Birmingham International Concert Season 2009/10

Wed 7 Oct to Sat 12 Jun 2010 at Town Hall & Symphony Hall

See the world’s greatest artists perform on the UK’s finest stages

In the 2009/10 season, you can expect thrilling performances from Daniel Barenboim and the Berlin Staatskapelle, Riccardo Muti and Joshua Bell with the Philharmonia, the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, Murray Perahia, Lang Lang, Renée Fleming, Ian Bostridge and Sir James Galway, amongst many others.

Just two years after its magnificent re-opening, we celebrate 175 years of Town Hall’s musical heritage with a series of anniversary concerts. And we cement our special relationship with the CBSO with three events, including a unique and epic collaboration with the Orchestra and Chorus of the Mariinsky Theatre under Valery Gergiev.

From the unrivalled acoustic of Symphony Hall to the historic ambience of Town Hall, there are no better platforms for such outstanding talents. We hope you will cherish these special evenings of music making with us.

Concert Packages: Book six or more concerts and save up to 30%!
Book a concert package and guarantee those special musical experiences.
And, the more concerts you book for, the more money you’ll save:

  • Book 6 to 8 concerts and save 10%
  • Book 9 to 10 concerts and save 15%
  • Book 11 to 16 concerts and save 20%
  • Book 17 or more concerts and save 30%

You will also receive these exclusive benefits:

  • First choice of seats in Town Hall and Symphony Hall
  • Ticket exchange scheme
  • Free concert programme
  • Discounts on selected additional concerts throughout the year
  • 6 months interest free credit if you book by 30 June 2008
  • Car parking for just £3.80 at Brindleyplace
  • 12½% discount THe SHop, our classical music shop at Symphony Hall
  • 10% discount on Town Hall and Symphony Hall merchandise
  • 30% discount on additional Birmingham International Concert Season concert tickets if you book 17 or more concerts in your package
  • Exclusive booking period for additional concerts included in this brochure

How to Book
Postal booking of concert packages is open now. Or download an order form from the top right hand side of this webpage.

  • Muti Conducts Beethoven  

    Tue 23 Mar Symphony Hall

    There have been few more glamorous conducting careers than that of Riccardo Muti, who has conducted the world’s greatest orchestras and spent nearly twenty years as director of La Scala, Milan. Tonight he appears at Symphony Hall for the first time, conducting two towering Beethoven masterpieces: the majestic Eroica Symphony and the timeless Violin Concerto, played by one of the finest violinists of his generation, Joshua Bell. Classic FM’s Anne-Marie Minhall, says of tonight’s recommended concert: _“Riccardo Muti and Joshua Bell go back a long way. When the violinist was just fourteen years old it was with Maestro Muti and the Philadelphia Orchestra that he made his debut.”_
    *Philharmonia Orchestra* *Riccardo Muti* _conductor_ *Joshua Bell* _violin_
    *Beethoven* Violin Concerto 42’ *Beethoven* Symphony No 3, _Eroica_ 50’

  • Good Friday St John Passion  

    Fri 2 Apr Symphony Hall

    This year Symphony Hall develops the long tradition of its Good Friday passion performances by turning to Bach’s St John Passion. Enduring in its emotional appeal, there are few who remain unmoved by the glorious music. BBC Music magazine’s Editor Oliver Condy explains why he has recommended tonight’s concert: _“In a world that often recognises Bach’s St Matthew Passion as the composer’s greatest choral work, his St John has a tricky time getting a look in. But the St John contains some of Bach’s most colourful and emotional music ... this concert will make for a poignant Good Friday.”_
    *Ex Cathedra Soloists, Choir and Baroque Orchestra* *Jeffrey Skidmore* _conductor_ *Jeremy Budd* _Evangelist_ *James Rutherford* _Jesus_ *Greg Skidmore* _Pilate_ *Grace Davidson* _Soprano_ *Matthew Vennr* _Alto_ *Samuel Boden* _Tenor_
    *J S Bach* St John Passion 115’

  • Berlioz's Symphonie Fantastique  

    Thu 15 Apr Symphony Hall

    _Symphonie Fantastique_ dramatises unrequited love. In this colourful score Berlioz depicted the fantasies of a spurned lover, ranging through a glittering ball, love in a meadow during the drowsy heat of the afternoon, an execution and a supernatural encounter in a churchyard at night. Classic FM’s Anne-Marie Minhall, says of tonight’s recommended concert: _“Every year Classic FM asks you to vote for your favourite classical works in our Hall of Fame. One of the works I like to vote for each year is the Grieg Piano Concerto and one of my favourite recordings of it is by tonight’s soloist Jean-Yves Thibaudet.”_
    *Luxembourg Philharmonic Orchestra* *Emmanuel Krivine* conductor *Jean-Yves Thibaudet* piano
    Berlioz Overture, _Roman Carnival_ 8’ Grieg Piano Concerto 28’ Berlioz _Symphonie Fantastique_ 50’

  • Mozart's Requiem  

    Fri 16 Apr Symphony Hall

    The circumstances under which Mozart’s Requiem was composed have all the elements of Gothic fantasy. Commissioned by a mysterious stranger, it was still being written by Mozart on his deathbed and is one of his most iconic works. The Academy of Ancient Music brings a special dark hue to this music, using the original instruments of Mozart’s own time. Classic FM’s Anne-Marie Minhall, says of tonight’s recommended concert: _“If you’ve ever thought about introducing a friend or family member to the wonders of classical music, then this could be the concert to take them to. It’s a real taste of the immensely diverse works that Mozart produced.”_
    *Academy of Ancient Music* *Richard Egarr* _soloist/director_ *Katharine Fuge* _soprano_ *Barbara Kozelj* _mezzo soprano_ *James Gilchrist* _tenor_ *Christopher Purves* _bass_
    *Mozart* Overture, _Don Giovanni_ 5’ Piano Concerto No 25 28’ Requiem 50’

  • Bach's Musical Offering  

    Sat 24 Apr Town Hall

    For thirty years, Ton Koopman has been an inspirational force in Bach performance, joyfully rejecting anything but the instruments and performing techniques that Bach himself would have known. Together with his Amsterdam Baroque Orchestra, Koopman brings his unique passion to one of the jewels of Bach’s old age - the great Musical Offering.
    *Soloists of the Amsterdam Baroque Orchestra* *Ton Koopman* _harpsichord/director_ *Tini Mathot* _harpsichord_
    *J S Bach* _A Musical Offering_ 39’ Ricercare a 6 for two harpsichords, BWV1079 9’ Concerto for two harpsichords in C, BWV1061 18’

  • Hugh Masekela and the CBSO  

    Fri 7 May Symphony Hall

    Hugh Masekela is a legend. Born in South Africa seventy years ago, he quickly emerged as one of his country’s leading musicians, his music reflecting its struggles, sorrows, joys and passions. He returns to Symphony Hall for a unique collaboration with the CBSO and the Town Hall Gospel Choir, for whom he has written a new work, as well as performing Jason Yarde’s Flugelhorn Concerto. Visit the "CBSO website":http://www.cbso.co.uk
    *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Michael Seal* _conductor_ *Hugh Masekela* _flugelhorn_ *Jason Yarde* _saxophones_ *Town Hall Gospel Choir* *CBSO Young Voices in partnership with Birmingham Music Service*

  • Biss plays Brahms's Piano Quintet  

    Sun 9 May Town Hall

    _“Outstanding”_ (The Guardian), _“pure magic”_ (Daily Telegraph) and _“a heaven-storming performance”_ (The Strad) - the Elias Quartet seem unable to put a foot wrong with the critics. Rising star and passionate Mozartean, Jonathan Biss, joins them for Mozart’s Second Piano Quartet. There is also Britten’s Purcell-inspired Second Quartet and one of Brahms’ mightiest chamber works, the powerful and expressive Piano Quintet.
    *Jonathan Biss* _piano_ *Elias Quartet*
    *Mozart* Piano Quartet No 2, K493 30’ *Britten* String Quartet No 2 30’ *Brahms* Piano Quintet 38’

  • Sir James Galway 70th Birthday Recital  

    Sat 22 May Symphony Hall

    James Galway exudes a leprechaun-like energy and youthful sense of fun, with an unstoppable passion for communicating with audiences. His concert with his wife, Lady Jeanne Galway, ranges from the simple Irish lyricism of Hamilton Harty through to the virtuosic fireworks of the Carmen Fantasie. Classic FM’s Anne-Marie Minhall, says of tonight’s recommended concert: _“The man with the golden flute remains one of the best-known names in classical music. His solo career spans thirty-five years and more than thirty million album sales worldwide.”_ Sir James & Lady Jeanne Galway appear by arrangement with Galway Management
    *Sir James Galway* _flute_ *Lady Jeanne Galway* _flute_ *Michael McHale* _piano_
    *Hamilton Harty* _In Ireland_ *Debussy* _La fille aux cheveux de lin_ *Debussy* _En Bateau_ *P Taffanel* _Fantasie Sur Mignon_ *Bazzini* _La Ronde des Lutins_ *Briccialdi* _Carnival of Venice_ *Pietro Morlacchi* _Il Pastore Svizzero_ *K & F Doppler* _Rigoletto Fantasie for two flutes & piano_ *F Borne* _Carmen Fantasie_

  • Alfred Brendel Talk: The Light and Shade of Interpretation  

    Mon 7 Jun Town Hall

    Alfred Brendel retired from the concert platform in 2008. Now he returns as a speaker, discussing the ideas and inspiration that, for nearly fifty years, have made him one of the world’s leading pianists. There will be a chance to savour the old Brendel magic when he illustrates his thoughts at the piano. BBC Music magazine’s Editor Oliver Condy explains why he has recommended tonight’s concert: _“Alfred Brendel may have retired from public piano performance, but that hasn’t stopped one of the most entertaining, intelligent and thoughtful musicians from sharing his views on music. Brendel has as much a gift for communicating verbally as he does musically.”_


  • Town Hall 175TH Birthday Concert: Handel's Messiah  

    Sat 3 Oct Town Hall

    Handel’s Messiah - the setting of the greatest of all stories - has been at the heart of Town Hall’s programme throughout its 175 years of existence. Harry Christophers and The Sixteen’s subtle yet energetic CD of _Messiah_ was one of the great successes of 2008, and tonight’s performance of the most popular oratorio ever composed has a vintage line-up of British soloists. Classic FM’s Anne-Marie Minhall, says of tonight’s recommended concert: _“In an interview for Classic FM Harry Christophers said that he never tires of conducting the work, ‘It’s such a wonderful masterpiece... you can never destroy Messiah’.”_
    *The Sixteen Choir and Orchestra* *Harry Christophers* _conductor_ *Gillian Keith* _soprano_ *Catherine Wyn-Rogers* _mezzo soprano_ *John Mark Ainsley* _tenor_ *Chris Purves* _baritone_
    *Handel* _The Messiah_

  • 175 Today! Birthday Carnival Open Day 11am-4pm 

    Sun 4 Oct Town Hall

    Free fun packed day of music, dance and all things carnival to celebrate Town Hall’s 175th Birthday. Activities include mask making, mehndi demonstrations, flower garlands, craft workshops, a Town Hall birthday colouring competition and the opportunity to meet The Gruffalo Performances by The Notebenders and The Infusion Ensemble, dance workshops and much, much more. Something special for all the family.

    11am Infusion Ensemble 12.30pm Town Hall Organ and Tour Guides 1.30pm "Bollywood Steps Workshop":http://www.bollywoodstepsbirmingham.co.uk 2.30pm The Notebenders Performance 3.30pm "Bollywood Steps Workshop":http://www.bollywoodstepsbirmingham.co.uk

  • 175TH Birthday Organ Concert  

    Mon 5 Oct Town Hall

    Town Hall’s splendid 1834 organ, by William Hill, is one of the finest of English instruments, sounding as fresh as the day it was first played. Those who performed on it include Mendelssohn and, of course, George Thalben-Ball. Thomas Trotter gives a special anniversary recital with a range of colourful music from its heyday. BBC Music magazine’s Editor Oliver Condy explains why he has recommended tonight’s concert: _“Since 1834, only seven men have held the prestigious Birmingham City Organist post, including today’s incumbent, the hugely entertaining and brilliant Thomas Trotter. The Hall’s grand old four-manual Hill organ is sure to get a thorough birthday work-out!”_
    *Thomas Trotter* _organ_
    *Mendelssohn* Overture, _A Midsummer Night’s Dream_ (arr. Warren) 12’ *Lemmens* Grand Fantasia, _The Storm_ 11' *S S Wesley* Air on _Holsworthy Church Bells_ 5’ *J S Bach* Passacaglia in C minor 13’ *Festing* Largo, Allegro, Aria and Variations (arr. Thalben-Ball) 6’ *Thalben-Ball* Variations on a theme of Paganini for Pedals 7’ *Elgar* Sonata No 2 14’ *Weber* Overture, _Jubel_ (arr. Best) 8’

  • Russian Romantics  

    Wed 7 Oct Symphony Hall

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

  • Midlands Youth Jazz Orchestra  

    Fri 9 Oct Symphony Hall Foyer Bars

    Undefeated champion of the national BBC Big Band Competition, MYJO makes its long-awaited debut at Rush Hour Blues.


  • nutkhut's Bollywood Steps created by Simmy Gupta 

    Fri 9 Oct Book through our ticket office for Victoria Square

    nutkhut’s _Bollywood Steps_, created by Simmy Gupta, is a unique outdoor dance spectacular that forms the centrepiece of Town Hall’s 175th anniversary celebrations and Birmingham’s Light Night. The 40 minute show celebrates all the classic Bollywood moments in a series of dazzling dance numbers, with lighting, fireworks, colourful costumes and water effects. _Bollywood Steps_ premiered at Trafalgar Square in 2004. Since then it has performed to over 200,000 people and was last seen as the finale of Edinburgh’s 2009 Hogmanay celebrations. One of the UK’s most exciting large-scale outdoor shows, it has been presented in a range of settings, from football stadiums (Wembley) to cathedrals and stately homes. Bollywood Steps builds up to a magnificent wedding scene where, if you like, you can join a moment of mass audience participation - all set against the spectacular architectural backdrop of Town Hall. *It’s fun to be part of it!* Learn the dance moves from the show and join nutkhut’s cast, hundreds of local schoolchildren, youth dancers and dhol drummers to create an unforgettable experience! Visit "BollywoodStepsBirmingham":http://www.bollywoodstepsbirmingham.co.uk to learn the dance moves, or learn them with *Bobby Friction* and *Simmy Gupta* half an hour before the show. Find out about our competition to upload your own film of you and your friends - it could be projected before the show!


  • The Old Dance School, The Toy Hearts & The Destroyers Town Hall 175th Anniversary Series 

    Sun 11 Oct Town Hall

    7-7.45pm The Old Dance School 8.15-9pm The Toy Hearts 9.30-10.45pm The Destroyers Three of Birmingham's best-loved bohemian bands get together for a birthday shindig to remember. Expect the eclectic, with youthful folk from *The Old Dance School*, Brummie bluegrass from *The Toy Hearts*, and turbo-charged gypsy-punk from *The Destroyers*.


  • 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.”_ Listen to the Classic FM podcast "here":http://www.classicfm.co.uk/on-air/podcasts/classic-fm-arts-daily/e103548-classic-fm-arts-daily-210809/
    *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.”_ Listen to the Classic FM podcast "here":http://www.classicfm.co.uk/on-air/podcasts/classic-fm-arts-daily/e103548-classic-fm-arts-daily-210809/
    *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)

  • Sara Littlefield Quartet  

    Fri 16 Oct Symphony Hall Foyer Bars

    Young saxophonist Sara Littlefield leads a group of top players from Leeds.


  • Celebrity Piano Recital: Imogen Cooper  

    Sun 18 Oct Town Hall

    Imogen Cooper is a great artist whose performances are renowned for their sensitivity and depth. Nowhere is this more apparent than in Schubert’s music. This concert includes the fresh lyricism of his first set of Impromptus, the fiery A minor Sonata and the powerful serenity of his great last Sonata. BBC Music magazine’s Editor Oliver Condy explains why he has recommended tonight’s concert: _“Schubert’s piano works contain some of the loveliest and most plaintive melodies in the whole repertoire. A recital from last year’s winner of the Royal Philharmonic Society’s Instrumental Award should be a very special event indeed.”_

    *Schubert* Four Impromptus, D899 *Schubert* Sonata in A minor, D784 *Schubert* Sonata in B flat major, D960

  • Ross Stanley Trio  

    Fri 23 Oct Symphony Hall Foyer Bars

    This replaces the scheduled Jim Mullen Trio event.


  • Tchaikovsky and Dvorák  

    Thu 29 Oct Symphony Hall

    Style and authenticity just ooze from the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra. Dvořák himself conducted this orchestra’s first concert and the highlight of tonight’s programme is his grandly tragic Seventh Symphony. Superstar of the violin, Nicola Benedetti, is a regular visitor to Symphony Hall and joins the orchestra in Tchaikovsky’s heart-warming Violin Concerto.
    *Czech Philharmonic Orchestra* *Jakub Hrusa* _conductor_ *Nicola Benedetti* _violin_
    *Janáček* _Taras Bulba_ *Tchaikovsky* Violin Concerto *Dvořák* Symphony No 7

  • Sam Crockatt Quartet  

    Fri 30 Oct Symphony Hall Foyer Bars

    Sam is one of the best young saxophonists to emerge on the UK scene for many years, with his recent album _Howeird_ being described as 'delightful and intensely listenable'.


  • In Love... With Renée Fleming  

    Programme Change

    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_
    *Prokofiev* Suite, _Romeo and Juliet_ *Tchaikovsky* Tatyana's Letter Scene from _Eugene Onegin_ *Tchaikovsky* Fantasy Overture, _Romeo and Juliet_ *Leoncavallo* Svaria sulla bocca viva from _La Boheme_ *Leoncavallo* Pinson la biondetta from _La Boheme_ *Giordano* Nella suo amore from _Siberia_ *Puccini* Sola perduta, abandonata from _Manon Lescaut_

  • Murray Perahia Plays Bach and Mozart  

    Fri 13 Nov Symphony Hall

    Maturity, elegance and simplicity are hallmarks of Murray Perahia’s performances. In the great classical works he is ardent, persuasive, but never dull. With this concert Perahia extends his range, directing Mozart and Bach from the keyboard and taking up the baton for the _Prague_ Symphony - a work of grandeur, majesty and celebratory exuberance. Classic FM’s Anne-Marie Minhall, says of tonight’s recommended concert: _“Murray Perahia is one of the most sought-after musicians today and can be heard regularly on Classic FM. Tonight he takes the lead at the keyboard for one of Mozart’s much-loved concertos for his favourite instrument.”_
    *Academy of St Martin in the Fields* *Murray Perahia* _piano/director_
    *J C Bach* Sinfonia Concertante in E flat, T288/7 *Mozart* Piano Concerto No 17 in G, K453 *J S Bach* Concerto No 3 in D, BWV1054 *Mozart* Symphony No 38, _Prague_

  • Elgar's The Dream of Gerontius  

    Sat 28 Nov Town Hall

    The story of one man’s journey from this world to the next, _The Dream of Gerontius_ never fails to sweep audiences away with its operatic immediacy. Originally premiered in Town Hall as a commission for the 1900 Birmingham Festival, these performances will be the first period-instrument rendition of _Gerontius_ that return to the score as Elgar conceived it. BBC Music magazine’s Editor Oliver Condy explains why he has recommended tonight’s concert: _“To hear Elgar’s undisputed masterpiece performed ‘at home’ by such distinguished musicians is a rare treat. Gerontius will surely be one of Birmingham’s autumn highlights.”_ Listen to the Classic FM podcast "here":http://www.classicfm.co.uk/on-air/podcasts/classic-fm-arts-daily/e103507-classic-fm-arts-daily-190809/
    *Ex Cathedra XL Anniversary Choir* *Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment* *Jeffrey Skidmore* _conductor_ *Anna Stéphany* _mezzo soprano_ *Adrian Thompson* _tenor_ *Roderick Williams* _bass_
    *Elgar* _The Dream of Gerontius_ 100'

  • Elgar's The Dream of Gerontius  

    Sun 29 Nov Town Hall

    The story of one man’s journey from this world to the next, _The Dream of Gerontius_ never fails to sweep audiences away with its operatic immediacy. Originally premiered in Town Hall as a commission for the 1900 Birmingham Festival, these performances will be the first period-instrument rendition of _Gerontius_ that return to the score as Elgar conceived it. BBC Music magazine’s Editor Oliver Condy explains why he has recommended tonight’s concert: _“To hear Elgar’s undisputed masterpiece performed ‘at home’ by such distinguished musicians is a rare treat. Gerontius will surely be one of Birmingham’s autumn highlights.”_ Listen to the Classic FM podcast "here":http://www.classicfm.co.uk/on-air/podcasts/classic-fm-arts-daily/e103507-classic-fm-arts-daily-190809/
    *Ex Cathedra XL Anniversary Choir* *Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment* *Jeffrey Skidmore* _conductor_ *Anna Stéphany* _mezzo soprano_ *Adrian Thompson* _tenor_ *Roderick Williams* _bass_
    *Elgar* _The Dream of Gerontius_ 100'

  • Lee Konitz and Dan Tepfer Birmingham Jazz 2009/10 

    Tue 1 Dec Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

    More details to follow.

    Please note: Dan Tepfer replaces Rashied Ali.

  • Sir Willard White: Robeson Re-Explored  

    Wed 9 Dec Town Hall

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

  • Belcea Quartet  

    Mon 11 Jan Town Hall

    Of all the younger British quartets, the Belcea Quartet has earned an international reputation for some of the most polished and committed performances you will hear today. At Town Hall they play two masterpieces: Schubert’s _Death and the Maiden Quartet_, with its slow movement of heart-melting pathos, and Beethoven’s epic First _Razumovsky_ Quartet. BBC Music magazine’s Editor Oliver Condy explains why he has recommended tonight’s concert: _“Here’s the perfect partnership of music and musicians - the brilliant, young Belcea Quartet tackle two masterpieces by two geniuses of the genre, Schubert and Beethoven.”_
    *Belcea Quartet*
    *Beethoven* String Quartet, Op 59, No 1, _Razumovsky_ 40’ *Schubert* String Quartet _Death and the Maiden_ 37’

  • Schubert from Bostridge and Pappano  

    Fri 22 Jan Town Hall

    _“A performance as intense and intriguing as it was timeless,”_ wrote _The Scotsman_ after Ian Bostridge and Antonio Pappano, Music Director of the Royal Opera House, performed Schwanengesang (Swansong) at the 2008 Edinburgh Festival. Their recent CD has won more critical plaudits. These unforgettable songs are the last that Schubert completed - audacious, economical but with an intensity of expression that takes us into a new world.
    *Ian Bostridge* tenor *Antonio Pappano* piano
    *Schubert* _Widerschein, Der Winterabend, Die Sterne_ 13' *Schubert* _Schwanengesang_ 53'

  • Barenboim plays Beethoven  

    Sat 30 Jan Symphony Hall

    Few names are more prestigious in music today than that of Daniel Barenboim. A musical colossus and legend in his own lifetime, he is one of the world’s leading pianists and conductors, with barely a corner of musical life that he has not touched in some way. Steeped in Beethoven’s music - arguably its greatest living exponent -Barenboim’s performance of the _Emperor_ Concerto with the Berlin Staatskapelle is eagerly anticipated. 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.
    *Staatskapelle Berlin* *Daniel Barenboim* _conductor/piano_
    *Schoenberg* _Verklärte Nacht_ 20’ *Beethoven* Piano Concerto No 5, _Emperor_ 38’

  • Celebrity Piano Recital: Lang Lang  

    Thu 4 Feb 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 Prokofiev’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.”_ "Visit Lang Lang's website":http://www.langlang.com "The Lang Lang Music Foundation":http://www.thelanglangfoundation.org
    *Lang Lang* _piano_
    *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’

  • Master of French Romantic Organ Music  

    Tue 9 Feb Symphony Hall

    One of the world’s leading interpreters of French romantic organ music, Ben van Oosten is currently organist at the Grote Kerk in The Hague. His recital has been specially tailored to the character of Symphony Hall’s Klais organ and includes music by Vierne, whose complete works he has recorded, alongside works by Bach and Mendelssohn.
    *Ben van Oosten* _organ_
    *Guilmant* Sonata No 1 21’ *J S Bach* _Sheep may safely graze_ (tr. Isoir) 4’ *Mendelssohn* Variations Sérieuses (tr. Smits) 17’ *Dupré* Prelude and Fugue in A fl at major 5’ *Vierne* Symphony No 3 32’

  • Steve Reich's Drumming  

    Sat 20 Feb Town Hall

    Steve Reich’s Drumming is one of the iconic masterpieces of the last fifty years. Inspired by Reich’s studies in Ghana with master drummer Gideon Alorwoyie, it is a transcendent and dramatic tapestry of pounding bongo drums, mesmerising marimbas, glassy glockenspiels and women’s voices, with an irresistible sense of momentum. Colin Currie’s performances have led a new generation to rediscover this staggering masterwork.
    *Colin Currie, Sam Walton, Joby Burgess, Tony Bedewi, Adrian Spillet, Richard Benjafield, Owen Gunnell, Andrew Cottee* _percussion_ *Rowland Sutherland* _piccolo_ *Synergy Vocals*
    *Steve Reich* Clapping Music 5’ Nagoya Marimbas 5’ Music for Mallet Instruments, Voices and Organ 19’ Drumming c.60’

  • Celebrity Piano Recital: Emanuel Ax  

    Sun 28 Feb Town Hall

    Emanuel Ax is one of the most highly regarded and gifted pianists alive today. His recital celebrates two great bi-centennial birthdays -those of Chopin and Schumann - demonstrating the utmost refinement, simplicity and intimacy of his playing through to virtuosity of breathtaking proportions. BBC Music magazine’s Editor Oliver Condy explains why he has recommended tonight’s concert: _“This concert is the perfect opportunity to revel in the Polish composer Chopin’s masterful piano writing in the hands of one of the greatest Romantic pianists of our age. Polish polish, as they say...”_
    *Emanuel Ax*
    *Chopin* Polonaise-Fantaisie, Op 61 14’ Three Mazurkas, Op 56 6’ *Schumann* Fantasy, Op 17 30’ Fantasiestücke, Op 12 26’ *Chopin* Four Mazurkas, Op 41 6’ Andante Spianato and Grande Polonaise, Op 22 14’

  • Rachmaninov's Second Symphony  

    Programme Change

    Tue 2 Mar Symphony Hall

    One of Holland’s foremost orchestras, with their Principal Conductor Jaap van Zweden, brings a richly romantic programme to Symphony Hall. There’s the heartfelt lyricism and inexhaustible melody of Rachmaninov’s Second Symphony and Mussorgsky’s exquisite _Khovanshchina_ Prelude, evoking dawn over Moscow. And, expect sparks to fly in Prokofiev’s Third Piano Concerto in the hands of Simon Trpčeski - one of today’s hottest young pianists. *Due to the current economic climate we regret that the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, originally due to perform at this concert, has been forced to postpone its European tour. However, we are delighted to secure the outstanding Netherlands Radio Philharmonic Orchestra, with conductor Jaap van Zweden and pianist Simon Trpčeski as originally advertised, in a programme that is virtually unchanged.* _“Jaap van Zweden is the principal conductor of no less than four important orchestras around the world, but tonight he returns to his Dutch roots with the Netherlands Radio Philharmonic. At the core of this impressive programme is the young Macedonian sensation Simon Trpčeski who will tackle one of the trickiest piano concertos in the book, Prokofiev’s ferocious Third.”_ Oliver Condy, BBC Music Magazine
    *Netherlands Radio Philharmonic Orchestra* *Jaap van Zweden* _conductor_ *Simon Trpčeski* _piano_
    *Mussorgsky* Prelude to _Khovanshchina_ 6’ *Prokofiev* Piano Concerto No 3 27’ *Rachmaninov* Symphony No 2 60’