Resplendent yet accessible, the Symphony Hall is the model of a perfect modern concert space – and it’s likely the 370,000 people who collectively attend around 320 events there each year agree.
Home to the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, its internationally acclaimed classical programme of prestigious orchestras is topped up by a smattering of folk, jazz and world music throughout the year (think anything from Jools Holland to Sam Bailey). Aside from the world-leading acoustics, the hall also boasts a 6,000-pipe symphony organ which was completed in 2001.
If you are only in Brum for the day, try to catch one of the CBSO’s relaxing lunchtime concerts or, for demonstrations and to gain backstage access, join one of the hall’s monthly tours, available through the THSH Box Office. This is a busy working hall, however, so availability can be in short supply.
If you don’t know your Schubert from your Haydn, ease yourself in by attending an event at the hall’s oh-so festive December calendar. We can’t think of a time when the Hall looks better than at its 2,262 person capacity for candlelit carols.