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• 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
  
  
  

• 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
  
  
  

• 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!
  
  
  

• 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*
  

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

  Fri 14 Dec Town Hall

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

• 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
  
  

• 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*
  
  

• 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*
  
  

• 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*
  

• West Midlands Federation of Music Services SingUp Celebration Concert  

  Mon 26 Jan Symphony Hall

  Following a day of workshops with primary children from across the West Midlands, children from years 5, 6, 7, and 8 come together to perform in a massed transition choir concert, with solo choral and vocal performance groups from West Midlands Music Services and schools.
  *David Lawrence* conductor
  
  

• 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
  
  
  

• 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
  
  
  

• 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
  
  

• Christmas Carol Singalong  

  Sun 23 Dec Symphony Hall

  Direct from the Royal Albert Hall following 10 years of sell-out shows. Clap your hands, Stamp your feet and sing...sing...along.
  *Jonathon Cohen* *Sophie-Louise Dann* Vocalist *Birmingham Festival Choral Society* *London Concert Orchestra*
  *Programme includes;* Hark! The Herald Angels Sing White Christmas Merry Christmas Everyone Silent Night I Wish it could be Christmas Everyday While Shepherds Watched O Holy Night The Twelve days of Christmas O come, all ye faithful Santa Claus is coming to town Winter Wonderland O little town of Bethlehem
  

• Staffordshire Sings 2009  

  Sun 8 Mar Symphony Hall

  A celebration of singing presented by Staffordshire Performing Arts Service, in partnership with national Sing Up. The concert is sponsored by the Friends of Staffordshire Young Musicians.
  *Staffordshire Songbirds* *Staffordshire Primary Schools Massed Choir* *Staffordshire 'Mind the Gap' Sing Up projects* with Staffordshire Youth Orchestra East and Guest artists and conductors
  
  

• 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
  
  

• Sing the Musicals  

  Cancelled

  Sat 21 Jul Symphony Hall

  
  
  
  

• Family Concert: Sing Your Heart Out with Black Voices  

  Sat 2 Feb 2008 Town Hall

  Black Voices will lead a performance work-shop to get the entire family singing a range of African, Caribbean and uplifting gospel music. Come and join this world renowned group as they encourage you to enjoy singing in a lively and exciting way.
  
  
  

• 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
  
  
  

• 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
  
  

• 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.
  
  
  

• The Verdi Requiem with Making Music West Midlands  

  Sun 8 Jun Symphony Hall

  The thrilling trumpet call to judgement accompanies the spectacular choir of massed voices from across the Midlands region, in this gala performance of Verdi's intensely operatic Requiem. Making Music's trienniel event is conducted by Michael Lloyd with a cracking line-up of soloists supported by the remarkable Chandos Symphony Orchestra. _'A chorus singing out of its socks'_ Christopher Morley, The Birmingham Post
  *Michael Lloyd* Conductor *Kathyrn Rutland* Leader *Julie Unwin* Soprano *Anne Marie Owens* Mezzo-soprano *Rhys Meirion* Tenor *Andrew Greenan* Bass *Chandos Symphony Orchestra* *Massed Choirs of Making Music West Midlands*
  *Verdi* Requiem 80'
  

• UK Sweet Adelines Barbershop Singing Championship: Chorus Championship  

  Sat 10 May Symphony Hall

  More than 1200 women from all over the country will be competing in two categories quartet and chorus competitions. The chorus competition results are followed by a mass sing where all the 1200 competitors sing together outside the arena. £10, Under 16’s £8 Not suitable for under 8's See the winners perform in the Show of Champions. For more details "click here":http://www.thsh.co.uk/view/sweet-adelines-barbershop-singing-championship--sh
  
  
  

• 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….
  
  
  

• Sing For All  

  Sun 20 Jul Symphony Hall

  Sing For All is a collaborative project between Town Hall & Symphony Hall, the CBSO Choral Department and Birmingham Music Service. The programme aims to extend singing opportunities for young people of all ages and abilities and over the past nine months, both new and existing choirs have worked with world-class choral leaders to develop their skills. This free concert celebrates the wealth of young choral talent from across Birmingham and showcases the first year of a new THSH choral commission by Lin Marsh. All of the choirs will present their own selected repertoire before joining together to perform the new work entitled 'Birmingham Life'. Tickets are free of charge but must be booked through the Town Hall & Symphony Hall Box Office.
  *Birmingham Music Service Area Choirs* *City of Birmingham Symphony Youth Chorus* *City of Birmingham Youn Voices* *The new 'Sing For All' Central and Boys Choir*
  
  

• Sing Carols with the City Organist Thomas Trotter & Cambrian Brass 

  Mon 10 Dec Town Hall

  This promises to be a truly festive occasion in which you will have the opportunity to sing your heart out with your favourite carols, led by Thomas Trotter and the Cambrian Brass Quintet.
  *Thomas Trotter* Organ *The Cambrian Brass Quintet* *Jeremy Nicholas* Compere
  
  

• Midlands Hospitals' Choir Christmas Celebration  

  Tue 16 Dec Symphony Hall

  Staff from hospitals in Birmingham and across the Midlands will be joining together to sing Christmas music and traditional carols for all the family. Led by Artistic Director David Lawrence and organist Julian Wilkins, the concert will feature a special performance by TENORS Un LIMITED and Gemini Brass and encourages full audience participation. The concert is in aid of CLIC Sargent and sponsored by Foresters. The Midland Hospitals’ Choir is currently in its 27th year, and has raised over £108,000 to date in support of CLIC Sargent, the UK’s leading children’s cancer charity.
  *David Lawrence* conductor *Julian Wilkins* organ Special performances by Gemini Brass and Tenor Un Limited
  
  

• Walsall Music Service Afternoon Concert 

  Sun 25 Nov Symphony Hall

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

• 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.
  
  
  

• Walsall Music Service  

  Sun 30 Nov Symphony Hall

  Walsall Music Service has formed a choir of over 500 young voices to sing exciting and well-loved seasonal music at these concerts. Also featured will be the winner of the West Midland's (BBC WM) Pop Stars Competition; the Walsall Young Musician of the Year; Young stars from the our Dance & Music Theatre; The Beacon Wind Band and World Music Groups. £5
  
  
  

• Sing Carols with the City Organist  

  Mon 14 Dec Town Hall

  More details to follow
  
  
  

• Christmas Carol Singalong  

  Tue 23 Dec Symphony Hall

  Back by popular demand *JONATHAN COHEN* invites you to join the fun with favourite Christmas songs and carols galore. _Clap your hands, stamp your feet and sing your heart out!_
  _Special Guest Singer_ *Sophie-Louise Dann* Birmingham Festival Choral Society London Concert Orchestra
  Jingle Bells Ding dong! Merrily on high Winter Wonderland The Twelve Days of Christmas O come, all ye faithful Once in royal David’s city God rest you merry, gentlemen O little town of Bethlehem Away in a manger Let it snow Santa Claus is coming to town Hark! the herald angels sing Frosty the Snowman The first Nowell
  

• Drumvoice!  

  Sat 4 Jul Town Hall

  The African Djembe drum has that distinctive sound like no other in this world. Sarah Westwood conducts the Drumvoice Orchestra, who will play traditional West African and Latin-American rhythms for children to clap, sing and dance along to. A special orchestrated composition will invite very young ears to appreciate the magical texture and richness that give you the feel good factor from beginning to end. So bring along your rhythmical hands, your singing voice and stomping feet to Sarah Westwood's magical moment.
  
  
  

• 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
  
  

• Talking Cities: Urban Design Public Series  

  Wed 26 Nov Town Hall

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

• 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!
  
  
  

• Lunchtime Organ Concert - Sing Carols with the City Organist  

  Mon 1 Dec Town Hall

  
  
  
  

• Play It Again  

  Sun 15 Jul Symphony Hall

  This Play It Again taster event gives participants the chance to play or sing with BBC performing groups from around the country. It is free, caters for all abilities, and is open to adults and children over 8. Come and join the fun! Register at www.bbc.co.uk/music/playitagain or call 08000 960 570.
  *BBC Big Band* *Black Voices*
  
  

• 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.
  
  
  

• Sing Africa!  

  Sun 9 Mar Town Hall

  In a concert hosted by Bournville Young Singers, three hundred young voices together with the exciting percussion quartet Back Beat unite in rhythm to present a dynamic journey of music, emanating from the pulsating heart of Africa. Adults £8.50, 60 plus/full-time students/under 16’s/unwaged £5 Family ticket (2 adults 2 children) £22.50 PLEASE NOTE THIS IS NOT AVAILABLE ONLINE- PLEASE CALL OUR TICKET OFFICE ON 0121 780 3333 TO PURCHASE FAMILY TICKETS.
  *King Edward VI Camp Hill Schools* *Bournville Junior School Choir* *St Laurence Church of England School Choir* *West House School Choir* *Northfield Manor Junior School Choir* *Anne Ellis* Director *Back Beat Percussion Quartet*
  *B. Kelly* Africa *B. Chillott* The Making of the Drum *J. Rutter* Extracts from _The Sprig of Thyme_
  

• 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!
  
  
  

• 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.
  
  
  

• Young People's Debate  

  Mon 15 Oct Town Hall

  10am-3pm Town Hall has been a forum for debate and speech-making throughout its history: practically every prime minister and politician of note has spoken here. Continuing that tradition, we host a debate for 11-18 year old students throughout the West Midlands. If you want your voice to be heard come and have your say on a current topic! The event will be the first of a series of Town Hall Debates for Young People. In association with University of the First Age
  
  
  

• Town Hall Welcome Weekend - Meet the Town Hall An illustrated talk by Professor Carl Chinn MBE 

  Sun 7 Oct Town Hall

  11am-12 Noon An entertaining look at the history of Town Hall and its significance to Birmingham and the West Midlands. Featuring personal memories, historical reflections and accounts of some performers and performances, the talk will be illustrated by an accompanying slide show.
  
  
  

• Sing Hymns with the City Organist  

  Mon 27 Apr Town Hall

  Take your place in a choir of hundreds as Thomas Trotter leads a thrilling journey through some of Britain’s most glorious hymns.
  *Thomas Trotter* organ *Cambrian Brass Quintet* *Jeremy Nicholas* compere
  
  

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

  Mon 20 Oct Town Hall

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

• 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*
  
  

• 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!
  

• 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*
  
  

• 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
  
  
  

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

  Sat 4 Jul Town Hall

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

• 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*
  
  

• 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.
  
  
  

• 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.
  
  
  

• Meet the Associates  

  Sat 13 Sep Town Hall

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

• The Ed Doolan Christmas Show  

  Fri 19 Dec Symphony Hall

  Ed and his team celebrate the festive season at Symphony Hall with a special broadcast that you can be part of. There will be special interviews with Paul Nicholas, The Krankies and Bev Bevan, as well as some great music from the West Midlands Fire Service Band and Birmingham's Community Gospel Choir. We'll also be expecting you to join in for a rousing finale of Christmas Carols led by pupils from Baverstock School! You can find more information by visiting "BBC Christmas":http://www.bbc.co.uk/birmingham/christmas/
  
  
  

• An English Celebration for St George's Day The Seventh Annual Concert 

  Sat 25 Apr Symphony Hall

  Featuring: Sovereign Brass, prize winning brass band; by popular request, soprano Sharron Burns; Darren Hogg, Organist; Andy Casserly of the Midlands English Country Dance Band, Captain Swing; Bernard Hackett, Black Country poet and Highbury Youth Theatre. Plus Steve Roche musical director with David Rosser on piano and for the first time ever, an exciting concept of the Birmingham Schools showcasing their talent. This year’s concert includes English music including that of Gilbert and Sullivan with Highbury Players in costume plus Massed Male Voice Choirs. The Birmingham Scouts will be in attendance. Presented by the Birmingham St George’s Day Association.
  *Carl Chinn MBE* compere
  
  

• 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
  
  
  

• Ex Cathedra Sing Noël! A Baroque Christmas 

  Sun 9 Dec Town Hall

  Charpentier’s exquisite _Messe de minuit_, complemented by the French carol tunes on which it is based, forms the centrepiece of a concert which will take you on a Grand Tour of the great European centres of Baroque music. This glorious programme of Baroque Christmas music also features works by Bach, Bouzignac, Buxtehude, Gibbons, Monteverdi and Schütz. This concert is sponsored by edeus mortgage creators limited.
  Ex Cathedra Choir & Baroque Ensemble Conductor Jeffrey Skidmore
  
  

• 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*
  
  

• 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.
  
  
  

• Christmas Celebrations  

  Sun 21 Dec Town Hall

  Entertaining music old and new, traditional favourites to sing along with, evocative poetry with a few special treats along the way - an excellent way to celebrate Christmas for all the family. Park Hall Junior School Choir and the fabulous Heart of England Brass add their own distinctive sounds to this jolly Christmas assortment.
  *City of Birmingham Choir* *Heart of England Brass* *Park Hall Junior School* *David Newsholme* organ *Adrian Lucas* conductor
  
  

• The Sound of the Musicals  

  Fri 28 Dec Symphony Hall

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

• 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’
  

• The Sound of the Musicals  

  Sun 28 Dec Symphony Hall

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

• 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!
  

• Sing For All  

  Sun 12 Jul Symphony Hall

  A collaborative project between Town Hall & Symphony Hall, Birmingham Primary Schools & the CBSO Choral Department which aims to extend singing opportunities for young people of all ages and abilities. Over the past nine months, both new and existing choirs have worked with world-class choral leaders to develop their skills. This free concert celebrates Brimingham's wealth of young talent and showcases the THSH choral commission Birmingham Life by Lin Marsh. The choirs will present their own repertoire, preceeding a massed choir finale.
  
  
  

• Town Hall Welcome Weekend - Family Day Caliche / Black Voices  

  Sat 6 Oct Town Hall

  Come along to the Town Hall at 11am -12.30pm and enjoy the haunting South American sounds of Caliche and sing Gospel with Black Voices. Meanwhile, all day you can make your own musical instruments inside Town Hall and catch the marching sounds of the Bombay Baja Brass Band outside on the square.
  Caliche Black Voices
  
  

• Singalong with the CBSO: Mozart's Requiem  

  Sun 5 Apr Symphony Hall

  Join the CBSO with its world-renowned chorus director, Simon Halsey, and young professional soloists to sing Mozart’s Requiem, which he was famously still working upon at his untimely death. If you enjoy singing, the unique experience of performing such a powerful work in Birmingham’s magnificent Symphony Hall, with over 1000 singers, is surely not to be missed.
  Simon Halsey - conductor City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra
  Please Note: Only Audience tickets for this event can be purchased online. Please contact the venue Box Office to purchase singer tickets on 0121 780 3333
  

• The Puppini Sisters Christmas Special  

  Wed 10 Dec Town Hall

  Marcella Puppini, Kate Mullins and Stephanie O'Brien led the retro wave in 2006 with their 1940s influenced blend of 'pop with swing' and gorgeous sense of glamour and fun. "To Puppini" quickly became a lifestyle and fashion statement as the name became synonymous with fashion, style and allure and audiences embraced the girls' highly entertaining and original musical performance and the ethos of dressing to impress. _Betcha Bottom Dollar_ was the fastest selling jazz debut in Britain on its release and the album debuted at number 2 in the US jazz charts. Their second album _The Rise And Fall Of Ruby Woo_ revealed a new maturity in the writing and their sound. The girls will include a few Christmas hits in their set in the unique Puppini style! The West Midland's premier wind-up merchant, The Gramophone Man aka 'Dj Shellac' will be playing 78's from the 1920's, 30's and 40's on two wind-up gramophones in the foyer, before and after the performance.
  
  
  

• 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
  
  
  

• Christmas Celebrations City of Birmingham Choir 

  Sun 16 Dec Town Hall

  Carols for all as well as from the City of Birmingham Choir - the stirring sound of the Town Hall’s mighty organ and the Heart of England Brass will make this the perfect start to Christmas week. There will also be performances from Voice Factory, the Choir’s enterprising scheme to provide singing opportunities for primary school children. Let the people(and the children) sing! The concert will end at approximately 4.30pm
  *Philip Scriven* Organ *Voice Factory* *Heart of England Brass* *City of Birmingham Choir* *Adrian Lucas* Conductor
  
  

• 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
  
  

• 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*
  
  

• 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.
  
  
  

• English Originals Weekend 2009  

  15 May - 17 May 2009 Town Hall & Symphony Hall

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

• 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.
  
  
  

• The Proclaimers Plus support Miles Hunt and Erica Nockalls 

  Mon 26 Oct Symphony Hall

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

• 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.
  
  
  

• Baroque Fireworks City of Birmingham Choir 

  Sat 17 Nov Town Hall

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

• Christmas Gala  

  Tue 23 Dec Symphony Hall

  Introduced by star of breakfast *GMTV*'s *PENNY SMITH* Merry festive favourites and classic carols to spread Christmas cheer.
  with exquisite soloists and the angelic voice of a boy soprano Lee Bisset _soprano_ James Edwards _tenor_ Robin Marshall _treble_ Fraser Goulding _conductor_ London Concert _Orchestra_
  *Humperdinck* Hansel and Gretel Overture *Tchaikovsky* The Nutcracker Suite *Rimsky-Korsakov* Christmas Eve Polonaise *Puccini * Christmas Love Duet from La Boheme *Head* The Little Road to Bethlehem *Schubert* Ave Maria *Anderson* Sleigh Ride *Bach* Jesu, joy of Man’s Desiring *Lloyd Webber* Pie Jesu from Requiem *Arr. Bateman* Winter Wonderland _and_ *CAROLS FOR ALL* _including_ Once in Royal David’s City O come, all ye faithful Hark! the herald angels sing
  

• Massed Choirs Concert with Guest Performers 

  Sat 28 Jun Town Hall

  The English Association Of Male Voice Choirs present a wonderful night of a wide range of music hosted by the Birmingham Icknield Male Voice Choir (founded in 1900). With the Massed Male Voice Choirs of Kidderminster, Gentlemen Songsters, Forest of Dean, Cradley Heath, Warley, Worcester and Churchdown. Presented by the Birmingham historian and BBC West Midlands’ personality, Professor Carl Chinn. With special guest appearances from the international organist Keith Hearnshaw, celebrated soprano Sharron Burns and the famous Midlands young persons string group Bravura. A wonderful night with a wide range of music. The EAMVC have a history of donating to good causes.
  *Hosted by Birmingham Icknield Male Voice Choir* *Steve Roche* Musical Director *David Rosser* Piano *Carl Chinn* Presenter
  
  

• CBSO Friday Night Classics: The Wild Wild West  

  Fri 20 Nov Symphony Hall

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

• Singalong with the CBSO: Orff's Carmina Burana  

  Sun 3 Feb 2008 Symphony Hall

  Join the CBSO and Choruses, with its world-renowned Chorus Director Simon Halsey, and young professional soloists to sing Orff’s Carmina Burana. The chance to perform this famous and powerful work (used in contexts as varied as Old Spice adverts, The X Factor and The Omen), with over a thousand singers in Birmingham’s world-beating Symphony Hall, surely makes today unmissable for all those who enjoy singing. Information for Singers: Rehearsals for the event start at 1.30pm; further details will be sent with singer tickets. We will be using the SATB Vocal Score of Carmina Burana. Scores containing Simon Halsey’s rehearsal markings will be available to hire for £5 on the day from 12.30pm.
  Simon Halsey conductor City of Birmingham Symphony Chorus City of Birmingham Youth Chorus
  
  

• Mahler's Fourth Symphony CBSO 

  Thu 26 Apr Symphony Hall

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

• 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.
  
  
  

• 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.
  
  
  

• 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.
  
  
  

• Mahler's Fourth Symphony (matinee) CBSO 

  Wed 25 Apr Symphony Hall

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

• Christmas Eve Classics  

  Wed 24 Dec Symphony Hall

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

• The Glory of Christmas  

  Sun 23 Dec Symphony Hall

  This concert of glorious seasonal and traditional music for all the family perfectly captures the true spirit of Christmas.
  Daniel Norman tenor *John Pryce-Jones* Conductor *Angela Whelan* Trumpet *Birmingham Choral Union* *Staffordshire Children’s Choir* *London Concert Orchestra*
  *Bach* Opening Chorus from Christmas Oratorio *Bach* Jesu Joy of Man's Desiring *Handel* Ombra mai fù from Xerxes *Handel* Worthy is the Lamb from Messiah *Handel*Zadok the Priest *Haydn* Trumpet Concerto (Last Mvt) *Darke* In the Bleak Midwinter *Berloiz* The Shepherd's Farewell *Leopold Mozart* Sleigh Ride *Stanley* Trumpet Voluntary *Franck* Panis Angelicus *Adam* O Holy Night *Plus Carols for all;* Good King Wenceslas Once in Royal David's City God rest you merry, gentlemen While shepherd's Watched Hark! the Herald Angels Sing
  

• Festive Favourites With Presenter Aled Jones  

  Thu 20 Dec Symphony Hall

  Join the CBSO for its traditional festive fun and frolics, hosted by broadcaster and performer Aled Jones, who will present a selection of his chosen Christmas stories and readings, and sing a couple of his seasonal favourites. Featuring the CBSO and its massed choirs, and packed with Christmas music plus plenty of audience participation, these concerts are a perfect way to kick-start your Christmas holidays and put you in the festive spirit. NB Christmas concert prices apply to these five performances. Following each of these concerts, there will be a Christmas collection for a different local charity, as voted for by CBSO employees. To be considered for inclusion, please contact Rachel Blackman on 0121 616 6511 or email rblackman@cbso.co.uk
  *Simon Halsey* Conductor *Aled Jones* Presenter *City of Birmingham Symphony Youth Chorus* *City of Birmingham Symphony Chorus* *City of Birmingham Young Voices*
  
  

• Festive Favourites With Presenter Aled Jones  

  Fri 21 Dec Symphony Hall

  Join the CBSO for its traditional festive fun and frolics, hosted by broadcaster and performer Aled Jones, who will present a selection of his chosen Christmas stories and readings, and sing a couple of his seasonal favourites. Featuring the CBSO and its massed choirs, and packed with Christmas music plus plenty of audience participation, these concerts are a perfect way to kick-start your Christmas holidays and put you in the festive spirit. NB Christmas concert prices apply to these five performances. Following each of these concerts, there will be a Christmas collection for a different local charity, as voted for by CBSO employees. To be considered for inclusion, please contact Rachel Blackman on 0121 616 6511 or email rblackman@cbso.co.uk
  *Simon Halsey* Conductor *Aled Jones* Presenter *City of Birmingham Symphony Youth Chorus* *City of Birmingham Symphony Chorus* *City of Birmingham Young Voices*
  
  

• Festive Favourites With Presenter Aled Jones  

  Sat 22 Dec Symphony Hall

  Join the CBSO for its traditional festive fun and frolics, hosted by broadcaster and performer Aled Jones, who will present a selection of his chosen Christmas stories and readings, and sing a couple of his seasonal favourites. Featuring the CBSO and its massed choirs, and packed with Christmas music plus plenty of audience participation, these concerts are a perfect way to kick-start your Christmas holidays and put you in the festive spirit. NB Christmas concert prices apply to these five performances. Following each of these concerts, there will be a Christmas collection for a different local charity, as voted for by CBSO employees. To be considered for inclusion, please contact Rachel Blackman on 0121 616 6511 or email rblackman@cbso.co.uk
  *Simon Halsey* Conductor *Aled Jones* Presenter *City of Birmingham Symphony Youth Chorus* *City of Birmingham Symphony Chorus* *City of Birmingham Young Voices*
  
  

• CBSO Festive Favourites with Alan Titchmarsh  

  Sun 20 Dec Symphony Hall

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

• CBSO Festive Favourites with Alan Titchmarsh  

  Mon 21 Dec Symphony Hall

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

• CBSO Festive Favourites with Alan Titchmarsh  

  Tue 22 Dec Symphony Hall

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

• Festive Favourites With Presenter Aled Jones (Matinee) 

  Sat 22 Dec Symphony Hall

  Join the CBSO for its traditional festive fun and frolics, hosted by broadcaster and performer Aled Jones, who will present a selection of his chosen Christmas stories and readings, and sing a couple of his seasonal favourites. Featuring the CBSO and its massed choirs, and packed with Christmas music plus plenty of audience participation, these concerts are a perfect way to kick-start your Christmas holidays and put you in the festive spirit. NB Christmas concert prices apply to these five performances. Following each of these concerts, there will be a Christmas collection for a different local charity, as voted for by CBSO employees. To be considered for inclusion, please contact Rachel Blackman on 0121 616 6511 or email rblackman@cbso.co.uk
  *Simon Halsey* Conductor *Aled Jones* Presenter *City of Birmingham Symphony Youth Chorus* *City of Birmingham Symphony Chorus* *City of Birmingham Young Voices*
  
  

• John Barrowman plus special guests  

  Mon 18 May Symphony Hall

  John Barrowman, much loved actor, singer, TV and West End star returns to Symphony Hall in May 2009. The tour will feature songs from his new album- _Music Music Music_ including the Gary Barlow penned pop gem _What About Us_ out on Epic - as well as songs from John’s multi-selling album _Another Side_ _"I can’t wait to get back out there again and perform songs from my new album. It’s going to be a great show - I’m really excited about it.”_
  
  
  

• CBSO Festive Favourites with Alan Titchmarsh - Matinee  

  Sun 20 Dec Symphony Hall

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

• CBSO Festive Favourites with Alan Titchmarsh - Matinee  

  Tue 22 Dec Symphony Hall

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

• Festive Favourites With Presenter Aled Jones (Matinee) 

  Fri 21 Dec Symphony Hall

  Join the CBSO for its traditional festive fun and frolics, hosted by broadcaster and performer Aled Jones, who will present a selection of his chosen Christmas stories and readings, and sing a couple of his seasonal favourites. Featuring the CBSO and its massed choirs, and packed with Christmas music plus plenty of audience participation, these concerts are a perfect way to kick-start your Christmas holidays and put you in the festive spirit. NB Christmas concert prices apply to these five performances. Following each of these concerts, there will be a Christmas collection for a different local charity, as voted for by CBSO employees. To be considered for inclusion, please contact Rachel Blackman on 0121 616 6511 or email "rblackman@cbso.co.uk":mailto:rblackman@cbso.co.uk
  *Simon Halsey* Conductor *Aled Jones* Presenter *City of Birmingham Symphony Youth Chorus* *City of Birmingham Symphony Chorus* *City of Birmingham Young Voices*
  
  

• 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
  

• 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’
  

• Andrew Taylor: The Public City  

  Mon 16 Jun Town Hall

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

• Russell Watson  

  Thu 23 Apr Symphony Hall

  Russell’s music career moved to the next level in 1999, when he was invited to Old Trafford to sing the world cup anthem ‘Nessun Dorma’ before United’s Premiership winning game. He received a standing ovation and this incredible exposure led Russell to be signed by the Decca Music Group for a six-album deal. A factory worker born in Salford in North West England, Russell went from performing on the pub and club circuit in his spare time, to selling over 7 million albums globally, and to be dubbed ‘The Peoples Tenor’ taking opera and classical music to a new audience world wide. Russell has performed around the world in front of many audiences - from Independence Day celebrations in Washington DC; the Beckham’s pre-World Cup party; to more intimate performances for the President of the United States, the UK Prime Minister and the Pope; as well as duets with artists as diverse as Cliff Richard, Lulu, Lionel Ritchie, Mel C (of Spice Girls fame) and Meatloaf. He has broken a succession of records, being the first British male to simultaneously occupy a No.1 spot in the UK and American classical charts, as well as being the first artist to have a classical album at the No.1 spot in the UK classical charts for an entire year. With 5 albums going gold, platinum, or double platinum and 4 Classic BRIT Awards under his belt, Russell is recognized world-wide as the UK’s biggest selling classical artist of the 21st century. Following a successful recovery after suffering from a second Brain Tumor in 2007, Russell's 5th studio album has been released reaching Number 4 in the charts and 2008 has seen Russell perform a sell out 17 date UK tour and he now looks to establish his long term future internationally, and is enjoying the creative freedom his success has granted him. Russell has recently finished as the head judge on the BBC 1 Saturday night hit show 'Last Choir Standing' where he helped select the UK's favorite choir, with the final show being viewed by over 7 Million people. Russell’s 6th studio album _People Get Ready_ is due for release on the 17th November 2008. Please note this performance is currently sold out. Clicking on the below link will take you to the booking page if retuns are available. Alternatively you can call the Box Office on 0121 780 3333 to enquire.
  
  
  

• Teddy Thompson with special guest Tift Merritt  

  Sat 7 Feb Town Hall

  _A Piece of What You Need_ - Thompson's fourth album overall and his third for Verve - is the London-born, New York-based artist's most ambitious and accomplished effort to date, showcasing his formidable vocal, songwriting and guitar talents while venturing into rewarding new musical and lyrical territory. Thompson's trademark blend of catchy songcraft, pensive emotional insight and good-natured black humor is present on such new tunes as In My Arms, What's This?!!, Don't Know What I Was Thinking and the bittersweetly fatalistic Turning the Gun On Myself. The album's effortless pop sensibility is matched by a playful sonic palette that incorporates such aural surprises as the careening brass band on _Can't Sing Straight_ and _One of These Days,_ or the Hitchcockian orchestral rushes that haunt the cinematic _Jonathan's Book._ American singer/songwriter Tift Merritt opens the show with music from her extensive repertoire, including songs from her critically acclaimed album _Tambourine_. £13
  
  
  

• 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
  

• KOOP with special guests BBC Big Band In association with BBC Radio 2 

  Cancelled

  Fri 14 Nov Town Hall

  This concert has been cancelled, please note that the BBC Big Band will now be performing with Jack Bruce on November 14. For more details "click here":http://www.thsh.co.uk/view/jack-bruce-meets-the-bbc-big-band
  
  
  

• An Evening with Barbara Dickson  

  Sat 14 Feb 2009 Town Hall

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

• Birmingham’s Brightest  

  Sat 11 Oct Symphony Hall

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

• 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*
  
  

• Mark Goodchild Sextet  

  Fri 16 Jan 2009 Symphony Hall Foyer Bars

  CBSO bass player Mark Goodchild leads an excellent and swinging group with top players from the Midlands.
  
  
  

• Elgar’s Cello Concerto  

  Tue 4 Nov Symphony Hall

  Composed during the blitz and premiered at the 1943 Proms, Vaughan Williams’ serene Fifth Symphony seems like a retreat from the real world to an imagined paradise. Elgar’s equally lyrical Cello Concerto, composed in 1919, also feels like a reaction against the horrors of wartime. Vernon Handley, such a tireless champion of English music, precedes these two masterpieces with a musical fairytale by Granville Bantock, who did so much for Birmingham’s musical life and was instrumental in the founding of the CBSO in 1920. 6.15pm Pre-concert talk - Vaughan Williams’ Fifth Baz Chapman - Programme Director of Sing Up - shares his enthusiasm for Vaughan Williams’ great wartime symphony. *We are pleased to announce that Martyn Brabbins will now conduct the concerts on 4 and 5 November 2008. The programme remains the same. The concerts are dedicated to the memory of Vernon Handley who died on 10 September 2008, aged 77 and was due to have conducted the CBSO on these occasions.*
  City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra Anne Gastinel - cello Conductor - Martyn Brabbins
  *Bantock* The Witch of Atlas 15’ *Elgar* Cello Concerto 26’ *Vaughan Williams* Symphony No. 5 42’
  

• Elgar’s Cello Concerto  

  Wed 5 Nov Symphony Hall

  Composed during the blitz and premiered at the 1943 Proms, Vaughan Williams’ serene Fifth Symphony seems like a retreat from the real world to an imagined paradise. Elgar’s equally lyrical Cello Concerto, composed in 1919, also feels like a reaction against the horrors of wartime. Vernon Handley, such a tireless champion of English music, precedes these two masterpieces with a musical fairytale by Granville Bantock, who did so much for Birmingham’s musical life and was instrumental in the founding of the CBSO in 1920. 1.15pm Pre-concert talk - Vaughan Williams’ Fifth Baz Chapman - Programme Director of Sing Up - shares his enthusiasm for Vaughan Williams’ great wartime symphony. *We are pleased to announce that Martyn Brabbins will now conduct the concerts on 4 and 5 November 2008. The programme remains the same. The concerts are dedicated to the memory of Vernon Handley who died on 10 September 2008, aged 77 and was due to have conducted the CBSO on these occasions.*
  Anne Gastinel - cello City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra Conductor - Martyn Brabbins
  *Bantock* The Witch of Atlas 15’ *Elgar*: Cello Concerto 26’ *Vaughan Williams* Symphony No. 5 42’
  

• 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
  
  

• 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
  
  
  

• 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.
  
  
  

• 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
  
  
  

• 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
  
  
  

• 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!
  
  
  

• Thomas Spencer-Wortley with Special Guests All Angels  

  Change of Date

  Fri 27 Mar Town Hall

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

• 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)
  

• 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*
  
  

• 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.
  
  
  

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

  Fri 12 Dec Town Hall

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

• 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’
  

• 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
  
  
  

• 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.
  
  

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

  Fri 1 Aug Symphony Hall

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

• BBC Big Band - Radio Days with Clare Teal  

  Fri 20 Feb Town Hall

  The BBC Big Band recalls the golden age of radio when dance bands and big bands ruled the airwaves. Join them as they recreate the music of Ted Heath, Ambrose, Henry Hall, the BBC Northern Dance Orchestra and many, many more. £12.50, £16.50, £19.50 In association with BBC Radio 2 BBC Big Band is a Town Hall Associate Artist
  *BBC Big Band* *Barry Forgie* Conductor Presented by and featuring the vocal talents of *Clare Teal*
  
  

• 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
  
  

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

  Fri 14 Nov Town Hall

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

• 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.
  
  
  

• Jim Wynn Nonet  

  Fri 6 Mar Symphony Hall Foyer Bars

  Pianist Jim Wynn leads a large ensemble of Conservatoire graduates playing in the cool jazz style of the American West Coast. Free Admission
  
  
  

• 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_.
  
  
  

• 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.*
  
  
  

• Youth with Purpose  

  Wed 18 Jul Symphony Hall

  A celebration performance by young people working with *The Academy of Gospel Music*. A 200 strong choir drawn from schools, churches and youth groups around the Midlands. Guest appearance by The London Community Gospel Choir. A mix of voices, styles and instruments. MC Radio WM's Nikki Tapper
  
  
  

• 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
  
  

• Mike Walker and the Real Book North West Band  

  Fri 8 May Symphony Hall Foyer Bars

  A band led by brilliant guitarist Mike Walker that features players from the Manchester area. Free admission
  
  
  

• Ralph McTell and The Dylan Project  

  Sat 1 Nov Town Hall

  This gala double bill features Ralph McTell, one of Britain's best-loved singersongwriters. Ralph will perform a solo set from his self-penned repertoire of great songs and this will be his only Midlands concert in 2008. The Dylan Project stars Birmingham's very own Steve Gibbons with PJ Wright, Phil Bond, and Fairport Convention's Dave Pegg and Gerry Conway.
  
  
  

• 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.
  
  
  

• We Are Here Members of the Association for Contemporary Jewellery 

  Thu 1 Nov Symphony Hall

  Members of the Association for Contemporary Jewellery Midlands Group are staging their launch event "We Are Here" in Symphony Hall's foyer. This is a unique opportunity to meet jewellery artists and designer makers as they display their work for the start of a touring exhibition. The event is free to attend and takes place before Lesley's Garrett's concert in the main Hall. For more information visit http://www.myspace.com/acj_midlands
  
  
  

• 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
  
  
  

• John Barrowman  

  Tue 8 Apr Symphony Hall

  John Barrowman, much loved actor, singer, TV and West End star has just announced his first solo tour. Performing songs from his new album, _Another Side_ John will be appearing at Symphony Hall. _Another Side_ is an album full of classic songs. They are songs that John has wanted to record for many years, all of them having had a personal meaning or connection in his life and career. John is a unique actor, singer and presenter. He is best known on British TV as Captain Jack Harkness in BBC’s _Doctor Who_ and it’s especially created spin-off series _Torchwood_. In the last year alone he has been on a variety of primetime television shows, whether judging on the award winning BBC1 entertainment shows _How Do You Solve A Problem Like Maria?_ and _Any Dream Will Do_, as a celebrity skater on the ITV show _Dancing On Ice_, and a hugely amusing and memorable guest on _The Jonathan Ross Show_, _The Friday Night Project_ and _Never Mind the Buzzcocks_. He has also starred in many top West End productions including _Anything Goes_, _Miss Saigon_, _Beauty & The Beast_, _Grease!_ and _The Phantom Of The Opera_. His standing with the British public is such that he was recently proclaimed ‘a national treasure’ by The Times. Now, he has returned to his first love, music.
  
  
  

• 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.
  
  
  

• 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
  
  

• 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
  
  
  

• 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*
  
  
  

• White Christmas  

  Wed 19 Dec Symphony Hall

  From Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire …to Silent Night… Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas JUST LIKE THE ONES WE USED TO KNOW! The perfect way to swing into Christmas with unforgettable seasonal songs.
  *John Rigby* Conductor *Jacinta Whyte* Vocal *Gary Williams* Vocal *Capital Voices* *London Concert Orchestra*
  *Programme to include;* Santa Claus is Coming to Town Winter Wonderland Let it snow We need a little Christmas Jingle Bell Rock I saw Mommy kissing Santa Claus Baby it's cold outside Mistletoe and Wine The twelve days of Christmas Santa Baby Mistletoe and Holly Carol of the Bells We Three Kings Silent Night
  

• 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
  

• 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
  
  

• CBSO Family Concert Classics for Kids 

  Sun 29 Apr Symphony Hall

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

• Proms Night Spectacular! British Police Symphony Orchestra 

  Sat 6 Dec Symphony Hall

  The British Police Symphony Orchestra return once more for their annual Last Night celebration. This year's programme includes Bernstein's Candide Overture and a selection from West Side Story, before launching into their traditional Last Night Spectacular complete with fireworks! Singing voices compulsory at one of Birmingham's best-loved concerts.
  
  
  

• 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.
  
  
  

• 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
  
  
  

• 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
  
  

• BBC Big Band With Special Guest Kurt Elling 

  Fri 19 Oct Town Hall

  The fabulous BBC Big Band, an Associate Ensemble of Town Hall, with Kurt Elling, America's pre-eminent young jazz singer, bring some swing to Town Hall. Elling's sublime voice has been described as combining "the masculinity of Sinatra with the smoothness of Tony Bennett". Experience it for yourself in tonight’s concert of jazz standards. The BBC Big Band also celebrates the past with music of the great big bands who played Town Hall including Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Woody Herman and Stan Kenton. In association with BBC Radio 2 Concert to be recorded for BBC Radio 2’s Big Band Special. BBC Big Band is a Town Hall Associate Artist. "BBC Big Band ":http://www.bbc.co.uk/radio2/musicclub/events_bigbandspecial.shtml
  *Kurt Elling* Vocal *Mark Nightingale* Musical Director
  
  

• 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.)
  
  
  

• 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
  

• 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.
  
  
  

• 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.
  
  
  

• 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
  
  

• 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
  
  
  

• 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.
  
  
  

• 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
  
  

• National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain Stravinsky's Rite Of Spring 

  Thu 3 Apr Symphony Hall

  Stravinsky's The Rite of Spring is one of the great orchestral showpieces of all time, a searing explosion of energy that evokes the violent arrival of a pre- Christian Russian spring with its rites of fertility and sacrifice. Listening to it over ninety years after its first performance, it's easy to see why Western music has never quite recovered. Energy levels are sure to be high when the cream of Britain's young musicians and Vasily Petrenko perform Stravinsky's masterpiece alongside the autumnal serenity of Strauss's sublime Four Last Songs with stunning soprano soloist Gabriele Fontana. 6pm - FREE pre-concert of music by NYO composers - SWING, 8 pieces inspired by dance rhythms for NYO ensembles.
  *Vasily Petrenko* Conductor *Gabriele Fontana* Soprano
  *Mark Simpson* New Commission 10' *Ravel* Valses Nobles et Sentimentales 16' *Strauss* Four Last Songs 23' *Stravinsky* The Rite of Spring 33'
  

• Rush Hour Blues: Walsall Jazz Orchestra  

  Fri 5 Jun Symphony Hall Foyer Bars

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

• 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.
  
  
  

• 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
  
  
  

• 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
  
  
  

• 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.
  
  
  

• 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*
  
  

• 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.
  
  
  

• 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
  

• 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.
  
  
  

• Latin Fever  

  Fri 7 Aug Symphony Hall

  *Presented in Association with Raymond Gubbay and Sadler's Wells* Take an exhilarating journey into the colourful world of Latin American dance with sparkling stars Darren Bennett and Lilia Kopylova in a special run of performances this summer. The dazzling partnership from the BBC's _Strictly Come Dancing_ will be joined by four top Latin American dancing duos and a nine-piece Latin Band for their breathtaking voyage, which takes them from the streets of Brazil to the bullrings of Spain by way of a vibrant mix of dance styles including the tango, rumba and cha-cha-cha. An explosion of Brazilian rhythms at the Carnival in Rio begins the glamorous journey, before the audience is transported to the sultry clubs of Buenos Aires to be seduced by the passion and intensity of the tango. Cuba beckons with the cheeky cha-cha-cha and rumba, and then it's time to boogie to the American dance halls of the 1920s for the swing and jitterbug. The voyage continues in Spain where the passion, aggression and drama of the bullrings are brought to life in the glorious paso doblè. *More Latin Fever* Can't make 7 August? Try "6 August":http://www.thsh.co.uk/view/latin-fever or "8 August":http://www.thsh.co.uk/view/latin-fever3 instead!
  
  
  

• Latin Fever  

  Sat 8 Aug Symphony Hall

  *Presented in Association with Raymond Gubbay and Sadler's Wells* Take an exhilarating journey into the colourful world of Latin American dance with sparkling stars Darren Bennett and Lilia Kopylova in a special run of performances this summer. The dazzling partnership from the BBC's _Strictly Come Dancing_ will be joined by four top Latin American dancing duos and a nine-piece Latin Band for their breathtaking voyage, which takes them from the streets of Brazil to the bullrings of Spain by way of a vibrant mix of dance styles including the tango, rumba and cha-cha-cha. An explosion of Brazilian rhythms at the Carnival in Rio begins the glamorous journey, before the audience is transported to the sultry clubs of Buenos Aires to be seduced by the passion and intensity of the tango. Cuba beckons with the cheeky cha-cha-cha and rumba, and then it's time to boogie to the American dance halls of the 1920s for the swing and jitterbug. The voyage continues in Spain where the passion, aggression and drama of the bullrings are brought to life in the glorious paso doblè. *More Latin Fever* Can't make 8 August? Try "6 August":http://www.thsh.co.uk/view/latin-fever or "7 August":http://www.thsh.co.uk/view/latin-fever2 instead!
  
  
  

• Latin Fever  

  Thu 6 Aug Symphony Hall

  *Presented in Association with Raymond Gubbay and Sadler's Wells* Take an exhilarating journey into the colourful world of Latin American dance with sparkling stars Darren Bennett and Lilia Kopylova in a special run of performances this summer. The dazzling partnership from the BBC's _Strictly Come Dancing_ will be joined by four top Latin American dancing duos and a nine-piece Latin Band for their breathtaking voyage, which takes them from the streets of Brazil to the bullrings of Spain by way of a vibrant mix of dance styles including the tango, rumba and cha-cha-cha. An explosion of Brazilian rhythms at the Carnival in Rio begins the glamorous journey, before the audience is transported to the sultry clubs of Buenos Aires to be seduced by the passion and intensity of the tango. Cuba beckons with the cheeky cha-cha-cha and rumba, and then it's time to boogie to the American dance halls of the 1920s for the swing and jitterbug. The voyage continues in Spain where the passion, aggression and drama of the bullrings are brought to life in the glorious paso doblè. *More Latin Fever* Can't make 6 August? Try "7 August":http://www.thsh.co.uk/view/latin-fever2 or "8 August":http://www.thsh.co.uk/view/latin-fever3 instead!
  
  
  

• 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.
  
  
  

• 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
  

• 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.
  

• 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.
  
  
  

• 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.
  

• 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.*
  
  

• National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain  

  Tue 6 Jan 2009 Symphony Hall

  There is nothing quite like the excitement of an orchestra of young musicians - many of these talented young performers are having their first encounters with great orchestral music, experiencing it onstage at Symphony Hall with a freshness and passion never to be recaptured. They start 2009 with an epic journey across Alpine landscapes with wonderful European conductor Semyon Bychkov, renowned for subtle and revelatory performances of Strauss. Discover Berio’s glorious vocal and orchestral collage, which pays tribute to many composers from Mahler to Bach and exuberantly captures the spirit of the 1960s when it was composed. Click "here":http://www.thsh.co.uk/page/contact-us/press-office/midlands-musicians-join-britain-s-top-youth-orchestra/ for the event press release in our Press Office section.
  *Semyon Bychkov* conductor *London Voices*
  *Berio* Sinfonia 27' *Strauss* An Alpine Symphony 47'
  

• Buddy Guy Plus Support 

  Fri 27 Jun Symphony Hall

  Five time Grammy Award winner, Rock & Roll Hall of fame inductee and pioneer of Chicago’s fabled West-side sound, legendary guitarist Buddy Guy will perform at Symphony Hall as part of his three date UK tour. Buddy has always electrified audiences with his prodigious guitar skills and his flamboyant performances are responsible for having shaped the playing of many guitarists perceived by us today as guitar royalty, including Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck, Steve Ray Vaughan and Jimi Hendrix. Even now at the age of 71 Buddy Guy still puts on a spectacle which leaves audiences completely overawed. Don’t miss this chance to see the talent who inspired Clapton and Hendrix to first pick up a guitar!
  
  PLEASE NOTE THIS CONCERT STARTS AT 7.30PM
  

• 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.
  

• Elgar's 150th Anniversary City of Birmingham Choir 

  Sat 19 May Symphony Hall

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

• 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*
  
  

• Friday Night Classics: Bernstein on Broadway  

  Fri 3 Jul Symphony Hall

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

• CBSO Friday Night Classics A Night at the Oscars 

  Fri 18 May Symphony Hall

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

• 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/
  
  
  

• Schools Concert: Romeo and Juliet  

  Fri 19 Jun Symphony Hall

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

• Schools Concert: Romeo and Juliet  

  Fri 19 Jun Symphony Hall

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

• 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.
  
  
  

• 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
  
  
  

• 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*
  
  

• 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)_
  
  
  

• 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.
  
  
  

• Beyond the Barricade 10th Anniversary Show 

  Fri 26 Jun Symphony Hall

  Beyond the Barricade, the most successful and popular touring show of its kind, returns with a brand new special 10th Anniversary production of the show featuring international guitarist and composer Gordon Giltrap. Recreating original West End/Broadway musical hit songs with amazing authenticity, this cast of past principal performers from _Les Miserables_ celebrate their anniversary, with a blockbusting show featuring the best musical songs of the past 10 years including _The Phantom of the Opera_, _Chess_, _The Lion King_, _Blood Brothers_, _Miss Saigon_ and many more major hit productions, climaxing with a spectacular finale from, of course, _Les Miserables_! Don’t miss this celebration of the best musicals of the last 10 years!
  with special guest *Gordon Giltrap*
  
  

• Michel Legrand and his orchestra with special guest Alison Moyet  

  Mon 2 Feb 2009 Symphony Hall

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

• 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!
  
  
  

• 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.
  
  
  

• Elaine Paige  

  Sun 15 Feb Symphony Hall

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

• 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*
  
  

• 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_
  

• 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.
  
  
  

• 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.
  
  
  

• 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.
  
  
  

• 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.
  
  
  

• Jason Donovan plus support 

  Fri 12 Dec Symphony Hall

  Jason Donovan has enjoyed a very successful and varied career in film, television and theatre plus a record-breaking international solo career in which he made over 13 million record sales. Most famous for his role as Scott Robinson in _Neighbours_, Jason won nearly every Australian award during his time on one of Australia’s most successful drama series and the hearts of millions. Jason’s vocal career began in 1988 when he released ‘Especially for You’ with Kylie Minogue and a debut solo album, _Ten Good Reasons_. Following the release of his second album in 1989, Jason became the biggest selling UK and European artist. In the same year he was voted Best Male Singer and Britain’s Best Album at the Smash Hits Awards. Jason has performed internationally to sell-out audiences of thousands. Jason triumphed in the West End when he starred as Joseph in _Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat_ at the Palladium. Jason played to critical acclaim and sell-out business. In 1998, Jason again drew sell-out crowds for his performance as Frank ‘N’ Furter in The Rocky Horror UK Tour, during the show’s 25th Anniversary.
  
  
  

• CBSO Symphonic Dances: II  

  Thu 10 Dec Symphony Hall

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

• 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
  
  

• 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.
  
  

• Gergiev, Mariinsky and the CBSO  

  Wed 14 Oct Symphony Hall

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

• Gergiev, Mariinsky and the CBSO  

  Thu 15 Oct Symphony Hall

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

• 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.
  
  
  

• 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
  
  
  

• 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.
  
  
  

• 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.
  
  
  

• 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.
  
  
  

• 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
  
  
  

• 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.
  
  
  

• 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*
  
  

• 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.
  

• 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
  
  
  

• 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
  

• 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
  

• 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
  
  
  

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

  Fri 22 Feb 2008 Symphony Hall

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

• CBSO Friday Night Classics: John Williams' Heroes  

  Fri 30 Oct Symphony Hall

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

• 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.)
  
  
  

• 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
  

• 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
  
  
  

• 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.
  
  

• 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
  
  

• 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.
  
  
  

• 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’
  

• 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
  

• 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
  
  
  

• 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'
  

• 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.
  
  
  

• 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
  

• 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.
  
  
  

• 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.
  
  
  

• 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
  

• 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
  
  

• 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'
  

• 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.
  
  
  

• 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
  
  
  

• 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
  
  
  

• 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
  
  
  

• 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.*
  

• 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_
  
  
  

• 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*
  
  
  

• 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.
  
  
  

• 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.*
  

• 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”.
  
  
  

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