Autumn highlights for University Music 2023

University Music are delighted to report the continued success of music-making on campus as students look forward to concerts this Autumn

Students performing and singing for University Music

Following the success of the annual Summer Festival of Music held in June, University Music are once again looking forward to another fulfilling programme of music-making this Autumn term. With a wide variety of traditional concerts, new collaborations, and exciting initiatives, University Music’s programme of concerts has something for all audiences to enjoy.

Starting us off, a particular highlight of this term includes the continuation of the ‘Our City of Stories’ series, featuring Zambian-Scottish singer Gabriella Liandu, who will be performing a selection of her new music with our Jazz Orchestra. We also welcome local guest ensemble, Langley Band who will perform alongside the University of Birmingham Brass Band in their Autumn term concert.

 

Students playing brass instruments in the Birmingham Green Heart

Philharmonic Orchestra also have an exciting performance lined up – with a programme based around mythical creatures and folklore alongside Dvořák’s Symphony No. 8, whilst Symphony Orchestra will be exploring some audience favourites such as Saint Saëns’ Danse macabre. As always, our orchestral performances are supplemented by a variety of workshops and development opportunities; from Wind Repertoire sessions and Chamber Music platforms, to Jazz Collective ‘Big Band Come and Plays’ and Conducting Workshops, there are no shortages of chances to get involved this semester!

We’re thrilled to once again be returning to St George’s Church, Edgbaston where Birmingham University Singers and University Upper Voices will be performing their termly concert. Notably, this will be University Upper Voice’s first performance under the baton of Mariana Rosas and the choir are pleased to be premiering Ring Out, Ye Wild and Merry Bells, a new piece by Welsh composer, Gareth Treseder. We’re also pleased to report that our well-established partnership with Wylde Green URC Church will continue this year. This year’s series began with a concert from 3rd-year cellist Yiannis Emmanouilidis and will continue in the new year with recitals from a varied selection of soloists and chamber groups.

University Music provides the University of Birmingham with one of the liveliest music-making scenes of any campus. With around 1500 positions available in our 35-plus ensembles, members participate in a variety of instrumental and vocal groups, across a range of abilities and styles. University Music is open to students, staff, and the local community, and provides participants with opportunities for professional coaching, exceptional concerts, and also offers scholarships for incoming students to the University.

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