Autumn highlights for University Music
University Music are delighted to report the continued success of music-making on campus as students look forward to concerts this Autumn.
Following a successful start to the term, University Music were pleased to welcome a new cohort of students into the wealth of ensembles on offer at the University. Rehearsals are underway for an exciting programme of music-making this semester, and with a vast array of concerts in the upcoming weeks there’s sure to be something for everything to enjoy this Autumn!
A particular highlight for this term includes the performance of the much-loved ‘Messa de Requiem’ by Giuseppe Verdi led by University Chorus director Julian Wilkins. University Chorus were originally programmed to perform this mass in March 2020 and are thrilled to be returning to the piece for their concert this December. Local pre-professional chamber choir ‘The Elgar Scholars’ alongside guest alumni soloists will join the choir for the performance, which also features a new arrangement of the accompaniment for three keyboards and percussion.
We’re also pleased to welcome guest artist ‘Odd Priest’ who will perform Jonathan Silk’s new arrangements of his original music with the University Jazz Orchestra. Reisz ‘Odd Priest’ Amos is a multi-disciplined artist from Birmingham working in theatre and music and will bring a unique storytelling experience to the concert, which forms part of the ‘Our City of Stories’ series.
Both the Philharmonic and Symphony Orchestras will delight audiences with a full weekend of Italian Music in our ‘Viva l’Italia’ double bill. Repertoire includes music from ‘The Godfather’, selections from Ennio Morricone’s film music catalogue, Respighi’s renowned ‘Pines of Rome’ and the UK premiere of a symphonic work by Italian composer Ildebrando Pizzetti, arranged by Senior Music Lecturer Ben Earle. Brass Band’s new Musical Director Steve Kane is looking forward to presenting his first concert with the ensemble, and if you’ve ever wanted to hear an ‘Earth, Wind, and Fire’ medley arranged for Wind Band – you’re in luck!
The choral offer remains strong as ever, with Birmingham University Singers performing new works by award-winning composer Lucy Walker and University Upper Voices once again featuring in the annual University Carol Service. Birmingham University Liturgical Choir have their first visit of the year to sing evensong in Coventry Cathedral and a number of our students are proud to be featuring as part of the installation of the new University Chancellor.
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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