nicol (guitar, vocal), Dave Pegg (bass, backing vocal), Chris Leslie (fiddle, mandolin, vocal), Ric Sanders (violin), and Gerry Conway (drums). Fairport Convention has attracted huge critical acclaim and has delighted audiences for over four decades, not least on its annual Winter Tours and at its world-famous music festival at Cropredy. Fairport Convention has won the coveted BBC Radio 2 Lifetime Achievement Award and Radio 2 listeners voted the groundbreaking album Liege & Lief 'The Most Influential Folk Album of All Time'. The album has since gone on to win a Gold Disk for Fairport. In 2009, Fairport Convention's greatest strength is still live performance and this concert will present an exciting mix of the old and new. Longstanding Fairport favourites such as Matty Groves will share the bill with new songs from the band's most recent albums. £21
  
  
  

• The Fron Male Voice Choir  

  Fri 16 May Symphony Hall

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

• 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*
  
  

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

  Sun 9 Dec Symphony Hall

  
  
  
  

• Raymond Froggatt in Concert The Lights of Amsterdam Tour 2007 

  Thu 22 Nov Town Hall

  After his stunning guest appearance during the Town Hall Re-Opening Festival, Raymond Froggatt returns for his own concert. Join Froggie and his band at their hometown gig on his current ‘Lights Of Amsterdam’ world tour. As well as writing numerous hit records for artistes the world over Froggie writes and sings his own songs mesmerising his audience, making them laugh with one of his many stories or cry with emotion with a song that touches the heart like no other. Raymond’s hits include : _Red Balloon_, _Roly_, _Big Ship_, _Only The Memories_, _and Under The Sun_. An evening with Raymond Froggatt is pure magic, an evening not to be missed.
  
  
  

• Georgie Fame with the Alan Skidmore Quartet - The 50th Anniversary Celebration 

  Fri 2 May 2008 Town Hall

  Celebrating 50 years of playing together, Georgie Fame and the Alan Skidmore Quartet perform together in this exclusive, one-off concert for 2008. The ex-member of The Blue Flames, who had number one hits with _The Ballad of Bonnie and Clyde_, _Getaway_ and _Yeh Yeh_ will perform live alongside Europe's finest tenor saxophonist Alan Skidmore and his Quartet. The combined effect of Fame’s powerful voice and the impact of the rich sounding saxophones will provide a truly memorable evening at Town Hall, Birmingham. Alan Skidmore is the saxophone genius known for his work with Elvin Jones, Chick Corea and Herbie Hancock. He plays with immense physical and imaginative stamina and is joined by some of the finest musicians in music today. Leading drummer Ian Palmer, the sensational jazz pianist Steve Melling and Jamie Cullum's internationally acclaimed bassist Geoff Gascoyne make up this stunning contemporary Quartet. "www.palmerlive.co.uk":http://palmerlive.co.uk
  
  
  

• CBSO Tuned In: Shostakovich Symphony No 4  

  Thu 29 Apr 2010 Symphony Hall

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

• sampad presents Asian Spring  

  Sun 5 Apr Town Hall

  The twelfth annual dance showcase, held in the sumptuous surroundings of Town Hall. This year's programme will feature performances from local and youth dance groups including *Bengali Association Group*, *Bollywood Dreams Dance Academy*, *Chitraleka Dance Company*, *Diverse Dance Company*, *Mini Arts Group*, *Nachda Sansaar Jrs*, *S & J Stars*, *Sonia Sabri Company*, *Hina & Co* and *Subhash Viman*. Rhythms and routines from traditional Kathak and Bharatanatyam to Bollywood and Contemporary will bring together dancers of all ages in an eclectic dance extravaganza! This event sells well every year so make sure you book in advance!
  
  
  

• 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
  

• Midlands' Hospitals' Choir Christmas Concert in aid of CLIC Sargent 

  Wed 12 Dec Symphony Hall

  Midlands Hospital Choir presents their annual Christmas Carol concert in aid of CLICSargent presenting a massed choir from hospitals within the Midlands with conductor Julian Wilkins. Featuring the jazz acoustic quartet Rhapsody in Red and Gemini Brass. The choir is in to its 26th year producing these great festive concerts. £10, £12.50, £15, £17.50, £20 60 plus/groups of 10 or more/families (2-6 people) 10% discount. www.midlandshospitalschoir.org.uk
  *Midlands Hospitals’ Choir* *Julian Wilkins* Conductor
  
  

• Windrush - 60th Anniversary Commemoration  

  Sun 22 Jun Town Hall

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

• Oleta Adams  

  Thu 4 Dec Symphony Hall

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

• 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_
  
  
  

• Valentine's Day Tea Dance  

  Thu 14 Feb 2008 Town Hall

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

• Rush Hour Blues: Walsall Jazz Orchestra  

  Fri 5 Jun Symphony Hall Foyer Bars

  A return for the winners of the Audience Poll for 2008.
  
  
  

• Festival of Young Musicians with Aled Jones  

  Sat 22 Nov Symphony Hall

  Marking 120 years of Child Protection, the NSPCC Birmingham Branch proudly presents a festival of young musicians. Broadcaster and singer Aled Jones will be presenting an exciting and varied programme of some of the city’s most gifted and talented young musicians • including The Birmingham Schools Symphony Orchestra, Jazz Ensemble, the highly acclaimed Azaad Dhol Group, Training Wind Orchestra, Steel Band and Gospel Choir. Plus solo performance by Aled Jones. Produced and directed by Jeremy Blunt of Birmingham Schools Service. Organised by the NSPCC’s Birmingham Branch of Volunteers all the profits raised from this event will support the NSPCC’s vital work with local children • the goal is to raise £25,000. £15, Discounts available
  
  
  

• Rush Hour Blues: Huw Rees Octet  

  Fri 17 Jul Symphony Hall Foyer Bars

  Pianist Huw Rees launches a new group with top students and graduates from Birmingham Conservatoire.
  
  
  

• Rush Hour Blues: Del Camino at Oozells Square, BrindleyPlace 

  Fri 7 Aug Symphony Hall Foyer Bars

  Top latin rhythms to launch the summer series at BrindleyPlace.
  
  
  

• Birmingham Festival Choral Society ELIJAH 

  Sun 13 Apr 2008 Town Hall

  BFCS presents Elijah with the English Haydn Orchestra on period instruments, capturing a time when the newly formed BFCS participated in Elijah's premiere - here in Town Hall in 1846 - and performed it again in 1847 with Mendelssohn himself conducting. As Birmingham’s longest established chorus, this will be our 392nd performance in Town Hall, but the first since its refurbishment. BFCS continues to make history and this is one such occasion not to be missed. "BFCS Website":http://bfcs.org.uk
  
  Birmingham Festival Choral Society *Patrick Larley* conductor / MD for BFCS *English Haydn Orchestra* leader John Reid *Elizabeth Cragg* soprano *Harriet Goodwin* mezzo-soprano *Jon English* tenor *Mark Rowlinson* baritone *Kevin Gill* organist
  

• Rush Hour Blues: Paul Vernon Chester  

  Fri 26 Jun Symphony Hall Foyer Bars

  This is a guitar duo presenting the music of Django Reinhardt. Paul is a master of this style.
  
  
  

• Thomas Spencer-Wortley: Believe at Christmas  

  Change of Date

  Mon 22 Dec Town Hall

  This event has moved to 27 March, for more details "click here":http://www.thsh.co.uk/view/thomas-spencer-wortley---believe--live
  
  
  

• International Dance Festival Birmingham: Social Ballroom Dance  

  Mon 5 May Town Hall

  The very best of social dancing in the elegant setting of Town Hall. Live music from Gary Allcock and Midland All Stars Band. £15
  
  
  

• Rush Hour Blues: Mick Hutton Quartet  

  Fri 19 Jun Symphony Hall Foyer Bars

  A top band led by bass player Mick Hutton, featuring Andy Panyai on saxophone.
  
  
  

• Rush Hour Blues: Manveer Singh and Marva  

  Fri 3 Jul Symphony Hall Foyer Bars

  in association with sampad, Tabla player Manveer Singh leads his Indojazz group.
  
  
  

• Friday Night Classics: You Call The Tunes  

  Fri 7 Mar Symphony Hall

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

• An Audience with Jon Gaunt Live and Undaunted 

  Tue 5 Feb Town Hall

  Jon Gaunt, the presenter of Talk Sport’s daily current affairs phone-in show, columnist in the Sun newspaper and social commentator, discusses his life and work in the media including entertaining tales of his rise to success. All seats £16
  
  
  

• Goldfrapp plus Special Guests  

  Sun 22 Jun Symphony Hall

  Following the release of their new album _Seventh Tree_, genre-busting pop pioneers Goldfrapp perform at Symphony Hall. During their Supernature tour the band sealed their reputation as one of the most exciting live acts around with two sell out UK tours and festival performances across Europe.
  
  
  

• resonance presents The Heritage Orchestra  

  Fri 3 Oct Town Hall

  The May launch of resonance events was a fresh and funky affair, as London beat maniacs The Herbaliser kicked off a regular night of groundbreaking hip hop, jazz, broken beat and leftfield electronica at Town Hall Birmingham. This time around, expect the spectacular with a packed programme featuring jaw dropping 45 piece ensemble The Heritage Orchestra playing the music of Amon Tobin, album launch for the very brilliant singer and musician Lizzy Parks, giveaways plus a whole host of Birmingham based DJ and MC talent, presented by DJ Cro. Special guests to be announced very soon! Standing £15 "www.myspace.com/resonanceevents":http://www.myspace.com/resonanceevents Presented in association with "Birmingham Jazz":http://www.birminghamjazz.co.uk/
  
  The Heritage Orchestra play the music of Amon Tobin Lizzy Parks album launch DJ Cro and special guest DJs and MCs
  

• '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_
  
  

• Rush Hour Blues: Moises & Mango Rootz at Oozells Square, BrindleyPlace 

  Fri 21 Aug Symphony Hall Foyer Bars

  The group is led by Brazilian guitarist and singer, Moises, and features a mix of bossa nova and Brazilian funk.
  
  
  

• BBC WM's Nikki Tapper and Joe Aldred present An Evening of Inspiration  

  Tue 2 Jun Town Hall

  BBC WM’s Nikki Tapper and Joe Aldred host a fantastic evening of song and inspiration. Experience the best in local talent from childen’s choirs to top soloists.
  The amazing voice of *Jennifer Wallace* from Birmingham’s very own Black Voices Leading jazz and gospel singer *Carol Brewster* MOBO gospel award winners *Hutchinson & Gayle* Nationally acclaimed opera singer *Abigail Kelly* Birmingham’s R n' B gospel singers *Clearrose* Aston Performing Arts Academy's *Young Stars* and *Inner City Voices* *Cannon Street Baptist Children's Choir* *Crystal Gospel Choir* With host band *Interim* Supporting BBC WM’s Kidney Kids Appeal to build a new kidney unit at Birmingham Children’s Hospital.
  
  

• Central England Ensemble 'Town Hall Connections' Sibelius, Downes & Dvorak 

  Sun 1 Mar Town Hall

  Central England Ensemble presents three popular composers with strong links to Birmingham Town Hall: Dvorak conducted two of his world premieres here, The Spectre’s Bride (1885) and his Requiem (1897); Sibelius directed the British premiere of his Symphony no 4 here in 1912; Andrew Downes’ connections with the hall began as a chorister (with the CBSO under Harold Gray) and a counter-tenor soloist in the 1960s/70s, continued throughout the 1970s/80s with many performances of his Fanfare for a Ceremony at the Town Hall Open University ceremonies, and are confirmed in this concert with the world premiere of his Piano Concerto.
  
  *Central England Ensemble* *Anna Downes* Leader *Duncan Honeybourne* Piano *Anthony Bradbury* Conductor *Sibelius* Finlandia *Downes* Concerto for Piano and Symphony Orchestra (world premiere performance) *Dvorak* New World Symphony
  

• Loudon Wainwright III plus Lucy Wainwright Roche 

  Tue 24 Apr Symphony Hall

  Loudon Wainwright III has been writing and performing for almost 40 years as well as popping up in such films as Big Fishand The Aviator. Don't miss this chance to see him perform his classic songs live.
  
  
  

• Christmas Ballroom Dance Town Hall Dances 

  Tue 4 Dec Town Hall

  Join us in the magical setting of Town Hall beautiful auditorium for a very special Christmas night of elegant social dancing, accompanied by our fabulous live band playing appropriate festive favourites.
  
  
  

• Rush Hour Blues: Chris Aldridge & Beebe at City Inn Cafe, BrindleyPlace 

  Fri 28 Aug Symphony Hall Foyer Bars

  A quintet led by saxophonist Chris Aldridge, featuring Bryan Corbett on trumpet and Marcus Byrne on piano.
  
  
  

• Rush Hour Blues: Jean Luc-Fillon, Michael Rabinowitz and Joao Paulo  

  Fri 24 Jul Symphony Hall Foyer Bars

  A fascinating session linked to the International Double Reed Conference with groups featuring the jazz oboe and the jazz bassoon.
  
  
  

• An Evening with Tony Bennett  

  Tue 8 May Symphony Hall

  The hugely popular singer is still packing out concert halls after fifty years in the business. Don't miss him at Symphony Hall and discover exactly why.
  
  
  

• Town Hall 175TH Anniversary Tea Dance 3pm-5pm 

  Thu 1 Oct Town Hall

  Celebrate Town Hall's birthday with a wonderful dance in glorious surroundings, with live music compered by Paul Drakely.
  *With the Garry Allcock All Stars Band.*
  
  

• Ray Mears An Evening with Ray Mears Bushcraft Expert - In Front of and Behind the Lens 

  Sunday 21st October Town Hall

  Through his unique collection of photographs, Ray will take you on a journey to some of the most extreme corners of the world, sharing his experiences over the past 15 years in the making of his television programmes.
  
  
  

• Town Hall 175TH Anniversary Tea Dance 11.30am-1.30pm 

  Thu 1 Oct Town Hall

  Celebrate Town Hall's birthday with a wonderful dance in glorious surroundings, with live music compered by Paul Drakely.
  *with the Garry Allcock All-Stars Band*
  
  

• Tea Dance  

  Sat 5 Jul Town Hall

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

• Christmas Tea Dance Town Hall Dances 

  Tue 4 Dec Town Hall

  Take your partner for a festive twirl round the Town Hall dance floor, and manoeuvre them under the mistletoe in our special Christmas Tea Dance, with live music from Gary Allcock and his Midland All Stars band.
  
  
  

• Kate Rusby At Christmas No support 

  Thu 10 Dec Town Hall

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

• International Dance Festival Birmingham: Tea Dance  

  Mon 5 May Town Hall

  Dust down your dancing shoes and participate in the International Dance Festival by coming along to the Festival Tea Dance, with live band. £7.50
  
  
  

• Birmingham Music Service Gala Concert  

  Thu 16 Jul Symphony Hall

  This evening will be compered by *Jamie Crick* from Classic FM
  Featuring Birmingham Schools' Brass Band Recorder Sinfonia Wind Orchestra Symphony Orchestra Gala Choir
  
  

• Rush Hour Blues: Birmingham Jazz Youth Group  

  Fri 10 Jul Symphony Hall Foyer Bars

  The Youth Group is now firmly established as a group of great character playing top jazz and creating a lot of fun in its music.
  
  
  

• Brum Rocks Live  

  Sat 10 May Town Hall

  *Featuring Bev Bevan, Danny King, Trevor Burton, Laurie Hornsby & Steve Gibbons* This concert brings together four of Birmingham’s finest rock n’ roll heroes. Whilst Laurie tells the story of Birmingham’s rock history, they will bang out the tunes and the memories will come flooding back. £20
  
  
  

• Rush Hour Blues: Chris Bowden and the Tomorrow Band at City Inn Cafe, BrindleyPlace 

  Fri 14 Aug Symphony Hall Foyer Bars

  The Tomorrow Band remain one of Birmingham's finest groups, featuring the fiery alto saxophone of Chris Bowden.
  
  
  

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

  Fri 2 Oct Symphony Hall

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

• 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 Flying Officer 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 Ian Lavender, best known for his role as Private Pike in the BBC’s Dad’s Army, 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 classical favourites such as Orff’s stirring _Carmina Burana_ and Elgar’s _Pomp and Circumstance_ 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.
  
  
  

• An Evening with Brian Wilson  

  Mon 24 Sep Symphony Hall

  The legendary writer, producer, arranger and performer of some of the most unforgettable and inspirational music in rock history, returns with a concert repertoire highlighted by a brand-new work. Wilson reveals that the piece "is called That Lucky Old Sun (A Narrative)", and as he describes it, "will consist of four ‘rounds’ with interspersed spoken word." (No support)
  
  
  

• Capercaillie with Special Guests 

  Sat 27 Oct Town Hall

  Credited with being at the forefront of the renaissance in folk/roots music over the last 20 years, Scotland’s finest Celtic band return with a brand new album and UK tour. Their appearances in concert halls and festivals in over 30 countries worldwide, along with platinum discs and critics awards, are testament to the band’s consistently popular live shows.
  
  
  

• Primary School Singing Day Concert  

  Monday 16 July 07 Symphony Hall

  Come and hear the exciting culmination of the day's activities in a public concert in the early evening. (Ends at approximately 6.30pm.) Children must be accompanied by an adult.
  
  
  

• Christy Moore with Declan Sinnott 

  Wed 24 Oct Symphony Hall

  Christy Moore's career has spanned an amazing 40 years and has spawned over 30 recorded releases. His newest, _Burning Times_, is the fruit of a collaboration with his good friend Declan Sinnott and represents the current climate in which we live.
  
  
  

• 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.
  
  
  

• Bill Wyman's Rhythm Kings  

  Fri 13 Nov Town Hall

  Rock and roll icon, author, restauranteur - legendary former Rolling Stones bassist Bill Wyman has seen it all and continues to live life to the full. For over thirty years he was part of the best rock n' roll band in the world. His latest musical rebirth as the driving force behind the fabulous Rhythm Kings sees him return to his musical roots. This set of virtuoso musicians superbly bring back to life the kind of classic rhythm and blues that first inspired Wyman to pick up the guitar as a teenager. A show imbued with absolute quality. _"The whole idea behind the band was to play music that we love and I think you can hear and feel that on our records. Playing live, doing gigs, means everybody in the band does it for the same reasons as I do; to have a good time and send the crowd home with smiles on their faces"_ says Wyman. Joining him are the legendary musicians; Albert Lee, Beverley Skeete, Graham Broad, Garaint Watkins, Georgie Fame, Terry Taylor, Nick Payn and Frank Mead.
  *Bill Wyman's Rhythm Kings* *Albert Lee* *Beverley Skeete* *Graham Broad* *Garaint Watkins* *Georgie Fame* *Terry Taylor* *Nick Payn* *Frank Mead*
  
  

• An Evening with Zucchero  

  Wed 3 Dec Symphony Hall

  Zucchero is a multi-million-selling Italian singer-songwriter, a global rock star who has released over 13 albums and sold alltogether over 25m. He performs at all the biggest charity events on the planet and is now releasing a best of spanning from 1986 to the present. He is the only artist to have had 3 number 1 singles in 3 different languages, Il Volo (Italian), Feels like a Woman (English), Baila Morena (Spanish).
  
  
  

• Paul Carrack No Support 

  Fri 2 Nov Town Hall

  UK pop and soul legend Paul Carrack returns for another great show. The former frontman of Mike and the Mechanics and the voice behind world-wide hits such as Ace’s_ How Long_, Squeeze’s _Tempted_ and of course, timeless classic _The Living Years_, has a reputation as a stunning live performer. Playing both solo and with his brilliant band, expect to hear other great songs like _Silent Running_, _Another Cup of Coffee_, _Over My Shoulder_ and many more.
  
  
  

• Rhydian plus special guests 

  Tue 19 May Symphony Hall

  All his life Rhydian Roberts has had a dream. Now he is about to live it. The classically trained Welsh singer and last years _X Factor_ finalist released his debut album in November 2008 and visits Symphony Hall as part of a UK tour 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.
  
  
  

• Beryl Chempin Piano Masterclass given by Stephen Hough 

  Tue 15 Jan 2008 Symphony Hall

  Three students from the Birmingham Conservatoire perform on the platform of Symphony Hall with pianist Stephen Hough before his Town Hall recital the following evening. All seats £7.50
  
  
  

• Bratz in Concert Afternoon 

  Cancelled

  Wed 14 Nov Symphony Hall

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

• Best of British Urban  

  Fri 12 Oct Town Hall

  A showcase of the best in British Urban music, as legendary production company Punch join forces with some of the finest national and local live bands. The line-up includes scene stalwarts Four Kornerz, Terri Walker, Natalie Williams, TY, Seven, Sacha Brookes & E Double D. "Punch Records' website":http://punch-records.co.uk "Seven's website":http://sevensoul.ch
  *Sacha Brooks (Galaxy FM)* Host Compere
  
  

• 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.
  
  
  

• An Evening with David Sylvian  

  Tue 18 Sep Symphony Hall

  David Sylvian is the English singer, musician and composer who first gained attention as the lead vocalist and main songwriter in the band Japan. His subsequent solo career has been influenced by a variety of musical styles and genres, including jazz, ambient and progressive rock. David has released 9 solo albums that have successfully fused together elements of pop, avant-garde jazz, folk and electronica. (No support)
  
  
  

• Rodgers & Hammerstein Gala  

  Sun 24 Jun Symphony Hall

  A fantastic evening of classic showstoppers and hits from the world's favourite musicals including _South Pacific_, _The Sound of Music_, _State Fair_, _The King I_, _Carousel_, and _Oklahoma_. Featuring West End star soloists Claire Moore and Graham Bickley.
  Richard Balcombe Conductor Capital Voices London Concert Orchestra
  
  

• Tea Dance with Garry Allcock and his All-Stars Band 

  Fri 6 Feb Town Hall

  Enjoy a wonderfull dance in the glorious surroundings of Town Hall with live music from Garry Allcock and his All-Stars Band.
  IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT At the present time it is planned that this afternoons Dance at Town Hall will go ahead. However, in the event of a deterioration in weather conditions please contact the Box Office on 0121 780 3333 before beginning your journey.
  
  

• An Evening with Gilles Peterson  

  Wed 10 Oct Town Hall

  Radio 1's Gilles Peterson is one of the world's most influential DJs. In a Town Hall special, he invites his own selection of guest DJs, and cutting-edge local bands Summary and Sugar Beats, to lay down something extraordinary alongside his own DJing. This event is in association with Serious and Birmingham Jazz.
  *Gilles Peterson* *Guest DJs* *Sugar Beats* *Summary*
  
  

• 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.
  
  
  

• DACIA 10th Anniversary Concert The Anglo Romanian Arts Foundation 10th Anniversary Event 

  Fri 28 Nov Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

  The Anglo-Romanian Arts Foundation in Birmingham celebrates its tenth anniversary with an evening of enchanting music by Enescu, Silvestri, Vieru, Ireland and Debussy.
  *Anda Anastasescu* (piano) *Mark Simpson* (clarinet) *Huw Morgan* (trumpet)
  
  

• Walsall Music Service Evening Concert 

  Sun 25 Nov Symphony Hall

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

• An Audience with Trisha Goddard  

  Wed 30 Sep Town Hall

  Join Trisha for an evening of stories about her journey to fame, including her time in a girl band, as an airhostess, Australian TV primetime presenter and enjoy the chance to ask Trisha questions. _“No stranger to adversity, her 'can do' approach and sense of humour has helped her get through the tough times.”_ Her books _The Family Survival Guide_, the autobiography and the updated paperback version, will be on sale and signed by Trisha at the end of the performance.
  
  
  

• 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.
  
  
  

• Lunchtime Organ Concert - John Kitchen  

  Mon 19 Nov Town Hall

  
  *John Kitchen* Edinburgh City Organist
  *Krebs* Raeludium et Fuga in C *J.S.Bach* Pastorella in F (BWV 590) *Maccunn* Concert Overture - The Land of the Mountain and the Flood (trans. Jeremy Cull) *Hollins* Evening Rest *Asma* Fantasie over de Avondzang ‘k wil u o god mijn dank betalen *Finzi* Forlana and Carol (trans. Robert Gower) *Hovland* Toccata nu la oss takke gud
  

• Sir Willard White and Friends  

  Sun 5 Oct Town Hall

  Sir Willard White launches the inaugural gala of the Black British Classical Foundation and the VOBOs - the competition to find the best Voice of Black Opera across the Commonwealth. The foundation aims are to increase the take up of Black and Asisian young people into classical music and develop new audiences from under represented communities. The evening will consist of operatic arias and spirituals. Joining Sir Willard will be Josephine Amankwah, Mezzo Soprano, Alison Buchannan, Soprano, John Colyn-Gyeantey, Tennor, Abigail Kelly Soprano, and Njabulo Madlala , Baritone. The Evening will be accompanied by the Orchestra of The Swan and the City of Birmingham Young Voices.
  
  *Strauss* Spiel'Ich die Unschuld vom Lande - Die Fledermaus *Donizetti* Prendi per me sei libero - L'Elisir d'amore *Donizetti* Una furtiva lagrima - L'elisir d'amore *Gounod* Je veux vivre from Romeo et Juliette *Gounod* Ah, lève-toi, soleil - Romeo et Juliette *Mozart* Dies Bildnis - Magic Flute *Mozart* Laci darem Don Giovanni *Mozart* Come Scoglio - Cosi fan tute *Puccini* Recondita Armonia - Tosca *Dvorak* Rusalka's hymn to the moon - Rusalka *Lehar*Meinen Lippen sie kussen - Guiditta *Gerswhin* My man's Gone now - Porgy & Bess *Gerswhin* Bess you is my woman now - Porgy & Bess *Traditional Spirituals* Ride On King Jesus Sometimes I feel Like a Motherless Child Give Me Jesus No Ways Tired He Got the Whole World In His hands City Called Heaven His Name So Sweet Every Time I feel The Spiri
  

• An Evening With Pentangle No Support 

  Sat 5 Jul Symphony Hall

  The original line-up of Bert Jansch, John Renbourn, Jacqui McShee, Danny Thompson and Terry Cox return to celebrate their legacy. Formed in swinging ‘60s London, Pentangle were one of the most exciting and innovative groups in the world, genuinely pushing boundaries and exploring new musical avenues. Simultaneously stars of the underground and darlings of the mainstream, they enjoyed an unprecedented degree of worldwide success for an acoustic band and their influence and musical impact is still revered and relevant today.
  
  
  

• Paul Carrack  

  Tue 18 Nov Town Hall

  Pop and soul legend Paul Carrack comes to Town Hall. The former vocalist of Mike and The Mechanics and the voice behind world-wide hits such as Ace's _How Long_, Squeeze's _Tempted_ and of course, timeless classic _The Living Years_, has a reputation as a stunning live performer. Playing both solo and with his brilliant 7 piece band, expect to hear other songs from his Greatest Hits album as well as the new hit singles _Ain't No Love in the Heart of the City_ and _I Don't Want to Hear Any More_ . "His soulful gem of a voice is one of pop's best kept secrets. It's about time that changed." Daily Mail
  
  
  

• English Originals: Seth Lakeman, Tunng & Guests  

  Sat 26 Apr Town Hall

  An evening featuring some of the brightest talent to come out of the UK's contemporary folk scene featuring rising star *Seth Lakeman*, sonic adventurers *Tunng*, and *Sharron Kraus*, the hauntingly beautiful new voice of Dark Folk.. £19.50 "Click here":http://www.thsh.co.uk/englishoriginals for full English Originals festival line up.
  
  
  

• Gary Moore Plus Special Guests 

  Mon 12 Nov Symphony Hall

  Following a sold out UK tour in May and the recent release of his amazing new album _Close As You Get_, Blues legend Gary Moore comes to Symphony Hall. Northern Irish classic blues guitarist Moore is acknowledged as one of the finest musicians that the British Isles has ever produced. In a career that dates back to the 1960s, Gary has graced the line-ups of several notable rock bands, Thin Lizzy, Colosseum II and Skid Row to name but three and in 2006 tour he toured with the legendary BB King. Don't miss the Master of the Blues live.
  
  
  

• 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.
  

• English Originals: Billy Bragg & Special Guests  

  Fri 25 Apr Town Hall

  *With Chris Wood + Kitty, Daisy & Lewis* The ‘Baird of Barking’ hosts an evening with special guests exploring his English roots, expect also some offerings from his splendid new album _Mr Love & Justice._ Plus at 6.30pm Billy will give a pre-concert reading and talk based on his new book _The Progressive Patriot_. £15, £18.50, £22.50 "Click here":http://www.thsh.co.uk/englishoriginals for full English Originals festival line up.
  
  
  

• Sax in the City Featuring Andy Hamilton and the Blue Notes 

  Symphony Hall Foyer Bars

  Relax with Birmingham's jazz legend, Andy Hamilton, as he brings you the finest in jazz together with his band The Blue Notes. _"Sumptuous, sensuous, gifted... Hamilton's sound is irresistable"_ The Guardian Saturday 6 June - 12.30pm - 3.30pm Saturday 4 July - 12.30pm - 3.30pm Satruday 5 September - 12.30pm - 3.30pm Saturday 3 October - 12.30pm - 3.30pm Saturday 7 November - 12.30pm - 3.30pm Saturday 19 December - 12.30pm - 3.30pm Supported by the Arts Council
  
  
  

• National Festival Of Music For Youth  

  Fri 10 Jul Town Hall & Symphony Hall

  Open air and indoors, the National Festival has become one of the major highlights in the music education calendar. Bringing a national focus for the creativity, capability and talent of the youth of today, Music For Youth takes over the City of Birmingham for this seven-day celebration of youth music. Featuring 320 groups from across the UK, with 10,000 young performers taking part. Wind Bands from 10.30am (Symphony Hall) Jazz from 10.30am (Birmingham Conservatoire) Programme subject to change visit the "Music For Youth":http://www.mfy.org.uk website for up to date information.
  
  
  

• Birmingham Scout and Guide Revue  

  Sat 26 Jul Town Hall

  A fun packed entertaining evening of music, song and dance. Presented by the young people of Birmingham’s Scout and Girl Guiding movement, in the centenary year of Birmingham scouting. Over 100 young people present a thoroughly enjoyable night whilst raising money towards their centenary appeal - the Birmingham Children’s Hospital. Tickets £10
  
  
  

• An Audience with Paddy Ashdown  

  Mon 18 May Town Hall

  As a Royal Marine Commando, a member of the Special Boat Service, a diplomat, a Member of Parliament and leader of his party and, most recently, the international community’s High Representative in war-torn Bosnia and Herzegovina, Paddy Ashdown has led a life packed with drama and adventure. Now he has told the full story in his autobiography, _A Fortunate Life_. Join him for a fascinating evening, appearing before audiences across the country, talking about his life and times, taking questions and signing his book.
  
  
  

• Gay Birmingham Remembered exhibition  

  Fri 2 to Fri 30 May Symphony Hall

  FRIDAY 2 TO FRIDAY 30 MAY 10AM TO 6PM AND DURING EVENING PERFORMANCES SYMPHONY HALL LEVEL 4 FOYER The ‘Gay Birmingham Remembered’ exhibition illustrates the political, social and cultural heritage of the lesbian, gay and bisexual community and the experiences of local people contributing to and living through times of great change. It will transport you through time with images and quotations from 80 interviewees documenting and describing the transition from an era when male homosexuality was both criminilised and taboo to today’s vibrant and open lesbian, gay and bisexual community in Birmingham.
  
  
  

• National Festival Of Music For Youth  

  Wed 8 Jul Symphony Hall

  Open air and indoors, the National Festival has become one of the major highlights in the music education calendar. Bringing a national focus for the creativity, capability and talent of the youth of today, Music For Youth takes over the City of Birmingham for this seven-day celebration of youth music. Featuring 320 groups from across the UK, with 10,000 young performers taking part. School Orchestras / String & Chamber Orchestras from 11am (Symphony Hall) Traditional and International Music from 11 am (Birmingham Conservetoire) Programme subject to change visit the "Music For Youth":http://www.mfy.org.uk website for up to date information.
  
  
  

• Pat Metheny & Brad Mehldau  

  Sat 30 Jun Symphony Hall

  Pat Metheny and Brad Mehldau are both superstars of the jazz world and two of the most gifted artists of their respective generations. They share an intensity of expression and a mastery of lyrical improvisation and their two Nonesuch CDs were among the recorded highlights of the past 18 months - live, with the ace bass and drums team of Larry Grenadier and Jeff Ballard, the collaboration is positively mouth-watering. "The collaboration between iconic guitarist Pat Metheny and sublime probing pianist Brad Mehldau is jazz's latest dream ticket. Their extravagant empathy and evident joy in each other's company mark this out as more than just a 'big name' outing.* * * *" Time Out
  
  
  

• Rush Hour Blues Summer 2009 

  Symphony Hall Foyer Bars

  *Free jazz at Symphony Hall’s Level 3 Bar* *Friday evenings at 5.30pm* After a long week at work come along and unwind in the intimate, relaxing atmosphere of Symphony Hall’s Level 3 Bar and let the sensational sounds of Rush Hour Blues help you find that Friday feeling. It’s all free - and you deserve it! _“It’s free and it really is the place to be.”_ Birmingham Post Presented in association with "Birmingham Jazz":http://www.birminghamjazz.co.uk
  
  
  

• Blockbusters! Music from the Movies 

  Mon 29 Dec Symphony Hall

  _Music From The Movies_ *ROBERT POWELL* introduces an evening of unforgettable musical themes from award-winning films including
  Paul Bateman _conductor_ London Concert Orchestra
  BATMAN *BEN-HUR* *PLATOON* *GLADIATOR* *JAMES BOND* *JURASSIC PARK* *INDIANA JONES* *HARRY POTTER* *DOCTOR ZHIVAGO* *THE DAM BUSTERS* *CHARIOTS OF FIRE* *THE DEER HUNTER* *LORD OF THE RINGS* *MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE* *DANCES WITH WOLVES* *THOSE MAGNIFICENT MEN IN THEIR FLYING MACHINES*
  

• National Festival Of Music For Youth  

  Sat 11 Jul Symphony Hall

  Open air and indoors, the National Festival has become one of the major highlights in the music education calendar. Bringing a national focus for the creativity, capability and talent of the youth of today, Music For Youth takes over the City of Birmingham for this seven-day celebration of youth music. Featuring 320 groups from across the UK, with 10,000 young performers taking part. Youth Orchestras from 10.30am (Symphony Hall) Jazz from 10.30am (Birmingham Conservetoire) Programme subject to change visit the "Music For Youth":http://www.mfy.org.uk website for up to date information.
  
  
  

• National Festival Of Music For Youth  

  Thu 9 Jul Symphony Hall

  Open air and indoors, the National Festival has become one of the major highlights in the music education calendar. Bringing a national focus for the creativity, capability and talent of the youth of today, Music For Youth takes over the City of Birmingham for this seven-day celebration of youth music. Featuring 320 groups from across the UK, with 10,000 young performers taking part. Brass Bands from 10.30am (Symphony Hall) Chamber Music from 10.30am (Town Hall) Rock, Pop and Urban from 5.30pm (O2 Academy 2) Programme subject to change visit the "Music For Youth":http://www.mfy.org.uk website for up to date information.
  
  
  

• Andy Hamilton is 90 A photography exhibition by Russ Escritt 

  Fri 1 to Mon 31 Mar Symphony Hall

  10AM TO 6PM AND DURING EVENING PERFORMANCES SYMPHONY HALL LEVEL 4 FOYER This exhibition marks Andy Hamilton’s 90th birthday. Andy has been a part of the Birmingham Jazz scene as musician, educator and promoter for over fifty years. Since the early 90s Smethwick based photographer, Russ Escritt, has been documenting Andy’s gigs with the Blue Notes and guests at his various residencies in Bearwood. Some of the best of these images are on show here. This event is kindly supported by The Patrick Trust.
  
  
  

• The World's Greatest No.1 Hits  

  Sun 29 Jun Town Hall

  The ever-popular Let’s Sing company brings their exciting new production to Town Hall. With choral and solo renditions of some of the world’s greatest No. 1 hits, including Unchained Melody, Sailing, You Raise Me Up, Mull of Kintyre, Fields of Gold, Bridge Over Troubled Water, and many, many more. This is truly an outstanding evening of entertainment for all the family. £18, 60 plus/under 16’s £15
  *Nigel Hopkins* conductor *Let’s Sing Chorus* *Let’s Sing Youth Midlands Festival Band*
  
  

• Jazz Camera Exhibition An Exhibition of Photographs by John Watson 

  Tues 3 March - Tues 31 March Symphony Hall

  Jazz camera, on Symphony Hall level 4 & 5 foyers, features images of jazz legends and rising stars by photographer and music journalist John Watson, who this year marks 40 years of covering the West midlands music scene. The exhibition runs from Tuesday 3 March until Tuesday 31 March. Open 10am-6pm and during evening performances. Free Admission
  
  
  

• Let's Sing the Musicals  

  Sun 8 Jul Symphony Hall

  An evening of popular entertainment for all the family with a programme consisting of music and dance from many well-loved musicals including _Phantom of the Opera_, _Fiddler on the Roof_, _Miss Saigon_, _Jesus Christ Superstar_, _Copocabana_, and many, many more.
  *Nigel Hopkins* Conductor *Let's Sing Chorus* *Let's Sing Youth* *Firebox Dance Company* *Midlands Festival Orchestra*
  
  

• Tony Hadley in concert plus support 

  Tue 25 Nov Town Hall

  Tony has been an accomplished solo artist for nearly 15 years following his successful career with Spandau Ballet. He loves songwriting and recording, although his real passion lies within the live arena. Last year Tony made his West End debut, starring as Billy Flynn in Chicago, and realised another dream when he made his latest album, Passing Strangers. The album covers some of Tony's favourite songs by favourite artists such as Tony Bennett, Jack Jones and Billy Eckstine as well as two original songs written by Tony. The album has already featured on Parkinson and Friday Night is Music Night.
  
  
  

• 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
  
  
  

• National Festival Of Music For Youth  

  Mon 6 Jul Town Hall & Symphony Hall

  Open air and indoors, the National Festival has become one of the major highlights in the music education calendar. Bringing a national focus for the creativity, capability and talent of the youth of today, Music For Youth takes over the City of Birmingham for this seven-day celebration of youth music. Featuring 320 groups from across the UK, with 10,000 young performers taking part. Infants & Juniors from 10.30 am (Symphony Hall) Juniors from 11am (Birmingham Conservetoire) Ensembles from 11am (Town Hall) Programme subject to change visit the "Music For Youth":http://www.mfy.org.uk website for up to date information.
  
  
  

• CBSO John Williams Blockbusters  

  Sat 24 Jan 2009 Symphony Hall

  *Extra date added due to popular demand.* No-one writes a big film theme like John Williams - no wonder he’s the world’s most popular living classical composer. And if you think his music is thrilling on the big screen, just wait until you hear it live at Symphony Hall! Join the CBSO for blockbuster music from Star Wars, Schindler’s List, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, Superman, E.T., Raiders of the Lost Ark, JFK, Munich, Saving Private Ryan, Jaws and many more! £9.50, £16, £22.50, £28, £32, £36, £39.50
  *Michael Seal - Conductor* *Tommy Pearson - Presenter*
  
  

• Friday Night Classics: A Night at the Oscars  

  Fri 6 Feb 2009 Symphony Hall

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

• Stewart Lee If You Prefer A Milder Comedian, Please Ask For One 

  Wed 25 Nov Town Hall

  _"This guy makes more enemies in 30 minutes than most of us do in a lifetime"_ The Times Following his acclaimed BBC TV series Stewart Lee returns to live stand-up with a brand new show. The co-writer of _Jerry Springer The Opera_ follows his award-winning UK tour _41st Best Stand-up Ever_ with a provocative performance inspired by an altercation in a High Street coffee chain. _"Riotous fun"_ The Independent _"Lee proves himself, once again, to be the maestro"_ The Guardian _"Literate, edifying and funny all at the same time ... great stuff"_ Chortle _"Surreally brilliant"_ The Times _"The funniest, most cliché-free comedian on the circuit"_ Ricky Gervais "Stewart Lee's website":http://www.stewartlee.co.uk
  
  
  

• David Byrne  

  Sun 29 Mar Symphony Hall

  Known as the force behind Talking Heads and later as creator of the highly-regarded record label Luaka Bop, David Byrne performs at Symphony Hall this March. The tour, titled “David Byrne, Songs of David Byrne and Brian Eno”, will feature Byrne performing songs from his numerous collaborations with Brian Eno, including tracks from several Talking Heads albums produced by Eno, the pair’s 1981 collaboration My Life in the Bush of Ghosts and their newest collaborative effort, Everything That Happens Will Happen Today. “The live shows will…try to draw a line linking this new material with what we did 30 years ago” explains Byrne.
  
  Please note: There is no support act or interval for this event.
  

• The Armed Man Phoenix Singers Charity Concert in aid of Action for Children 

  Sun 28 Jun Town Hall

  The Phoenix Singers Birmingham present Karl Jenkins _The Armed Man: A Mass For Peace_, in aid of the national children’s charity *Action for Children*. A massed chorus of over 170 will be joined by a full symphony orchestra for Jenkins’ inspiring work, alongside a programme of light and entertaining music. With influences from Brazilian percussion to Renaissance plainsong, _The Armed Man_, performed here with its original video footage on large screen, guarantees an evening to remember
  
  
  

• Barbie (TM) at the Symphony Matinee Concert 

  Sat 5 Jan 2008 Symphony Hall

  Learn about classical music with Barbie™ ! Featuring the Barbie™ Princess movies on screen with the world’s best-loved classical music including selections from Barbie™ in The Nutcracker, Barbie™ of Swan Lake, Barbie™ as The Princess and the Pauper, Barbie™ in the 12 Dancing Princesses and the All-New Barbie™ as The Island Princess And many more. . . Performed by a live orchestra LONDON CONCERT ORCHESTRA This concert lasts 90 minutes including interval www.barbie.com/arts
  
  
  

• National Festival Of Music For Youth  

  Tue 7 Jul Town Hall & Symphony Hall

  Open air and indoors, the National Festival has become one of the major highlights in the music education calendar. Bringing a national focus for the creativity, capability and talent of the youth of today, Music For Youth takes over the City of Birmingham for this seven-day celebration of youth music. Featuring 320 groups from across the UK, with 10,000 young performers taking part. Junior Choirs from 10.30am (Symphony Hall) Senior Choirs from 10.30am (Town Hall) Ensembles from 11am (Birmingham Conservatoire) Programme subject to change visit the "Music For Youth":http://www.mfy.org.uk website for up to date information.
  
  
  

• The Star Awards 2007 Featuring Shekinah Glory Ministries 

  Fri 7 Dec Town Hall

  The Grand Finale Showcase for Gospel vocalists, MC’s/rappers and dancers found in the STAR Awards National Talent Search. The vocal winner this year will receive £1000 to help advance their careers. Special guest artists The Shekinah Glory Ministry will be coming over from the USA to perform tracks from their latest billboard chart-topping album Shekinah Glory LIVE! There will also be performances by Gospel R ‘n’ B Artist Monique, Gospel rapper Sammy G, STAR Awards 2006 Winner Chan, and one of the queens of Gospel music CIE.
  
  
  

• Metropolis: Organ Silent Movie Special With improvised organ accompaniment by Nigel Ogden 

  Thu 7 May Town Hall

  Originally completed in 1927 and set in 2026, Fritz Lang’s futuristic Metropolis is perhaps the most influential silent film of all time. Employing iconic imagery and pioneering vision, the film explores the tensions of a divided city where impoverished workers are forced to live underground whilst the rich enjoy a lavish world of luxury. Shown tonight in an extensive 2001 official restoration, take your seat and experience a true classic of science fiction movie making. Certificate PG Performance lasts approx 2 hrs 20 mins (with interval)
  
  *Nigel Ogden* organ
  

• Rob Brydon plus support 

  Sat 3 Oct Symphony Hall

  Rob Brydon's credits read like a compendium of modern British comedy. _Marion & Geoff, Human Remains, I'm Alan Partridge, Black Books, The Keith Barret Show, A Cock and Bull Story, Little Britain, Director's Commentary, Have I Got News For You, I'm Sorry I Haven't a Clue, Q.I._ and most recently his highly acclaimed performance as Uncle Bryn in _Gavin and Stacey_. Now this multi award winning writer / performer comes to Symphony Hall with an evening of brand new stand up comedy. £18.50
  
  
  

• National Youth Choirs of Great Britain 25th Anniversary Concert 

  Sun 13 Apr Symphony Hall

  Don't miss one of the finest youth choirs in the world! This 25th Anniversary Gala will include performances by all seven of The National Youth Choirs of Great Britain, led by Mike Brewer OBE. There will be special guest appearances by The King's Singers, Bob Chilcott, John Rutter, Sir David Willcocks and David Hill. The evening will include a world premiere by world renowned composer Eric Whitacre. £15, £19, £22.50, £25
  
  
  

• 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
  
  

• The RAF in Concert 2008  

  Thu 30 Oct Symphony Hall

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

• Johann Strauss Gala Evening Concert 

  Tue 1 Jan 2008 Symphony Hall

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

• Swan Lake Irina Kolesnikova with St Petersburg Ballet Theatre 

  Mon 5 Jan 2009 Symphony Hall

  The extraordinarily talented Irina Kolesnikova dances the dual role of Odette-Odile in the spellbinding story of the swan-princess. Both lyrical and dramatic, Swan Lake set to Tchaikovsky’s luscious score combines with consummate choreography to create an enthralling evening of classical ballet. 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.
  
  
  

• Nelson Riddle Orchestra Direct from the USA! 

  Tue 25 Nov Symphony Hall

  The music of Nelson Riddle is legendary. His music set the mood for a generation and helped to make the careers of artists like Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole and Ella Fitzgerald ‘cool’. He also arranged the soundtracks of many Hollywood movies and was nominated for seven Academy Awards, winning twice. His son Christopher Riddle now conducts and leads the orchestra in the same tradition and style set by his father, using all the original charts and arrangements to give you the most wonderful evening of music. Also featured in the show are the vocal talents of Bryan Anthony, who like Francis Albert, hails from New Jersey and on his first visit to the UK is going to thrill the audiences just like he’s done stateside.
  
  
  

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

  Fri 22 Feb 2008 Symphony Hall

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

• Ralph McTell  

  Thu 4 Jun Town Hall

  Described by Billy Connolly as _‘Britain's best singer/songwriter’_ , Ralph McTell is one of our most consummate entertainers. He has won _The Ivor Novello Award_ and a _BBC Lifetime Achievement Award_ for his songwriting. You, the audience, will travel with Ralph on a ninety-minute journey along the musical path he has followed for over four decades. Ralph's astute observation and wry take on life shine through his songs and anecdotes. His rich baritone voice and his virtuosity on guitar promise a very special evening. _"A big man with a big heart and a big, big talent."_ Willy Russell _"McTell hits the spot by telling your personal story: yours and everyone's."_ The Guardian
  
  Please note there is no support and no interval.
  

• CBSO Friday Night Classics: John Williams' Heroes  

  Fri 30 Oct Symphony Hall

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

• Valentine's Day Love Classics  

  Thu 14 Feb Symphony Hall

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

• Lunchtime Organ Concert with Thomas Trotter Birmingham University Singers 

  Mon 4 Feb Town Hall

  £5 (unreserved seating) 60 plus/full-time students/under 16’s/unwaged £4 Admission from 12.30pm. Programme lasts approximately 1 hour. Thomas Trotter is a Town Hall Associate Artist.
  *Thomas Trotter* *Birmingham University Singers* *John Whenham* Director
  *Stanford* Te Deum and Jubilate in b flat *Gardiner* Evening Hymn: Te lucis ante terminum *Howells* Master Tallis’s Testament & Paean *Wesley* Blessed be the God and Father *Parry* I was glad
  

• Smokey Robinson plus support  

  Fri 29 Jun Symphony Hall

  Smokey Robinson was once described as 'America's greatest living poet' by none other than Bob Dylan and was an important figure behind the celebrated Motown record label. Smokey recorded numerous classic hit songs as both a member of the Miracles and as a solo artist including the classic _The Tears of a Clown_. Don't miss this opportunity to see the legend live. *Dine in Style* Treat yourself to a fabulous four-course meal, including champagne and canap�s, for �42 per person. Prepared by our award-winning chefs, your meal is served in one of our exclusive dining areas. Advance booking is essential. For further information and to book, please contact Emily Waller, Symphony Hall Catering Manager on 0121 644 5102 or email catering@symphonyhall.co.uk. (Concert tickets are not included in the price of the dining packages.)
  
  
  

• Grand Organ Gala London Concert Orchestra 

  Sat 28 Jun Symphony Hall

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

• BBC Big Band: Frank & Ella - A Tribute  

  Fri 3 Apr Town Hall

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

• Friday Night Classics: John Williams Blockbusters  

  Fri 10 Oct Symphony Hall

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

• Friday Night Classics: The Gershwins in Hollywood  

  Fri 23 Jan 2009 Symphony Hall

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

• 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
  
  
  

• Dave Pegg's 60th Birthday Concert with Fairport Convention and special guests 

  Returns Only

  Sat 3 Nov Town Hall

  *This concert is currently sold out. There may possibly be returns for this event, for availability please call the ticket office on 0121 780 3333. Unfortunately it is not possible to operating a waiting list for this event* Dave Pegg’s 60th Birthday Concert will feature Acocks Green’s most famous bass player in concert with many of his famous musical colleagues from his 43 years as a professional musician. Jethro Tull’s Ian Anderson and Martin Barre, Fairport Convention, Steve Gibbons, Ian Campbell, Dave Swarbrick and many more of England’s top folk musicians will make this an unforgettable evening.
  
  
  

• CBSO Friday Night Classics: Film Music For Lovers  

  Fri 12 Feb 2010 Symphony Hall

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

• Lunchtime Concert  

  Programme Change

  Wed 12 Nov Town Hall

  Thomas Gould was chosen by the Evening Standard as a rising star of 2008. You'll have heard him at Town Hall as co-leader of the Britten Sinfonia, but today we have the chance to hear this outstanding young player in his own right, performing popular works by Schubert and Debussy and another in our series of Beethoven Violin Sonatas. This concert replaces the previously advertised Radio 3 Lunchtime concert by Alina Ibragimova and Cedric Tiberghien which has been rescheduled to 13 January 2009.
  *Thomas Gould* violin *John Reid* piano
  *Beethoven* Sonata No.2 in A, Op.12 No.2 *Debussy* Violin Sonata *Schubert* Rondo Brillant in B minor
  

• Evening Organ Concert - David Sanger  

  Wed 21 Jan 2009 Town Hall

  David Sanger is one of the world's most accomplished and well-respected organists, renowed for the sheer musicality of his playing. His programme features great works by composers who were themselves masters of the instrument - not least Mendelssohn's Andante in D, aptly chosen to coincide with 2009's bicentenary clebrations. Also included are Schumann's delightful Four Sketches (0p 58), originally written for pedal-piano. *6.15pm Pre-concert talk with Greame Kay*
  
  *J.S. Bach* Toccata, Adagio & Fugue *Mendelssohn* Andante in D, with Variations *Franck* Grande Pièce Symphonique *Bingham* Roulade *Schumann* Four Stetches for Pedal-Piano *Vierne* Tempo di Scherzo, Largetto & Final (From Symphony No 5 in A minor)
  

• 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
  
  
  

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

  Fri 9 Oct Symphony Hall

  Roll out the red carpet for this indulgent evening featuring some of the best-loved numbers in showbiz from across the decades, as the CBSO treads the boards with top West End artists. Produced in association with West End International Ltd. "CBSO Website":http://www.cbso.co.uk
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Martin Yates* _conductor_ *Rachel Barrell* _vocalist_ *Jacqui Scott* _vocalist_ *Simon Bowman* _vocalist_ *Tim Rogers* _vocalist_
  Including hits from: _Les Misérables_ - _The Lion King_ - _Cats_ _Phantom of the Opera_ - _Guys and Dolls_ _Oklahoma!_ - _Miss Saigon_ - _South Pacific_ _Oliver!_ - _Carousel_ - _Sunset Boulevard_ and more!
  

• 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
  

• Juan Martin Flamenco Ensemble  

  Thu 5 Feb Town Hall

  Voted into the top guitarists in the world by US Guitar Player magazine, Juan Martin brings his line up of the finest dancers and musicians. Martins ensemble is at the vanguard of modern flamenco with a unique style of music that succeeds in embracing classical, jazz and modern harmonies. An evening of exhilarating music and dance not to be missed.
  IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT At the present time it is planned that tonight's show at Town Hall will go ahead. However, in the event of a deterioration in weather conditions please contact the Box Office on 0121 780 3333 before beginning your journey.
  
  

• The Blues Band  

  Thu 27 Mar 2008 Town Hall

  *Paul Jones, Dave Kelly, Rob Townsend, Gary Fletcher and Tom McGuinness* Arguably the most successful and best blues band in Britain today, these blues lovers and great showmen continue to delight audiences with their extensive mix of Rhythm & Blues and Roots music. Powerful and emotional lead vocals from Paul Jones and Dave Kelly are the ‘icing’ on an evening of authentic blues music. Their extensive canon of recorded material includes a large catalogue of original songs as well as their own interpretations of songs from the genre’s finest writers like Willie Dixon, Muddy Waters, Howlin’ Wolf, and Sleepy John Estes. All seats £17.50
  
  
  

• CBSO Summer Concert - Benevolent Fund Concert  

  Fri 18 Jul Symphony Hall

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

• Al Murray - The Pub Landlord ' And Another Thing...' LAST EVER CHANCE TO SEE SELL OUT TOUR 

  Fri 2 Nov Symphony Hall

  The multi-award winning Al Murray The Pub Landlord comes to Symphony Hall with a crowning performance of his sell-out tour show _…And Another Thing_. The nations favourite Pub Landlord holds court with his distinctive common sense reasoning on subjects such as The War on Terror, Hell, Life Itself, and his personal crusade to Bring Back Shame. Having joined the realms of comedy royalty with the success of his prime-time entertainment show Happy Hour (ITV1) and an unprecedented second An Audience with Al Murray The Pub Landlord (ITV1), “Britain’s funniest Pub Landlord” (The Sun) is back and more opinionated than ever. “It's a high-wire act that he pulls off with phenomenal comic balance... and he works the crowd with a sharpness that approaches brilliance.” The Times Book now to avoid disappointment. Final live shows of 2007. www.thepublandlord.com
  
  
  

• Friday Night Classics: Best of Bond  

  Fri 21 Nov Symphony Hall

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

• English Originals: Norma Waterson, June Tabor, Kathryn Williams & Guests  

  Sun 27 Apr Town Hall

  _For production reasons, the Daughters of Albion concert will now take place in Town Hall rather than Symphony Hall as originally advertised. Please note the start time._ A unique project featuring and celebrating some of England's finest female singers and songwriters. The performance features both traditional and contemporary ballads from the likes of Kate Bush, Lal Waterson, PJ Harvey, Anne Briggs, Shirley Collins and more. The guests are supported by an all-star band featuring legendary guitarist *Martin Carthy* and award winning melodeon player *Tim Van Eyken*. Musical Director for the project is Kate St John. An evening of deliciously dark melancholy and beauty awaits...
  
  
  

• 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.
  
  
  

• Rossini: Petite Messe Solennelle City of Birmingham Choir 

  Sat 25 Apr Town Hall

  An evening of glorious and delightful music - Rossini’s last major work is full of colour, drama and intensity, with two pianos and harmonium providing a feisty accompaniment. Intended not for church but a Paris salon, Rossini’s great melodies provide us with a variety of movements, parts of which are not very solennelle! Please note there is no interval.
  *Claire Seaton* soprano *Susanna Spicer* mezzo soprano *Andrew MacKenzie-Wicks* tenor *Christopher Foster* bass *City of Birmingham Choir* *Christopher Robinson* piano *Libby Robinson* piano *David Newsholme* harmonium *Adrian Lucas* conductor
  
  

• Alcester Male Voice Choir 35th Anniversary Gala Concert 

  Sat 4 Apr Symphony Hall

  This popular, much travelled Midland Community Choir promises you an exciting, varied evening of music including: _Men of Harlech, Grand March from Aida, O Fortuna, Calon Lan, Dashenka, Agnus Dei, Medley from Jesus Christ Superstar_. Talented young artists will complement the programme.
  *Alcester Male Voice Choir* *Judith Land* conductor *Sue Underwood* piano and *Andrew Fletcher* organ (accompanists) *Royal Artillery Fanfare Trumpeters* *Jonathan French* piano *Gary Griffiths* baritone and *Nico de Villiers* (accompanists) *Bournville Young Singers* *Rutleigh/Norris Ballet Schools*
  
  

• Positively Red Concert Celebrating the lives of all those living with HIV on World Aids Day 

  Mon 1 Dec Town Hall

  The evening celebrates those people with HIV who are living longer, more productive, and active lives due to new effective treatments. It includes musical entertainment from a range of local community groups whose members are disproportionately affected by HIV.
  *Barbara Nice* (aka Janice Connolly) *Richard Ainslie* compere *Lynne Jones* Labour MP Selly Oak speaker *Fitzgerald Arts String Quartet*, *Rainbow Voices Choir*, *New Life Wesleyan Dancers*, *Sue Brown* (Performance Poet), *Celia* (Soloist), *Argosy Musical Theatre Company*, *Benjamin Brunel* (Pop singer/song writer), *Congole Group* (African Music), *Bourneville Musical Theatre Company*.
  
  

• 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.
  
  
  

• Celebrity Piano Recital: Lang Lang  

  Thu 4 Feb 2010 Symphony Hall

  Lang Lang is a superstar of the piano, hailed as _“the hottest artist on the classical music planet”_ by the New York Times. For this return visit to Symphony Hall, his programme ranges from the _Appassionata’s_ stormy turbulence and the sultry Spanish landscapes of Albéniz to the pyrotechnics of Prokofi ev’s Seventh Sonata. Book your seat now! Classic FM’s Anne-Marie Minhall, says of tonight’s recommended concert: _“The Chinese pianist Lang Lang is feted as a national hero and inspiration to millions of children in his homeland. He performed live at the Beijing Olympics opening ceremony to an estimated worldwide audience of four billion and sells out every venue he’s booked for.”_
  *Lang Lang*
  *Beethoven* Piano Sonata in C, Op 2, No 3 26’ *Beethoven* Piano Sonata in F minor, Op 57, _Appassionata_ 24’ *Albéniz* _Iberia_ Book 1 21’ *Prokofiev* Piano Sonata No 7 18’
  

• 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.
  
  

• The Birmingham Foundation Christmas Carol Concert  

  Sat 1 Dec Town Hall

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

• Vengerov plays Mozart UBS Verbier Festival Orchestra 

  Wed 9 May Symphony Hall

  Mozart Violin Concerto No 4 in D K218 Mozart Sinfonia Concertante in E flat K364 Mozart Violin Concerto No 5 in A K219, Turkish Shostakovich Chamber Symphony for Strings Op 110a Annie-Marie Minhall, news reader and presenter of Classic FM's Newsnight, says of tonight's Classic FM recommended concert "Don't miss one of the world's leading violinists live in action. Maxim Vengerov will not only be playing, but also directing both nights. The UBS Verbier Festival Orchestra is made up of around one hundred youngsters from 37 different countries. The orchestra performs each year at the prestigious Verbier Festival in Switzerland. There they get the chance to not only work with leading musicians like Vengerov, but also get to take part in masterclasses and workshops with them too.
  Maxim Vengerov, Violin/Director
  Violin Concerto No 2 in D K211 Violin Concerto No 4 in D K218
  

• CBSO Friday Night Classics A Night at the Oscars 

  Fri 18 May Symphony Hall

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

• Talking Cities Lecture Series - Copenhagen: Eco-Metropolis  

  Mon 6 Apr Town Hall

  *Klaus Bondam*: Mayor, The City of Copenhagen, Technical and Environmental Administration. Talking Cities: MADE and Birmingham City University urban design blic lecture series. Consistently ranked as a top world city in which to live, Copenhagen is renowned for its architecture, public spaces and its leadership in tackling the environmental challenges of urban development. Klaus Bondam will discuss his goal for Copenhagen to be the Eco-Metropolis of the world by 2015 and his Metropolis for People policy, set to create even better conditions for urban life through public participation and dialogue between citizens and experts. The talk will be for 60 minutes without an interval, followed by questions from the audience. Sponsored by Atkins and Birmingham City Council.
  
  
  

• Christy Moore with Declan Sinnott  

  Mon 1 Jun Symphony Hall

  “The mighty figure of Christy Moore looms over Irish song in much the same way that Martin Carthy dominates the English folk scene” Nigel Williamson, The Times Christy Moore has been singing, writing and collecting songs for most of his life. His career spans an amazing 40 years, and includes over 30 recorded releases. His live performances have run the gamut from small folk clubs in Ireland and England to premier concert halls throughout the world. Christy is regarded by many as one of Ireland’s most important and influential artists, being called ‘Ireland’s Woody Guthrie’ by some and considered by many to be a national treasure. “I’ve been singing since before I could talk and performing since I’ve learned to walk - songs have infiltrated every corner of my life. I’ve been learning where the music comes from and how the words sound so different when they are sung. I’ve been mesmerised by the power of the greatest musical instrument and I’ve witnessed how it can induce the healing tears of sadness and laughter.” Christy Moore £28, £32.50
  
  
  

• An Evening with Seth Lakeman & Friends: English Originals with special guests Nancy Elizabeth, Megson and more to be announced 

  Sun 17 May Symphony Hall

  The press often call Seth Lakeman the _‘man who made folk fashionable’_. It obviously helps that he is lavishly talented and ruggedly handsome, but the real secret lies in his music, which whilst firmly rooted in the traditions of his West Country folk is also steadfastly contemporary and adventurous. Tonight he performs music from his last album and brings together a variety of musical friends, for a shindig to remember... *Special guests Nancy Elizabeth, Megson - plus more to be announced!* Visit Nancy Elizabeth on My Space "here":http://www.myspace.com/nancyelizabethcunliffe Visit Megson's website "here":http://www.megsonmusic.co.uk/
  
  
  

• 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'
  

• Chant d'Amour  

  Tue 20 May Symphony Hall

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

• Chant d'Amour  

  Thu 22 May Symphony Hall

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

• The Salsa Ball in association with SalsaFever.com 

  Sat 8 Nov Town Hall

  Go Latin in Birmingham at one of the finest music halls in the country. An evening of salsa grooves from the UK’s hottest salsa band. Award-winning Alex Wilson is at the helm of his renowned 12-piece Salsa Orchestra, a scintillating line-up of the best contemporary salsa rhythm, brass and vocal musicians, for the Midlands launch of his new album. Before the full salsa showdown, loosen up those Latino limbs in the hands of our host Rohan Brown and expert instructors from Salsafever.com, with free classes and salsa DJs from 8pm onwards. _‘Alex Wilson has been slaying ‘em with his authentic, exciting Afro-Cuban’_ *Mojo* _‘It’s tempting to wear a hat to his gigs just to be able to throw it up in the air!’_ *Guardian* £18.50 Dress to impress - black tie preferred but not essential. *Tickets also available from www.salsafever.com*
  Alex Wilson Salsa Orchestra
  
  

• Steve Harley and Cockney Rebel Please note: There will a support act for this event; Simon Le Fort. 

  Sun 8 Jun Town Hall

  After 34 years of touring the world, Steve Harley still says, "Playing Live is the biggest thrill there is. Every night is different. Every audience and every town have their own personality, and I am a relentless explorer". Steve Harley & Cockney Rebel will be appearing in a show that will cover a 12-album career, with tracks from each one. _The Human Menagerie_, the band's debut release, caused a sensation in 1973, with a 40-piece orchestra and 30-piece choir augmenting the band on Steve's mega-hit, the mysterious _Sebastian_ and the enigmatic _Death Trip._ The current release, _The Quality Of Mercy_ has been described by many as possibly the best album Steve has ever made. The list of hits is considerable, including _Judy Teen_, _Mr Soft_, _Here Comes The Sun_, _Mr Raffles_, _Love's a Prima Donna_, but the biggest of all is, of course, *_Make Me Smile (Come Up And See Me)_*. The song has been covered by other artists over 100 times, in several languages.
  
  
  

• Anglo-Welsh Festival - Canoldir Male Choir 43rd Annual Concert  

  Sat 18 Apr Symphony Hall

  Enjoy an evening of spine-tingling choral music from a unique blend of over 400 male voices drawn from choirs all over England and Wales. Guests are local violinist John Garner, and from Guernsey, Les Chansonelles, a ladies choir who won Gold at the recent World Choir Olympics. £7.50, £15, £20, £22, £25 60plus/students £5 (Grand Tier only)
  Choirs and artists performing in tonight's concert include: *Canoldir Male Choir* *Cardiff Arms Park Male Choir* *Dowlais Male Choir* *Kidderminster Male Choir* *Kenfig Hill Male Choir* *Les Chansonelles* *John Garner* *Leigh Orpheus Male Choir* *Neath Male Choir* *Shrewsbury Male Choir* *Penybontafawr Male Choir* *Pontypridd Male Choir*
  
  

• Takács Quartet  

  Wed 14 Nov Town Hall

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

• Nitin Sawhney: A Throw Of Dice Silent movie with live music  

  Sat 27 Oct Symphony Hall

  Songwriter, DJ and composer Nitin Sawhney has broken down the barriers between pop and classical and now, in a stunning soundtrack to the 1929 Indian cinema classic, _A Throw of Dice (Prapancha Pash)_, explores his South Asian roots. The film and Nitin's score caused a sensation when first performed last year. The story of two rival kings addicted to gambling and the same woman, the film used over 10,000 extras, 1000 horses and 50 elephants provided by the royal houses of Jaipur, Udaipur and Mysore. *Post-concert conversation:Adil Ray and Nitin Sawhney*
  *Nitin Sawhney* Composer, Celeste *Northern Sinfonia* *Stephen Hussey* Conductor *Davinder Singh* Vocals *Tina Grace* Vocals *Reena Bhardwaj* Vocals *Aref Durvesh* Tabla *Ashwin Srinivasan* Flutes
  
  

• Speaker's Corner  

  Fri 30 Nov Town Hall

  ‘Street sounds and stories find where freedom lives’ Speaker’s Corner is a new piece of music theatre, spearheaded by Black British icon Don Letts - film and music maverick and author of Culture Clash: Dread meets Punk rockers. He’s teamed up with cutting-edge MCs, lyricists, and artists at the forefront of live poetry, asian underground, Reggae and grime, backed by a distinctively dubbased house band and original visuals. In a contemporary response to the anniversary of the abolition of the slave trade act, each writer is ignited by the question ‘What does it mean to be free today?’, embracing themes from the arrival experience to Rasta and the bling culture of hip hop. A Contemporary music network tour with support from Arts Council of England & Decibel. In association with Birmingham Repertory Theatre and the Albany.
  *Don Letts* Presenter
  Mad Flow Malika Booker Shane Solanki Yusura Warsama Decifer RT
  

• An Acoustic Evening with AL STEWART special guest Laurence Juber 

  Tue 12 May Town Hall

  Magical history tours have been Al Stewart’s trademark since the early 1970s. From early albums _Past, Present & Future, Modern Times, The Year of the Cat, Time Passages_ to the more recent _A Beach Full of Shells_ and _Sparks of Ancient Light_ his erudite lyrics, instantly recognisable drawl, and seductive tunes present him at the top of his art. Braiding historical fact and speculative imagination into musical short stories that whisk us up, down and sideways in time and place, he displays the emotions that transcend any fixed moment - imagination, creative talent, and a historian’s calm eye for the great and small incidents that shape personal and global events.
  *Featuring Laurence Juber*
  
  

• Jansen Plays Beethoven  

  Thu 15 Nov Symphony Hall

  The young British conductor Robin Ticciati has already achieved an international reputation in his early twenties, and tonight makes his CBSO debut alongside one of the world's great violinists, herself now a regular visitor to Birmingham. Dvorák composed his flowing, tuneful Third Symphony in 1873 when he was still under the spell of Wagner, so what better work with which to open the evening than the visionary prelude to that composer’s final opera? Free pre-concert talk 6.15pm 6.15pm pre-concert talk
  *Robin Ticciati* Conductor *Janine Jansen* Violin *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra*
  *Wagner*: Parsifal Prelude *Dvorák*: Symphony No. 3 *Beethoven*: Violin Concerto
  

• CBSO Youth Orchestra Academy Conductor Michael Seal - Mathias, Shchedrin, Beethoven 

  Sat 1 Sep Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

  Be there at the start of something special - the inaugural concert of the CBSO Youth Orchestra Academy, a virtuoso chamber orchestra drawn from the membership of the CBSO's acclaimed Youth Orchestra. The Youth Orchestra's brass show their mettle in a modern Welsh showpiece, before CBSO Assistant Conductor Michael Seal leads our young players through Shchedrin's hilarious, very Russian re-imagining of Bizet's opera. Beethoven's most brilliant symphony brings the evening to a flying finish. www.cbsoyouthorchestra.com *TICKETS FOR THIS EVENT NOW AVAILABLE ON THE DOOR ONLY*
  Michael Seal conductor
  *Programme to include:* *Mathias* Summer Dances *Shchedrin* Carmen Suite *Beethoven* Symphony No. 4
  

• CBSO - Prokofiev & Shostakovich  

  Thu 21 Jun Symphony Hall

  Two of today's most exciting artists return to the CBSO for a programme with a distinctly Russian flavour. Shostakovich's Tenth Symphony is one of the composer's finest works and offers the composer's personal response to the deaths on the same day in 1953 of his great friend Prokofiev, also represented tonight by his superb Second Piano Concerto and his greatest enemy, Josef Stalin. One gets a deeply-felt elegy, the other a vicious scherzo � no prizes for guessing which! Copland's 1920s classic starts the evening in energetic style. PLEASE NOTE this concert is being performed on 21 June @ 7.30pm and 23 June @ 7pm
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Ilan Volkov* Conductor *Nikolai Lugansky* Piano
  *Copland* Dance Symphony 18' *Prokofiev* Piano Concerto No 2 31' *Shostakovich* Symphony No 10 48'
  

• CBSO - Prokofiev & Shostakovich  

  Sat 23 Jun Symphony Hall

  Two of today's most exciting artists return to the CBSO for a programme with a distinctly Russian flavour. Shostakovich's Tenth Symphony is one of the composer's finest works and offers the composer's personal response to the deaths on the same day in 1953 of his great friend Prokofiev, also represented tonight by his superb Second Piano Concerto and his greatest enemy, Josef Stalin. One gets a deeply-felt elegy, the other a vicious scherzo � no prizes for guessing which! Copland's 1920s classic starts the evening in energetic style. PLEASE NOTE this concert is being performed on 21 June @ 7.30pm and 23 June @ 7pm
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Ilan Volkov* Conductor *Nikolai Lugansky* Piano
  *Copland* Dance Symphony 18' *Prokofiev* Piano Concerto No 2 31' *Shostakovich* Symphony No 10 48'
  

• Andy Williams in Concert  

  Wed 4 Jul Symphony Hall

  Andy Williams has had a truly amazing career that has included numerous classic hits, his long running hit TV show and singing the magnificent Moon River, the Oscar winning song from the film Breakfast at Tiffany's. Don't miss this true international superstar and see why his career is still going strong. *Encore Lounge* Enjoy pre-concert and interval drinks and canapes in an exclusive lounge area on selected evening concerts for £17.90 per person. Advance booking is essential. For further information and to book, please contact Emily Waller, Symphony Hall Catering Manager on 0121 644 5102 or email catering@symphonyhall.co.uk. (Concert tickets are not included in the price of the dining packages.)
  
  
  

• Coppers for Kids Charity concert in aid of Action for Children 

  Sat 28 Feb Town Hall

  This unique charity concert in aid of Action for Children brings together two of the country’s finest police choirs and the West Midlands Police Brass Band and features special guests, the glamorous Second City Sound Ladies Chorus for an evening filled with light, popular and entertaining music.
  West Midlands Police Male Voice Choir West Midlands Police Brass Band and Corps of drums (performing with kind permission of the Chief Constable Sir Paul Scott-Lee QPM) Hereford Police Choir featuring special guests Second city Sound Ladies Chorus
  
  

• 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.
  
  
  

• Beverley Knight Plus Special Guests 

  Mon 29 Oct Symphony Hall

  UK Soul Queen Beverley Knight embarks on her biggest ever UK tour. Following the success of last year’s quarter of a million selling Greatest Hits CD, “Voice”, award winning UK singer songwriter Beverley Knight released her eagerly awaited 5th studio album, ‘Music City Soul’ on 7th May 2007. Recorded in 5 days Nashville, Tennessee (known as ‘Music City’ due to it’s rich musical heritage), ‘Music City Soul’ sees Beverley adopting a live, organic soul sound that pushes her gospel roots to the fore - and the result is electric. The album is produced by Mark Nevers (producer of last year’s acclaimed Candi Staton album) and features a fine collection of local Tennessee musicians who have played with legends such as Elvis Presley and Al Green. ‘Music City Soul’ also features the guitar playing of legendary Rolling Stone Ronnie Wood on three tracks.
  
  
  

• Anton & Erin - Cheek to Cheek  

  Wed 25 Mar Symphony Hall

  Join Anton du Beke and Erin Boag from BBC’s ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ in a glamorous celebration of Ballroom and Latin song and dance. Accompanied by world salsa champions Chris Marques and Jaclyn Spencer, Anton and Erin will combine sophistication and seduction in an exhilarating mix of dance styles from the Tango, Rumba and Cha-Cha-Cha to the ballroom elegance of the Waltz and Foxtrot. Classic hit songs such as: Fly me to the Moon, Take Five, Sing, Sing, Sing and It don’t mean a thing if it ain’t got that swing, will be mixed with music from the Golden Age of Hollywood by Irving Berlin, Cole Porter, Jerome Kern and George and Ira Gershwin. The vibrant Latin influences of Kings of Jazz Tito Puente and Perez Prado will complete this heady evening featuring the best of music, song and dance. £15, £19.50, £27.50, £31.50, £36, £39.50
  
  
  

• Elgar's 150th: The Enigma Evening 

  Sat 15 Dec Symphony Hall

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

• Los Arrieritos in ‘13 Rosas’ - UK Premier  

  Sat 10 Nov Town Hall

  Spectacular dance and live music create a profound and moving performance that has scooped top awards in Spain and throughout Europe. An unforgettable experience and an artistic highlight of 2007, 13 Rosas is a thrilling flamenco dance performance portraying the lives of thirteen women fighting for freedom, fighting for their lives. Spain’s respected El Mundo newspaper said: “The way they have distilled with such simplicity both the reality of the situation and the emotional state is extraordinary…” With Birmingham their only UK date, 13 Rosas is a compelling dance and music drama which touches the heart and fires the imagination, an inspiring story from the tragic Spanish Civil War. Los Arrieritos features a company of flamenco and contemporary dance soloists, musicians and top production team - a combination that has just won two prestigious “Max” awards (the Spanish equivalent of the Olivier Awards) for best choreography and best dance performance of the year. Audiences and critics throughout Spain have been raving about Los Arrieritos and this, their most powerful show to date. Unmissable.
  
  
  

• A Choral Extravaganza- Canoldir Male Choir 42nd Annual Concert  

  Sat 19 Apr Symphony Hall

  *With Cantorion Sirenian Singers &* *National Children’s Choir of Great Britain* Birmingham’s very own Canoldir Male Choir present a memorable evening of choral music ranging from the grandeur of Handel’s Zadoc the Priest to the poignantly simple Welsh love song Lisa LânSung by choristers young and old from all parts of the United Kingdom. Featuring the Cantorion Sirenian Singers, the world renowned Welsh mixed choir who took the title “Choir of the World” at the 1998 Llangollen International Music Eisteddford. With the hugely successful National Children’s Choir of Great Britain along with the beautiful voices of their own chamber choir Dulce Corum. They will be supported by the very talented choirs from Edgbaston High School for Girls.
  
  
  

• CBSO Youth Orchestra  

  Fri 31 Oct Symphony Hall

  Even by Mahler’s own standards, his Seventh Symphony is extraordinary. He called it a “song of the night”, though it ends in roof-raising jubilation. But first comes a fantastic journey through a world of dreams, nightmares, moonlit lovesongs and romance. It’s a whole new musical world - so who better to play it than our renowned Youth Orchestra, under the brilliant Dutch maestro Jac van Steen? If you heard the CBSO Youth Orchestra’s stunning performances of Nielsen and Bartók last season, you’ll know to expect an unforgettable evening as our superb young players tackle their most challenging programme yet. bq.These committed and gifted youngsters produced performances which would put many professional bodies to shame, with crisp articulation, impressively accurate intonation, but, above all, a depth of tone and confidence of phrasing which really denotes an ensemble of the highest class.bq. Musical Opinion
  Jac van Steen - conductor
  Mahler: Symphony No. 7 80’
  

• In Love... With Renée Fleming  

  Mon 2 Nov Symphony Hall

  There are few more famous divas than soprano Renée Fleming, whose fame has soared into realms normally reserved for pop music superstars. The effortless ease of her distinctive tone brings a breathtaking sheen to every note she sings. She returns to symphony Hall after a break of six years in a programme on the theme of love. Classic FM’s Anne-Marie Minhall, says of tonight’s recommended concert: _"Renée Fleming is undoubtedly a soprano in a league of her own. The double Grammy winner is an outstanding solo performer. Don’t miss this chance to catch this world-class singer live.”_
  *Renée Fleming* _soprano_ *Royal Philharmonic Orchestra* *Charles Dutoit* _conductor_
  *Tchaikovsky* Fantasy Overture, _Romeo and Juliet_ *Tchaikovsky* Tatyana's Letter Scene from _Eugene Onegin_ *Prokofiev* Suite, _Romeo and Juliet_ *Puccini, Mascagni & Cilea* Italian Operatic Arias
  

• Ian Bostridge Sings Schubert An Evening of Songs by Schubert 

  Thu 8 Nov Symphony Hall

  In recent times no other English tenor has attracted the public's attention like Ian Bostridge. His performances are marked by a subtlety and understatement that have made him one of the most respected performers of song ranging from Schubert to Noel Coward. His recital explores a wide range from some of Schubert's six hundred or so lieder, including favourites such as _Die Forelle (The Trout), Im Frühling, Der liebliche Stern, Nachtviolen_ and _Im Walde_.
  *Ian Bostridge* Tenor *Julius Drake* Piano
  Im Frühling Űber Wildemann Der liebliche Stern Tiefes Leid Auf der Brücke Aus “Heliopolis” l Aus “Heliopolis” ll Abendbilder Ins stille Land Totengräbers Heimweh *Interval* Auf der Riesenkoppe Sei mir gegrüsst Daß sie hier gewesen Die Forelle Des Fischers Liebesglück Fischerweise Atys Nachtviolen Geheimnis Im Walde (Waldesnacht)
  

• Wolfgang Rihm's I Am A Mistake  

  Thu 6 Dec Symphony Hall

  From July 2007, smoking in public buildings in England becomes illegal. There will be many though, including the leading German composer Wolfgang Rihm, who continue to resist what society says they should think or do, including smoking. _I Am A Mistake_ is a passionate plea against political correctness and a rhapsodic love-song to smoking, in the composer's words, "the pleasure that is trying to kill me." Bringing together film, live music, song and dance, _I Am A Mistake_ has been created in collaboration with Jan Fabre, one of the most radical and innovative artists working today.
  *Jan Fabre* Text, Scenography and Direction *Jan Fabre and the dancers* Choreography *Chantal Akerman* Film *Wolfgang Rihm* Musical Composition *Lucas Vis* Conductor *Miet Martens* Assistant to Jan Fabre and Dramaturg *Hilde Van Mieghem* Speaker *Ensemble Recherche & Guest Artists* Musicians *Matthias Horn & Johannes M. Kosters* Singers *Sylvia Camarda, Manon Avermaete, Eleonora Mercatali, Tawny Andersen* Dancers
  
  

• Boulez In Birmingham 2: The Warehouse Ensemble Edwin Roxbrough Conductor 

  Fri 9 May Town Hall

  The second of two concerts from ‘Boulez in Birmingham’, a celebration with Pierre Boulez, given by Birmingham Conservatoire and the Park Lane Group. This evening concert includes one of Boulez’s most influential works, Le marteau sans maître alongside his Sur Incises, preceded by the shorter solo piano work Incises, on which it is based. As part of this event, Pierre Boulez will receive an Honorary Doctorate from Birmingham City University/Birmingham Conservatoire. *6.30pm Pre-concert Talk* With Robert Piencikowski of the Paul Sacher Foundation For full ‘Boulez in Birmingham’ listings visit www.conservatoire.bcu.ac.uk £12, Students £2.50, 60 plus/under 16’s/unwaged £8 Choir benches not available.
  *The Warehouse Ensemble* *Edwin Roxburgh* Conductor *Peter O’Hagan* Piano
  *Boulez* Le marteau sans maître 35’ *Boulez* Incises 4’ *Boulez* Sur Incises 50
  

• Anton and Erin - Cheek to Cheek  

  Fri 16 Jan 2009 Symphony Hall

  Join Anton du Beke and Erin Boag from BBC’s ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ in a glamorous celebration of Ballroom and Latin song and dance. Accompanied by world salsa champions Chris Marques and Jaclyn Spencer, Anton and Erin will combine sophistication and seduction in an exhilarating mix of dance styles from the Tango, Rumba and Cha-Cha-Cha to the ballroom elegance of the Waltz and Foxtrot. Classic hit songs such as: Fly me to the Moon, Take Five, Sing, Sing, Sing and It don’t mean a thing if it ain’t got that swing, will be mixed with music from the Golden Age of Hollywood by Irving Berlin, Cole Porter, Jerome Kern and George and Ira Gershwin. The vibrant Latin influences of Kings of Jazz Tito Puente and Perez Prado will complete this heady evening featuring the best of music, song and dance. £15, £19.50, £27.50, £31.50, £36, £39.50
  
  
  

• Here Come the Classics Royal Philharmonic Orchestra 

  Sun 6 May Symphony Hall

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

• Beethoven's Eroica Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra  

  Fri 14 Mar 2008 Symphony Hall

  Christened by The Times as the "Volcano from Vladikavkaz" Tugan Sokhiev is the latest in a long tradition of dynamic young Russian conductors. Two of Beethoven's most powerful works make up his programme, the ground-breaking Eroica Symphony and smoulderingly tragic Coriolan Overture. Sarah Chang, one of the most sought after young violinists, is the soloist in the majestic sweep of Brahms's Violin Concerto. Classic FM's Anne-Marie Minhall says of tonight's recommended concert: _"Sarah Chang performing live is an event not to be missed. She's a dynamic violinist who always delivers. Beethoven tops and tails the concert and the epic Eroica was in fact the composer's own favourite symphony of the nine he produced."_
  *Tugan Sokhiev* Conductor *Sarah Chang* Violin
  *Beethoven* Overture, Coriolan 10' *Brahms* Violin Concerto 42' *Beethoven* Symphony No3, Eroica 50'
  

• Celebrating Messiaen  

  Fri 20 Jun Town Hall

  The Conservatoire’s end of year concert celebrates the centenary of the birth of Olivier Messiaen in tremendous style, while marking the end of the New Generation Arts Festival and the start of Messiaen 2008, a weekend of concerts and a major international conference devoted to the composer, hosted by Birmingham Conservatoire. Ranging from his first published orchestral work, the remarkable Les Offrandes oubliées, written when he was just twenty-one years old, to the musical souvenirs of Japan of Sept Haïkaï, the evening provides a glimpse of the diversity of Messiaen’s music. £10, 60 plus/Under 16’s/Unwaged £8, Students £2.50
  *Birmingham Conservatoire Symphony Orchestra* *Lionel Friend* conductor *Rebeca Omordia* piano *Colin Scott* piano
  Messiaen Les Offrandes oubliées Messiaen Sept Haïkaï Debussy Prélude à l’après-midi d’un faune Messiaen L’Ascension Messiaen Oiseaux exotiques
  

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

  Sat 5 Jul Town Hall

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

• Black Voices & London Adventist Chorale  

  Fri 6 Jun Town Hall

  If you love inspirational gospel singing, don’t miss the stunning London Adventist Chorale, one of the world’s best gospel choirs. They’re joining Town Hall Associate Artists Black Voices in an uplifting programme of inspirational gospel and spirituals old and new, alongside new music from LAC’s charismatic young director Ken Burton. Ken led the fantastic Town Hall Gospel Choir in last year’s Reopening Concert, and they’ll be joining the party in a special guest appearance. “The London Adventist Choral stole the show with gospel fervour. Their conductor, Ken Burton, was clearly the coolest man in the postal district and probably the planet!” Evening Standard
  *London Adventist Chorale, Director Ken Burton* *Black Voices, Music Director Carol Pemberton*
  
  

• 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.
  
  
  

• Rob Brydon plus support - Hal Cruttenden 

  Wed 29 Apr Symphony Hall

  *Just Announced! Rob Brydon Returns To Symphony Hall on 3 October. "Click Here":http://www.thsh.co.uk/view/rob-brydon2 to book tickets* Rob Brydon's credits read like a compendium of modern British comedy. _Marion & Geoff, Human Remains, I'm Alan Partridge, Black Books, The Keith Barret Show, A Cock and Bull Story, Little Britain, Director's Commentary, Have I Got News For You, I'm Sorry I Haven't a Clue, Q.I._ and most recently his highly acclaimed performance as Uncle Bryn in _Gavin and Stacey_. Now this multi award winning writer / performer comes to Symphony Hall with an evening of brand new stand up comedy. 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. £18.50
  
  
  

• CBSO A Soirée with the Labèques  

  Thu 18 Feb 2010 Symphony Hall

  It’s a real pleasure to welcome back to Birmingham the amazing Labèque sisters, for one of the most sparkling of all French pieces, Poulenc’s delightful double concerto. They also bring their uniquely gallic flair to Debussy’s masterpiece for two pianos, while rising French star Lionel Bringuier makes his CBSO debut conducting three very different orchestral showpieces from his homeland. Ravel’s sumptuous Spanish fantasy brings the evening to an exuberant finish.
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Lionel Bringuier* _conductor_ *Katia & Marielle Labèque* _piano_
  *Berlioz* Overture, _Le Corsaire_ 9’ *Debussy* _En blanc et noir_ 16’ *Poulenc* Concerto for two pianos 20’ *Roussel* Symphony No 3 24’ *Ravel* _Rapsodie espagnole_ 17’
  

• Anton & Erin - Cheek to Cheek No judges, just dancin’ 

  Fri 16 Jan 2009 Symphony Hall

  Join Anton du Beke and Erin Boag from BBC’s ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ in a glamorous celebration of Ballroom and Latin song and dance. Accompanied by world salsa champions Chris Marques and Jaclyn Spencer, Anton and Erin will combine sophistication and seduction in an exhilarating mix of dance styles from the Tango, Rumba and Cha-Cha-Cha to the ballroom elegance of the Waltz and Foxtrot. Classic hit songs such as: *Fly me to the Moon*, *Take Five*, *Sing, Sing, Sing* and *It don’t mean a thing if it ain’t got that swing*, will be mixed with music from the Golden Age of Hollywood by *Irving Berlin*, *Cole Porter*, *Jerome Kern* and *George* and *Ira Gershwin*. The vibrant Latin influences of Kings of Jazz *Tito Puente* and *Perez Prado* will complete this heady evening featuring the best of music, song and dance.
  London Concert Orchestra conducted by Gavin Sutherland
  
  

• Sir Willard White: Robeson Re-Explored  

  Wed 9 Dec Town Hall

  Paul Robeson was revered in his lifetime as an athlete, actor, cultural scholar, author, political activist and singer of rare gifts. In celebration of his four appearances at Town Hall, Sir Willard White, his band, and the Town Hall Gospel Choir explore Robeson’s life story with an evening of the songs he made immortal, including, of course, the legendary _Ol’ Man River_. _“It takes a larger-than-life figure to begin to pay homage to Paul Robeson . . . Willard White has charisma and vocal power to spare”_ The Times
  *Sir Willard White* *Pavão String Quartet* *Guy Barker* _trumpet_ *Neal Thornton* _piano and arrangements_ *Geoff Gascoyne* _bass_ *Richard Bolton* _guitar_ *Mark Doffman* _drums_ *Town Hall Gospel Choir*
  
  

• Inspired by Bach  

  Wed 22 Apr Symphony Hall

  More composers have been inspired by Bach than by any other composer. Tonight Andris Nelsons takes us to Brahms’ final symphony - with its finale based on music from a Bach cantata - by way of Berg’s highly expressive violin concerto - which quotes a Bach chorale at its emotional climax - and the tiny trumpet concerto in which Arvo Pärt incorporates the great man’s name. Elgar’s sumptuous arrangement of some genuine Bach sets the evening off in splendid style. 6.15pm - Pre Concert Talk - Inspired by Bach Stephen Johnson, presenter of BBC Radio 3’s Discovering Music, explores the hidden connections behind tonight’s programme.
  Andris Nelsons - conductor Isabelle van Keulen - violin Jonathan Holland - trumpet City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra
  Bach (orch. Elgar): Fantasia and Fugue in C minor 8’ Berg: Violin Concerto 25’ Pärt: Concerto Piccolo on B-A-C-H 8’ Brahms: Symphony No. 4 42’
  

• 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.
  
  
  

• 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
  

• Roger Hodgson NO SUPPORT 

  Thu 11 Oct Symphony Hall

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

• 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.
  

• 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.
  

• The Music of Andrew Lloyd Webber  

  Sun 22 Mar Symphony Hall

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

• Beyond the Barricade 8th record-breaking year 

  Sun 22 Apr Symphony Hall

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

• Re-opening Organ Concert Evening  

  Wed 17 Oct Town Hall

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

• CBSO Friday Night Classics: Winter Wonderland  

  Fri 11 Dec Symphony Hall

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

• Christmas Gala  

  Fri 14 Dec Symphony Hall

  Angela Rippon introduces a delightful assortment of festive music and merriment for this special time of year.
  *Angela Rippon* Presenter *Fraser Goulding* Conductor *Stephanie Corley* Soprano *Luke Bowen* Treble *Paul O’Neill* Tenor *London Concert Orchestra*
  *RIMSKY-KORSAKOV* Christmas Eve Polonaise *HUMPERDINCK* Evening Prayer Hansel and Gretel *PUCCINI* Christmas Love Duet La bohème *STRAUSS* Die Fledermaus Overture *TCHAIKOVSKY* The Nutcracker Suite *BACH* Ave Maria *FRANCK* Panis Angelicus *ANDERSON* A Christmas Festival, Sleigh Ride, The Typewriter, Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer, Jingle Bells, White Christmas, *CAROLS FOR ALL* including Hark! The Herald Angels Sing, God Rest You Merry Gentlemen, The First Nowell, Away In A manger
  

• 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.
  

• CBSO Nelsons Conducts Bruckner's Third  

  Wed 25 Nov Symphony Hall

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

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

  Fri 17 Oct Town Hall

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

• Soweto Gospel Choir African Spirit 

  Sat 2 Feb 2008 Symphony Hall

  Don’t miss the Grammy Award Winning Soweto Gospel Choir as they return to the UK with their new show _African Spirit_. Soweto Gospel Choir have won critical acclaim and performed to full houses around the world and sung alongside Robert Plant, Bono and Peter Gabriel and been heralded as the most exciting group to emerge in World Music in recent years. Featuring incredible singers, dancer and drummers, _African Spirit_ is guaranteed to stir your soul and capture the beauty and passion that is Africa. _“Soaring and ecstatic, brought the house down”_ Washington Post _“A truly otherwordly sound that literally takes the breath away, dazzling”_ The Scotsman _“Moving and inspirational”_ Evening News 2006 Grammy Winners for Best Traditional World Music Album "African Spirit Trailer":http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iOMJp7qPZFM&eurl=http://www.hdksites.co.uk/soweto/
  
  
  

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

  Thu 3 Sep Symphony Hall

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

• 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
  
  
  

• London Philharmonic Orchestra Classic FM recommended 

  Wed 25 Apr Symphony Hall

  Annie-Marie Minhall, news reader and presenter of Classic FM's Newsnight, introduces tonight's Classic FM recommended concert "Two great violinists in fewer than seven days at Symphony Hall � Christmas has come early! On Thursday it was Joshua Bell and this evening it�s the turn of Vadim Repin. We have a double bill of music by Brahms. The concert begins with his Violin Concerto in D. Just like his hero Beethoven, Brahms, whose natural home was sat at the piano, wrote just the one concerto for the violin. But if you came up with the masterpiece that Brahms did � why would you attempt another one? Expect some fiery passion from the Siberian violinist. The second half is devoted to Brahms Symphony No 1 � sometimes called Beethoven�s 10th. Brahms felt so much in Beethoven�s shadow that he destroyed many of his own symphonic attempts before finally producing his first in his forties. As the man himself said: �a symphony is no joke.�
  *Vladamir Jurowski* Conductor *Vadim Repin* Violin
  *Brahms* Violin Concerto *Brahms* Symphony No 1
  

• Taraf De Haidouks plus Forty Thieves Orkestar 

  Wed 28 Nov Town Hall

  "the Taraf De Haidouks are the greatest musicians I know-they play a music which expresses the most intense joy, and have this gift to make you feel alive" Johnny Depp Here’s an opportunity to catch some of the most uplifting and joyous music you will ever hear, courtesy of the world’s greatest gypsy band taraf de haïdouks (literally ‘Band of Brigands’). Their shows have taken the world by storm bursting with intense passion and energy that’s guaranteed to get you dancing. Many composers have incorporated gypsy music into their works, and tonight Taraf turns the tables by re-gypsifying works by Bartók, Manuel de Falla, and even Birmingham’s own Albert Ketèlbey. Forty Thieves Orkestar open the evening with their delicious blend of Eastern and Balkan melodies, served piping hot over dub, breaks and hip-hop beats. Thief in chief Aiden Love and his club cohorts promise a night of club sounds, bittersweet melodies and solid percussive grooves.
  
  
  

• 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_.
  
  
  

• 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'
  

• An Evening with Curtis Stigers No support 

  Tue 29 Sep Town Hall

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

• 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
  
  
  

• Rattle Conducts Schumann  

  Fri 19 Dec Symphony Hall

  Earlier this year, Sir Simon Rattle picked music by Schumann as one of his eight choices on Desert Island Discs. Now he turns his attention to two of the composer’s most popular works: the fresh and vibrant _Spring Symphony_ and the _Rhenish Symphony_ - a joyous celebration of the Rhineland, the awe-inspiring gothic architecture of Cologne Cathedral and, of course, the river itself. *Classic FM’s Anne-Marie Minhall says of tonight’s recommended concert:* _Fresh from his role as one of the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra’s Artists Laureate 2008 for the European Capital of Culture, Sir Simon Rattle returns to his former stomping ground here in Birmingham. This evening he’ll be conducting the OAE, an orchestra he’s been closely associated with for many years now. Rattle is one of just six conductors who’ve been key in the development of this self-governing orchestra established more than twenty years ago. It was he who took the OAE to Glyndebourne for the first time in 1989 with Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro; the orchestra is now a regular visitor to the East Sussex festival._ "Classic FM":http://www.classicfm.co.uk Tickets £5-£45
  *Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment* *Sir Simon Rattle* conductor
  *Berlioz* King Lear overture 15’ *Schumann* Symphony No 1, Spring 32’ *Schumann* Symphony No 3, Rhenish 33’
  

• 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
  
  
  

• Show of Hands with Miranda Sykes special guest Flossie Malavialle 

  Thu 12 Nov Town Hall

  England’s finest acoustic roots duo, Show of Hands, embark on an extensive tour of English venues. Having sold out the Royal Albert Hall three times, headlined at festivals from Glastonbury to WOMAD, supported the likes of Peter Gabriel and Jools Holland, what could be more apt for the Devon-based act described by Peter Gabriel as “one of the great English bands” *Steve Knightley*, described by Radio 2’s Mike Harding as “one of England’s great singer songwriters”, and *Phil Beer*, nominated for the coveted “Musician of the Year” title at the 2009 BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards, are joined by the richly talented Miranda Sykes on double bass and vocals. This is not folk as you know it, being edgier and nudging the mainstream, it pitches into rock, blues, country and world music, played on an eye-defying multitude of instruments from slide guitar to fiddle, mandolin to South American cuatro. Starting the show each night will be their special guest, the intriguing and unique French-Geordie *Flossie Malavialle*. WHAT PEOPLE SAY ABOUT SHOW OF HANDS: _“One of the great English bands”_ *Peter Gabriel* _“If you can find a more inspired, engaging and professional acoustic roots duo in England, take me to them”_ *The Independent* _“One of the most successful live bands on the scene”_ *The Guardian*
  
  
  

• Prom Praise  

  Sat 17 Oct Symphony Hall

  *Prom Praise* is a delightful blend of sacred and concert music, a unique and joyful fusion of performance with worship, combining the spirit of _Songs of Praise_ with the world-famous _Last Night of the Proms_. Presented by the All Souls Orchestra under the energetic and inimitable direction of Principal Conductor and Artistic Director, Noël Tredinnick, *Prom Praise* is a feast of orchestral and vocal music. There is an element of celebration too, when Noel and the Orchestra invite the audience to stand and join in to sing some favourite hymns and worship songs. On this return to Symphony Hall the Orchstra is thrilled to be joined by a host of exciting guests, including Dudley-born international Gospel singer Chris Eaton and worship-leader and songwriter Geraldine Latty. We are particularly delighted that former Bishop of Birmingham, Archbishop John Sentamu, will be able to join the evening and co-host the event.
  *Noël Tredinnick* conductor *All Souls Orchestra* *Prom Praise Birmingham Choir* *Chris Eaton* soloist *Geraldine Latty* soloist *Archbishop John Sentamu* guest speaker
  
  

• Ocean Colour Scene Pure Acoustic. Plus Support 

  Thu 17 Apr Town Hall

  Since last April’s studio album _On the Leyline_, Ocean Colour Scene spent the majority of 2007 doing what they do best, performing live to fans not only in the UK but taking in countries as far a field as Korea and Japan. A busy year indeed on the road which ended with the annual “OCS Christmas tour” which guitarist Steve Cradock spoke of recently on the band's website diary, “We really enjoyed these gigs, the response from the crowd was immense and only enhanced our performance.” The sell out dates included fantastic gigs in London, Liverpool, Birmingham, Newcastle and three sell out nights at the Barrowlands, Glasgow. Last summer saw the band performing at various festivals home and abroad, notably the V-Festivals and T-in-the-Park, which had fans rushing to the large tents to get inside. A testament to how popular this band still are after all these years, and the crowds it is capable of drawing in. On to 2008 where the lads have just recently announced a UK and Ireland Acoustic tour during April, playing at venues they have either not done before or haven’t visited for some time. “The lads and I are doing a small acoustic tour in April playing songs we never play, B-sides, album tracks, that kind of thing, don’t expect _Riverboat_ or _Day We Caught the Train_ we're hoping for it to be a bit more obscure, I'm looking forward to this, it will make a real change playing forgotten songs” explains Steve.
  
  
  

• Mendelssohn’s Elijah  

  Sat 18 Oct Town Hall

  Mendelssohn’s Elijah is one of the mightiest of all choral works, with an heroic grandeur that sweeps all before it. The work runs in Birmingham’s blood since it was commissioned for the 1846 Birmingham Music Festival and premiered at Town Hall. Tonight, to inaugurate Mendelssohn’s bicentenary year of 2009, Elijah is performed by the critically acclaimed Ex Cathedra, in a new edition specially prepared for the occasion. The marriage of hall, history, outstanding singers and the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment make this an unmissable concert. *BBC Music magazine’s Editor, Oliver Condy, explains why he has recommended tonight’s concert:* _Beloved by choral societies up and down the country, Mendelssohn’s Elijah is one of the great oratorios, crammed to the brim with superb tunes. And where else to see Elijah than in Birmingham’s newly restored Town Hall? An unbeatable roster of performers should make for an unbeatable evening._ "BBC Music Magazine":http://www.bbcmusicmagazine.com
  *Ex Cathedra XL Anniversary Choir* *Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment* *Jeffrey Skidmore* conductor *Julia Doyle* soprano *Diana Moore* mezzo-soprano *Mark Padmore* tenor *Nicolas Mulroy* tenor *James Rutherford* bass
  *Mendelssohn* Elijah (1846)
  

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

  Fri 17 Apr Town Hall

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

• CBSO Lohengrin  

  Sat 12 Jun 2010 Symphony Hall

  A maiden in distress, a black-hearted count, a wicked sorceress and a mysterious knight in shining armour... no question, Wagner’s _Lohengrin_ is the ultimate Romantic opera. But it’s not just a stirring tale of chivalry and romance in medieval Europe. _Lohengrin_ is Wagner at his accessible best, filled with music of flamboyant colour and profound beauty. Just weeks before Andris Nelsons makes his hotly-awaited debut at Wagner’s own theatre in Bayreuth, Birmingham gets a one-off preview. With an all-star cast, the full CBSO and CBSC, and a conductor who loves Wagner above all other composers, this extraordinary evening will be one of the most talked-about concerts in Birmingham this year. Be sure to book early! Sung in German with English surtitles. This performance will include a 20-minute interval after Act 1 and a 90-minute dinner interval* (7.30-9pm) after Act 2. The performance finishes c10.15pm. *Dinner is not included in ticket price. Visit the "CBSO website":http://www.cbso.co.uk
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Andris Nelsons* conductor *Krassimira Stoyanova* Elsa *Lioba Braun* Ortrud *Eike Wilm Schulte* Telramund *Lance Ryan* Lohengrin *City of Birmingham Symphony Chorus* *City of Birmingham Symphony Youth Chorus*
  *Wagner* Lohengrin 225'
  

• Rhod Gilbert Rhod Gilbert & The Cat That Looked Like Nicholas Lyndhurst 

  Sun 27 Sep Town Hall

  Following last year’s sell-out tour and sensational performances on _The Royal Variety Performance_, _Live At The Apollo_, and _Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow_, the Welsh Wonder is back on the road with a brand new show. Last year, he punched a shop-assistant over the duvet tog-rating system and went berserk over a mince pie. This year Gilbert’s given his show a ridiculous title just to annoy someone in Canterbury. Is he, as he believes, a visionary in a sea of closed minds, or has he, as everyone else believes, got anger-management problems? Total sell-out, Edinburgh 2005-2008. if.comedy Nominee 2008. One of the hottest names in stand-up today. Catch him while you can. Comics’ Comic & Best Headliner Winner - Chortle 2009 Breakthrough Act Nominee - South Bank Awards 2009 Comic of the Year, Breakthrough Act and Best Show Winner - Time Out 2008 _“Comedy manna from heaven”_ The Independent _“Exhilarating stand up... sublime storytelling”_ The Scotsman _“Powerhouse”_ Metro _“Virtuoso performance... passionate and sparklingly funny”_ Chortle _“A rollercoaster... in comic terms he looks indomitable”_ The Guardian _“A joy to behold”_ The Times _“Blistering tour de force”_ Time Out _“Turbo-charged... magnificent”_ Evening Standard "Rhod Gilbert on MySpace":http://www.myspace.com/rhodgilbertcomedian
  
  
  

• Rodrigo's Guitar Concerto  

  Wed 20 May Symphony Hall

  An evening of dazzling Spanish orchestral showpieces played in truly authentic style by the orquesta Nacional de España. Rodrigo’s _Concierto de Aranjuez_ is the most famous of all guitar concertos, suffused with the atmosphere of hot Spanish nights and the animated rhythms of Spanish dance. No less evocative is Ravel’s _Rapsodie Espagnole_, one of the most captivating musical portraits ever painted of Spain. Ravel’s slow-burning Boléro brings this enjoyable concert to a climactic conclusion. Classic FM’s Anne-Marie Minhall says of tonight’s recommended concert: _'The players of the National Orchestra of Spain are fine ambassadors of Spanish music and culture and tonight, together with guitarist Jose Maria Gallardo Del Ray, they’ll be performing the much-loved Rodrigo Concerto. Since its premiere nearly seventy years ago in Madrid, the Concerto De Aranjuez has become a firm favourite. The composer dedicated his most-famous work to the Spanish classical guitarist, Regino Sainz de la Maza, who also gave the first public performance of the work.'_ "Classic FM":http://www.classicfm.co.uk
  *Orquesta Nacional de España* *Josep Pons* conductor *José María Gallardo* guitar
  *Turina* Danzas Fantásticas 17’ *Rodrigo* Concierto de Aranjuez 21’ *Ravel* Alborada del Gracioso 9’ *Ravel* Rapsodie Espagnole 15’ *Ravel* Boléro 13’
  

• 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
  
  
  

• Soweto Kinch: The Midnight Hop  

  Programme Change

  Sat 13 Oct Town Hall

  The _Midnight Hop_ is a jazz celebration of the forgotten stories of 18th- and 19th-century black musicians in England, inspired by the fabled 'Black Hops' informal jigs where the black population (including escaped or freed slaves) mingled with the poorer members of the white majority, provoking plentiful social comment. Over the past month, 28 talented young people aged 8 - 20 from Birmingham have had the opportunity to work with award-winning jazz saxophonist and Town Hall Associate Artist Soweto Kinch. The Young Midnight Hop participants have devised a music-theatre piece based on the hidden history of black musicians in England during the 18th and 19th centuries and issues around the 200th anniversary of the abolition of the transatlantic slave trade. The premiere of their piece, entitled _The Long Voyage_, will be performed in a special celebratory evening alongside a selection of music from Soweto's major new music-theatre piece _Midnight Hop_. Soweto Kinch is a Town Hall associate artist. Supported by Arts Council England West Midlands, Performing Right Society Foundation, The Steel Charitable Trust and Grantham Yorke Trust.
  *Soweto Kinch Jazz Ensemble* *Young Midnight Hop performers*
  
  

• Orchestra of the Swan: Tasmin Little plays Mendelssohn  

  Sun 10 May Town Hall

  In 2009 we celebrate the 200th anniversary of the birth of Mendelssohn and the death of Haydn with two of their most iconic works. Composed at the height of his powers, Haydn’s _Surprise_ Symphony is full of wit, humour and of course, surprises - and like all the best jokes, it can be told again and again. In contrast, Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto is elegant and refined: for many music lovers it is the ‘perfect’ concerto. We are delighted to have Tasmin Little, one of the UK’s most outstanding violinists, as soloist for this afternoon’s concert. _'... a bravura performance from both soloist and orchestra which moved forward to a frenetic and breathtaking climax.'_ MusicWeb on Tasmin Little with Orchestra of the Swan "Full review":http://www.musicweb-international.com/SandH/2009/jan-jun09/ots0105.htm _'Tasmin Little's warm personality and evident joy in engaging with music and her audience made her an excellent partner with David Curtis in this happy occasion, with a packed house and a family atmosphere... Mendelssohn's Violin concerto received a beautiful performance from Tasmin Little, balanced between the romantic and the classical, delicate and sweetly voiced in the second movement, bubbling with vitality in the finale. Like the whole evening, a delight from start to finish.'_ Birmingham Post on Tasmin Little with Orchestra of the Swan *Join Tasmin and David in conversation with Chris Morley at 1.30pm*
  *Orchestra of the Swan* *David Curtis* conductor *Tasmin Little* violin
  *Mendelssohn* Music from a Midsummer Night's Dream *Haydn* Symphony No 94, _Surprise_ *Roxanna Panufnik* Indian Summer *Mendelssohn* Violin Concerto
  

• Celebrity Piano Recital: Pascal Roge  

  Thu 8 May 2008 Town Hall

  Famed for its elegance, beauty and delicate phrasing, Pascal Roge's playing exemplifies all that is best in French pianism. After the recent release of his latest Debussy CD, the Evening Standard hailed Roge "[he] plays like no other pianist ... this is a record that sets new benchmarks in French music." Given in the intimate surroundings of the Town Hall, his recital focuses on Chopin and Debussy with miniatures by Faure, Ravel and Poulenc. BBC Music magazine's Editor, Oliver Condy, explains why he has recommended tonight's concert: "Pascal Roge is one of France's most accomplished pianists, declared an 'ambassador of French music'. And so he is. I've heard Roge perform the impressionist, stunning Debussy Preludes many times and you'll not hear a finer interpreter."
  
  *FAURE* 1er Nocturne op 33 No 1 *CHOPIN* 13ème Nocturne op 48 No 1 *POULENC* 1er Nocturne in C maj *RAVEL* 3 valses from Les Valses Nobles et Sentimentales Modéré Assez animé Presque lent, dans un sentiment intime *CHOPIN* Valse in C# min op 64 No 2 *DEBUSSY* Mazurka in B min *CHOPIN* Mazurka in B min op 33 No 4 *DEBUSSY* Etude pour les 8 doigts *CHOPIN* Etude op 25 No 1 *DEBUSSY* Etude pour les arpèges composées *CHOPIN* Etude op 10 No 12 ---------------------------- *DEBUSSY* Ballade *DEBUSSY* Prélude Les Fées sont d'exquises danseuses *CHOPIN* Prelude op 28 No 15 in Db maj *DEBUSSY* Preludes La Fille aux Cheveux de lin Le vent dans la plaine Ce qu'à vu le vent d'ouest *CHOPIN* Prelude op 28 No6 in B min *DEBUSSY* Preludes La terrasse des audiences au clair de lune Les Collines d'Anacapri Canope *CHOPIN* 4ème Ballade op 52 in F min
  

• 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
  
  
  

• Tchaikovsky From St Petersburg  

  Tue 14 Oct Symphony Hall

  The St Petersburg Philharmonic Orchestra is Russia’s oldest and most legendary orchestra, conducted by Tchaikovsky himself for the first performance of his tragic Pathétique Symphony. In tonight’s concert, this most emotional of all Russian works is heard next to the autumnal melancholy of Elgar’s cello concerto, in the hands of the wonderful Dutch cellist Quirine Viersen. *Classic FM's Anne-Marie Minhall says of tonight's recommended concert:* _I was lucky enough to see the St Petersburg Philharmonic and Yuri Temirkanov perform live in their home city a couple of years back. They’re an absolutely stunning orchestra to see (and hear) in action. Included in tonight’s programme is a short piece by the St Petersburg-born composer, Anatoli Liadov. Poor old Liadov was the composer who, unwittingly, changed the course of musical history by not writing something. It was he who was first approached by the maestro, Sergei Diaghilev, to write the score for a new ballet called The Firebird. Unfortunately for Liadov, he couldn’t get the score done in time and so the job went to one Igor Stravinsky instead._ "Classic FM":http://www.classicfm.co.uk 6.15pm pre-concert talk £5-£37.50 *We regret that due to illness Maestro Yuri Temerikanov has cancelled his engagements and is unable to appear with the St Petersburg Philharmonic Orchestra at SH on Tuesday 14 October. We are delighted that Yan Pascal Tortelier, Conductor Laureate of the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra, has agreed to stand in at short notice. The orchestra, programme and soloist remain unchanged*
  *St Petersburg Philharmonic Orchestra* *Yan Pascal Tortelier* conductor *Quirine Viersen* cello
  *Liadov* Kikimora 6’ *Elgar* Cello Concerto 28’ *Tchaikovsky* Symphony no 6, Pathetique 46’ *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.*
  

• Way to Blue - The Songs of Nick Drake: English Originals Featuring: Beth Orton, Graham Coxon, Camille O'Sullivan, Vashti Bunyan, Robyn Hitchcock, Jack Steadman, Kate St John, Neil MacColl, Zoe Rahman, Leo Abrahams, Martha Wainwright plus more 

  Sat 16 May Town Hall

  Undoubtedly one of the most influential English singer-songwriters of the last 50 years, Drake found little mainstream success during his lifetime. However since his untimely death at the age of 26, his fragile acoustic, autumnal music has touched the hearts of millions of people. This very special evening, curated by his producer Joe Boyd with arranger Robert Kirby, brings together an array of special guest artists to celebrate a unique talent. Featuring: Beth Orton, Graham Coxon, Camille O'Sullivan, Vashti Bunyan, Robyn Hitchcock, Jack Steadman, Kate St John, Neil MacColl, Zoe Rahman, Leo Abraham, Martha Wainwright plus more *Post concert talk - Looking into the Music of Nick Drake* With Joe Boyd - Nick's first producer, Robert Kirby - Nick's friend and arranger, and Robin Frederick - a music teacher and friend of Nick's who has the most remarkably sophisticated and accessible analysis of what makes Drake's music so unique.
  Produced by *Joe Boyd* Arrangements by *Robert Kirby* THE BAND: *Kate St John* MD, woodwind *Martin Barker* drums *Neil McColl* guitar *Danny Thompson* bass *Leo Abraham* guitar
  
  

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

  Tue 16 Oct Town Hall

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

• The Birmingham Philharmonic Environment Prom  

  Sun 26 Apr Symphony Hall

  The Birmingham Philharmonic Orchestra goes green in this concert celebrating the wonders of the environment. Hear how our chosen composers depict mountains, sunrises, rainstorms and soaring larks. Be prepared to be overawed by the majesty of Respighi’s _Pines of Rome_ and feel the ground tremble under the footsteps of Roman Armies marching past the glorious Pine Trees that line Rome’s Appian Way. Our prom also features the world premier of the orchestral version of _Ballads for a Living Planet_, a new choral work by composer Ian Barnett, orchestrated by Ivor McGregor. And to end our joyous evening, bring your flags and hooters for all of the usual prom favourites, and celebrate our 'Green and Pleasant Land'. During the day there will be a free exhibition by Midlands Schools who have gained "Eco School" status and the good work that they are doing to protect our environment. Details will be published nearer the time.
  *Birmingham Philharmonic Orchestra* *City of Birmingham Choir and guests* *Michael Lloyd* conductor *Anna Ovsyanikova* violin Concert promoted by the Chartered Institution of Water and Environmental Management (CIWEM) and the Birmingham Community Foundation
  *Mussorgsky* Night on Bare Mountain *Grofé* Sunrise, On the Trail, Rainstorm (Grand Canyon Suite) *Respighi* Pines of Rome *Vaughan Williams* Lark Ascending *Barnet* Ballad of a Living Planet *Falla* Ritual Fire Dance *H Wood* British Sea Songs *Elgar* Pomp & Circumstance March No 1 *Parry* Jerusalem *J Strauss II* Thunder and Lightning Polka
  

• American Dreams Classical Encounters with Orchestra of the Swan 

  Tue 19 Feb 2008 Town Hall

  What could be more American than a story of pioneering spirit as portrayed in Appalachian Spring or their love affair with the movies…Copland’s music captures both brilliantly. Samuel Barber’s setting of James Agee's remarkable prose poem Knoxville: summer of 1915, depicts a dreamy summer evening as seen through the eyes of a small child, both text and music appear deceptively simple yet are astonishingly beautiful. Based in Birmingham Joanna Lee is establishing a fine reputation with work performed by BCMG among others. One of her key inspiration is Luciano Berio, and his warmth and lightness-of-touch and her new work will be a perfect foil for the Samuel Barber. The soloist for both works is Jane Manning, one of the UK’s most highly regarded and singers. '....Orchestra of the Swan ought to give masterclasses in how to build audiences, a genuine empathy between the musicians and their listeners; programming is an exciting blend....conductor David Curtis can be found mingling with the punters....nothing could be further from the ivory tower....' Birmingham Post Supported by KPMG and Arts Council England "www.orchestraoftheswan.org":http://www.orchestraoftheswan.org
  Conductor - David Curtis Soprano - Jane Manning
  Copland - Music for the Movies Joanna Lee - New work** Barber - Knoxville: summer of 1915 Copland - Appalachian Spring ** Orchestra of the Swan commission and world premiere Pre-concert talk taking place in the auditorium at 6.30pm Post-concert Conversation Club taking place in the Circle Bar 15 minutes after the end of the performance. Entrance free to concert ticket holders
  

• 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.
  
  
  

• 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.
  
  
  

• 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
  
  
  

• Elvis Costello & The Brodsky Quartet  

  Fri 24 Apr Symphony Hall

  Iconic British singer-songwriter Elvis Costello and the internationally acclaimed Brodsky Quartetvisit Symphony Hall Birmingham for a rare and intimate performance of classic songs and new arrangements. Costello will perform seminal tracks including the 1983 anti-Falklands War song _Shipbuilding_ rearranged as a melancholy tango, early hip hop influenced track _Pills and Soap_ and an intense new version of _Bedlam_, his acclaimed 2005 critique of human disasters. The performance will include tender and witty reworkings of songs such as _My Mood Swings_, which first appeared in cult film _The Big Lebowski_ and Oscar nominated classic _The Scarlet Tide_ co-composed with T Bone Burnett, as well as folk ballads powerfully adapted for strings and voice. Several of the rearrangements have been newly written, and include songs that are still to be recorded. Offering an exceptional opportunity to see one of the world’s greatest songwriters and vocalists up close and personal, the concert also celebrates one of the most authentic and powerful partnerships in music today. Costello’s vocals and thought-provoking lyrics, laid bare against the lush, sweeping strings of The Brodsky Quartet promise a truly unique and starkly beautiful live experience. Costello-Brodsky collaboration, art pop album _The Juliet Letters_, gained international recognition, went on to win the prestigious Dutch Edison Award and was applauded by many music critics �" from Rolling Stone magazine to the New York Times. Costello has carved a path of musical curiosity and exploration in a career spanning more than 30 years, collaborating with acclaimed artists including his wife Diana Krall, Burt Bacharach, Paul McCartney and Sting. The Brodsky Quartet are at the forefront of the international music scene and combine a love and mastery of the traditional string quartet repertoire in addition to pioneering work with a diverse range of performing artists including singers Sting, Dawn Upshaw and Bjork. _'The Brodsky Quartet are the team for the new century'_ Gramophone
  
  
  

• Bat For Lashes plus special guests School of Seven Bells 

  Sun 12 Apr Town Hall

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

• Courtney Pine & Jazz Warriors Afropeans  

  Thu 26 Mar Town Hall

  _"...barnstorming solos, delicate bowed strings, skanking reggae backing tailgate trombones, foot-stamping chains. Hugely entertaining."_ (The Times) In October 2007, Courtney Pine led a freshly minted Jazz Warriors in the Afropeans project - a concert and award-winning album to mark the Bicentenary of the Abolition of the Slave Trade act in the UK. Now, this extraordinary ensemble returns to tour the UK, with a mouth-watering line-up that crosses generations of leading UK jazz soloists, including the likes of Jason Yarde, Alex Wilson and Omar Puente, rubbing shoulders with newcomers-to-watch Shabaka Hutchings and Ayanna Witter-Johnson - with a host of sensational reviews for both CD and live concerts. Afropeans Jazz Warriors picks up where the original Jazz Warriors left off - this seminal big band, formed in the 80s to celebrate the rich heritage of Afro-Caribbean jazz that contributed massively to the UK jazz scene since the 50s, is re-invented for a new century. With a _"kick-ass line-up"_ (All About Jazz) and music that is _"irresistibly vibrant"_, Afropeans was just too good not to have an extended outing. This show was recently seen in London and was given great reviews: _"The emotional heat is as potent as ever in Courtney Pine's national tour."_ The Telegraph _"A joyous celebration of survival in adversity, portrayed through an evocation of the musical encounters and collisions engendered across centuries of the African diaspora."_ The Telegraph _"Samuel Dubois's solos on steel pans were beautifully focused; Shabaka Hutchings's tightly patterned clarinet solos kept everyone spellbound."_ The Telegraph "Courtney Pine Interview":http://thejazzbreakfast.wordpress.com/2009/03/22/courtney-talks-about-afropeans/ £16.50, £18.50 presented in association with the Drum
  featuring Courtney Pine (saxophone & clarinet) Chris Storr, Colin Graham, Mark Crown (trumpets), Trevor Edwards (trombone), Jason Yarde, Shabaka Hutchins (reeds), Omar Puente (violin), Ayanna Witter-Johnson (cello, voice), Alex Wilson (piano), Samuel Dubois (steel pan), Darren Taylor (bass), Robert Fordjour (percussion), Donald Gamble (percussion)
  
  

• Maximum Rhythm & Blues: A Night At The Flamingo Starring The Alan Price Set featuring Zoot Money and Bobby Tench, plus special guests Chris Farlowe and Maggie Bell 

  Fri 16 Oct Town Hall

  *Alan Price* the quintessential British singer/song writer of the 20th century has enjoyed a successful career in music, film and theatre spanning over 40 years. Initially a member of The Animals, has had huge solo hits in the mid-60s with _I Put A Spell On You_ and _The House That Jack Built_. *Zoot Money* is quite simply the biggest character on the British rhythm and blues scene since the early 1960s, his Big Roll Band were a permanent fixture at the Flamingo Club. Zoot's shows were famed far and wide for his combination of outrageous antics, tight musicianship and passionate vocal delivery. For the past several years Zoot has been a permanent member of the Alan Price Set and works constantly with his own Big Roll Band. *Bobby Tench's* career spans thirty five years as an internationally respected skilled vocalist and accomplished guitarist who has recorded and toured on both sides of the Atlantic. Known for his work with Jeff Beck, Freddie King, Van Morrison, Humblepie and The Streetwalkers, his refreshing creativity is still as potent today. Recent live and studio work with Roger Chapman, Ruby Turner and Alan Price are a continuing testimony to his reputation as an accomplished and versatile musician. *Chris Farlowe’s* classic number one _Out of Time_, written for him by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards is still high on radio playlists, not to mention his recording of the original version of _Handbags and Gladrags._ Returning for her third consecutive tour is former Stone the Crows vocalist and winner of the 1971 Melody Maker readers’ poll for Best Female Vocalist *Maggie Bell*. Maggie was hailed at the time as the British Janis Joplin, her first solo album, _Queen of the Night_ with her unique soulful voice wowed record buyers and critics alike.
  Starring The Alan Price Set and featuring Zoot Money and Bobby Tench Plus special guests Chris Farlowe and Maggie Bell.
  
  

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

  Thu 8 Oct Symphony Hall

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

• 2007-08 Birmingham International Concert Season  

  1 Sep 07 - 31 Aug 08 Symphony Hall

  DISCOVER GREAT CLASSICAL MUSIC AT THE HEART OF BIRMINGHAM WHEELCHAIR USERS AND DISABLED PATRONS 50% discount on full priced tickets. If you require a companion, they are also entitled to a 50% discount. STUDENTS AND UNDER 25 50% discount on full priced tickets. KIDS GO FREE Adults £17.50, first child (under 18) free, additional children £7 each. Maximum group of 6 people. Free concert programme included. GROUPS OF 11 OR MORE 20% discount on full priced tickets. Phone the Group Booking Department on 0800 358 7070 open 10am to 5pm Monday to Friday. £5 TICKETS Some £5 tickets will be available one calendar month in advance of the concert. Limit of 4 per person. Not available as part of a concert package. STANDBY DISCOUNTS Available from 1pm on the day of the evening performance (10am on matinees):Passport to Leisure holders £12 Benefit* Recipients £5 Students and under 25s £5 *Qualifying benefits are Income Support, Pension Tax Credit and Disability Tax Credit.Please call the Ticket Office for further information. All tickets are offered subject to availability. Only one discount can apply unless stated otherwise. Proof of eligibility may be required when purchasing/collecting reduced price tickets. For terms and conditions of sale please visit www.thsh.co.uk. LOST TICKETS A charge may be made for printing duplicate tickets. CONCERT PACKAGE BENEFITS TICKET SAVINGS Book 6 to 8 concerts and save 10% Book 9 to 10 concerts and save 15% Book 11 to 16 concerts and save 20% Book 17 or more concerts and save 30% Savings apply to full, student and under 25s, 60plus, wheelchair users and disabled price tickets. SIX MONTHS INTEREST FREE CREDIT If you book a concert package by Direct Debit by Saturday 30 June 2007 TICKET EXCHANGE SCHEME You can exchange package tickets for the same priced seats for any other concert in the Birmingham International Concert Series 2007/08, subject to availability. Each original ticket may be exchanged once; subsequent exchanges will be charged at £3 per concert. FREE CONCERT PROGRAMME For concerts in your package. CAR PARKING FOR JUST £3.80 AT BRINDLEYPLACE Please let us know the number of places required when ordering your concert package. We will issue a voucher entitling you to the reduced rate, which is payable on arrival at the car park. Spaces are subject to availability at the time of arrival. TOUR OF TOWN HALL Your invitation for the Town Hall tour will be sent to you with your tickets. 12½% DISCOUNT AT FARRINGDONS CLASSICAL MUSIC SHOP Discount applies to full price CDs, videos and DVDs. 10% DISCOUNT ON TOWN HALL AND SYMPHONY HALL MERCHANDISE Discount applies to your next purchase from our merchandise range.
  
  
  

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