What's On — All events

Choir of the Year 2010 Children's and Open Category Finals
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Sat 6 Nov 2:00pm Symphony Hall

Choir of the Year, in association with BBC Radio 3, is the UK’s biggest choral competition in a search for the best amateur choir. The Choir of the Year 2010 Category Finals promise to be an infectious celebration of singing, with opportunities for the audience to join in! The winner of each category and two ‘wildcards’ will go through to the Grand Final at the Royal Festival Hall.
*Sara Mohr-Pietsch* _presenter_ *Children's Category* Inverclyde Schools' Junior Choir New Forest Children's Choir Warwickshire County Boys' Choir Westminster Boys' Choir *Open Category* Sing It Take Twenty The Rainbow Connection Singers Ysgol Glanaethwy Senior Choir
Choir of the Year 2010 Youth & Adult Category Finals
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Sat 6 Nov 7:00pm Symphony Hall

Choir of the Year, in association with BBC Radio 3, is the UK’s biggest choral competition in a search for the best amateur choir. The Choir of the Year 2010 Category Finals promise to be an infectious celebration of singing, with opportunities for the audience to join in! The winner of each category and two ‘wildcards’ will go through to the Grand Final at the Royal Festival Hall.
*Sara Mohr-Pietsch* _presenter_ *Youth Category* Farnham Youth Choir Lincoln Minster School Chamber Choir St Martin-in-the-Fields High School for Girls Choir The Holles Singers *Adult Category* CF1 Reading Phoenix UCLan Chamber Choir Wellensian Consort
CBSO Family Concert: To I...
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Sun 7 Nov 3:00pm Symphony Hall

Take a journey into outer space as the CBSO flies you to the moon and beyond, and look back on our world in the company of some favourite composers. There’ll be plenty of exciting adventures on the way, with music from _Star Wars_ and _2001: A Space Odyssey_ as well as familiar songs including _Fly Me to the Moon_ and _Come Fly with Me_. Look out of the windows of the Symphony Hall spaceship, and you’ll see the planets of our solar system in orchestral technicolour with music from Holst’s Planets suite. So, sit tight as the countdown begins and a whole orchestra goes into orbit! FREE craft workshops and music, including a pre-concert performance by the CBSO Boys’ Choir, in the foyers from 1.30pm. Why not come dressed up in a space-themed costume?
*Michael Seal* _conductor_ *Michael Collie* _presenter_ *CBSO Boys’ Choir* in partnership with Barclays Wealth *CBSO Young Voices* in partnership with Birmingham Music Service
58th Midlands Festival of...
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Sun 7 Nov 6:30pm Town Hall

There will also be an act of remembrance and wreath laying.
*The Band of the Prince of Wales Division* *Candoldir Male Voice Choir* *Andrew Fletcher* _organ_ *Royal British Legion & Association Standards* *Philip Cotteril* _presenter_
Performance will end at approximately 9pm.
OMD Plus support by Villa Nah
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Mon 8 Nov 7:30pm Symphony Hall

Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark, one of the UK’s most iconic bands, are back with their first new album in 14 years _History Of Modern_ produced by OMD and mixed by one of the UK’s most in demand producers Mike Crossey (Artic Monkeys/Blood Red Shoes/Razorlight). _History of Modern_ is a powerful, pulsating, vibrant and contemporary album with a strong pop sensibility. Tracks such as _Pulse_, _Save Me_, _Sister Marie Says_ and _The Future_ are huge future dancefloor fillers while others like the downtempo _Bondage Of Fate_, _If You Want It_ and _Sometimes_ are quite simply beautiful, classic OMD songs. After three years of critically acclaimed sell out concerts in the UK and Europe these dates will see the band mixing the new songs with the classic hits to create a distinctly contemporary live show.
Blazin' Fiddles
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Tue 9 Nov 8:00pm Town Hall

Take a group of the hottest contemporary fiddle players from the Highlands and Islands of Scotland and you’ve got the award-winning "Blazin’ Fiddles":http://www.blazin-fiddles.com on your hands. In the past decade no other band has quite captured the excitement, passion and the sensitivity of Scottish music in the same way. Like rare single malts, each member of Blazin’ Fiddles draws the distinct flavour of music from their part of the highlands and islands. From solo to ensemble sets, they all come together in a fiery blend that raises the roof. *“The Led Zeppelin of the folk world”* The Scotsman *“Absolutely mindblowing”* Mike Harding BBC Radio 2 *“A Blazin’ Fiddles gig is an informal party complete with chaos, fun and natural enthusiasm”* Glasgow Fiddle Magazine
*Catriona Macdonald, Bruce Macgregor, Allan Henderson,Iain Macfarlane* _fiddles_ *Anna Massie* _guitar/fiddle_ *Andy Thorburn* _keyboard_
Rhod Gilbert & the cat that looked like Nicholas Lyndhurst
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Tue 9 Nov 8:00pm Symphony Hall

Following sell-out performances earlier in the year, the "Welsh wonder":http://rhodgilbertcomedian.com is back by popular demand. With sensational performances on _The Royal Variety Performance_, _Live At The Apollo_, and _Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow_ under his belt, don’t miss the hottest name in comedy performing his critically acclaimed hit show. 'Without doubt one of the best comedians anywhere in the world right now' Time Out
Tommy Emmanuel Plus support
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Wed 10 Nov 7:30pm Town Hall

Recognised as the elite of the elite and arguably the greatest living acoustic guitar player, two-time Grammy nominee Tommy Emmanuel has mesmerised both fellow musicians and audiences alike. With a professional career that spans over four decades, Tommy’s dazzling performances, flawless guitar skills and voluminous repertoire never fail to amaze and engage his legions of fans. From the wilds of Australia’s outback to bustling major cities throughout the world, Emmanuel’s flair, unforgettable showmanship and exhaustive worldwide touring schedule have created an enviable fan base that continues to grow even larger every year. Guitar players of all levels come to his shows to watch the magic hands of the ‘Guitar Wizard of Oz’ but his appeal goes far beyond musicians. His live shows are known for their humour, passion and infectious joy. Tommy Emmanuel loves music and delights in sharing it with the world, one audience at a time. This date is one of a handful of autumn appearances and should not be missed.
CBSO 90th Birthday Concer...
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Wed 10 Nov 7:30pm Symphony Hall

On 10 November 1920 in Birmingham Town Hall, Sir Edward Elgar mounted the podium to conduct the first official concert by the brand-new City of Birmingham Orchestra - the future CBSO. And exactly 100 years ago in London, he conducted the world premiere of his Violin Concerto: arguably his most personal work, certainly his most passionate. Tonight Andris Nelsons, violinist James Ehnes and the CBSO celebrate this double anniversary in lavish style, and mark another milestone on the CBSO’s 10-year 2020 project with a second masterpiece from 1910: the sumptuous suite from Richard Strauss’s most gorgeous opera (and that’s saying something). Haydn's joyous 90th Symphony completes this 90th birthday celebration. 6.15pm Pre-concert talk. Christopher Morley, of _The Birmingham Post_, and veteran CBSO players and supporters share their memories of the last half-century of the CBSO.
*Andris Nelsons* _conductor_ *James Ehnes* _violin_
*Strauss* _Der Rosenkavalier_ - Suite 21’ *Haydn* Symphony No. 90 25’ *Elgar* Violin Concerto 45’
CBSO 90th Birthday Concer...
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Thu 11 Nov 2:15pm Symphony Hall

On 10 November 1920 in Birmingham Town Hall, Sir Edward Elgar mounted the podium to conduct the first official concert by the brand-new City of Birmingham Orchestra - the future CBSO. And exactly 100 years ago in London, he conducted the world premiere of his Violin Concerto: arguably his most personal work, certainly his most passionate. Andris Nelsons, violinist James Ehnes and the CBSO celebrate this double anniversary in lavish style, and mark another milestone on the CBSO’s 10-year 2020 project with a second masterpiece from 1910: the sumptuous suite from Richard Strauss’s most gorgeous opera (and that’s saying something). Haydn's joyous 90th Symphony completes this 90th birthday celebration. 1.15pm Pre-concert talk. Christopher Morley, of _The Birmingham Post_, and veteran CBSO players and supporters share their memories of the last half-century of the CBSO.
*Andris Nelsons* _conductor_ *James Ehnes* _violin_
*Strauss* _Der Rosenkavalier_ - Suite 21’ *Haydn* Symphony No. 90 25’ *Elgar* Violin Concerto 45’
Takács Quartet Birmingham International Concert Season 2010/11
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Thu 11 Nov 7:30pm Town Hall

Generally regarded as Europe's pre-eminent string quartet, the "Takács":http://www.takacsquartet.com return to Town Hall with quartets by Haydn and Shostakovich alongside Schubert’s gravely beautiful _Death and the Maiden_ Quartet. 'This is chamber-music playing of overwhelming intensity, insight and intelligence, simply the best I have ever heard in concert', wrote the critic of The Guardian recently. BBC Music magazine’s Editor Oliver Condy explains why he has recommended tonight’s concert: “The Takács Quartet were the first ever winners of the BBC Music magazine’s Disc of the Year award back in 2006. I’ve since seen them live several times and have never yet failed to be entranced by their ability to breathe new life to into well-worn masterpieces.”

*Haydn* String Quartet, Op 74, No 3 18’ *Shostakovich* String Quartet No 2 33’ *Schubert* String Quartet, _Death and the Maiden_ 40’
Lee Mack Going Out
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Thu 11 Nov 8:00pm Symphony Hall

EXTRA DATE Due to phenomenal demand Lee Mack has extended his tour for a second time making an additional 70,000 tickets available for autumn 2010, including two further dates at London’s Hammersmith Apollo. The critically acclaimed BAFTA-winning comedian returns to the live stage with a hotly anticipated new show. Lee will be bringing his trademark brand of high energy banter, well crafted gags and sharp one-liners to venues across the country on his biggest ever live stand-up tour. Lee is best known to BBC One viewers as the star of multi-award winning _Not Going Out_ and as team captain on _Would I Lie To You?_ 'With shows this good, the coming decade should finally see him established as one of British comedy’s greats.' Telegraph 'Gut-bustingly funny' The Sunday Times 'A master class in pure comedy' The List
Sixties Gold starring Gerry & The Pacemakers, The Searchers, P.J. Proby and Chip Hawkes
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Fri 12 Nov 7:30pm Symphony Hall

A show featuring all the hits of the 60s from the original stars. From famous singles to timeless album tracks, this show will create the ultimate feel-good factor. *Gerry & The Pacemakers* were the first band to have three consecutive number ones in the UK charts, _How Do You Do It, I Like It_ and one of the greatest pop songs ever, _You’ll Never Walk Alone_. They went on to have numerous more hits through the 60s, and none more successful than the absolute classic, _Ferry Cross The Mersey_, which has been Number One in two different decades. *The Searchers* have maintained their reputation as one of Liverpool’s finest groups for over 40 years. With their hits _Sweets For My Sweet, Don’t Throw Your Love Away, When You Walk In The Room_ and their massive No 1 hit _Needles And Pins_. They will have you rocking in the aisles. *PJ Proby*, from the USA, with such huge hits as _Somewhere, Maria_ and _Hold Me_. PJ has achieved huge success all over the world and his amazing voice will have you on the edge of your seats. *Chip Hawkes*, original lead singer/songwriter of The Tremeloes with such hits as _Here Comes My Baby, Silence Is Golden, Even The Bad Times Are Good, Call Me Number One_, and many more.
In Perfect Diapason City of Birmingham Choir
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Sat 13 Nov 7:30pm Town Hall

Diapason n. 1. A rich outpouring of harmonious sound. 2. The entire range of an instrument or voice. 3. Either of two principal stops on a pipe organ that give it its characteristic tone colour. 'Adrian Lucas and the City of Birmingham Choir’s performance…scored high on the tingle-factor scale' Birmingham Post "City of Birmingham Choir website":http://www.citychoir.org.uk
*City of Birmingham Choir* *Thomas Trotter* _organ_ *Adrian Lucas* _conductor_
*Parry* Blest Pair of Sirens *Duruflé* Prelude et Fugue sur le nom d’Alain *Fauré* Cantique de Jean Racine *Bernstein* Chichester Psalms *Duruflé* Requiem
Lee Mack Going Out
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Sat 13 Nov 8:00pm Symphony Hall

Due to phenomenal demand Lee Mack has extended his tour for a second time making an additional 70,000 tickets available for autumn 2010, including two further dates at London’s Hammersmith Apollo. The critically acclaimed BAFTA-winning comedian returns to the live stage with a hotly anticipated new show. Lee will be bringing his trademark brand of high energy banter, well crafted gags and sharp one-liners to venues across the country on his biggest ever live stand-up tour. Lee is best known to BBC One viewers as the star of multi-award winning _Not Going Out_ and as team captain on _Would I Lie To You?_ EXTRA DATE ADDED DUE TO DEMAND "Thursday 11 November":http://www.thsh.co.uk/view/lee-mack-11th 'With shows this good, the coming decade should finally see him established as one of British comedy’s greats.' Telegraph 'Gut-bustingly funny' The Sunday Times 'A master class in pure comedy' The List
Tom Paxton
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Sun 14 Nov 7:30pm Town Hall

'We are all born singing Tom Paxton songs' Nanci Griffith 'Tom's songs are fine songs in anyone's book' Uncut Perennial US folk music legend Tom Paxton returns to Town Hall in his incredible sixth decade as a live performer. He has delighted generations with unforgettable classics including _Ramblin’ Boy_, _Last Thing on My Mind_ and _Bottle of Wine_. He has a quite magical charisma on stage, combining subtly acerbic wit with dignity, humanity and unique charm in abundance. No-one walks away from a Tom Paxton show without a big smile and a warm feeling. An absolute one off.
Lee Mack Going Out
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Sun 14 Nov 8:00pm Symphony Hall

Due to phenomenal demand Lee Mack has extended his tour for a second time making an additional 70,000 tickets available for autumn 2010, including two further dates at London’s Hammersmith Apollo. The critically acclaimed BAFTA-winning comedian returns to the live stage with a hotly anticipated new show. Lee will be bringing his trademark brand of high energy banter, well crafted gags and sharp one-liners to venues across the country on his biggest ever live stand-up tour. Lee is best known to BBC One viewers as the star of multi-award winning _Not Going Out_ and as team captain on _Would I Lie To You?_ EXTRA DATE ADDED DUE TO DEMAND "Thursday 11 November":http://www.thsh.co.uk/view/lee-mack-11th 'With shows this good, the coming decade should finally see him established as one of British comedy’s greats.' Telegraph 'Gut-bustingly funny' The Sunday Times 'A master class in pure comedy' The List
Lunchtime Organ Concert Thomas Trotter: Keeping It in the Family
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Mon 15 Nov 1:00pm Symphony Hall

A programme of works by J S Bach and sons *J S Bach* Fantasia in G BWV 572 *W F Bach* Allegro Moderato in A major Capriccio in D minor *C P E Bach* Fugue on the name of BACH Fantasy and Fugue in C minor *J C Bach* Concerto No 6 in D major, Op 1 *J S Bach* Passacaglia BWV 582
Peter Tatchell: The Globa... In association with SHOUT Festival
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Mon 15 Nov 7:30pm Town Hall

Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people have won many rights in Britain, but in large parts of the world, homophobic and transphobic oppression remain rife. Around 80 countries continue to outlaw homosexuality, with penalties ranging from one year’s jail to life imprisonment - and even execution. Yet all across the globe LGBT people are fighting back and winning victories. LGBT freedom has been long delayed, but it cannot be denied.
Middle-East Peace Orchest...
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Tue 16 Nov 7:30pm Town Hall

A unique collaboration of Arab and Jewish musicians from across Israel, Palestine, Egypt, Iraq, Syria, Jordan, Lebanon and Scandinavia, the Middle-East Peace Orchestra delves into the traditions of Jewish _Klezmer_, Middle Eastern _Makam_ and classical Arabic sounds. From the greatest concert halls to the smallest communities, their intention is to spread the message of peace through music.