Family Concert: Summer Holiday

We are invited to a varied sequence of short works designed to evoke the spirit of a summer getaway. You will hear how a full orchestra handles the sharp, rhythmic textures of Vivaldi’s Summer before transitioning into the modern pop sounds of Golden. The afternoon balances cinematic favourites like How Far I’ll Go from Moana with the bright, bustling orchestral colours of Gershwin’s An American in Paris. You should also listen for the familiar, stirring melodies from Bizet’s Carmen, which provide a rhythmic contrast to the contemporary pieces. The selection is intended to show the versatility of the ensemble, moving seamlessly between eighteenth-century baroque, operatic drama, and modern film scores. By mixing high-energy themes with well-known tunes, the programme maintains a lively pace that keeps younger listeners engaged throughout the hour. You can expect a casual atmosphere where the focus remains on the joy of recognizable melodies played at a grand scale.

The City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra is the resident ensemble at this venue, known for its extensive range of recordings and its central role in the musical life of the Midlands. Under the direction of Jack Lovell-Huckle, the orchestra demonstrates its ability to move between traditional classical repertoire and popular contemporary culture. Presenters Amy Thomas and Toby Kearney join the musicians on stage to guide you through the music. The ensemble is celebrated for its commitment to making orchestral music accessible to a wide variety of local residents and families.

This performance takes place at Symphony Hall in Birmingham and lasts approximately sixty minutes. The shorter duration and the inclusion of familiar themes make it particularly suitable for those attending an orchestral concert for the first time or for families with children. There is no formal dress code, so you should feel comfortable in everyday attire. As a one-hour event without an interval, it offers a concise and structured introduction to the concert hall environment. The venue is located in the city centre with standard public access.