October What’s On For Kids In Birmingham

It is that time of the month once again where we look ahead to the next month at what is on in our city’s fantastic arts venues. At the time of writing, all of the events I have included below have ticket availability, though obviously this may well have changed by the time you read this post.

A concert hall is ready for the next performance. Imagine that this is taken just before the doors are opened to let the audience in for a wonderful evening's entertainment. — Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

In our fantastic city, there are always a lot of shows on every month for to choose from, many in different price brackets, and so I include a Table of Contents immediately below so you can have a quick look at all the events covered, and jump straight to the venue/show you are most interested in. I include a link to each venue’s What’s On page. On this page you can find all of the shows listed with ticket booking information, as well as information about shows coming up further into the future. You may notice that some of the events noted in this list have a coloured background on their write up, this denotes shows that are free of charge, though many still require booking to guarantee your place.

Immediately below is a list of all the venues and shows included in this round up for the month, so you can jump straight to your favourite venue, or the show that interests you, or alternatively have a scroll through everything on the list.

Birmingham Hippodrome

Home to Birmingham Royal Ballet and the Welsh National Opera, the Hippodrome is a fantastic large venue that hosts touring arts companies who put on big shows like musicals.

What’s On page and booking information: Birmingham Hippodrome

Birmingham Royal Ballet – Luna on 3 – 5 October at 2pm and 7.30pm

A powerful and moving new ballet.

Five female choreographers from around the world take inspiration from the pioneering women of Birmingham. Each tells a story tackling universal themes through sweeping dramatic movement and intense, intimate moments of darkness and light.

Join BRB on this journey to the moon and back, told with love, compassion and creativity, and grounded in real life experience.

Please note this show is recommended for ages 15+.

BRB Class on Stage on 5 October at 11am

Have you ever wondered just how ballet dancers prepare for each of their performances? Look no further than Class on Stage!

This is your chance to look behind the scenes and come and watch the dancers of Birmingham Royal Ballet warm-up and complete their final preparations ahead of one of their performances.

This is a great introduction to Ballet and an opportunity to understand about the amazing strength, skill and stamina of BRB’s exceptional world-class dancers.

Please note this show is recommended for ages 5+.

Disney’s Aladdin on 9 October to 3 November at various times

FOR A LIMITED RUN THIS OCTOBER, EXPERIENCE DISNEY’S THRILLING WEST END PRODUCTION ALADDIN, FILLED WITH UNFORGETTABLE MAGIC, COMEDY AND BREATH-TAKING SPECTACLE!

The show’s music, written by 8-time Oscar-winner Alan Menken, includes “Arabian Nights”, “Friend Like Me” and “A Whole New World” which won the Academy Award for Best Original Song. Don’t miss this extraordinary theatrical event, seen by over 14 million people worldwide, where one lamp and three wishes make the possibilities infinite!

There is limited ticket availability for some dates in this run.

Please note this show is recommended for ages 6+, under 3s will not be admitted.

Gwyneth Goes Skiing on 29 – 31 October at 7.45pm

She’s the Goop-founding, Door-Sliding, Shakespeare-In-Loving, consciously-uncoupling Hollywood superstar. He’s a retired Optometrist from Utah. In 2016, they went skiing.

On the slopes of Deer Valley, their worlds collided, and so did they – literally. Ouch. Seven years later in 2023, they went to court. Double ouch. This is their story. Kind of. Not really.

After sell-out London runs, critical acclaim, a sold out U.S. transfer (that was enjoyed by both Paltrow’s and Sanderson’s lawyers!) and a run at Edinburgh Fringe, join harbingers of queer chaos Awkward Productions (Diana: The Untold and Untrue Story), as they transform Birmingham Hippodrome into Deer Valley Ski Resort.

Written and performed by Linus Karp and Joseph Martin, featuring original songs by Leland (RuPaul, Troye Sivan, Cher), with a special video appearance by Trixie Mattel (RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars 3 winner), and the singing voices of Darren Criss (Glee, The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story), and Catherine Cohen (Edinburgh Comedy Award winner).

A story of love, betrayal, and skiing – where you are the jury. Prepare to be gooped.

BYOJE (bring your own jade eggs).

Please note, this show is recommended for ages 14+.

Symphony Hall

Symphony Hall is a wonderful purpose built concert hall, famous for its amazing acoustics. The Hall is part of the International Convention Centre on Centenary Square and next door to Birmingham Rep Theatre.

What’s On page and booking information: Symphony Hall

Nils Frahm on 2 July at 7.30pm

Guidance Under 14s accompanied by an adult

When it comes to defining the space between classical and electronic music, hardly any other name is mentioned as often as that of the Berlin-based pianist, composer and producer Nils Frahm. His unconventional approach to an age-old instrument, played contemplatively and intimately, and his sonic alchemy of ambient textures and atmospheric electronica, has won him many fans around the world.

Numerous tours and concerts all over the globe have strengthened his reputation as both an exceptional instrumentalist and a fascinating live musician. His albums have garnered international acclaim from critics and audiences alike.

Free Jazz Fridays: Ashley Allen & Friends on 4 October at 5pm

Age Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult 18+

Ashley Allen is a keyboardist, composer, producer and songwriter who currently resides in Birmingham. In 2020 he released his latest album which caused a huge buzz in the UK scene, reaching the top of both Amazon and iTunes album charts. In 2020 he was billed by Jamie Cullum as one of the next rising stars to come from the UK, and was featured on the Jamie Cullum recommending program in 2021.

He performed at the opening ceremony of the commonwealth games in Australia 2018, and was the musical director for the 2023 Birmingham festival commemorating the 2022 commonwealth games. Other notable performances include Sofar Sounds, BBC introducing at Maida Vale, Cheltenham Jazz festival, Mostly Jazz Festival, Symphony Hall and the Sky Sports World Badminton tournament.

Whether performing alongside Grammy award-winning artists such as Dionne Warwick or performing across Europe and the UK with Julie Dexter, Sanity, Town Hall Gospel Choir, and Aynsley Lister, Ashley continues to push the boundaries of innovation in the UK music scene

Free event.

Life on Our Planet: Live in Concert with CBSO on 4 October at 7.30pm

Age Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult 18+

From esk film, in association with Netflix and Silverback Films, comes a new natural history immersive concert experience: Netflix’s Life on Our Planet in Concert, presenting the highlights from across the series alongside an incredible live soundtrack.

Life on Our Planet is a ground-breaking new 8-part series created by Silverback Films in association with Steven Spielberg’s Amblin Television. Narrated by Academy Award®-winner Morgan Freeman, it’s the story of life’s epic battle to conquer and survive on planet Earth. Accompanied by a live symphony orchestra playing the score, audiences will see the story of life unfold through its most pivotal moments – from the first single-celled life form to the first animals to move out from the sea and onto land, to the first creatures to take flight.

Live music from CBSO

Nashville Sounds in the Round: Gasoline & Matches, Blair Dunlop, Georgia Van Otten & Jonny Morgan on 5 October at 11.30am

Age Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult 18+

Nashville Sounds in the Round

Birmingham’s premier country songwriter night ‘Nashville Sounds In The Round’ in partnership with B:Music! Hosted by multi award-winning Gasoline & Matches, artists are invited to tell the stories behind their songs in a Bluebird Café style ‘In The Round’ session, stripping the songs back to their origins and transporting the audience right back to the writing rooms.

Gasoline & Matches

Gasoline & Matches are a high energy, multi-award winning, dual fronted British band combining close harmonies, melodic guitar licks and serious musicianship. Fronted by Birmingham natives Sally Rea Morris and Stephen Marks, they are fierce entertainers known for their tongue-in-cheek and much-loved song “Never Have I Ever” described by Bob Harris as “Clever, funny, totally original…and it’s Country!” They built momentum after multiple spins on BBC Radio 2, and never fail to get festival goers on their feet to participate in the infamous drinking game which inspired the song. As resident hosts of Nashville Sounds in the Round, their Bluebird Cafe style songwriter round at Birmingham Symphony Hall, it’s clear to see their contribution & influence on Country and Americana music in the Midlands.

Blair Dunlop

“From the outside, when listening to the music of Blair Dunlop, you get the impression that though he’s something of a natural talent he continues to work hard to progress both his songwriting and musicianship…. you can hear the folk heritage coursing through his veins as well as the originality he brings to the genre.” Songwriting Magazine

Blair Dunlop, award-winning British singer-songwriter and guitarist, has now released 4 albums 2 ep’s and toured around the globe. All of this in a short 5-year career is astounding alone but what sets Blair apart from his peers is the lyrical and musical maturity with which he writes. His third album ‘Gilded’ was released in May 2016 on his own label – Gilded Wings – and was widely acclaimed gaining BBC Radio 2 Playlist status for the two single releases (‘The Egoist’ and ‘356’). Prior to this Blair released his acclaimed album ‘House Of Jacks’ in mid 2014 which lived up to the promise of his 2012 debut ‘Blight and Blossom’ (the quality of which contributed to his winning the BBC Radio 2 Horizon Award). Blair has now cemented his place as one of Britain’s most exciting talents.. 2018 Blair saw the release of his 4th album ‘Notes From An Island’ on his own label to rave reviews.

“An adept guitarist whose epic songwriting instincts prevail on a personal-political fourth album” MOJO

Georgia Van Etten

Big, buttery voice and classic tunes. Georgia van Etten creates retro soundscapes while drawing inspiration from the modern political and romantic world. Keeping the art of songwriting authentic, Georgia writes alone, piano and paper in hand. She fuses genres seamlessly, moulding soulful melodies with folk, country, rock and cinematic pop.

Originating from Australia, her early years more closely mimic a retro American film, with her Father blasting country music down highways and her Mother playing 70’s tunes on the guitar. She spent her youth performing/writing with heavy bands like King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard and Alice Ivy.

In a bold move, she packed one tiny suitcase and headed for London. She has since played Porretta Soul Festival (Italy), Falls Festival (Australia), Raadpop (Netherlands), The Long Road (UK) and headlined London Omeara.

Her debut album ‘Deep Black Water’ released on Canadian Label Birthday Cake (founded by Bros. Landreth), gained a feature in NME, music video on MTV, heavy rotation on SiriusXM North Americana (US), BBC Radio 2 play and a feature session on BBC Radio 4.

“Kicks off the year strong” – NME

Jonny Morgan

The ‘Bob Harris – Americana Emerging Artist of the Year 2024’ – Jonny Morgan is an Indie Singer/Songwriter with an unashamed passion for ambient and emotive soundscapes – drawing inspiration from artists such as Gregory Alan Isakov, Ray LaMontagne and Michael Kiwinuka.

Having journeyed across North America in 2022, Jonny returned back to London in early 2023 where he released his highly anticipated debut album ‘Good Luck With the Music’ which landed him support from the likes of BBC INTRODUCING, Mahogany Sessions and Absolute Country.

Squeeze 50th Anniversary Tour on 5 – 6 October at 7.30pm

Age Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult 18+

Squeeze are one of rock’s vital institutions, a band who carved out a distinctive place in the pop firmament with their vibrantly melodic, perceptive songs. Those songs were written by Chris Difford and Glenn Tilbrook, the composers who have remained at the heart of Squeeze since its inception. 70s and 80s Hits such as ‘Up the Junction’, ‘Cool for Cats’, ‘Another Nail in My Heart’, ‘Hourglass’ and ‘Tempted’ led critics to label Difford and Tilbrook the “next Lennon and McCartney”, an assessment that wasn’t proven to be hyperbole

After many years of fundraising and awareness activities with Squeeze and as a solo artist, Glenn Tilbrook, recently accepted an invitation to become an Ambassador for the anti-poverty charity, the Trussell Trust. Squeeze have confirmed that they will once again be supporting the charity, which provides emergency food and support to people who cannot afford the essentials, while campaigning for change to end the need for food banks in the UK.

We are inviting attendees on the tour to bring along food donations to the shows, where there will be collection points across the venue each night. There will also be collection buckets for any cash donations. All donations will be distributed to people in crisis across the 1,300 food bank centres in the Trussell Trust network.

Steve Hackett Genesis Greats, Lamb Highlights & Solo on 7 October at 7.45pm

Age Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult 18+

Steve Hackett’s timeless guitar-work was woven throughout Genesis’ classic 70’s catalogue of albums. Steve and his outstanding touring line-up of Roger King (keyboards), Nad Sylvan (vocals), Jonas Reingold (bass, backing vocals), Rob Townsend (saxophone, flutes, additional keyboards) and Craig Blundell (drums) are bringing many of these albums back to Symphony Hall, Joined by special guest, Amanda Lehmann on vocals.

Age Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult 18+

Established in 1902, the Lviv National Philharmonic Orchestra make their first visit to Birmingham with the American conductor, Theodore Kuchar, whose own roots lie in Ukraine. As Chief Conductor since 2022, they’ve been flying the flag for Ukrainian music-making with international tours and important collaborative projects in Poland and Germany.

An attention-grabbing snare drum sets the scene for Rossini’s cheerful overture. Then the mood changes in Sibelius’s Fourth Symphony – which received its UK premiere in Birmingham Town Hall in 1912 – as chill winds whip through music that’s dark and brooding.

The internationally-renowned cellist Jiří Bárta is joined by guest soloist, Oksana Hretchyn in the Double Concerto that Brahms intended as an olive branch to his estranged friend, the violinist Joseph Joachim. Full of glorious romanticism, this is both intimate chamber music and full-blooded orchestral writing.

Beethoven’s Second Symphony ends the concert as it began, with joy and sparkle, a rollicking first movement and a spirited finale.

CBSO 2024/25: Rush Hour Concert – Brahms 2 on 9 October at 6pm

Age Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult 18+

Running time This concert will last approximately 1 hour.

Experience the full force of the CBSO, complete with world-famous soloists and conductors, and still make it home in time for dinner…

Brahms wrote to his publisher that for his Symphony No.2 he had ‘never written anything so sad’. His tongue, however, was firmly in his cheek as this is one of his most outrageously cheerful pieces.

CBSO 2024/25: Brahms 2 on 10 October at 7.30pm

Age Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult 18+

Running time This concert will last approximately 2 hours.

Musical journeys and flamboyant characters in this colourful concert.

Strauss creates an exhilarating portrait of Don Juan’s wild life and dramatic death. Adès’ Violin Concerto traces musical rings, paths and rounds through its three movements. Leila Josefowicz and Thomas Søndergård dance and whirl with the music. Brahms wrote to his publisher that for his Symphony No.2 he had ‘never written anything so sad’. His tongue, however, was firmly in his cheek as this is one of his most outrageously cheerful pieces.

The Australian Pink Floyd on 11 – 12 October at 7.30pm

Age U14s accompanied by an adult 18+

Performing the music of Pink Floyd with note for note perfection, this critically acclaimed show always strives to reproduce the complete Pink Floyd experience and bring the music to new audiences, the show includes a stunning light and laser show, video animations, state of the art, high resolution LED screen technology and other special effects. In addition and in true Pink Floyd fashion, there are several huge inflatables including a giant pig and their own unique Pink Kangaroo.

They have worked with Pink Floyd touring musicians like Guy Pratt & Durga McBroom. Lorelei McBroom, who was a member of the Pink Floyd touring band on both the Momentary Lapse Of Reason & Delicate Sound Of Thunder Tours has been a member of TAPFS for 10 years.

Often described as being much more than a tribute band, The Australian Pink Floyd Show is the first Pink Floyd tribute show that took the concept into the worldwide arena circuit. The band has played to sell out audiences throughout Europe, UK, America, Canada & South America.

With over 35 years of history, the world’s biggest, best and greatest Pink Floyd tribute show continues to delight its global fan base.

From its humble origins in the bars & clubs of Adelaide, in recent years the band has become a truly international affair, with band members from Australia, the UK, France & the USA.

“Setting the gold standard” – The Times

“For the record TAPFS are a phenomenon to be witnessed live… It’s almost enough to make you forget you haven’t been watching Pink Floyd, but a surrogate band” – Prog

“Probably the most popular tribute band in the world” – Sunday Times ‘Culture’

David Domminney Fowler – Guitar & Vocals

Paul Bonney – Drums

Luc Ledy-Lepine – Guitar

Ricky Howard – Bass & Vocals

Chris Barnes – Vocals

David Parsons – Keyboards

Alex Francois – Saxophone

Lorelei McBroom – Backing Vocals

Lara Smiles – Backing Vocals

Emily Lynn – Backing Vocals

Sax In The City with The Notebenders on 12 October at 1.30pm

Age Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult 18+

Running time Event start: 1:30pm, Event end: 3pm

B:Music welcome back the Ladywood-based community big band The Notebenders to Symphony Hall to uplift with their unique mix of jazz and calypso music

Free event.

Carrie Hope Fletcher: Love Letters Live on 14 October at 7.30pm

Age Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult 18+

Arguably the most recognisable West End performer of her generation, Author, Actress, Vlogger and award-winning sensation Carrie Hope Fletcher is heading back out on the road in Autumn of this year!

Love Letters will see Carrie explore all forms of love from romantic to maternal, unrequited to obsessive, all told through a concert of musical theatre favourites. West End leading man Bradley Jaden to join Carrie Hope Fletcher for Love Letters Live at Symphony Hall

Carrie Hope Fletcher is best known for playing Éponine and Fantine in Les Misérables, Veronica in Heathers, Wednesday in The Addams Family, Cinderella in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Cinderella, and Beth in the arena tour of The War of the Worlds alongside Jason Donovan. She has over half a million followers in the UK and several best-selling novels, including All I Know Now: Wonderings and Reflections on Growing Up Gracefully, which was a number one bestseller in the UK.

CBSO 2024/25: Sir Mark Elder conducts Brahms & Shostakovich on 16 October at 7.30pm

Age Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult 18+

Running time This concert will last approximately 2 hours.

A stirring concerto, a tragic tale – and an outrageous knees-up!

Former Principal Guest Conductor, Sir Mark Elder, makes a welcome return after more than 20 years with a wonderful programme. Brahms is on majestic form in his first Piano Concerto brought to dramatic life by Sir Stephen Hough. Janáček packs a punch with his tale of the fiddler, his sick child – and authoritarian oppression. Shostakovich knew a thing or two about that. His Symphony No.6 builds from slow start to wild conclusion – one of his most diabolical finales.

Celebrating Sanctuary: Self Kanuteh & Julla Kanuteh (Gambia) on 17 October at 1pm

Age Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult 18+

Sefo Kanuteh is a virtuosic, soulful and authentic Kora and Balafon player from The Gambia. He grew up in Foday Kunda on the banks of the River Gambia and was raised by a family of highly skilled kora and balafon players; his musical education was a way of life. This strong passion for music has been passed down for generations in Sefo’s family and his community – music was not just at the heart of his people, but it defined them.

Having worked closely with artists such as Baba Maal, Sefo’s drive to recreate the warmth of his home community in the UK is shown through his inspiring and engaging performances. Passing on the Kora tradition to the next generation, Sefo performs with his son Julla kanuteh, for a Kora duet and Kora with Balafon.

Free event.

Free Jazz Fridays: Disco Manifest on 18 October at 5pm

Age Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult 18+

As part of the partnership between Fierce Festival and B:Music, this week’s Free Jazz Friday performance will be a Fierce Festival takeover and feature an amazingly uplifting, high-energy performance from local jazz, disco, funk and soul band, Disco Manifest. Comprising of 12 of the best young musicians from the region, this Brummy-based band reimagine disco hits with jazz-infused arrangements, inspired by artists such as Earth, Wind & Fire, Herbie Hancock and Louis Cole!

Disco Manifest is a 12-piece jazz-funk collective reimagining Disco, Funk, and Soul classics with a contemporary jazz twist. Channeling Earth, Wind & Fire, James Brown, and Tower of Power, they deliver huge horn breaks, blistering solos, and powerful vocals over visceral funk grooves.

Presented in collaboration with B:Music as part of Fierce Festival 2024

Free event.

Kenny Thomas: The Outstanding Greatest Hits Tour on 18 October at 7.30pm

Age Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult 18+

Multi-platinum selling and 2 x Brit-Award nominated soul legend Kenny Thomas is coming back to Birmingham with The Soul-String Collective, celebrating the greatest hits from throughout his career which has seen him become a British soul music icon.

Following on from a run of sold-out dates in 2023, as well as his previously announced ‘Him’ tour for early 2024, ‘The Outstanding Greatest Hits’ tour

The show will see Kenny backed by not only his all-star band, but The Soul-String Collective; the funkiest, most-soul infused string players in the UK, and will see Kenny celebrate over three decades in music in a way he’s never performed live previously.

Kenny Thomas stands as one of the UK’s most successful soul singers of his generation, having had two Top 10 albums and eight Top 40 singles over his thirty-year-plus career.

His debut album ‘Voices’, released in 1991, sold over a million copies worldwide, going double platinum in the UK alone and features the top 5 hit ‘Thinking About Your Love’. He also appeared on TOTP a remarkable 9 times in under 3 years.

Supporting Kenny across the tour will be BRIT nominated singer-songwriter Rumer, who’s first album ‘Seasons of My Soul’ landed in the Top 3 of the UK Albums Charts and achieved Platinum sales status as well as earned her a MOJO Award for Best Breakthrough Act. She’ll be joined by jazz-funk collective Redtenbacher’s Funkestra.

Twilight in Concert: The Film with Live Band on 19 October at 4pm

Age Film Rating: 12

The legendary romance fantasy film Twilight comes to Symphony Hall, just ahead of Halloween, in an in-concert format, live-to-film.

It promises to be an impressive live cinematic experience, featuring a unique candlelit atmosphere that will transport audiences deep into the heart of this romantic story, more than fifteen years after the film’s original release.

The dark and melancholic score for Twilight (2008) was written by multi-Academy Award®, BAFTA Award and Critics’ Choice Award nominee Carter Burwell, known for his collaborations with directors such as the Coen brothers, Todd Haynes and Spike Jonze.

CBSO 2024/25: Soweto Kinch – White Juju on 20 October at 7pm

Age Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult 18+

Running time This concert will last approximately 80mins.

Electronic hip-hop, jazz, rap – an invitation for the whole world to dance.

Inspired by a year of turbulent racial politics, culture wars and the pandemic, Soweto Kinch produced White Juju for jazz quartet and symphony orchestra. Taking the saxophone solo spot himself, and rapping, he brings us a brilliant, bold and important work which – though serious – he intends to be healing. ‘It’s a tonic.’ He writes. ‘It’s danceable.’

Adam Ant on 22 October at 7.30pm

Age Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult 18+

Pop icon, Adam Ant comes to Birmingham Symphony Hall.

Performing his classic chart-topping hits and personal favourites, Adam says: “ I’m really looking forward to the thrills and spills of playing live, again… there’s nothing like it! “

Yomiuri Nippon Orchestra of Tokyo on 23 October at 7.30pm

Age Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult 18+

It’s over 30 years since the Yomiuri Nippon Symphony Orchestra of Tokyo last visited Birmingham, so this concert is certain to be a major event. With Principal Conductor Sebastian Weigle, their concert of blockbusters begins with deliciously seductive music from the 1948 ballet by pre-eminent Japanese composer Akira Ifukube (best known for his film scores for the Godzilla series).

“An exhilarating new look at familiar music” is how The Guardian described free-thinking violinist Christian Tetzlaff’s latest recording of the Beethoven Violin Concerto. It sees him “flying side-saddle through the Concerto” adds Gramophone, and to a boundary-pushing composer like Beethoven, Tetzlaff would surely be a kindred spirit.

Rachmaninov’s Second Symphony has earned its place in the hearts of classical music audiences everywhere. He composed it in secret before hiding the draft away, but it was an instant success at its first performance. Sweeping and indulgent melodies follow one after another in a stream of inspiration, before the exuberant finale brings this glittering symphony to a bombastic climax.

CBSO 2024/25: Prokofiev & Sibelius on 24 October at 2.15pm

Age Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult 18+

Running time This concert will last approximately 2 hours.

The international language of music, from Los Angeles to St Petersburg to Helsinki.

In the mid-twentieth century Sibelius was massive: a big influence on composers and audiences loved him. Still’s Threnody is a stunning tribute after Sibelius’ death. Prokofiev’s Piano Concerto No.2 crackles with energy – an athletic workout for the brilliant Yeol Eum Son. Sibelius’s exuberant Symphony No.5 was inspired by the sight of flying swans: ‘One of my greatest experiences!’ he wrote. ‘Lord God, what beauty!’

CBSO 2024/25: Beatle Mania! on 25 October at 7.30pm

Age Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult 18+

Running time This concert will last approximately 2 hours.

Re-live, re-visit or discover the most innovative pop group ever.

Join Eleanor Rigby, Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds, Sgt. Pepper and the Fool on the Hill as they buy a Ticket to Ride in the Yellow Submarine on its Magical Mystery Tour along the Long and Winding Road from Penny Lane to Strawberry Fields. Help! They must get back to see the Paperback Writer before they can say Here Comes the Sun and When I’m Sixty Four.

In association with West End International.

This concert will be British Sign Language Interpreted.

The Pretenders on 27 October at 8pm

Age Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult 18+

Running time The Picturebooks: 8pm. The Pretenders: 9pm

Support: The Picturebooks

In the wake of their critically acclaimed new album ‘Relentless’, the Chrissie Hynde-fronted band are coming to Symphony Hall in March.

The new songs have been met with high critical praise, described by MOJO as “persistently brilliant songwriting … surely how Chrissie Hynde always wanted The Pretenders to sound”. The Observer heard “inspiring longevity”, Record Collectorapplauded “the best Pretenders album in 20 years” in a five star review, and Uncut Magazine labelled the album “the new prime of Chrissie Hynde”

Live at B:Eats: Dal Singh on 29 October at 1pm

Age Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult 18+

Dalbir Singh Rattan, Leeds born ‘Tabla Jedi’, is a gifted player from the Beneras style. ‘Dal’ introduces the future of British drumming in the shape of his mighty Tabla!

Dal has worked and recorded with the Mod Father Paul Weller, Ocean Colour Scene and Richard Ashcroft.

Free event.

CBSO 2024/25: Kazuki & Miloš on 30 October at 2.15pm

Age Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult 18+

Running time This concert will last approximately 2 hours.

Pack your bags and join us on a trip to Spain!

A celebration of the music and heritage of Spain – Falla’s sparkling suite, and Rodrigo’s gorgeous concerto, giving a starring role to the guitar (and the brilliant Miloš Karadaglić). Chabrier’s España was the result of a Spanish road-trip, while Rimsky-Korsakov seemingly never set foot in Spain – yet his Capriccio is brimming with its folksongs. And Ravel’s mesmeric Boléro, nearly 100 years old, has still got it.

Live at B: Eats: Yup Didi on 31 October at 1pm

Age Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult 18+

Yup Didi are a musical group that explores Jazz, Soul, Funk and RnB sounds through the creation of their own original music. Whilst also interweaving South Asian elements within some of their music as well, all of which helps to create a unique blend of different inspirations, styles, and genres. As a band, they’re looking to record their music and are writing as much as possible as well as beginning to book gigs over this year. Yup Didi are a close, tight-nit group of friends that just love creating and performing, so stay tuned for more to come!

Free event.

Beyond the Barricade on 31 October at 7.30pm

Age Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult 18+

Beyond the Barricade, the UK’s longest running Musical Theatre Concert Tour, is celebrating its 25th Anniversary in 2024. Join the cast for two hours of the best of Broadway and the West End, featuring the songs that have made audiences return over and over again for 25 years. Enjoy numbers from The Phantom of the Opera, Jesus Christ Superstar, West Side Story, The Lion King, Blood Brothers, Miss Saigon, Hamilton and many others, climaxing with a spectacular finale from, of course, Les Misérables!

Birmingham Town Hall

Symphony Hall’s sister venue, Birmingham Town Hall is just a little way down the road.

What’s On page and booking information: Birmingham Town Hall

Oysterband & June Tabor on 3 October at 7.30pm

Age Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult 18+

Running time Start: 7:30pm – Interval: 8.25pm – End: 10pm

After 45 years on the road, the legendary Canterbury-formed collective will be hanging up their touring boots and bringing their unique partnership with the English folk songstress to a worthy conclusion.

But it’s not over yet… With a tour aptly named “A LongLong Goodbye”, Oysterbandwill be bowing-out in style with a year of unmissable shows planned at some of their favourite haunts, where they will be performing a career-spanning set, including highlights of their collaborations with June Tabor.

Samantha Fish on 4 October at 7.45pm

Age 14s and under to be accompanied by an adult 18+

Over the course of her career as an award-winning artist, singer/songwriter/guitarist Samantha Fish has brought extraordinary power to her self-expression, capturing her inner world in combustible riffs, visceral rhythms, and spine-tingling vocal work.

Although she is often cited as a blues artist, in truth her music could be said to incorporate multiple genres, including rock, country, funk, bluegrass, and ballads.

Gareth Gates Sings Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons on 5 October at 7.30pm

Age Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult 18+

Gareth Gates, along with a stellar cast of West End performers, pay tribute to those four boys from Jersey with their unmistakable high pitched vocals in what promises to be an electrifying homage to the iconic sounds of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons.

With over two decades of dominance on the airwaves and a staggering 100 million records sold, the Four Seasons have etched themselves into music history.

With songs like Can’t Take My Eyes Off You, Big Girls Don’t Cry, Sherry, My Eyes Adored You, December 63, and many more, get ready for an evening of roof raising vocals, slick choreography and a nostalgic journey back in time to the golden era of pop music!

Backed by a talented live band, you are sure to leave the theatre echoing the sentiment of one of the Four Seasons’ most famous hits: “Oh, What a Night!”

Lunchtime Organ Concert: 190 Years of Town Hall on 7 October at 1pm

Age Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult 18+

In a special concert marking 190 years of Birmingham’s Town Hall, City Organist Thomas Trotter is joined by architectural historian and building conservation expert, Anthony Peers. Between 1999 and 2007 Anthony served as Project Historian to the £35 million scheme to revitalise Birmingham Town Hall and his resulting book on its history was published in 2012 to critical acclaim, being one of the seven British projects cited in the European Union’s 2013 Europa Nostra Awards. Anthony is Deputy Chairman of Historic Buildings and Places (formerly the Ancient Monuments Society).

Birmingham City Organist since 1983, Thomas Trotter is one of the world’s top-ranking virtuoso organists and was awarded the 2020 Queen’s Medal for Music. His fortnightly lunchtime concerts last around an hour and showcase the organ’s sublime delicacy and awesome power – as well as his own technical wizardry – in some of the most inventive programmes you’re ever likely to hear.

The Van Morrison Alumni Band on 9 October at 8pm

Age Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult 18+

The Van Morrison Alumni Band is a group of all-star musicians, who have between them accompanied Van Morrison in more than 1400 concerts around the world and have amassed more than 500 recordings credits on the singer’s albums dating back several decades and include: Leo Green (Sax), Matt Holland(Trumpet), Alec Dankworth (Bass), Robin Aspland (Piano), Ralph Salmins (Drums) and will be joined by: Al Cherry (Guitar),Vanessa Haynes(Vocals),Kristin Hosein (Vocals)

Leo Sayer: Still Feel Like Dancing on 12 October at 7.30pm

Age Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult 18+

British music legend Leo Sayer will be celebrating 50 years since the release of his debut album Just A Boy and his upcoming autobiography of the same name. With this performance, Leo and his band bring boundless energy, exuberance and a hit packed show to some of his favourite venues across the country.

Ex Cathedra 2024/25: Bruckner, Palestrina & Allegri 13 October at 4pm

Age Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult 18+

Running time Apr 2 hr inc interval

Bruckner’s majestic motets and monumental Mass in E Minor form the centrepiece of this concert to mark his 200th birthday. Bruckner’s sacred symphony draws inspiration from Renaissance Rome and the timeless elegance of Palestrina. Allegri’s ever popular Miserere – once shrouded in secrecy and renowned for its soaring soprano lines – completes the programme.

B:Music’s Associate Artists Ex Cathedra and resident orchestra the CBSO join forces to present this unique event.

Mr Joe Jackson Presents: Two Rounds of Racket Tour 14 October at 7pm

Age Under 14 accompanied by an adult 18+

Running time Doors 7.00pm.

Support: Mary Lee Kortes

“The Two Rounds Of Racket Tour” promises to be festive, fun, and unlike anything else music fans will see next (or any other) year. The show will be in two parts: a solo set by Joe Jackson of his original songs, and a set based on the album What A Racket!

– the first performance in more than 100 years of the songs of forgotten Music Hall genius Max Champion, with Joe and a nine-piece band.

CDC Dance Ltd presents Strength, Love & Sisterhood: A Memorial Dance Show for Lisa Thomas on 19 October at 6pm

Age Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult 18+

A Memorial Dance Show for Lisa Thomas by CDC Dance School

Lunchtime Organ Concert: Celebrating Black History Month on 21 October at 1pm

Age Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult 18+

Birmingham City Organist since 1983, Thomas Trotter is one of the world’s top-ranking virtuoso organists and was awarded the 2020 Queen’s Medal for Music. His fortnightly lunchtime concerts last around an hour and showcase the organ’s sublime delicacy and awesome power – as well as his own technical wizardry – in some of the most inventive programmes you’re ever likely to hear.

Gilbert O’Sullivan on 21 October at 7.30pm

Age Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult 18+

As creative now as ever, Gilbert O’Sullivan returns for a very special performances that will see him present songs from his latest top 30 album ‘Driven’, alongside classics such as ‘Alone Again Naturally’, ‘Clair’ and ‘Nothing Rhymed’ in an intimate and unforgettable setting.

Afro Celt Sound System on 22 October at 7.30pm

Age Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult 18+

Afro Celt Sound System are among the pioneers of the contemporary world music scene. Their ground-breaking fusion of African, Gaelic and Bhangra influenced sounds has won the hearts and minds of audiences since the group’s beginnings over 25 years ago. With album sales now topping more than one and a half million, two Grammy nominations to date and tours all around the world, they are the legendary afro-celtic band bringing spirits and music from different cultures together for a breath-taking show.

Maximo Park on 23 October at 7.30pm

Age Under 14s accompanied by an Adult 18+

Maximo Park is a Tyne and Wear-based alternative rock band. The line-up of the band consists of Paul Smith on vocals, Duncan Lloyd on guitar, Lukas Wooller on keyboard, Archus Tiku on bass and Tom English on drums. Both of their albums have achieved double-platinum status and their debut album was nominated for a Mercury Music Prize in 2005.

Support: The Research

Walter Trout on 24 October at 7.30pm

Age 14+

All of us are broken. But no one is beyond repair. It’s a philosophy that Walter Trouthas lived by during seven volatile decades at the heart of America’s society and blues-rock scene. Even now, with the world more fractured than ever – by politics, economics, social media and culture wars – the fabled US bluesman’s latest album, Broken, chronicles the bitter schisms of modern life but refuses to succumb to them.

Tindersticks on 25 October at 7.30pm

Age Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult 18+

Tindersticks are an English alternative rock band formed in Nottingham in 1991. They will be playing at Town Hall with a new album coming this year. You won’t want to miss this!

They’ve shared ‘Falling, the light’ from the new album. Lead singer Stuart Staples says, “All the songs have had their own unique path to being realised and finding their place on the album. ‘Falling, the light’ started its life with Dan at the piano, but that was just the beginning of its musical journey – It slowly found its sound and balance in a strange and beautiful way.”

Charlie Cook’s Favourite Book on 26 – 27 October at various times

Age Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult 18+

Charlie loves reading. Especially books about pirates. But his sister hates it-it’s boring! Can Charlie convince her that reading is fun? Perhaps if she read a book about a pirate, who is reading a book about Goldilocks, who is reading a book about a knight…Come and delve into a range of books with Charlie Cook, brought to life with puppetry and enchanting songs, and perhaps you will be able to help his sister discover the wonderful world inside a book…

John Grant on 28 October at 7.30pm

Age Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult 18+

Hard juxtaposition of beauty and cruelty makes for compelling listening on Grant’s sixth album, a record that ties childhood trauma to hardened adult after-effects, twinning both to the political malaise of America 2024, a country being drawn to the precipice of its own destruction.“We were allowed to feel like we belonged for a couple of seconds,” says Grant. “Not anymore.”

Iron & Wine on 29 October at 7.30pm

Age Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult 18+

Light Verse is Iron & Wine’s seventh full-length overall and fifth for Sub Pop Records. Fashioned as an album that should be taken as a whole, it sounds lovingly handmade and self-assured as a secret handshake. Track by track, its equal parts elegy, kaleidoscope, truth, and dare.

Lyrically the album takes focus on a series of both fictional and personal insights, filled with desperate characters and wide-eyed optimists, offering promise and a dose of heartache, tears and laughter, life and love. Taking stock in the album’s title, Sam Beam jokes, “Light verse is a form of poetry about playful themes that often uses nonsense and wordplay, and it’s my first official Iron & Wine comedy album!…. Just kidding….”

While true this may be Iron & Wine’s most playful record, Beam says the title mostly reflects the way the songs were born with joy after the heaviness and anxiety of the pandemic. Where recent records like Beast Epic or Weed Garden gave air to the disquiet of middle-aged frailty and brokenness, these songs trade that for the focus acceptance can bring. Moment by moment, they delight in being pointed or silly (or both) and attempt beauty over prettiness.

CBSO Centre

The CBSO is a world class orchestra, right on our doorstep. They have performed all over the world, and are absolutely fantastic. The orchestra performs regularly at both the Town Hall and Symphony Hall in Birmingham and in their own home just down the road and nearer the canal, the CBSO Centre. You will see above in the listing for both Symphony Hall and Town Hall that concerts by the CBSO are being performed at those venues this month, in this section I am talking only about the concerts that will take place at the CBSO Centre.

What’s On page and booking information: CBSO Centre

CBSO 2024/25 Centre Stage – Golijov Quintet on 11 October at 2pm

Age Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult 18+

Running time This concert will last approximately 1 hour.

CBSO 2024/25: Centre Stage – Ravel Bolero & Berio on 17 October at 2pm

Age Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult 18+

Running time This concert will last approximately 1 hour.

Join us at the home of the CBSO for a series of short, informal afternoon concerts, programmed and introduced by CBSO musicians.

Programme and performers to be announced.

CBSO 2024/25: Centre Stage – Baroque Concert on 21 October at 2pm

Age Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult 18+

Running time This concert will last approximately 1 hour.

Join us at the home of the CBSO for a series of short, informal afternoon concerts, programmed and introduced by CBSO musicians.

Programme and performers to be announced.

Birmingham Rep Theatre

Located right next door to the ICC, the building that contains Symphony Hall on Broad Street, Birmingham Rep is a Producing Theatre (means the shows on at the Rep are usually rehearsed, designed and made at the Theatre rather than the venue having all touring shows on their stage). I don’t always feature the Rep, as they have few music-based shows, but as there is a musical on there this month, here we are!

What’s On page and booking information: Birmingham Rep Theatre

Becoming Nancy on 3 October – 2 November at various times

A new musical about first love and finding your voice!

Adapted from Terry Ronald’s best-selling novel – be one of the very first to catch the UK premiere of new musical Becoming Nancy!

It’s 1979 and David Starr is unquestionably one of the smartest, most talented sixth-formers in East Dulwich – he’s got a wild imagination, a vocal range to die for, and a bedroom plastered with posters of his beloved pop idols: Blondie, Sting, and Kate Bush. But being clever, with a great taste in music may not be enough to get him through secondary school, where, to his great surprise, he’s just been given the female lead in the school play, Oliver… The unconventional casting sends shockwaves through David’s small town, first with David, and then with his parents, his aunt, and his classmates.

Before long, it seems like everybody has an opinion on whether David should go on with the show, inspiring him to turn to his no-nonsense best friend Frances and his unlikely co-star Maxie, the enigmatic captain of the football team.

From the master of musicals, Jerry Mitchell!

This eagerly anticipated coming-of-age story is directed and choreographed by two-time Tony Award-winner Jerry Mitchell, legendary director of blockbuster musicals including Legally Blonde, Kinky Boots, The Devil Wears Prada, Hairspray, Pretty Woman: The Musical and many more.

A choreographer and director who seems to have the Midas touch.”
The Guardian on Jerry Mitchell

With smash-hit songs by George Stiles and Anthony Drewe, Becoming Nancy is the feel good, joyous, new musical that weaves a story of family and first loves, with the courage it takes to find your own spotlight.

See it first in the UK at The Rep this Autumn!

Please note, this show is recommended for ages 11+.

Pied Piper – A Hip Hop Family Musical on 31 October to 2 November at 2pm and 7pm

It’s the eve of the mayoral election, and the kids of Hamelin aren’t happy. The mayor and owner of the local pie factory has imposed a music ban, and to make matters worse, there’s a serious rat problem. But, there have been whispers of a mysterious rat catcher in town… Can this curious stranger help Hamelin to find its voice once more?

A truly inspirational, dynamic and uplifting production that will have you bopping in your seat.”
★★★★★ Everything Theatre

Pied Piper is a raucous musical re-imagining of a medieval fairy-tale featuring off West End award-winning music.

Starring a hugely talented cast of beatboxers, musicians and special guest performances from the local community, get ready for an electrifying night of vocal wizardry for all the family.

Please note, this show is recommended for ages 6+.

The Alexandra Theatre

The Alexandra Theatre is a Receiving House Theatre (it receives productions, and does not rehearse, desig, direct the show in house) in the heart of Birmingham.

What’s On page and booking information: The Alexandra Theatre

Awful Auntie on 17 – 19 October at various times

Following their acclaimed productions of Gangsta Granny, Billionaire Boy and Demon Dentist, Birmingham Stage Company are proud to present a fabulous new production of David Walliams’ amazing adventure, featuring a small ghost, a huge owl and a very awful Auntie!

Stella sets off to visit London with her parents, she has no idea her life is in danger! When Stella wakes up three months later, only her Aunt Alberta can tell her what has happened. But not everything Alberta tells her turns out to be true and Stella quickly discovers she’s in for the fight of her life against her very own awful Auntie!

Please note this show is recommended for ages 5+.

Dear Evan Hansen on 22 – 26 October at 2.30pm and 7.30pm

Today is going to be a good day. And here’s why…

THE OLIVIER, TONY® & GRAMMY® AWARD-WINNING BEST MUSICAL

Meet Evan: an anxious high school kid who wants nothing more than to fit in. The thing is, on his way to fitting in, he didn’t tell the whole truth. And now must give up on a life he never dreamt he’d have. As events spiral and the truth comes out, Evan faces a reckoning with himself and everyone around him.

Kopel (Newsies) will play the iconic role of Evan Hansen, alongside Lauren Conroy (Into The Woods) as Zoe Murphy and Alice Fearn (Wicked, Come From Away) as Evan’s mum, Heidi.

They will be joined by Helen Anker (Mamma Mia!) as Cynthia Murphy, Richard Hurst (The Lion King) as Larry Murphy, Killian Thomas Lefevre (Bat Out Of Hell) as Connor Murphy, Tom Dickerson (Heathers) as Jared Kleinman and Vivian Panka (9 to 5 the Musical) as Alana Beck.

The show collaborated with TikTok during the audition process, inviting those interested in being cast in the production to upload a video singing any number from the show. Over 2000 videos were submitted, 36 TikTok users were invited to in-person auditions and Sonny Monaghan was cast in the ensemble, and as alternate Evan (performing the role twice a week, at every matinee performance).

This brand new production of Dear Evan Hansen is the first in the UK to feature an ensemble. The ensemble will consist of Lara Beth-Sas, Will Forgrave, Daniel Forrester, Jessica Lim, Sonny Monaghanand Elise Zavou.

Packed with some of the biggest musical theatre songs of the last decade, Dear Evan Hansen has a score by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul (Oscar-winning composers for The Greatest Showman), book by Steven Levenson and more awards than can be listed here. Well ok, we’ll mention a few: its Tony® Award for BEST MUSICAL, Olivier Award for BEST NEW MUSICAL, Grammy® Award for BEST MUSICAL THEATER SCORE…no big deal but the list goes on!

With direction by Adam Penford (Artistic Director at Nottingham Playhouse), this brand-new production marks the first time that the Broadway and West End phenomenon will tour the UK & Ireland. So wherever you are, #YouWillBeFound, with the Dear Evan Hansen tour coming to a theatre near you from Autumn 2024.

Book by Steven Levenson

Music and Lyrics by Benj Pasek & Justin Paul

Please note, this show is recommended for ages 12+.

Mike Oldfield’s Tubular Bells Live in Concert on 27 October at 7.30pm

Continuing on from last years 50th anniversary celebrations of Mike Oldfield’s Tubular Bells, the multi-million-selling and multi-award-winning album will be performed live in concert across the UK this Autumn on a 29 date tour.

Tubular Bells is world-renowned as one of the most celebrated examples of music in film for its soundtracking of horror classic The Exorcist. Its legacy was cemented with Oldfield’s performance of the album’s main theme at the iconic London 2012 Olympics Opening Ceremony, one of the rare performances of the project he has given.

The Tubular Bells UK Autumn tour will feature an expansive live group, conducted and arranged by Oldfield’s long-term collaborator Robin Smith, which will see the iconic Tubular Bells performed in full, as well as other works by Mike Oldfield including Moonlight Shadow, Summit Day, Family Man and Ommadawn.

Fastlove – A Tribute to George Michael on 31 October at 7.30pm

Direct from London’s West End, with a brand-new show for 2024, this is the world’s favourite George Michael celebration!

Few shows have reached the dizzy heights of Fastlove, touring worldwide, selling over 500,000 tickets. Join us for one very special night as we celebrate the late great George Michael.

Our talented cast will recreate for you, a night like no other!

The closest you can get to the real thing

– THE REVIEWS HUB

A feast of tunes to commemorate George Michael with a cast that delivers impeccable standards

– FIRST NIGHT MAGAZINE

If you want a fun night out – I would definitely hotfoot it to Fastlove

– NORTH WEST END

Make new memories whilst reliving old classics – this one is for the fans as we celebrate one of the greatest musicians the world has ever seen, and we say thank you!

This show has it all, the power, emotion and star quality in this stunning production with full video and light show, as we respectfully recreate the soundtrack to your life.

Playing all the hits, from Wham! right through his glittering career, including, Wake Me Up, Too Funky, Father Figure, Freedom, Faith, Knew You Were Waiting, Careless Whisper and many more.

Fastlove: for the fans.

This is a tribute show and is in no way affiliated with any original artists/estates/management companies or similar shows. Promoter reserves the right to alter the programme.

The Crescent Theatre

The Crescent Theatre is a smaller Theatre near Brindley Place. It has a 300 seat auditorium and a 100 seat Studio Theatre.

What’s On Page and booking information: The Crescent Theatre

Unplugged on 14 October at 7.30pm

A lively evening of acoustic music of all types and styles including folk, pop, jazz, rock ‘n’ roll, soul and even light classical.

Unplugged features performances by talented members of the Crescent Theatre Company alongside guest performances from some of the best musicians, singers, and acts in the Midlands, all keen to showcase their talents to an appreciative audience. A cornucopia of acoustic instruments is always in evidence including guitars of all kinds, mandolins, banjos, ukuleles, fiddles, guitaleles, harmonicas, concertinas, period instruments, and many more.

Taking place in the intimate surroundings of the Crescent Bar, the event is totally free to all and promises a memorable evening of musical entertainment.

This much loved event usually packs the bar to capacity, so please book your tickets in advance and come early if you want a seat!

Illuminate with Jagannatha Das on 26 October at 7pm

Join us for a night of illumination from within!

A first of its kind concert happening in Birmingham with Jagannatha Das a renowned Chant Artist and his musical family who will take you on journey of Mantra Music Meditation to help your Soul Shine. Get ready for a magical and interactive evening where the theatre will be filled with joy, love and upliftment.

Destination Supreme on 29 October at 12pm and 6pm

This production contains pyrotechnic effects and stroboscopic lighting effects.

Buckle up as the cast of Destination Supreme takes you on a thrilling, first-class journey across the globe.

From the bustling streets of China to the romantic boulevards of Paris, you’ll travel to stunning destinations and experience dancing cultures from every corner of the world—all without leaving your seat!

Our show is your passport to an unforgettable adventure. Don’t miss out on this epic voyage—get ready to take off and explore the world with Destination Supreme! production contains pyrotechnic effects and stroboscopic lighting effects.

Legends of American Country Show on 30 October at 7.30pm

Now seen by over 350,000 fans live and watched by millions on TV Europe’s No.1 multi award winning show “The Legends of American Country” returns for another fantastic night of toe-tapping Country nostalgia.

The 2024 tour will showcase highly acclaimed tributes to Dolly Parton, Johnny Cash, Don Williams, Patsy Cline, Charley Pride, Tammy Wynette and Kenny Rogers. Add to this new tributes to icons Hank Williams, Alan Jackson, Glen Campbell, Billie Joe-Spears, Garth Brooks and Jim Reeves with countless other well-known singalong hit songs in this must see musical extravaganza.
The show features three superb singers in the young Kelan Browne, Tracey McAuley and Antony McBrien who are all accompanied by a superb live band of musicians with that real authentic Tennessee sound. This is coupled with authentic stage design and state of the art production that is guaranteed to transport you, hand-clapping and toe-tapping, to Nashville and back in one night.

One thing is for sure if it’s Country Music you like, then this is the only show in town!

Midland Arts Centre (MAC)

MAC is a multi-purpose venue, meaning that there is an art gallery both a separate gallery space and one around the cafe areas, workshop spaces, a theatre, a cinema, and other performance spaces. It is also located in Canon Hill Park making it a great place for a day out. It is definitely worth having a look through their website to see if there is something for you and your child(ren) to enjoy. If you are heading to MAC in the near future, it is worth checking out my Venue Guide:

Venue Guide for Parents – Midland Arts Centre, or MAC

What’s On page and booking information: Midland Arts Centre (MAC)

Little Seeds Music: Luna Loves Library Day on 5 October at 2.30pm

Join Luna and her Dad in our exciting new musical adventure amongst the library shelves…

Luna looks forward to one special day… Library Day! It’s the day when she discovers magic among the library shelves, from dinosaurs to mummies, from unexplained mysteries to monsters and magic. But for Luna, Library Day is also a chance to spend time with Dad, making it all the more special.

Come along with Luna and Dad as they discover magic and mystery, laughter and sadness and, through the power of stories, even start to mend their own history.

The perfect treat for children aged 5+ and their families.

Based on the critically acclaimed book by Waterstones Children’s Laureate Joseph Coelho and illustrator Fiona Lumbers. Adapted for the stage by award winning poet and author Joseph Coelho, with music and lyrics by family favourite David Gibb.

Afreen Afreen Qawwali Night with Qalandar Band on 6 October at 4pm

Featuring Qalandar Qawwali Band.

They are one of the best Qawwal groups in Europe. Qawwali is a Sufi devotional form known as the “path of the heart.”

Come enjoy 2 hours of your favourite Qawwalis, Special tribute Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan.

Host: Salman Malik

TDE: Smiodair + Bize on 17 October at 8pm

A double bill with one set featuring Bize, the French duo of Robin Fincker (saxophone and clarinet) and Sylvaine Hélary (flutes and piccolo) and the other set featuring Smiodair, the French/Irish/British trio of Robin Fincker, Simon Jermyn (bass) and Dave Smith (drums).

Both groups weave spontaneously and seamlessly between their compositions and improvisation thus creating a series of varied and unpredictable episodes.

Please note, this show is recommended for ages 14+.

James Wilton Dance: LORE on 19 October at 7.30pm

LORE is the new production from award-winning dance company James Wilton Dance.

It’s a folklore inspired journey into a pagan world of gods, demons and humans, all embodied through otherworldly athleticism.

It’s about connection to nature, making you feel the energy that flows from the ground, through our bodies and back into the earth.

The specially composed soundtrack by Michal Wojtas, who draws influence from Viking, Celtic and Slavic folk music, is like listening to the tales our ancestors told while sat in a clearing in the woods, and hearing the ancient stories that bind humanity together.

Please note, this show is recommended for ages 11+.

Babies Adventures in Music (BAM) on 25 October at 11am and 1.30pm

We can’t wait to see you at the return of our BAM concerts! Bring your baby for a bounce with singer Sam Frankie Fox and multi-instrumentalist Ricardo Rocha.

This warmly interactive performance for babies, families and friends celebrates music with a host of instruments, styles, gentle movements and stimulating sounds. A mix of familiar and new music comes to each months’ sessions, building on your babies’ previous interaction and giving them more chance to learn and to grow!

Performances feature harp, diatonic accordion, a range of stringed instruments, songs in different languages and lots lots more.

Performances are 30 minutes long

Suitable for babies 0-18 months and their families and friends

SHINE – The Progress Showcase 2024: Part 1: Alexandra on 25 October at 7.30pm

Come and witness Alexandra’s incredible vocal students take the stage in Part 2 of the Progress Vocal Showcase 2024!

Join us as we uncover the stars of tomorrow, each bringing their unique style and flair to the stage. Be prepared to be amazed by the remarkable progress everyone has made this year!

Don’t miss out being part of this unforgettable musical journey!

Divanhana on 25 October at 8pm

Divanhana are a modern sevdah group from Bosnia and Herzegovina. Formed in 2009 by a group of students from the Music Academy in Sarajevo, the band performs traditional music from the Balkans in their new, distinctive arrangements influenced by jazz, pop and classical music.

They especially focus on nurturing and presenting sevdalinka, or sevdah, the urban traditional music of Bosnia and Herzegovina, hugely popular throughout the wider Balkan region. Building on a dedicated and scholarly approach to tradition, they enrich their repertoire with newly-written music inspired by traditional songs.

Highly Sprung: CastAway on 26 October at 11.30am and 2pm

Don’t miss this stunning outdoor performance exploring the impact of today’s throwaway society on our waterways.

Featuring mesmerising aerial theatre, it takes audiences on a journey to an underwater world where performers dive, twists, captivate and inspire audiences of all ages. The show promotes debate and inquiry through a performance that combines engineering, imagination, and dynamic movement.

With the weight of plastic now greater than the weight of humanity, what better time than now to take action?

Please note, this is an outdoor performance.

DancingStrong Movement Lab: SPLASH! on 26 October at 12.30pm

Created especially for young children and their families.

This is an intimate, interactive performance installation which uses dance and painted and projected artworks to explore our relationship with water.

Beginning in an imaginary cool stream where rain falls gently, audiences are led by three dancers through a vibrant city river into the expanse of the ocean. As they follow the river’s journey, the audience actively participate in the movement whilst they learn how water shapes the landscape.

The show is multi-sensory and non-verbal, making it access-friendly – it’s also wheelchair accessible.

Please note, this show is recommended for ages 2+ to 7.

Mr Sleepybum on 27 October at 11am and 2pm

Do you have stupid and silly dreams at night?

Well, Mr. Sleepybum does, and he’s going to re-enact them all for you in this high-energy, silly comedy show for the whole family.

Mr Sleepybum awakes in his bed to find a room full of parents and children. A circus of silly sketches and dream scenes ensues, from swimming with Sharks to solving the mystery of a stolen chocolate cake to dodging balls in the guise of the Cowboy Ball-Dodger.

Mr Sleepybum’s imagination is limitless.

Mr Sleepybum is a multi-award-nominated, one-man, character comedy kids show, written and performed by character comedian Jody Kamali. The show performed a sell-out run at the Edinburgh Fringe in 2023 and received rave reviews from the press and audiences.

Reverend Billy and the Stop Shopping Choir on 27 October at 12.30pm

Experience a cloudburst of live musical energy and a defiant response to the climate change emergency from Reverend Billy and The Stop Shopping Choir.

We’re thrilled to welcome back the exuberant activist singers from New York for a spectacular, truly unforgettable performance and a stirring rallying cry that will reverberate throughout MAC’s public foyer.

In partnership with Colchester Arts Centre.

SWITCH on 27 October at 1.30pm

Join us for a lively music performance from MAC’s resident band, SWITCH.

SWITCH is a talented group of young musicians aged 11 – 25 who write, produce, record and perform their own songs.

Free event.

MAC Makes Music: Dynamic Sounds on 30 October at 2pm

Dynamic Sounds is a creative composition workshop for families and young people who love to let their imagination run wild!

We’re looking for budding young composers, beatboxers, producers and performers who can help us create a spectacular sound-story! Join us at MAC for an afternoon of looping and layering sounds and rhythms using our voices, our bodies and some fun electronic musical instruments.

You don’t need any experience of playing an instrument. Just be prepared to get creative and make some strange and silly sounds!

Liz Birch is an electronic musician and music facilitator working with various inclusive groups. If you would like to talk to us about any specific needs, please get in touch – we’d love to hear from you.

*Age range is a guide. Please contact us if you would like to discuss whether this session is suitable for your young person.

Please note, this event is recommended for ages 7 to 13.

The orchestra is all on stage. they have tuned up and are ready to play. — Photo by AfroRomanzo on Pexels.com

Royal Birmingham Conservatoire

Part of Birmingham City University, Birmingham Conservatoire is a music school with a number of purpose-built concert venues, both large and small.

What’s On page and booking information: Royal Birmingham Conservatoire

Birmingham Philharmonic Orchestra – An English Journey on 6 October at 3pm

Holst A Somerset Rhapsody
Elgar Cello Concerto
Coates London Again Suite
Walton Spitfire, Prelude and Fugue
Coates Calling all Workers
Elgar Cockaigne (In London Town)

In their season opener, the Birmingham Philharmonic Orchestra celebrates the music of England including the iconic Elgar cello concerto to be played by Ella Harrison (pictured).

Running time approx. two hours plus interval

Lunchtime Music – Lottie Mahoney on 7 October at 1.05pm

Lottie Mahoney flute
Joanne Sealey piano

Godard Suite de trois morceaux, Op.116
Taffanel Fantasy on Themes from ‘Der Freischütz’

Aoife Fahey harpsichord

Meditations sur ma mort future: Melancholy keyboard music of 17th-century France

Couperin Tombeau de M. Blancrocher
d’Anglebert Suite in G minor
Froberger Allemande ‘Meditation faite sur ma mort future’

Lottie Mahoney from Norfolk, is in the fourth year of her Bachelor of Music degree at Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, studying flute with Marie-Christine Zupancic, and piccolo with Helen Benson and Andrew Lane.

She has rehearsed with the CBSO, both professionally and as part of their training scheme, and with the Royal Ballet Sinfonia as part of Birmingham Royal Ballet’s Student-in-Residence scheme.

In November, she will audition to continue her studies at postgraduate level to pursue a professional career in performance.

Running time approx. 55 minutes

Free event.

RBC Jazz Orchestra: The New Herd on 6 October at 6.30pm

RBC Jazz Orchestra: The New Herd

Directed by Head of Jazz Jeremy Price

The RBC Jazz Orchestra is constantly evolving as personnel move through to senior years and go on to graduate. This gig is in the diary early to establish a new band, or a “new herd” as Woody Herman would have put it.

Come and hear the most recent iteration of this now renowned flagship ensemble for RBC Jazz Department and, for our loyal followers, you can hear new interpretations of our familiar core repertoire.

The very fine Warwick School Big Band are in support to start the evening.

6.30pm support Warwick School Big Band
7.15pm main show

Running time approx. one hour and 45 minutes minutes

Neil Charles: Dark Days on 9 October at 6.30pm

Neil Charles is a highly regarded bass player and composer, His Dark Dayscomposition is a very special project based on the book Dark Days by the American writer James Baldwin.

Dark Days is a fascinating book that deals with some of the issues of race and identity in the USA. Neil has integrated some of the words from the book into the compositions, and these are delivered by vocalist Cleveland Watkiss. The group also features Pat Thomas on piano and Mark Sanders on drums.

6.30pm – Support (Eastside Jazz Club)
7.45pm – Main show (The Lab)

Main show running time approx. one hour and 40 minutes including interval.

James Pearson and Steve Fishwick on 10 October at 6.30pm

Arnie Somogyi Invites James Pearson and Steve Fishwick

James Pearson piano
Steve Fishwick trumpet
Nathan Jones drums
Arnie Somogyi bass

Support Nicholas Manz piano

James Pearson (pictured) is probably best known for his association with Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club, where he has been the house pianist and artistic director for over 14 years.

His powerful, swinging playing has been heard in an astonishing variety of settings and his ‘musical portraits’ of pianists Oscar Peterson, George Shearing, Erroll Garner and Dudley Moore, all of whom have influenced James’s own style, are legendary.

You can expect to hear some of James’s swinging rearrangements of jazz standards alongside a few original compositions, all fused together with brilliant anecdotes about life as a jazz pianist.

Steve Fishwick is widely considered to be one of the best jazz trumpet players ever to come from the UK, and is rapidly gaining a global reputation thanks to his flawless technique and his beautifully flowing, harmonically rich improvisations.

Legendary Jazz critic Ira Gitler had this to say ‘My question is where has Fishwick been hiding? Hip middle register melodious bebop, but when Steve lights his wick he becomes a flying fish, soaring above the waves, totally in control!’

“…outstanding players…for poise, balance and swing they’re a joy to listen to”
The Guardian

“James’ dazzling playing…driving hard, yet sensitive”
London Jazz News

Running time approx. two hours and 30 minutes

Lunchtime Music – India Harding and Alex Wyatt on 14 October at 1.05pm

India Harding mezzo-soprano
Alex Wyatt piano

Debussy En sourdine
Mozart E amore un ladroncello
Clarke The seal man
Bellini L’Abbandono
Lehar Meine Lippen sie Kussen so hies

Alex Wyatt piano

Ginastera Piano sonata No.1, Op.22
Mason Ma The revolving lantern
Sancan Toccata

India Harding is a high mezzo-soprano studying for a masters in vocal and operatic at Royal Birmingham Conservatoire. India has had the pleasure of performing in multiple masterclasses with incredible singers such as Roderick Williams, and vocal technicians like Paul Farrington.

India has also sung a variety of operatic roles during her studies, most notably The Fox from Janáček’s The Cunning Little Vixen, and Madame de la Haltiere from Massenet’s Cendrillion. With these two roles not only showing the wide extent of India’s vocal range, but equally the great character contrast in the roles she has played.

India work in a variety of jobs supporting and educating children and young people from diverse backgrounds.

As a mixed race woman from a low income background one of India’s biggest goals in her career is to promote music making and inspire young people to learn and love all that classical music and opera have to offer as well as promoting this music to the communities that may have little to no access to it.

Alex Wyatt is a pianist currently studying at Royal Birmingham Conservatoire under Robert Markham and Pascal Nemirovski.

He started to learn the piano at an early age, alongside violin and composition.

As well as regular studies with his teachers, he has participated in masterclasses with Michel Beroff, Jura Margulis, Antti Siirala, John Thwaites and Louis Schwizgebel.

During his studies he has performed with his piano trio at various events, as well as acting as an orchestral pianist and was awarded the Miss Bowen Challenge Cup for a First Year Pianist.

Running time approx. 55 minutes

Free event.

Patrick Cornelius Quartet on 17 October at 6.30pm

Joe Cutler: Sonata for Broken Fingers

Patrick Cornelius saxophone
James Francies piano
Michael Janisch bass
Rudy Royston drums

Over the course of over 20 years in New York City, alto saxophonist and composer Patrick Cornelius has cultivated a substantial body of work as a composer and bandleader and performed his original music in some of the world’s top jazz venues.

Hailed as “self-assured” and “resourceful” by The New York Times, “Elegant” and “Extraordinary” by Down-Beat Magazine (in whose annual Critics Poll he has been listed among the “Rising Stars” multiple times), and “Bold and Gifted” by All About Jazz, Cornelius’s discography of ten albums as a leader or co-leader features established veterans (like Jeff Ballard, Ben Allison and Frank Kimbrough) and well as rising stars (including Gerald Clayton, Aaron Parks, Kendrick Scott and Miles Okazaki).

Support Neil McCracken Quartet

Running time approx. three hours

A Century of Swing on 18 October at 7.30pm

Join the UK’s hardest swinging band Down for the Count All-Stars for “one hellova celebration of vintage music” (TimeOut London) as they celebrate A Century of Swing.

Described as “a breath of fresh air on the swing scene”, Down for the Count are regularly found in jazz clubs across the UK and abroad (Ronnie Scott’s London, Le Caveau de la Huchette Paris), at festivals including London Jazz Festival, and on BBC Radio. Now they are bringing the sounds and feels of the best jazz clubs to theatres around the country – with an electrifying show full of incredible energy, musicianship, and their own signature wry wit and humour.

Down for the Count’s new show celebrates A Century of Swing. The band take you on a whistle-stop tour of the best swing music, tracing the origins of the style from 1920s America through to the genre’s heyday in the 30s, 40s and 50s. The band will also perform their own original arrangements of classic jazz standards featured on their new album, Just You, Just Me, bringing swing music right up to date.

You’ll hear instrumental songs from the likes of Duke Ellington and Glenn Miller and vocal classics from singers such as Nat ‘King’ Cole and Ella Fitzgerald, all presented with Down for the Count’s own unmistakable witticisms.

Fairport Convention on 20 October at 7.30pm

RBC Presents: Global Traditions
A concert series of folk music from around the world

FAIRPORT CONVENTION

Fairport Convention have been entertaining music lovers for over half a century, with 2024 being their 57th anniversary! During that time the band that launched British folk-rock has seen many changes, but one thing has remained the same – Fairport’s passion for performance.

This year’s Autumn Tour will present a mix of long-established Fairport favourites and some surprises from albums old and new.

Fairport Convention have won a BBC Lifetime Achievement Award and Radio 2 listeners voted their ground-breaking album Liege & Lief ‘The Most Influential Folk Album of All Time’. Their story has been celebrated with television documentaries on BBC Four and Sky Arts.

The band features founding member Simon Nicol on guitar and vocals, Dave Pegg on bass guitar and vocals, Ric Sanders on violin, Chris Leslie on bouzouki, mandolin, banjo, fiddle, and vocals.

“Stuffing their set with a surprising amount of new material for a vintage act, Fairport are still clearly having fun and brought the house down.” The Guardian

“Fairport is an institution, a festival, purveyors of memories, and keepers of the folk flame. But most of all they are a brilliant live band.” Folk & Tumble

Running time approx. two hours and thirty minutes with interval

Lunchtime Music – on 21 October at 1.05pm

Anna Thirkettle clarinet
Joanne Sealey piano

Mayer Raga Music for solo clarinet, selected movements
Rossini Introduction, Theme and Variations for clarinet and piano
Kovács Salute, Signore Rossini

Maria Willsher soprano
Bianca Vancea piano

Lehmann Bird Songs
Britten On This Island

Anna Thirkettle is from Cambridge and started playing the clarinet at the age of ten. She is now in her fourth year at Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, studying clarinet with Jo Patton and Douglas Mitchell. Anna enjoys orchestral playing, and has performed as part of the RBC Symphony Orchestra, RBC Wind Orchestra, RBC Repertoire Orchestra and the CBSO Youth Orchestra. She has performed in concert halls such as Symphony Hall, Birmingham Town Hall and St John’s Smith Square.

Anna also enjoys performing in various chamber groups, such as her doubling quartet Winds of Change, who play a key part in her Final Project – a concert celebrating woodwind doubling and musical theatre. She also plays in a clarinet and percussion duo, who were selected to play in the final of the Ambache Prize for the Performance of Music by Women Composers and the Sylvia Cleaver Chamber Music Prize in February 2024.

Anna has a keen interest in woodwind doubling, which she studies with Paul Saunders, and regularly performs on all combinations of saxophones, flutes and clarinets. This summer she played Reeds in ‘Our House’ the musical with National Youth Music Theatre. Anna plans on pursuing a career in woodwind doubling in musicals when she graduates.

Maria Wilsher (pictured on the left) is in her fourth year at RBC, studying singing under the tutelage of Louise Crane. She participates in Chamber Choir and this year was selected to be one of Ex Cathedra’s Student Scholars. Since 2022, she has given yearly lunchtime recitals in Winchester Cathedral – last year featuring a collection of songs set to Shakespeare texts and this year with the theme ‘Times of day’. She has performed the role of 1st spirit in Die Zauberflöte with Hurn Court Opera and, in RBC’s Opera Scenes last November, portrayed the role of Sylvie in an extract from The Letter Under the Door – a new opera written by Isabella Ennes, a student composer at RBC.

Maria was one of two singers chosen from her year to represent the Conservatoire in the Kathleen Ferrier Bursary Competition in 2022 held at the Royal Academy of Music. She recently won the John Ireland Prize at the RBC performing alongside the Boulanger Trio and, soon after, won second prize in the Edward Brooks English Song Prize, accompanied by Bianca Vancea.

Free event.

RBC Salsa Orchestra on 24 October at 6.30pm

RBC Salsa Orchestra

Directed by Shanti Jayasinha
Special guest David Pattman

Support
The Jamie Paxton Quartet
Jamie Paxton bass
RJ Gilbert saxophone
Dave Roberts piano
Tom Phillips drums

RBC Salsa Orchestra is the new name for the Afro-Cuban Jazz Orchestra, as the repertoire has expanded to cover Latin music from all over the region, from Colombia and Venezuela to Puerto Rico and New York.

David Pattman started as a jazz musician playing drums and percussion with Django Bates, Tim Whitehead, Chucho Merchan’s Macondo, Loose Tubes, and Dudu Pukwana. He then developed an interest in Latin music which led to being a founder member of British Salsa bands Valdez, El Sonido De Londres, La Clave and Roberto Pla’s Latin Ensemble. From 1988-1990 he spent time in the US in New York and Miami, working with Daniel Santos, Orlando Contreras and La Sensacion with El Niño Jesus and Eddie Guagua Rivera.

David has backed many artists such as Omara Portuondo and Cachaito from the Buena Vista Social Club, Bebo Valdez, Slim Gailard, Carlos ‘Patato’ Valdez, Daniel Ponce, Papaito, Henry Fiol, Tito Allen, Adalberto Santiago, Tito Nieves, Maelo Ruiz, Marvin Santiago, Cano Estremera and Jimmy Bosch.

He has recorded with Jacob Collier, Paul McCartney, Vic Goddard, Tindersticks, Slim Gailard, Snowboy and the Latin Section (eight albums), Alex Wilson (four albums including co-producing ‘Anglo Cubano’ recorded in Cuba), Cubanismo, Alfredo Rodriguez (both also recorded in Cuba), Cheikh Lo and Afro Cubism.

David has been playing Cuban folkloric drumming in both performance and ritual contexts for twenty-five years. He is a sworn ritual batá drummer who has played alongside many of the most respected elders of the tradition. Over the last ten years, he has dedicated time to sharing his knowledge. He has experience of teaching individually, in groups and at university level.

Running time approx. two hours and 30 minutes

Music and Poetry on 25 October at 6pm

Internationally acclaimed multi-instrumentalist Ustad Johar Ali and Professor Gregory Leadbetter present an evening of music and multilingual poetry.

Gregory Leadbetter (pictured) is Professor of Poetry at Birmingham City University. His books and pamphlets of poetry include Caliban (Dare-Gale Press, 2023), a New Statesman Book of the Year 2023; Balanuve, with photographs by Phil Thomson (Broken Sleep, 2021); Maskwork (Nine Arches Press, 2020), longlisted for the Laurel Prize 2021; The Fetch (Nine Arches Press, 2016), and The Body in the Well(HappenStance Press, 2007).

Recent work for the BBC includes the extended poem Metal City (Radio 3, 2023). His research and criticism focuses on Romantic, twentieth-century and contemporary poetry and its contexts, and the history and practice of poetry more generally. His book Coleridge and the Daemonic Imagination (Palgrave Macmillan, 2011) was awarded the University English Book Prize 2012.

A song-cycle featuring poems from The Fetch by the composer and pianist Eric McElroy has been widely performed, and a recording with the tenor James Gilchrist was released in 2023.

On 22 November, James Gilchrist and Eric McElroy will present a programme which includes The Fetch For more information click here.

Running time approx. 60 minutes

E.S.P. on 25 October at 6pm

Dancefloor jazz with Birmingham’s finest DJs and jazz musicians.

DJs Nick Schlittner, Mr Wynters, Tom Belte and guests spin a high energy mix of Latin, hard-bop, afro-cuban, nu jazz, broken beat and much more.

Plus, get down early for beginners jazz dance classes from 7pm – 8pm.

Beethoven’s Fifth on 25 October at 7pm

RBC Symphony Orchestra

Conductor Michael Seal

Berlioz Symphonie funèbre et triomphale
Nicholas Olsen An Attack is Taking Place
Beethoven Symphony No.5

Michael Seal, Associate Conductor of the CBSO, heads up the RBC Symphony Orchestra in a concert that comes with a chance to hear a real musical rarity. Berlioz’s three-movement symphony was one his most popular pieces during his lifetime.

Originally scored for a military band of 200, it was written for a 10^th anniversary parade and reinterment ceremony to commemorate the 1830 July Revolution. Berlioz wrings every ounce of power and colour from a spectacularly large orchestra with its arrays of brass and percussion in music that’s stately and defiant, with a glorious triumphal conclusion.

An Attack is Taking Place derives its title from a Cold War-era information film that prominently displayed the words “AN ATTACK IS NOT TAKING PLACE” at key moments throughout the film.

This new composition, from PhD student Nicholas Olsen, uses this and other references to the era’s heightened tensions to reflect on the “culture wars” unfolding today. The work considers whether this divisive discourse, if taken to the extreme, leaves room for meaningful political debate in our society today.

We conclude with the world’s most famous symphony. The opening four notes may be its signature motif, but there’s always more to discover in this perennial favourite with its lyrical slow movement, commanding scherzo and exuberant finale.

Running time approx. one hour and 30 minutes including interval

British Trombone Festival on 26 – 27 October all day event

British Trombone Festival 2024

Confirmed artists and groups include: Peter Moore, Josh Cirtina, Bones Apart, Chris Augustine, GALSI, Callum Au, Emily White, Jeremy Price, Richard Watkin, Kevin Morgan, Dan West, Ed Jones, RBC Jazz Orchestra and the RBC Brass Bandconducted by Ian Porthouse.

In addition to the main Festival, on Saturday 26 October there are a number of youth events led by Tom Lees and Becky Pepper, where younger players will get the chance to learn from some of our visiting artists.

There will be massed ensembles, masterclasses, and interactive classes covering all styles of playing, from early to modern.

Trade stands will be available for you to try all of the latest equipment. ‘Lesson Lotto’ will give attendees the chance to have a short lesson with one of our visiting artists – look out for updates on how to enter to win one of these.

All BTS competition finals will be held over the weekend; this is a great chance to showcase the finalists with you as audience members. This Festival brings musicians together, no matter what age, ability or background and we welcome you all, BTS members or not.

Baroque in the Bradshaw on 28 October at 7.30pm

Giving New Voices to Old Music

Well-known, less well-known and not known at all … joyful Baroque choral music by Handel, Lalande [who?] and Torri [double who?] … it’s great music!

RBC Chamber Choir
Baroque Instrumental Ensemble
Conducted by Jeffrey Skidmore

Jeffrey Skidmore (pictured) conducts RBC’s flagship Chamber Choir in a spectacular programme of Baroque Psalm settings from Rome, Paris and Munich.

George Frideric Handel’s youthful and virtuosic concerto for voices Dixit Dominus is coupled with the equally brilliant and powerful setting of Cantate Domino by Michel-Richard de Lalande, Louis XIV’s favourite composer.

Containing an exquisite soprano récit and a soaring, climactic haute-contre doxology, this was Lalande’s most popular work.

The sparkling double-choir Versicle and Response Deus in adjutorium meum intende by Pietro Torri, the most celebrated composer at Maximillian II Emanuel’s Court in Munich, completes the programme in a new edition by M4C/RBC Doctoral Research student Gareth James.

Gideon Tazelaar (saxophone) on 31 October at 6.30pm

Arnie Somogyi Invites: Gideon Tazelaar

Gideon Tazelaar saxophone
Arnie Somogyi bass
Mark Edwards piano
Matt Holmes drums

One of the rising stars of the European jazz scene, tenor saxophonist Gideon Tazelaar grew up in the Netherlands, where he developed his musical skills by playing with saxophonist Benjamin Herman and drummer John Engels from a young age.

A prodigious talent, he was admitted to the Bachelor’s degree programme at Amsterdam Conservatoire at the age of just 14.

In 2017 he moved to New York City, where he studied at the Juilliard School of Music and played with and was mentored by George Coleman and Wynton Marsalis.

He currently spends time between his native Amsterdam and New York, where he performs as a sideman with some of the biggest names in jazz, including Wynton Marsalis, Dr Lonnie Smith, Eric Alexander and Dick Oatts.

His debut album ‘Volume One’ which he co-released with trumpeter Ian Cleaver, features Danish bassist Felix Moseholm and Jorge Rossy on drums, both of whom are currently touring as two thirds of the Brad Mehldau Trio.

Birmingham University

As well as the Birmingham Conservatoire Birmingham University also has a thriving music department which regularly puts on concerts and events.

What’s On page and booking information: Birmingham University

Ariel Lanyi on 4 October at 1pm

Roam across Hungary by Bartók’s side with the award-winning, Young Classical Artist Trust pianist Ariel Lanyi, for this set of plaintive, evocative Peasant Songs before settling into Schubert’s last completed sonata for solo piano.

Bartók 15 Hungarian Peasant Songs, Sz.71

Schubert Sonata in G, D.894

Doors open at 12.30pm. Please arrive in good time to avoid disappointment.

Free event.

Timothy Ridout – viola; Jonathan Ware – piano on 11 October at 1pm

BBC New Generation Artist and Borletti-Buitoni Trust fellow, Timothy Ridout is one of the most sought-after violists of his generation. He performs the first of this season’s Barber Lunchtime BBC Radio 3 New Generation Partnership Concerts with pianist Jonathan Ware.

Nahre Sol New work (world premiere)

Franck Sonata in A

Doors open at 12.30pm. Please arrive in good time to avoid disappointment.

Free event.

Groove Onto the Moon on 12 October at 11am and 2pm

Strap in and prepare to blast off on a cosmic adventure like no other as you venture into the thrilling musical experience of Groove onto the Moon!

In this fun sci-fi adventure, children aged 3 to 7 and their adventurous grown-ups will be transported into space, encountering alien creatures, embarking on daring missions, and facing challenges that will put their bravery to the test. Follow three intrepid astronaut friends on a mission to discover the first lunar footprint left by Neil Armstrong, proving to their grown-ups that they’re ready for big-kid adventures!

Amidst mesmerising animation and interactive theatre, our young explorers will navigate a galaxy filled with wonder and excitement. Guided by the pulsating rhythms of hard-grooving funk, jazz, and rock music performed by the outstanding Groove Baby Organ Trio, they’ll embark on a journey of friendship, teamwork, and adventure.

This interactive concert is designed for ages 3-7 and their grown-up crew.

Join us before the performance for some space-themed crafting in the foyer with The Barber Institute of Fine Arts’ Learning and Engagement team.

BEASTdome feat. Mariam Rezaei and Edward George 12 October at 7.30pm

BEASTdome returns for Autumn 2024, featuring guest artists Mariam Rezaei and Edward George, plus performances from BEAST members.

Mariam Rezaei is an experimental turntablist, performer, composer, and proponent of “high-velocity sonic surrealism” (the Guardian). Edward George is a writer, broadcaster, DJ, and founder of Black Audio Film collective. Utilising BEAST’s multichannel dome room loudspeaker system, Rezaei and George will perform a duo turntable set followed by a solo set from Rezaei.

This concert will be preceded by a workshop from 4-5pm, in the vein of Edward George’s ‘Strangeness of Dub’ radio series.

Marie-Christine Zupancic – flute; Daniel Browell – piano on 18 October at 1pm

Marie-Christine Zupancic is Section Leader Flute of the renowned City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra and flautist with Birmingham Contemporary Music Group. Join us as she takes centre stage as a recitalist in this Barber Lunchtime Concert.

Weinberg 5 pieces for Flute and Piano

Ibert Sonatina for Flute and Piano ‘Jeux’

Prokofiev Sonata for Flute and Piano, Op.94

Doors open at 12.30pm. Please arrive in good time to avoid disappointment.

Free event.

Rosie Tea feat. Sekine Quartet on 18 October at 7.30pm

Technicolour, retro-futuristic pop conjurer is the guise of Birmingham multi-instrumentalist, composer, and performer Rosie Tee. Drawing on her Polish roots and folk music past, she crafts other-worldly songs from fragments of electronica, jazz, psych, and avant-pop.

The band will be performing music from Tee’s mini-album, Night Creature with added strings, the first release on her own Kikimora Records; a DIY, female-led label championing the irregular.

University of Birmingham graduate Molly Bethan provides support with her band.

James Atkinson – baritone; Hamish Brown – piano on 25 October at 1pm

oin BBC New Generation Artist, baritone James Atkinson, and pianist Hamish Brown, as we continue our 24/25 partnership with BBC Radio 3. Winner of the Royal Over-Seas League Singers Prize in 2022 and graduate of the Royal College of Music Opera Studio, James has been described as a ‘natural lieder singer and linguist’.

Finzi Let Us Garlands Bring, Op.18

Dring Three Shakespeare Songs

Ravel Histoires naturelles, M.50

Doors open at 12.30pm. Please arrive in good time to avoid disappointment.

Free event.

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