Thousands of people who live and work in Brum experienced the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra (CBSO) deliver more than 20 free performances in five days across the city.
From Thursday (August 27) up until Monday (August 31), Brummies across the region had the opportunity to catch the CBSO orchestra.
A key standout was the a heartfelt orchestral tribute to Dolly Parton on Friday (August 28).
As well as a special ‘Wind in the Willows’ performances for children and families was delivered at Birmingham Library.
CBSO’s Music Director Kazuki Yamada led from the front, performing electric piano onboard a CBSO-branded tram – and, over the weekend, members of the public even got the chance to conduct the orchestra.
Emma Stenning, CEO at the CBSO said: “One thing we're consistently trying to do at the CBSO is to get rid of as many barriers as possible. Image can be a barrier. Price can be a barrier. Location can be a barrier.
“That's one of the reasons why ‘CBSO in the City’ takes place in public spaces and it's free to experience.
“With ‘CBSO in the City’ our musicians have spent five days in the places where people are already, creating surprise moments that feel personal, unexpected and rooted in the life of the city. We want people to feel that the CBSO is theirs, and this run of free public concerts has been our gift to a city we are proud to call home.”
Kazuki Yamada, music director at the CBSO, said: “CBSO in the City is one of my favourite moments in the year. Having the chance to surprise people with music, to see how it brings happiness and joy, is so uplifting for all of us.
“The CBSO does that week-in week-out at Symphony Hall - and at our concerts around the world - but Birmingham is our home, and sometimes we just want to give a gift of music to everyone who lives, works or visits here. It’s been a real joy to deliver so many moments of surprise and happiness to the people of Greater Birmingham over the last week.”
Take a look below at how the sweet melodies took over Birmingham:
17. Birmingham Library - Wind in the Willows
City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra (CBSO) delivered over 20 free performances in five days across the city. | Hannah Blake-Fathers
18. Birmingham Library - Wind in the Willows
City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra (CBSO) delivered over 20 free performances in five days across the city. | Hannah Blake-Fathers
19. Birmingham Library - Wind in the Willows
City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra (CBSO) delivered over 20 free performances in five days across the city. | Hannah Blake-Fathers
20. Birmingham Library - Wind in the Willows
City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra (CBSO) delivered over 20 free performances in five days across the city. | Hannah Blake-Fathers