CBSO Choral Christmas

We are looking at a celebration of the Christmas season that balances delicate choral textures with the full weight of a large orchestra. You will hear a selection of traditional carols that define the British midwinter experience, ranging from the gentle, introspective lines of In the Bleak Midwinter to the grand, communal resonance of Once in Royal David’s City. Listen for the way the different vocal groups interact; the pure, high-register lines of the children’s voices provide a striking contrast to the broad, mature sound of the full chorus. The addition of the saxophone brings a fresh, lyrical voice to these familiar melodies, offering a contemporary instrumental counterpart to the vocal arrangements. The evening is structured to build toward a sense of shared celebration, culminating in the bold, triumphant brass and organ sounds associated with Hark! The Herald Angels Sing. It is an opportunity to hear how these seasonal staples are transformed when performed by a professional ensemble of this scale.

Michael Seal leads the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, an ensemble known for its versatility and deep roots in the Midlands. They are joined by four distinct vocal groups: the CBSO Chorus, Youth Chorus, Children's Chorus, and SO Vocal, creating a vast range of choral colour. Saxophonist Jess Gillam brings her acclaimed instrumental style to the stage, adding a unique texture to the symphonic sound. Together, these performers represent a broad spectrum of the region's musical life, from world-class professionals to young emerging voices, all based at their home ground in Birmingham's primary concert hall.

This performance takes place at Symphony Hall in Birmingham and is scheduled to last approximately 120 minutes. Given the familiar nature of the carols and the varied choral lineup, we consider this an excellent choice for first-time concertgoers or families looking for a traditional seasonal experience. The venue is renowned for its clear acoustics, which suit this type of large-scale vocal event. There is no specific dress code mentioned, so standard smart-casual attire is appropriate. As this is a choral concert rather than an opera, no surtitles are required for the English-language programme.