About B:Classical 2022/23: Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment

Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment

Kati Debretzeni director / violin

Jean-Guihen Queyras cello

CPE Bach Symphony in F major

CPE Bach Cello Concerto in A major

JC Bach Sinfonia Concertante for Violin and Cello in B flat major

Mozart Symphony No 34 in C major

Using instruments of the period, the trailblazing Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment bring the music of the past to life in a way that’s inspiring and fresh in the 21st century. They have the perfect partners in violinist/director Riccardo Minasi, an acclaimed talent in the field of historically-informed performance, and celebrated cellist Jean-Guihen Queyras.

In music that is just 30 years apart, we see a snapshot of a changing world – a bridge between the Baroque period of Johann Sebastian Bach (father of CPE and JC) and the Classical era of Mozart. Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach is often cited as being on the cusp of this transition but his own individual style is to the fore in these two original and inventive works from his 30 years in Berlin. His half-brother, Johann Christian (the 18th of the Bach siblings) wrote his Sinfonia Concertante at the height of his career and was influential over a young Mozart who met and played for him in London. Finally, Mozart’s C major Symphony, his last before leaving Salzburg for the thrills of Vienna, has a real spring in its step. A bright and breezy opening movement leads to a delightfully elegant Andante and a fleet-footed tarantella that positively dances along to the end.

Unfortunately Riccardo Minasi has had to withdraw and will be replaced by Kati Debretzeni.

B:Eats at Symphony Hall

Our daytime menu is full of Brummie surprises alongside some breakfast, brunch, lunch, and sandwich classics, while our evening menus offer a contemporary take on some firm favourites and some quick bite options.

Booking Info

Ways to Save

Buy 3-5 concerts and save 10%

Buy 6-11 concerts and save 20%

Buy 12+ concerts and save 30%

See all the other concerts available in this multibuy offer

KIDS GO FREE: One free ticket per child (aged 16 and under) for every adult ticket purchased

FAMILY PLUS: One free ticket per child (aged 16 and under) for every adult ticket purchased. £5 for additional child tickets (aged 16 and under), no additional adult ticket necessary.

16-25s FOR £5: Tickets for just £5 are available for every Birmingham Classical 2022/2023 performance for those aged 16-25.

Free (limited) ticket for Disabled Visitor’s Carers, as per Access Scheme

Ticket commission

*Some events may carry a £3 - £4 ticket commission; charged per ticket. This is charged when you book through B:Music’s Box Office – online, by phone or in person. Any advertised prices will include any per-ticket fee that may apply.

Wheelchair Users and Disabled Patrons

If you require a wheelchair position (subject to availability) please call the Box Office on 0121 289 6343.

A range of tickets and services are available under our Access Scheme. To find out more, or to join the Access Scheme, email boxoffice@bmusic.co.uk or call us on 0121 289 6343.

Getting here

  • Town Hall
    Victoria Square
    Birmingham
    B3 3DQ
  • More info