The first in a series of music concerts last Friday to mark Birmingham Symphony Hall’s 25th anniversary brought together people of all ages and backgrounds. The audience included many who were present at the official opening in 1991.
Attendees were welcomed by the Chair of the Symphony Hall, Anita Bhalla OBE, pictured, who has had a varied career with the BBC spanning 26 years. Anita also set up BBC Asian Network in the West Midlands. The concert, themed ‘The Next 25’ featured the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, alongside the following three people who each celebrated their 25th in 2016: Composer Ryan Latimer, educated at Birmingham’s renowned Conservatoire, conductor Jamie Philips and pianist Lukas Geniusas. Pin-drop silence was observed from start to finish and the evening was indeed amazing. The evening also featured a private VIP drinks reception.
Guests included the Lord Mayor of Birmingham, Cllr Ray Hassall and Lord Bill Morris of Handsworth. Symphony Hall alone weighs around 32,000 tonnes and is founded on 120 concrete pillars.
