CBSO Season 2009-10

Public booking opens on Monday 15 June.

For list of concerts please see www.cbso.co.uk/concerts

DISCOUNTS FOR CBSO CONCERTS

Please note that only one discount can be applied to any ticket. Special offers, discounts and concessions cannot be combined. Concerts which are not promoted by the CBSO may have different discounting policies please check with the Ticket Office at time of booking.

CONCERT PACKAGES
Buy tickets for 3 or more CBSO concerts at Symphony Hall/Town Hall to start saving and receiving package benefits.

GROUP BOOKERS
are entitled to a 20% discount for parties of 11 or more and receive one FREE ticket for the group organiser. Groups also benefit from a reservation facility – please call the Group Booking Department on Freephone 0800 358 7070. There is also the opportunity to meet CBSO musicians at concerts; please call Eva Wuestum at the CBSO on 0121 616 6513.

FAMILY TICKETS FROM £20: (for Symphony Hall & Town Hall)
To qualify for a family ticket, one or two adults must be accompanied by one or more children aged 16 or under, up to a maximum group of six people. Family tickets are available in all areas, and will be allocated subject to availability. Adult family ticket: £15; child family ticket: £5.

STUDENTS & YOUNG PEOPLE
From 1pm on the day of each evening performance and from 10am for matinée concerts, anyone in fulltime education and young people aged 25 and under can purchase remaining tickets at the discounted price of £4. Proof of eligibility may be required. Please note: the CBSO reserves the right to allocate these tickets in certain areas of the hall.

Under our ‘Audiences for Tomorrow’ scheme, the CBSO offers a limited number of tickets at special prices for secondary school groups, subject to availability. Teachers should call Heather Brannan on 0121 616 6546 for information.

STANDBY TICKETS
Available from 1pm on the day of each evening performance and from 10am for matinée concerts (Symphony Hall & Town Hall concerts), and from CBSO Centre one hour before CBSO Centre performances. Please come early to avoid queues. All standby tickets are issued subject to availability and on production of valid and suitable identification. Please note the CBSO reserves the right to allocate standby tickets in certain areas of the hall.

Patrons aged 60+ (Symphony Hall & Town Hall only) receive 10% discount. Patrons who are benefit recipients can purchase tickets for £4 at all venues (qualifying benefits: Income Support, Pension Tax Credit, Job Seekers Allowance and Disability Tax Credit). Holders of ‘Passport to Leisure’ cards can purchase Circle tickets for £21.50, and seats on all other levels for £14 at Symphony Hall and Town Hall (one ticket per Passport holder), and receive £1 off a full-price ticket at CBSO Centre.

DISABLED PATRONS: If you have a disability you are entitled to receive 50% discount off full price seats. Should you need the service of a companion, their ticket is also half price. Proof of eligibility may be required. NB Disabled patrons can combine their 50% discount with the additional Concert Package discounts. For further information on facilities for patrons with disabilities, including the infra-red system for the hearing impaired, please contact Symphony Hall (for Symphony Hall/Town Hall) on 0121 780 4949 or CBSO Centre on 0121 616 6532. Receivers are available from the Performance Manager at the concert. Guide dogs welcome.

WHEELCHAIR POSITIONS Spaces for patrons who need to remain in their wheelchair during the performance are located on the stalls and upper circle levels of Symphony Hall, stalls & circle levels of Town Hall and are available at CBSO Centre. Please book in advance for Symphony Hall & Town Hall by calling 0121 780 4949 during opening hours.

CAR PARKING: Limited space is available at all three venues for Blue Badge holders driving their own vehicles. When reserving a space you will be asked for your Blue Badge number, vehicle registration, concert date and contact details. Symphony Hall: please contact the Box Office on 0121 780 3333. For requests of three or more dates, please obtain a booking form from the Box Office (call 0121 780 3333).
Town Hall: please contact Stage Door on 0121 644 5039.
CBSO Centre: call 0121 616 6532 to reserve parking in advance.
For concerts at Town Hall, wheelchair users may also be dropped off outside the building by Paradise Circus. Blue badge parking bays in the vicinity of Town Hall can be found on Margaret Street, Edmund Street and Pinfold Street.

This brochure is available free of charge on audio-cassette. Please call 0121 616 6513.

RETURNS & RESALES
Tickets are accepted at the discretion of the Ticket Office but all CBSO sales take priority. There is a service charge of 10% of the face value and money resulting from a resale will be forwarded by cheque. NB only cash or cheques will be accepted in payment for returns.

LOST TICKETS
Please note there is a £2 charge for printing duplicate tickets.

• CBSO Tuned In: The Firebird  

  Thu 25 Mar 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’
  

• CBSO Alfie Boe with the CBSO  

  Tue 30 Mar Symphony Hall

  Whether as the composer of theme tunes from _Blackadder_ to _The Vicar of Dibley_, or as a wonderfully accessible TV champion of classical music in all its forms, Howard Goodall is one of Britain’s best-loved composers. And his new tuneful and deeply moving Requiem, _Eternal Light_, has already become a bestseller. This performance, with star soloists Alfie Boe and Natasha Marsh, will show you why. Alfie Boe also sings Finzi’s radiant masterpiece. 6.15pm. Free pre-concert talk: *Howard Goodall* The popular conductor, composer and broadcaster introduces his new Requiem.
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Simon Halsey* _conductor_ *Natasha Marsh* _soprano_ *Alfie Boe* _tenor_ *William Berger* _baritone_ *CBSO Youth Chorus*
  *Holst* Choral Hymns from the _Rig Veda_ 12’ *Finzi* _Dies Natalis_ 25’ *Howard Goodall* _Eternal Light_ (Requiem) 45’
  

• Centre Stage - Brahms Piano Quartet CBSO Players 

  Wed 31 Mar Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

  *Brahms* Piano Quartet in G minor, Op 25
  *CBSO Players*
  *Brahms* Piano Quartet in G minor, Op 25
  

• CBSO Alfie Boe with the CBSO  

  Thu 1 Apr Symphony Hall

  Whether as the composer of theme tunes from _Blackadder_ to _The Vicar of Dibley_, or as a wonderfully accessible TV champion of classical music in all its forms, Howard Goodall is one of Britain’s best-loved composers. And his new tuneful and deeply moving Requiem, _Eternal Light_, has already become a bestseller. This performance, with star soloists Alfie Boe and Natasha Marsh, will show you why. Alfie Boe also sings Finzi’s radiant masterpiece. 1.15pm. Free pre-concert talk: *A Century of British Choral Music* Chorus Director Simon Halsey introduces today's choral matinee.
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Simon Halsey* _conductor_ *Natasha Marsh* _soprano_ *Alfie Boe* _tenor_ *William Berger* _baritone_ *CBSO Youth Chorus*
  *Holst* Choral Hymns from the _Rig Veda_ 12’ *Finzi* _Dies Natalis_ 25’ *Howard Goodall* _Eternal Light_ (Requiem) 45’
  

• CBSO Pictures at an Exhibition  

  Wed 14 Apr Symphony Hall

  When Maurice Ravel arranged Mussorgsky’s _Pictures at an Exhibition_ for orchestra, he created one of the few adaptations that’s better than the original! From its famous opening _Promenade_ to the roof-raising final _Great Gate of Kiev_, it’s one of the all-time great orchestral showpieces, a glittering Russian jewel-box full of spicy tunes and unforgettable images. It’s a real CBSO favourite - and Dvorák's riotous _Carnival Overture_ is every bit as colourful. The great open spaces of Beethoven’s noble violin concerto will be like an oasis of calm - especially in the masterly hands of the young German virtuoso Isabelle Faust.
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Andrew Grams* _conductor_ *Isabelle Faust* _violin_
  *Dvořák* _Carnival_ Overture 8’ *Beethoven* Violin Concerto 42’ *Mussorgsky (orch. Ravel)* _Pictures at an Exhibition_ 32’
  

• CBSO Schools Concert: The Firebird  

  Cancelled

  Thu 15 Apr Symphony Hall

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

• CBSO Schools Concert: The Firebird  

  Cancelled

  Thu 15 Apr Symphony Hall

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

• CBSO Pictures at an Exhibition  

  Sat 17 Apr Symphony Hall

  When Maurice Ravel arranged Mussorgsky’s _Pictures at an Exhibition_ for orchestra, he created one of the few adaptations that’s better than the original! From its famous opening _Promenade_ to the roof-raising final _Great Gate of Kiev_, it’s one of the all-time great orchestral showpieces, a glittering Russian jewel-box full of spicy tunes and unforgettable images. It’s a real CBSO favourite - and Dvorák’s riotous _Carnival Overture_ is every bit as colourful. The great open spaces of Beethoven’s noble violin concerto will be like an oasis of calm - especially in the masterly hands of the young German virtuoso Isabelle Faust.
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Andrew Grams* _conductor_ *Isabelle Faust* _violin_
  *Dvořák* _Carnival_ Overture 8’ *Beethoven* Violin Concerto 42’ *Mussorgsky (orch. Ravel)* _Pictures at an Exhibition_ 32’
  

• CBSO Favourite Mozart - Matinee  

  Wed 21 Apr Symphony Hall

  Robert Schumann just couldn’t help himself. He knew he was meant to be writing serious symphonies, but emotion kept getting in the way. With its heroic opening, imposing slow movement and beer-festival finale, his _Rhenish_ Symphony is more than just a joyous musical postcard from the sunny hills of the Rhineland - it’s an irresistibly exuberant self-portrait of one of music’s supreme Romantics. Mozart’s best-loved piano concerto makes a perfect complement. Call it the “Elvira Madigan”, call it Piano Concerto No. 21; the fact remains that it’s one of the most eloquent, most stirring and - yes - most romantic concertos Mozart ever wrote. In the hands of the acclaimed young Finnish pianist Antii Siirala, you’ll know it.
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Karl-Heinz Steffens* _conductor_ *Antti Siirala* _piano_
  *Schumann* _Manfred_ Overture 12’ *Mozart* Piano Concerto No 21, K.467 31’ *Schumann* Symphony No 3, _Rhenish_ 32’
  

• Centre Stage - Elspeth Dutch Elspeth Dutch and CBSO colleagues 

  Fri 23 Apr Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

  *Glazunov* Idyll for horn and strings *Dunhill* Horn Quintet in F minor
  *Elspeth Dutch* _horn_ *CBSO players*
  *Glazunov* Idyll for horn and strings *Dunhill* Horn Quintet in F minor
  

• CBSO Friday Night Classics: Silent Heroes  

  Fri 23 Apr 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’
  

• CBSO Nelsons Conducts Shostakovich  

  Tue 27 Apr Symphony Hall

  Muddle or music? If you had just written the loudest, most ambitious, most terrifying symphony since Mahler, and found your music criticised in the national press on behalf of a leader who enjoyed killing anyone who got in his way, what would you do? Well, Shostakovich decided to withdraw his epic Fourth Symphony in 1936 before its first performance, only for it to resurface decades later and be recognised as one of his greatest masterpieces. An outstanding German violinist joins the Orchestra for a more optimistic 1930s classic.
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Andris Nelsons* _conductor_ *Frank Peter Zimmermann* _violin_
  *Bartók* Violin Concerto No 2 36’ *Shostakovich* Symphony No 4 60’
  

• Centre Stage - Stockhausen  

  Thu 29 Apr Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

  *Stockhausen* _Tierkreis_ Music by *Miles Davis, Wayne Shorter, Duke Ellington* and *Bruno Heinen*.
  *Ulrich Heinen* _cello_ *Mark Goodchild* _double bass_ *Bruno Heinen* _piano_
  *Stockhausen* _Tierkreis_ Music by *Miles Davis, Wayne Shorter, Duke Ellington* and *Bruno Heinen*.
  

• CBSO Tuned In: Shostakovich Symphony No 4  

  Thu 29 Apr 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’
  

• Centre Stage - Russian String Quartets CBSO Players 

  Fri 7 May Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

  *Tchaikovsky* String Quartet No 1 *Shostakovich* String Quartet No 6
  *CBSO Players*
  *Tchaikovsky* String Quartet No 1 *Shostakovich* String Quartet No 6
  

• 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*
  
  

• CBSO Symphonic Dances: III  

  Wed 12 May Symphony Hall

  Andris Nelsons kicks up a real song and dance. In American exile, Rachmaninov summed up his life’s work in one extraordinary masterpiece. His _Symphonic Dances_ evoke a fantastic dream-world of half-remembered melodies, ghostly waltzes and driving jazz rhythms. But more to the point, they’re pure Rachmaninov - and that means high romance and glorious tunes. If you love his piano concertos, you’ll be spellbound. And if you love Beethoven’s piano concertos - well, you won’t need any persuasion to hear the most songful and poetic of the lot, played by the masterly Lars Vogt. Meanwhile, who’d have thought that the very first piece of music Nelsons brings us from his native Latvia would be the wonderfully evocative _Tango_, by his friend Arturs Maskats? Post-concert talk, c 9.15. Stay late for a post-conecrt conversation with Andris Nelsons and Stephen Maddock.
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Andris Nelsons* conductor *Lars Vogt* piano
  *Maskats* _Tango_ 12' *Beethoven* Piano Concerto No 4 34' *Rachmaninov* _Symphonic Dances_ 35'
  

• Centre Stage - Lars Vogt  

  Thu 13 May Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

  *Schubert* '_Trout_' Quintet
  *CBSO Players* *Lars Vogt* _piano_
  *Schubert* '_Trout_' Quintet
  

• CBSO Family Concert: Young Person's Guide to the Orchestra - Matinee  

  Sun 16 May Symphony Hall

  This is your chance to discover all you wanted to know about a symphony orchestra! What are all those instruments and the amazing sounds they make? Travel through time on this magical musical journey as the CBSO’s top conductor, Andris Nelsons, and musicians Catherine Arlidge and Peter Hill let you into lots of musical secrets, with _The Sorcerer’s Apprentice_, The Elephant (from _The Carnival of the Animals_), Britten’s _Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra_ and more. FREE CRAFT WORKSHOPS AND MUSIC in the foyers from 1.30pm. Why not come dressed up in a music inspired costume? Visit the "CBSO website":http://www.cbso.co.uk
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Andris Nelsons* _conductor_ *Catherine Arlidge* _presenter_ *Peter Hill* _presenter_
  
  

• CBSO One Thousand and One Nights  

  Tue 18 May Symphony Hall

  Soaring violin solos, drama on the high seas and a total mastery of the orchestra: it’s no surprise that Rimsky-Korsakov’s _Scheherazade_ has become one of the most played and best-loved of all Russian pieces. After his thrilling CBSO debut two seasons ago, dynamic Czech conductor Jakub Hrůša returns with this and another Russian masterpiece, Tchaikovsky’s charming _Rococo_ Variations. Tchaikovsky was inspired by his lifelong love of Mozart, and the concert begins with one of the greatest of Mozart’s symphonies, written for a visit to Hrůšas home city. Visit the "CBSO website":http://www.cbso.co.uk
  *Jakub Hrůša* conductor *Johannes Moser* cello *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra*
  *Mozart* Symphony No38 (Prague) 25' *Tchaikovsky* Rococo Variations 18' *Rimsky-Korsakov* Scheherazade 47'
  

• CBSO One Thousand and One Nights - Matinee  

  Wed 19 May Symphony Hall

  Soaring violin solos, drama on the high seas and a total mastery of the orchestra: it’s no surprise that Rimsky-Korsakov’s _Scheherazade_ has become one of the most played and best-loved of all Russian pieces. After his thrilling CBSO debut two seasons ago, dynamic Czech conductor Jakub Hrůša returns with this and another Russian masterpiece, Tchaikovsky’s charming _Rococo_ Variations. Tchaikovsky was inspired by his lifelong love of Mozart, and the concert begins with one of the greatest of Mozart’s symphonies, written for a visit to Hrůša’s home city. Visit the "CBSO website":http://www.cbso.co.uk This concert is followed by a Members’ Afternoon Tea with Jakub Hrůša, in conversation with Christopher Morley of The Birmingham Post. For full details contact Eve Smith on 0121 616 6533 or email esmith@cbso.co.uk
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Jakub Hrůša* conductor *Johannes Moser* cello
  *Mozart* Symphony No38 (Prague) 25' *Tchaikovsky* Rococo Variations 18' *Rimsky-Korsakov* Scheherazade 47'
  

• CBSO Friday Night Classics: You Call the Tunes  

  Fri 21 May Symphony Hall

  This is your chance to nominate and vote for the music you want to hear! Tonight the CBSO plays the people’s favourites in a concert packed with Midlanders’ most-loved classical music. Look out for details on the CBSO website, and in CBSO podcasts and concert programmes during autumn 2009, to find out how to nominate your absolutely-must-hear pieces. The most popular nominations will then be voted on by CBSO fans ready for the performance in Symphony Hall on 21 May, culminating in the Midlands’ Favourite Classic for 2010. Following her success in the BBC’s conducting series _Maestro_, tonight’s presenter Sue Perkins will also step onto the podium once again to conduct the CBSO for one of tonight’s pieces. Sue Perkins appears professional contracts permitting. Visit the "CBSO website":http://www.cbso.co.uk
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Michael Seal* conductor *Sue Perkins* presenter
  
  

• CBSO Singalong with the CBSO: Brahms's German Requiem  

  Sun 23 May Symphony Hall

  An unmissable opportunity for anyone who loves singing to spend a day with the CBSO, its world-renowned chorus director, Simon Halsey, and young professional soloists, in the magnificent Surroundings of Symphony Hall. This annual singalong attracts over 1000 singers, so join in this year and raise the roof with Brahms’ intensely moving German Requiem. *Information for singers: rehearsals start at 1.30pm; further details will be sent with singer tickets. Scores: we will be using the Peters edition (Bärenreiter scores are compatible) of Brahms’ Requiem and it will be sung in German. To hire a score with Simon Halsey’s rehearsal markings, please purchase the all-inclusive Singer & Score Hire ticket when booking. Please note, if you are not bringing your own score, pre-booking of score hire via this ticket is essential. Pre-booked scores can then be collected on arrival from 12.30pm on the day by showing your score ticket. Visit the "CBSO website":http://www.cbso.co.uk
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Simon Halsey* _conductor_
  
  

• Centre Stage - Latin Cellos  

  Thu 27 May Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

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

• CBSO Russian Classics  

  Thu 27 May Symphony Hall

  Music director of Moscow’s legendary Bolshoi Theatre since 2001, Alexander Vedernikov makes his CBSO debut with a trio of very different Russian masterpieces. Rimsky’s colourful overture celebrates the Russian Orthodox Easter in a riot of bells and orchestral brilliance, while Prokofiev’s superb post-war symphony strikes a more serious mood in music of great intensity and power. His sometime friend Shostakovich is also famous for his serious symphonies, but this tuneful piano concerto finds him in a lighter mood, and is played for us by the versatile Scottish pianist who has entertained CBSO audiences in music from Mozart to Messiaen. Visit the "CBSO website":http://www.thsh.co.uk Pre-concert Talk, 6.15pm: *Soviet Symphonists* Russian music expert David Fanning, of the University of Manchester, introduces Prokofiev's Sixth Symphony.
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Alexander Vedernikov* conductor *Steven Osborne* piano
  *Rimsky-Korsakov* Russian Easter Festival Overture 16' *Shostakovich* Piano Concerto No 2 20' *Prokofiev* Symphony No 6 45'
  

• CBSO The Pathétique  

  Wed 2 Jun Symphony Hall

  There’s really nothing in all music quite like Tchaikovsky’s _Pathétique_ Symphony. Tchaikovsky threw his all into this no-holds-barred musical autobiography; the result is a symphony that blends raw emotion and glorious melody to devastating effect. It’s gripping stuff - Andris Nelsons has it in his blood. And if you saw him conducting Tchaikovsky last season, you won’t need any further recommendation. Meanwhile, the CBSO’s wonderful section leader oboe offers a moment of tranquillity with Strauss’s gentle concerto. Visit the "CBSO website":http://www.cbso.co.uk Pre-concert talk 6.15pm: *The Players' Perspective - The Pathétique* Violinist David Gregory, and CBSO colleagues, explore Tchaikovsky's final symphony.
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Andris Nelsons* _conductor_ *Rainer Gibbons* _oboe_
  *Tchaikovsky* The Voyevoda 14' *Strauss* Oboe Concerto 26' *Tchaikovsky* Symphony No 6 (_Pathétique_) 45'
  

• CBSO The Pathétique - Matinee  

  Thu 3 Jun Symphony Hall

  There’s really nothing in all music quite like Tchaikovsky’s _Pathétique_ Symphony. Tchaikovsky threw his all into this no-holds-barred musical autobiography; the result is a symphony that blends raw emotion and glorious melody to devastating effect. It’s gripping stuff - Andris Nelsons has it in his blood. And if you saw him conducting Tchaikovsky last season, you won’t need any further recommendation. Meanwhile, the CBSO’s wonderful section leader oboe offers a moment of tranquillity with Strauss’s gentle concerto. Visit the "CBSO website":http://www.cbso.co.uk Pre-concert talk 1.15pm: *The Players' Perspective - The Pathétique* Violinist David Gregory, and CBSO colleagues, explore Tchaikovsky's final symphony.
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Andris Nelsons* conductor *Rainer Gibbons* oboe
  *Tchaikovsky* The Voyevoda 14' *Strauss* Oboe Concerto 26' *Tchaikovsky* Symphony No 6 (_Pathétique_) 45'
  

• Centre Stage - Innovation Chamber Ensemble  

  Fri 11 Jun Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

  *Bruckner (arr. Erwin Stein)* Symphony No 7
  *Innovation Chamber Ensemble*
  *Bruckner (arr. Erwin Stein)* Symphony No 7
  

• CBSO Lohengrin  

  Sat 12 Jun Symphony Hall

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

• CBSO Bruckner's Romantic  

  Wed 16 Jun Symphony Hall

  Inspired by the same idea of courtly romance as Wagner’s _Lohengrin_, Bruckner’s glorious Fourth is one of the finest of all Austrian symphonies, its evocative horncalls and soaring melodies perfectly suited to Symphony Hall’s cathedral-like acoustics. Henri Dutilleux also summons up ‘a whole distant world’ in his much-played cello concerto, composed for the great Rostropovich and played tonight by one of his greatest successors. It’s a gloriously vivid programme for the CBSO debut of Solihull-born conductor Jonathan Nott, who has established an enviable international reputation both in new music and in the Austro-German classics. Visit the "CBSO website":http://www.cbso.co.uk
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Jonathon Nott* _conductor_ *Truls Mørk* _cello_ Jean-Guihen Queyras replaces Truls Mork who has had to withdraw from this concert due to illness
  *Dutilleux* _Tout un monde lointain..._ 24' *Bruckner* Symphony No 4 (Romantic) 64'
  

• CBSO Beethoven's Pastoral  

  Thu 24 Jun Symphony Hall

  It’s summer - so it must be Beethoven’s _Pastoral_ Symphony. From its dewy-fresh opening to the serene _Shepherd’s Hymn_ with which it closes, no composer has ever captured the healing power of nature more timelessly. Two centuries on, it’s still a candidate for the most relaxing piece of music ever written. Guest conductor Ludovic Morlot brings a uniquely Gallic lightness of touch to Beethoven’s inspiration - and plenty of colour for Bartók’s folk-flavoured miniatures. They’ll stand him in good stead for the amazing sound-world of Ligeti’s Violin Concerto. French virtuoso Renaud Capuçon brings all his skill to bear on the ravishing colours, child-like humour and crackling energy of this true modern classic. Pre-concert talk, 6.15pm: *Ligeti's Violin Concerto* Writer and Broadcaster Anthony Burton on this 20th century masterpiece.
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Ludovic Morlot* _conductor_ *Renaud Capuçon* _violin_
  *Bartók* Two Pictures 17' *Ligeti* Violin Concerto 28' *Beethoven* Symphony No 6 (_Pastoral_) 40'
  

• CBSO Schools Concert: Tales of the Arabian Nights  

  Fri 25 Jun Symphony Hall

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

• CBSO Schools Concert: Tales of the Arabian Nights  

  Fri 25 Jun Symphony Hall

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

• Centre Stage - El Ultimo Tango  

  Sat 26 Jun Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

  "Bell arte del Tango"
  *El Ultimo Tango*
  "Bell arte del Tango"
  

• CBSO Friday Night Classics: Rodgers & Hammerstein  

  Fri 2 Jul Symphony Hall

  July is bustin’ out all over - so celebrate the summer with the supreme masters of the Broadway Musical. Everyone knows the sound of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s music, and all your favourite melodies are here - sung by two modern legends of musical theatre. From _Climb Ev’ry Mountain_, _Oh What a Beautiful Morning_ and _You’ll Never Walk Alone_ to _Some Enchanted Evening_ and _The Lonely Goatherd_, one thing’s for sure, John Wilson and the CBSO will send you home whistling a merry tune! Pre-concert event 6.15pm: CBSO Boys' Choir gives a free performance in the hall. Visit the "CBSO website":http://www.cbso.co.uk
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *John Wilson* coductor *Kim Criswell* vocalists *Brent Barrett* vocalist
  Including music from: Carousel South Pacific The King and I The Sound of Music Oklahoma! State Fair Flower Drum Song Pipe Dream Cinderella and more!
  

• Centre Stage - Marie-Christine Zupancic CBSO Players 

  Wed 21 Jan Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

  CBSO Players Boccherini: Quintet in C Op. 28 No. 4 Glazunov: String Quintet
  
  
  

• CBSO Youth Orchestra Academy  

  Sun 26 Jul Town Hall

  After its triumphant Town Hall debut last season, the CBSO Youth Orchestra’s brilliant chamber orchestra returns with a riotously entertaining programme spanning three centuries, including Ibert’s _Divertissement_ and Rameau’s _Les Boréades_.
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Michael Seal* conductor
  *Ibert* Divertissement *Rameau* Les Boréades - Suite *Prokofiev* Violin Concerto No 2 *Julian Anderson* Alhambra Fantasy
  

• CBSO The Perfect Fifth  

  Wed 9 Sep Symphony Hall

  Andris Nelsons launches the season in grand style! Beginning with the majestic prelude to Wagner’s sunniest opera, and finishing with the most famous symphony ever written, this is a concert to set pulses racing - and if you only know the first four notes of Beethoven’s perfect Fifth Symphony, trust us, you’re in for a wonderful surprise! Brahms’ dreamy Second Piano Concerto will be an oasis of calm at the evening’s heart - though with the superb young Russian virtuoso Arcadi Volodos at the keyboard, there’ll be no shortage of thrills either. 6.15pm. Free pre-concert talk: *Welcome to the Season.* Andris Nelsons introduces the new season, with CBSO Chief Executive Stephen Maddock. This CBSO concert is sponsored by Mitchells & Butlers. "CBSO Website":http://www.cbso.co.uk
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Andris Nelsons* _conductor_ *Arcadi Volodos* _piano_
  *Wagner* _The Mastersingers_ Prelude 9’ *Brahms* Piano Concerto No. 2 44’ *Beethoven* Symphony No. 5 36’
  

• CBSO The Perfect Fifth - Matinee  

  Thu 10 Sep Symphony Hall

  Andris Nelsons launches the season in grand style! Beginning with the majestic prelude to Wagner’s sunniest opera, and finishing with the most famous symphony ever written, this is a concert to set pulses racing - and if you only know the first four notes of Beethoven’s perfect Fifth Symphony, trust us: you’re in for a wonderful surprise! Brahms’ dreamy Second Piano Concerto will be an oasis of calm at the evening’s heart - though with the superb young Russian virtuoso Arcadi Volodos at the keyboard, there’ll be no shortage of thrills either. 1.15pm. Free pre-concert talk: *Welcome to the Season.* Andris Nelsons introduces the new season, with CBSO Chief Executive Stephen Maddock. "CBSO Website":http://www.cbso.co.uk
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Andris Nelsons* _conductor_ *Arcadi Volodos* _piano_
  *Wagner* _The Mastersingers_ - Prelude 9’ *Brahms* Piano Concerto No 2 44’ *Beethoven* Symphony No 5 36’
  

• Centre Stage - Shostakovich and Brahms Piano Trios CBSO Players 

  Fri 18 Sep Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

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

• CBSO Benevolent Fund Concert The Organ Symphony 

  Fri 18 Sep Symphony Hall

  Pure colour. Elgar’s _In the South_ opens with a glorious burst of sound - the composer’s response to the spectacular scenery and brilliant sunshine of the Italian Riviera. Mozart’s most famous horn concerto fairly bubbles over with high-spirits. And Saint-Saëns’ popular Organ Symphony ends in a blaze of glory, as the mighty Symphony Organ joins the full CBSO to raise the roof. With city organist Thomas Trotter at the keyboard, it’ll be a triumphant finish to this irresistibly tuneful concert - with all proceeds going to the CBSO Benevolent Fund (Reg. Friendly Society 735F).
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Michael Seal* _conductor_ *Thomas Trotter* _organ_ *Elspeth Dutch* _horn_
  *Elgar* _In the South_ 19' *Mozart* Horn Concerto No 4, K495 16' *Widor* Toccata from Organ Symphony No 5 6' *Saint-Saëns* Symphony No 3 (_Organ_) 34'
  

• CBSO Symphonic Dances: I  

  Thu 24 Sep Symphony Hall

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

• CBSO Seascapes  

  Sat 26 Sep Symphony Hall

  Few composers have captured the power and everchanging mystery of the oceans better than Debussy and Britten: the former in his swirling orchestral masterpiece, the latter in the interludes from his best-loved opera. Former CBSO Composer in Association Mark-Anthony Turnage wrote his dramatic 2005 trumpet concerto for the brilliant Swedish virtuoso Håkan Hardenberger, and we’re delighted to welcome him back to Birmingham for this outstanding recent work and for his only UK performance of Haydn’s popular concerto in the composer’s bicentenary year. 5.45pm Free pre-concert talk: *Haydn to Turnage* Legendary trumpet soloist Håkan Hardenberger discusses tonight’s two very different trumpet concertos, in conversation with Andris Nelsons and the CBSO’s Director of Orchestral Management, Simon Webb "CBSO Website":http://www.cbso.co.uk
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Andris Nelsons* _conductor_ *Håkan Hardenberger* _trumpet_
  *Britten* Peter Grimes - Four Sea Interludes & Passacaglia 23’ *Turnage* _From the Wreckage_ 15’ *Haydn* Trumpet Concerto in E flat 13’ *Debussy* _La mer_ 23’
  

• CBSO Elgar's Falstaff  

  Wed 30 Sep Symphony Hall

  Larger than life, both philosopher and philanderer, Falstaff is one of Shakespeare’s most lovable rogues, and Elgar’s affectionate portrait also tells us a great deal about the composer’s own private world in music of great character and good-humour. Britten’s 1939 _Canadian Carnival_ is an equally swaggering celebration of a more out-of-doors kind, and provides an ideal welcome for the return to Birmingham of the Canadian-born virtuoso Leila Josefowicz. She gives the world premiere of a new concerto written specially for her by the leading British composer Colin Matthews. 6.15pm. Free pre-concert talk: *Premiere! - Colin Matthews’ Violin Concerto* Composer Colin Matthews talks with soloist Leila Josefowicz and Stephen Maddock about tonight’s world premiere of his violin concerto. "CBSO Website":http://www.cbso.co.uk
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Oliver Knussen* _conductor_ *Leila Josefowicz* _violin_
  *Britten* _Canadian Carnival_ 14’ *Colin Matthews: Violin Concerto (Feeney Trust commission: world premiere)* 24’ *Elgar* _Falstaff_ 36’
  

• Centre Stage - Andrew Gough & CBSO Players  

  Fri 2 Oct Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

  *Boccherini* Guitar Quintet No 4 (Fandango) *Castelnuono-Tedesco* Guitar Quintet
  *CBSO Players* *Andrew Gough* _guitar_
  *Boccherini* Guitar Quintet No 4 (Fandango) *Castelnuono-Tedesco* Guitar Quintet
  

• 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*
  
  

• 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 *We are sorry to announce that Simon Bowman has unfortunately had to withdraw from the concert on Friday 9 October due to a conflicting professional engagement.* *We are very grateful to Rohan Tickell who replaces him.*
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Martin Yates* _conductor_ *Rachel Barrell* _vocalist_ *Jacqui Scott* _vocalist_ *Rohan Tickell* _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!
  

• CBSO The Force of Destiny  

  Sat 10 Oct Symphony Hall

  With its grand emotions and tempestuous drama, there’s no symphony more operatic than Tchaikovsky’s Fourth. So it’s the perfect finish to this night of passion - after Latvian soprano Kristine Opolais (star of last season’s tear-jerking _La Bohème_) sings two of the all-time great romantic opera scenes by Tchaikovsky and his idol Verdi. After his thrilling surprise debut with the CBSO last season, expect guest conductor Dmitri Slobodeniouk to give it his all. Forget the Stella Artois advert - Verdi shared Tchaikovsky’s obsession with Fate, so his melodramatic Force of Destiny overture makes the perfect curtain-raiser. 5.45pm. Free pre-concert talk: *The Player's Perspective - Tchaikovsky's Fourth* Introduced by CBSO violinist David Gregory. "CBSO Website":http://www.cbso.co.uk
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Dmitri Slobodeniouk* _conductor_ *Kristine Opolais* _soprano_
  *Verdi* _La forza del destino_ - Overture 8’ *Tchaikovsky* _Eugene Onegin_ - Letter Scene, Entr’acte & Waltz 22’ *Verdi* _Otello_ - Salice and Ave Maria 10’ *Tchaikovsky* Symphony No. 4 44’
  

• 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)
  

• Centre Stage - Haydn & Ravel  

  Thu 15 Oct Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

  *Haydn* Quartet in C, Op 33 No 3 (The Bird) *Ravel* String Quartet
  *CBSO Players*
  *Haydn* Quartet in C, Op 33 No 3 (The Bird) *Ravel* String Quartet
  

• 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)
  

• CBSO Major Thirds - Matinee  

  Thu 22 Oct Symphony Hall

  Wild landscapes, swirling mists, skirling pipes and Highland reels - they all feature in Mendelssohn’s gloriously romantic Scottish Symphony. No wonder it’s a personal favourite of the CBSO’s popular assistant conductor Michael Seal. En route, though, come two more romantic adventures: Beethoven’s stirring hymn to freedom, and the teenage Mozart’s courtly Third Violin Concerto - surely the most elegant concerto even he ever composed. "CBSO Website":http://www.cbso.co.uk
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Michael Seal* conductor *Jack Liebeck* violin
  *Beethoven* Overture, Leonora No 3 14’ *Mozart* Violin Concerto No 3 28’ *Mendelssohn* Symphony No 3 _Scottish_ 40’
  

• Centre Stage - Mozart's Divertimento for String Trio  

  Fri 23 Oct Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

  *Mozart* Divertimento for string trio, K.563
  *Laurence Jackson* _violin_ *Christopher Yates* _viola_ *Ulrich Heinen* _cello_
  *Mozart* Divertimento for string trio, K.563
  

• CBSO Haydn 200: I  

  Tue 27 Oct Town Hall

  Beethoven may have been Haydn’s most rebellious student, but he never forgot what he’d learned. Beethoven’s Second is a flamboyant homage to Haydn from a young man in a hurry, a controlled explosion of wit, panache and pure creative energy. It’s the perfect complement to Haydn’s elegant concerto. Hear where Beethoven got his ideas, with one of the magnificent symphonies Haydn wrote specially for the British public: grandeur, humour, and a slow movement to die for! 6.15pm Free pre-concert talk: *The Player’s Perspective - Beethoven’s Second* CBSO violinist David Gregory reveals the inside story of Beethoven’s sunniest symphony. "CBSO Website":http://www.cbso.co.uk
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Giovanni Antonini* conductor *Dejan Lazić* piano
  *Haydn* Symphony No 102 26’ *Haydn* Piano Concerto in D major 20’ *Beethoven* Symphony No 2 34’
  

• 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_ - _Superman_
  

• CBSO Youth Orchestra - Più Mosso  

  Sun 1 Nov Symphony Hall

  Premiered amidst the gunfire of wartime Moscow, Prokofiev declared that his Fifth Symphony celebrated “the greatness of the human spirit”. Ernö Dohnányi, meanwhile was simply out to poke fun - his irresistible Nursery Tune Variations gleefully parody everyone from Mozart to Mahler! Both pieces could have been written for the energy and verve of the CBSO’s Youth Orchestra. This new work from the rising British star Luke Bedford, meanwhile, actually was. Hopefully tonight’s premiere will go off more peacefully than Prokofiev’s - though with the young Danish maestro Thomas Søndergård at the helm, expect some serious thrills from our superb young players. 5.45pm Free pre-concert talk: *Premiere! - Luke Bedford* Young British composer Luke Bedford introduces his new work for the CBSO Youth Orchestra, in conversation with Simon Webb. "www.cbso.co.uk":http://www.cbso.co.uk
  *CBSO Youth Orchestra* *Thomas Søndergård* _conductor_ *Martin Roscoe* _piano_
  *Bedford* Più Mosso (world premiere) 10’ *Dohnányi* Variations on a Nursery Tune 25’ *Prokofiev* Symphony No 5 44’
  

• CBSO Jansen plays Sibelius  

  Thu 5 Nov Symphony Hall

  One concert: three extraordinary musical worlds. Korean composer Unsuk Chin has attracted a worldwide following for her magical, brilliantly imaginative music - and this is your first chance in Britain to hear Rocaná, an astonishing “sound sculpture” inspired by impressionist art and the composer’s own dreams. Then we’re off to the brooding northern landscape of Sibelius’ popular Violin Concerto(with the stunning Janine Jansen as soloist), and finally to the sunlit Alpine meadows of Brahms’ happiest symphony. Lullabies, horn calls and jubilant trumpets all come together in some of the loveliest music he ever wrote. 6.15pm Pre-concert talk: *Premiere! - Unsuk Chin* Composer Unsuk Chin talks to conductor Ilan Volkov and Stephen Maddock about tonight’s British premiere of her Rocaná "www.cbso.co.uk":http://www.cbso.co.uk
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Ilan Volkov* _conductor_ *Janine Jansen* _violin_
  *Chin* Rocaná (UK premiere) 21’ *Sibelius* Violin Concerto 31’ *Brahms* Symphony No. 2 39’
  

• Centre Stage - Brahms String Quintet  

  Fri 6 Nov Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

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

• CBSO Jansen plays Sibelius  

  Sat 7 Nov Symphony Hall

  Mendelssohn was one of music's great travellers - he even made it to Birmingham! And there's no better way to launch a concert than with his _Calm Sea and Prosperous Voyage_: all the fun of his _Hebrides_ overture, but with none of the seasickness. And then we're off - first to the brooding northern landscape of Sibelius' impassioned Violin Concerto (with the stunning Janine Jansen as soloist), then to the sunlit Alipne meadows of Brahms' happiest symphony. Lullabies, horn-calls and jubilant trumpets all come together in some of the loveliest music Brahms ever wrote; charismatic guest-conductor Ilan Volkov should make an entertaining guide. "www.cbso.co.uk":http://www.cbso.co.uk
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Ilan Volkov* _conductor_ *Janine Jansen* _violin_
  *Mendelssohn* _Calm Sea and Prosperous Voyage_ *Sibelius* Violin Concerto 31’ *Brahms* Symphony No 2 39’
  

• CBSO The Planets  

  Tue 10 Nov Symphony Hall

  Midland composers have always aimed high. Worcestershire lad Edward Elgar dreamed of making it big in the capital, and it shows: his Cockaigne overture positively glitters with the pageantry and bustle of Edwardian London. Gustav Holst, meanwhile, headed for the stars! His Planets suite isn’t just famous for great tunes like Jupiter and Mars; it’s a tremendous musical odyssey towards the infinite, written for a super-size orchestra and filled with sounds of jaw-dropping strangeness and beauty. Amidst all this grandeur, Grieg’s ever-popular Piano Concerto offers gentler charms - but with Leon McCawley at the keyboard, it will be every bit as spectacular.
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *John Wilson* _conductor_ *Leon McCawley* _piano_ *City of Birmingham Symphony Youth Chorus (Seniors)*
  *Elgar* _Cockaigne_ 15' *Grieg* Piano Concerto 30' *Holst* _The Planets_ 48'
  

• CBSO The Planets - Matinee  

  Thu 12 Nov Symphony Hall

  Midland composers have always aimed high. Worcestershire lad Edward Elgar dreamed of making it big in the capital, and it shows: his Cockaigne overture positively glitters with the pageantry and bustle of Edwardian London. Gustav Holst, meanwhile, headed for the stars! His Planets suite isn’t just famous for great tunes like Jupiter and Mars; it’s a tremendous musical odyssey towards the infinite, written for a super-size orchestra and filled with sounds of jaw-dropping strangeness and beauty. Amidst all this grandeur, Grieg’s ever-popular Piano Concerto offers gentler charms - but with Leon McCawley at the keyboard, it will be every bit as spectacular.
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *John Wilson* _conductor_ *Leon McCawley* _piano_ *City of Birmingham Symphony Youth Chorus (Seniors)*
  *Elgar* _Cockaigne_ 15' *Grieg* Piano Concerto 30' *Holst* _The Planets_ 48'
  

• CBSO Family Concert: Heroes and Villains - Matinee  

  Sun 15 Nov Symphony Hall

  Fly like a super-hero to Symphony Hall, as the battle between good and evil begins. From dashing princes and beautiful maidens in distress, to action heroes such as _Indiana Jones_ and _The Incredibles_, _Doctor Who_ and _Harry Potter_, our man-of-steel Alasdair Malloy will be fighting evil with the CBSO’s musical super-powers. With notes whizzing past faster than a speeding bullet in _The Ride of the Valkyries_, _The Dance of the Knights_ and more, join us to save the day, as we head up, up and away!
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Matthew Coorey* _conductor_ *Alasdair Malloy* _presenter_
  
  

• Centre Stage - The Dadelsen Trio  

  Wed 18 Nov Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

  *Schumann* Fantasy Pieces, Op 88 *Mendelssohn* Piano Trio No 2
  *The Dadelsen Trio*
  *Schumann* Fantasy Pieces, Op 88 *Mendelssohn* Piano Trio No 2
  

• CBSO Haydn 200: II  

  Wed 18 Nov Town Hall

  One of the stars of the period instrument music scene and now a leading opera conductor, Corsican-born Jean- Christophe Spinosi makes his CBSO debut with a sparkling programme featuring this year’s anniversary composers, Handel and Haydn. Two of the latter’s splendid Paris symphonies are separated by arias by Handel and Rossini, sung by one of today’s leading mezzos, acclaimed for her ‘Carmen’ at Glyndebourne. "www.cbso.co.uk":http://cbso.co.uk
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Jean-Christophe Spinosi* _conductor_ *Rinat Shaham* _mezzo-soprano_
  At Rinat Shaham's request, the programme has been altered as follows: *Mozart* Overture to Cosi fan tutte, K. 588 *Mozart* Voi Che Sapete (Marriage of Figaro) *Mozart* Recit & Smanie Implacabile (Cosi Fan Tutti) *Haydn* Symphony No. 83 "La Poule" Interval *Rossini* Overture to Il barbiere di Siviglia *Rossini* Cruda sorte (L'Italiana in Algeri) *Rossini* Una Voce Poco fa (Barber of Seville) 26' *Haydn* Symphony No. 82 "The Bear" We are sorry for any disappointment this may cause.
  

• 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!
  

• CBSO Nelsons Conducts Bruckner's Third  

  Wed 25 Nov Symphony Hall

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

• CBSO Great Romantics  

  Sat 28 Nov Symphony Hall

  Dvorák always insisted that he liked nothing more than listening to a Czech village band. And no wonder, if they sounded anything like the slow movement of his glorious Eighth Symphony. Forget the New World, this is Dvorák celebrating the old world with lilting tunes and utterly irresistible charm. Andris Nelsons sets the mood with another Slavic fairytale; Liadov’s ravishing _Enchanted Lake_, before joining pianist Nikolai Lugansky to scale the Everest of romantic piano concertos - Rachmaninov’s epic Third Concerto, premiered 100 years ago and still as thrilling as ever. "www.cbso.co.uk":http://cbso.co.uk
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Andris Nelsons* _conductor_ *Nikolai Lugansky* _piano_
  *Liadov* _The Enchanted Lake_ 7’ *Rachmaninov* Piano Concerto No. 3 44’ *Dvorák* Symphony No. 8 36’
  

• CBSO Great Romantics - Matinee  

  Wed 2 Dec Symphony Hall

  Dvorák always insisted that he liked nothing more than listening to a Czech village band. And no wonder, if they sounded anything like the slow movement of his glorious Eighth Symphony. Forget the New World, this is Dvorák celebrating the old world with lilting tunes and utterly irresistible charm. Andris Nelsons sets the mood with another Slavic fairytale; Liadov’s ravishing _Enchanted Lake_, before joining pianist Nikolai Lugansky to scale the Everest of romantic piano concertos - Rachmaninov’s epic Third Concerto, premiered 100 years ago and still as thrilling as ever. "www.cbso.co.uk":http://cbso.co.uk
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Andris Nelsons* _conductor_ *Nikolai Lugansky* _piano_
  *Liadov* _The Enchanted Lake_ 7’ *Rachmaninov* Piano Concerto No 3 44’ *Dvorák* Symphony No 8 36’
  

• Centre Stage - Brass Explosion  

  Thu 3 Dec Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

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

• CBSO Haydn 200: The Creation  

  Thu 3 Dec Symphony Hall

  _“When I think of God, I can’t help writing cheerful music,”_ admitted Joseph Haydn. So it’s no wonder that his great oratorio _The Creation_ is one of the freshest, happiest and most unstuffy pieces of religious music ever written. Fizzy operatic arias, blockbuster choruses and a visionary musical depiction of the birth of the Universe itself - they’re all part of Haydn’s shamelessly tuneful version of the Book of Genesis. Adam and Eve even get their own love-duet! There’s no more enjoyable way to celebrate the 200th anniversary of Haydn’s death - and to hear the CBSO’s magnificent chorus in full, resplendent voice. Tonight’s concert is supported by the Tolkien Trust. Pre-concert talk - 6.15pm - *Haydn's Creation in a post-Darwinian World* Lord Harries of Pentregarth, the former Bishop of Oxford, gives his perspective on the significance of the Creation story in the Eighteenth Century. "www.cbso.co.uk":http://cbso.co.uk
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Andris Nelsons* _conductor_ *Ailish Tynan* _soprano_ *Toby Spence* _tenor_ * *Vuyani Mlinde* _bass_ *CBSO Chorus* *We are sorry to announce that Joel Prieto is unable to perform in the concert on Thursday 3 December. We are very grateful to Toby Spence who replaces him.
  *Haydn* _The Creation_ 109’ (sung in English)
  

• CBSO Symphonic Dances: II  

  Thu 10 Dec Symphony Hall

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

• CBSO 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_
  

• CBSO Biss plays Mozart  

  Wed 16 Dec Symphony Hall

  This young American pianist has already built a formidable reputation for his accounts of classical and early romantic music; here he plays what Brendel calls _‘one of the greatest wonders of the world’_, a miraculous product of the 21-year old Mozart. Sibelius’s sweeping, passionate symphony has long been a Birmingham favourite, and Spano also introduces a work by one of the finest of the current amazing generation of Finnish composers.
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Robert Spano* _conductor_ *Jonathan Biss* _piano_
  *Tiensuu* _False Memories_ (UK premiere) 16’ *Mozart* Piano Concerto No 9, K.271 31’ *Sibelius* Symphony No 2 42’
  

• Centre Stage - Jonathan Biss  

  Thu 17 Dec Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

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

• 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_ *CBSO Chorus* *CBSO Youth Chorus* *CBSO Children's Chorus* *CBSO Young Voices in partnership with Birmingham Music Service* *CBSO Boys' Choir in partnership with Barclays Wealth*
  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  

  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_ *CBSO Chorus* *CBSO Youth Chorus* *CBSO Children's Chorus* *CBSO Young Voices in partnership with Birmingham Music Service* *CBSO Boys' Choir in partnership with Barclays Wealth*
  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
  

• Centre Stage - The Berkley Salon Ensemble  

  Mon 21 Dec Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

  *A Palm Court Christmas Party*
  *The Berkley Salon Ensemble* *CBSYC Seniors*
  *A Palm Court Christmas Party*
  

• 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_ *CBSO Chorus* *CBSO Youth Chorus* *CBSO Children's Chorus* *CBSO Young Voices in partnership with Birmingham Music Service* *CBSO Boys' Choir in partnership with Barclays Wealth*
  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_ *CBSO Choruses*
  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_ *CBSO Choruses*
  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 New Year from Vienna - Matinee  

  Sat 9 Jan Symphony Hall

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

• CBSO New Year from Vienna  

  Sat 9 Jan Symphony Hall

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

• CBSO Brahms and Sibelius - Matinee  

  Wed 13 Jan Symphony Hall

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

• Centre Stage - CBSO Baroque Players  

  Thu 14 Jan Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

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

• CBSO Brahms and Sibelius  

  Thu 14 Jan Symphony Hall

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

• CBSO Elgar's Enigma  

  Wed 20 Jan Symphony Hall

  To begin our series featuring the amazing musical decade leading up to the CBSO’s birth in 1920, we have one of the jewels of English music - Vaughan Williams’ luminous Tallis Fantasia, premiered in 1910. Britten’s late work for viola and strings also draws on older English music, while James Macmillan’s striking trumpet concerto is a prayer inspired by the composer’s Christian faith. This concert of deeply personal British music ends with Elgar’s brilliant tribute to his friends. *Pre-concert talk 6.15pm* Elgar to MacMillan Conductor Edward Gardner introduces tonight’s concert, in conversation with Stephen Maddock. "www.cbso.co.uk":http://cbso.co.uk
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Edward Gardner* _conductor_ *Alison Balsom* _trumpet_ *Christopher Yates* _viola_
  *Vaughan Williams* Fantasia on a Theme by Thomas Tallis 15’ *Macmillan* Epiclesis 25’ *Britten* Lachrymae 15’ *Elgar* Enigma Variations 29’
  

• CBSO Schools' Concert - Enigma Variations  

  Thu 21 Jan Symphony Hall

  Key Stage 2 Please note that this replaces the previously advertised schools' concerts on 15 April 2010
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Edward Gardner* _conductor_
  *Elgar* _Enigma Variations_
  

• Centre Stage - Marie-Christine Zupancic  

  Thu 21 Jan Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

  *Falla* Concerto for harpsichord & five instruments *Mozart* Flute Quartet in C, K.285b
  *Marie-Christine Zupancic* _flute_
  *Falla* Concerto for harpsichord & five instruments *Mozart* Flute Quartet in C, K.285b
  

• CBSO Schools' Concert - Enigma Variations  

  Thu 21 Jan Symphony Hall

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

• CBSO Elgar's Enigma  

  Sat 23 Jan Symphony Hall

  To begin our series featuring the amazing musical decade leading up to the CBSO’s birth in 1920, we have one of the jewels of English music - Vaughan Williams’ luminous Tallis Fantasia, premiered in 1910. Britten’s late work for viola and strings also draws on older English music, while James Macmillan’s striking trumpet concerto is a prayer inspired by the composer’s Christian faith. This concert of deeply personal British music ends with Elgar’s brilliant tribute to his friends. *Pre-concert talk 5.45pm* Elgar to MacMillan Conductor Edward Gardner introduces tonight’s concert, in conversation with Stephen Maddock. "www.cbso.co.uk":http://cbso.co.uk
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Edward Gardner* _conductor_ *Alison Balsom* _trumpet_ *Christopher Yates* _viola_
  *Vaughan Williams* Fantasia on a Theme by Thomas Tallis 15’ *Macmillan* Epiclesis 25’ *Britten* Lachrymae 15’ *Elgar* Enigma Variations 29’
  

• Centre Stage - CBSO Players perform Fauré and Bridge  

  Thu 28 Jan Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

  *Fauré* Piano Quartet No 1 *Bridge* Phantasy Piano Quartet
  *CBSO Players*
  *Fauré* Piano Quartet No 1 *Bridge* Phantasy Piano Quartet
  

• CBSO An Alpine Symphony  

  Thu 28 Jan Symphony Hall

  Richard Strauss once boasted that he could depict a knife and fork in music - so when he sets out to paint the Alps themselves, you’d expect the results to be spectacular! His _Alpine Symphony_ is a vast, sun-drenched musical panorama - with everything from a trickling mountain stream to a mighty glacier, painted in music of dazzling colour and breathtaking power. Hear why Andris Nelsons has such a passion for this extraordinary score. Mozart was Strauss’s favourite composer, so his spirited 33rd Symphony and 24th Piano Concerto make the perfect musical _hors d’oeuvre_.
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Andris Nelsons* _conductor_ *Martin Helmchen* _piano_
  *Mozart* Symphony No 33 19' *Mozart* Piano Concerto No 24, K491 31' *Strauss* An Alpine Symphony 51'
  

• CBSO An Alpine Symphony  

  Tue 2 Feb Symphony Hall

  Richard Strauss once boasted that he could depict a knife and fork in music - so when he sets out to paint the Alps themselves, you’d expect the results to be spectacular! His _Alpine Symphony_ is a vast, sun-drenched musical panorama - with everything from a trickling mountain stream to a mighty glacier, painted in music of dazzling colour and breathtaking power. Hear why Andris Nelsons has such a passion for this extraordinary score. Mozart was Strauss’s favourite composer, so his spirited 33rd Symphony and 24th Piano Concerto make the perfect musical _hors d’oeuvre_.
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Andris Nelsons* _conductor_ *Martin Helmchen* _piano_
  *Mozart* Symphony No 33 19' *Mozart* Piano Concerto No 24, K491 31' *Strauss* An Alpine Symphony 51'
  

• CBSO Russian Masters  

  Sat 6 Feb Symphony Hall

  Stravinsky’s _The Firebird_ is one of the most popular of all ballet scores, conjuring a sumptuous fairy-tale world of glittering colours, enchanted melodies and blood-curdling thrills. It’s already become something of a signature-work for Andris Nelsons, so if you haven’t yet heard his interpretation, prepare to be astonished - and to be delightfully surprised by Liadov’s _Kikimora_, another Russian fairytale from the man who was originally supposed to write _The Firebird_. We welcome back the superb young Latvian violinist Baiba Skride, as soloist in Shostakovich’s powerful First Concerto.
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Andris Nelson* _conductor_ *Baiba Skride* _violin_
  *Liadov* _Kikimora_ 7’ *Shostakovich* Violin Concerto No 1 36’ *Stravinsky* _The Firebird_ 44’
  

• CBSO Viennese Classics - Matinee  

  Thu 11 Feb Symphony Hall

  Light and shade in old Vienna. Schubert’s friends bet him that he couldn’t write an overture as good as one of Rossini’s, so he simply ran one off there and then! His sunny “little C major” symphony took rather more work, but you’d hardly know it; it positively bubbles with happiness - and, of course, those unforgettable Schubert melodies. It’s all a world away from Beethoven’s darkest and most powerful piano concerto - though you can certainly hear why Schubert hero-worshipped Beethoven above all his contemporaries. Expect conductor Andrew Manze, and hugely respected soloist Ronald Brautigam, to bring out all its drama and emotion.
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Andrew Manze* _conductor_ *Ronald Brautigam* _piano_
  *Schubert* _Overture in the Italian Style_ 8’ *Beethoven* Piano Concerto No 3 34’ *Schubert* Symphony No 6 35’
  

• Centre Stage - Eyeglass  

  Fri 12 Feb Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

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

• CBSO Friday Night Classics: Film Music For Lovers  

  Fri 12 Feb Symphony Hall

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

• CBSO A Soirée with the Labèques  

  Thu 18 Feb Symphony Hall

  It’s a real pleasure to welcome back to Birmingham the amazing Labèque sisters, for one of the most sparkling of all French pieces, Poulenc’s delightful double concerto. They also bring their uniquely gallic flair to Debussy’s masterpiece for two pianos and Ravel’s sumptuous Spanish fantasy brings the evening to an exuberant finish. *We are sorry to announce that Lionel Bringuier has been obliged to withdraw from tonight’s concert as he has had a fall and injured his arm. We are very grateful to Gilbert Varga who replaces him at short notice. This replacement has led to a change in the advertised programme, which is now as listed below.*
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Gilbert Varga* _conductor_ *Katia & Marielle Labèque* _piano_
  *Berlioz* Overture, _Le Corsaire_ 9’ *Debussy* _En blanc et noir_ 16’ *Poulenc* Concerto for two pianos 20’ *Ravel* _Mother Goose_ Suite *Ravel* Boléro
  

• CBSO Youth Orchestra  

  Sun 21 Feb Symphony Hall

  Conductor Michael Seal has built a special relationship with the CBSO Youth Orchestra - and tonight he takes them on the ride of their lives. John Foulds’ rapturous English tone-poem was forgotten for decades before the CBSO relaunched it in 2006; tonight, it’s the perfect upbeat to Elgar’s haunting, hugely popular Cello Concerto, performed by a stunning young Scandanvian cellist. Then William Walton unleashes hell, with his stupendous First Symphony. Blazing with passion and driven by an almost volcanic energy, nothing in British music is remotely like it. If you heard the CBSO Youth Orchestra playing Mahler last season, you’ll know to expect a performance that’ll take your breath away.
  *CBSO Youth Orchestra* *Michael Seal* _conductor_ *Andreas Brantelid* _cello_
  *Foulds* _April - England_ 8’ *Elgar* Cello Concerto 26’ *Walton* Symphony No 1 43’
  

• Centre Stage - Andrew Litton  

  Wed 24 Feb Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

  *Korngold* Piano Quintet
  *CBSO Players* *Andrew Litton* _piano_
  *Korngold* Piano Quintet
  

• CBSO Chopin 200  

  Wed 24 Feb Symphony Hall

  Next week the musical world celebrates the 200th birthday of its favourite composer of piano music, and the CBSO gets in early with performances of his dazzling and lyrical second concerto, played by a leading American pianist. This is gloriously romantic music, and Tchaikovsky’s famous Shakespearean overture is even more so. Regular guest conductor Andrew Litton is renowned for his commitment to English music, and here he conducts Vaughan Williams’ most dramatic symphony.
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Andrew Litton* _conductor_ *William Wolfram* _piano_
  *Tchaikovsky* _Romeo and Juliet_ 21’ *Chopin* Piano Concerto No 2 30’ *Vaughan Williams* Symphony No 4 34’
  

• CBSO Chopin 200 - Matinee  

  Thu 25 Feb Symphony Hall

  Next week the musical world celebrates the 200th birthday of its favourite composer of piano music, and the CBSO gets in early with performances of his dazzling and lyrical second concerto, played by a leading American pianist. This is gloriously romantic music, and Tchaikovsky’s famous Shakespearean overture is even more so. Regular guest conductor Andrew Litton is renowned for his commitment to English music, and here he conducts Vaughan Williams’ most dramatic symphony.
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Andrew Litton* _conductor_ *William Wolfram* _piano_
  *Tchaikovsky* _Romeo and Juliet_ 21’ *Chopin* Piano Concerto No 2 30’ *Vaughan Williams* Symphony No 4 34’
  

• CBSO Family Concert: Water World - Matinee  

  Sun 28 Feb Symphony Hall

  Set sail with the CBSO as we dive into an adventure on the ocean waves. This afternoon will include plenty of splashing good fun, from fish to fishermen, boats to beaches, and sandcastles to starfish. Expect lots of water music such as _Fingal’s Cave, The Sailor’s Hornpipe_, music from _Pirates of the Caribbean_ and much more. Keep a watch out for mermaids, creatures of the deep, pirates, sharks and shipwrecks!
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Michael Seal* _conductor_ *Michael Collie* _presenter_ *CBSO Children's Chorus*
  
  

• Centre Stage - The Leo Quartet The Leo Quartet 

  Fri 5 Mar Book through our ticket office for CBSO Centre

  *Rachmaninov* Two Movements for String Quartet *Beethoven* String Quartet in C, Op 59 No 3 (Razumovsky)
  *The Leo Quartet*
  *Rachmaninov* Two Movements for String Quartet *Beethoven* String Quartet in C, Op 59 No 3 (Razumovsky)
  

• CBSO Rattle's Bach  

  Sat 6 Mar Symphony Hall

  *Please note there will be no admittance for latecomers until the interval* In the whole of music there’s nothing else quite like it: Bach’s dramatic re-telling of the events of Holy Week has a power and expressive beauty that add up to an overwhelming experience. Returning to the CBSO for the first time in four years, our former music director Sir Simon Rattle leads an outstanding international cast and our own acclaimed choruses in what is sure to be one of the hottest tickets of this or any season - be sure to book early! We wanted to bring to your attention a few points that may affect your travel arrangements to and from the concert: Other sell-out events in Birmingham We have been informed that there are other sell-out events in Birmingham this weekend, including a concert on Saturday evening at the National Indoor Arena. Please bear this in mind when considering the time needed to travel to and park in Birmingham. For a full list of parking options in the city, please visit www.birmingham.gov.uk/parking. Change in the advertised timings St. Matthew Passion will be approximately 150 mins long, rather than 131 mins long as previously advertised. Therefore, with the addition of the 20 minute interval, this means that the concert will finish at approximately 10pm. Apologies for any inconvenience this amendment may cause. Maintenance works outside Symphony Hall There is ongoing maintenance work occuring outside Symphony Hall, which means that on Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 March there will be no access for cars, taxis and coaches to drop off outside Symphony Hall. The nearest access for vehicles is Cambridge Street. Walking access to the front entrance via Cambridge Street, Centenary Square or Broad Street is not affected by these works. 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.
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Sir Simon Rattle* _conductor_ *Camilla Tilling* _soprano_ *Magdalena Kožená* _mezzo soprano_ *Mark Padmore* _tenor_ EVANGELIST *Topi Lehtipuu* _tenor_ *Christian Gerhaher* _baritone_ CHRISTUS *Thomas Quasthoff* _baritone_ *CBSO Chorus & CBSO Children's Chorus*
  *Bach* _St Matthew Passion_ 151' (sung in German with English surtitles)
  

• CBSO Rattle's Bach  

  Sun 7 Mar Symphony Hall

  *Please note there will be no admittance for latecomers until the interval* In the whole of music there’s nothing else quite like it: Bach’s dramatic re-telling of the events of Holy Week has a power and expressive beauty that add up to an overwhelming experience. Returning to the CBSO for the first time in four years, our former music director Sir Simon Rattle leads an outstanding international cast and our own acclaimed choruses in what is sure to be one of the hottest tickets of this or any season - be sure to book early! We wanted to bring to your attention a few points that may affect your travel arrangements to and from the concert: Other sell-out events in Birmingham We have been informed that there are other sell-out events in Birmingham this weekend, including a concert on Saturday evening at the National Indoor Arena. Please bear this in mind when considering the time needed to travel to and park in Birmingham. For a full list of parking options in the city, please visit www.birmingham.gov.uk/parking. Change in the advertised timings St. Matthew Passion will be approximately 150 mins long, rather than 131 mins long as previously advertised. Therefore, with the addition of the 20 minute interval, this means that the concert will finish at approximately 10pm. Apologies for any inconvenience this amendment may cause. Maintenance works outside Symphony Hall There is ongoing maintenance work occuring outside Symphony Hall, which means that on Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 March there will be no access for cars, taxis and coaches to drop off outside Symphony Hall. The nearest access for vehicles is Cambridge Street. Walking access to the front entrance via Cambridge Street, Centenary Square or Broad Street is not affected by these works. 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.
  *City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra* *Sir Simon Rattle* _conductor_ *Camilla Tilling* _soprano_ *Magdalena Kožená* _mezzo soprano_ *Mark Padmore* _tenor_ EVANGELIST *Topi Lehtipuu* _tenor_ *Christian Gerhaher* _baritone_ CHRISTUS *Thomas Quasthoff* _baritone_ *CBSO Chorus & CBSO Children's Chorus*
  *Bach* _St Matthew Passion_ 151' (sung in German with English surtitles)
  

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