Mozart to McCartney in 'Britain's biggest Youth Proms'
Birmingham's four nights of Youth Proms at Symphony Hall, which open on Monday, July 14, will feature music from across the globe in performances that will appeal to just about every musical taste, say organisers.
A wide-ranging programme of music will include celebrated classics as well as, this year, a Motown Medley performed by The Primary Choir, the number 1 hit Funkytown, Deep Purple’s Smoke on the Water - and the theme from the long-running BBC sci-fi Dr Who, all performed by the Schools Based Ensembles.
In an eclectic programme, the Youth Proms will also feature music from across the globe by composers and writers that include John Williams, Stephen Sondhiem, Noel Gallagher, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Elton John and Tim Rice, Edward Grieg, George Bizet, John Lennon and Paul McCartney.
Organised by Birmingham charity Services For Education, the Youth Proms will include performances by more than 4,000 children, 21 Ensembles, the Massed Ensemble, The Primary Choir and the Raga and Tala Ensemble.
“Whichever night you choose to attend, there will be something for just about every musical taste,” said Richard Mabbott. Head of Music Service at Services For Education.
“Our Youth Proms are the finale of a year filled with creativity, dedication and hard work in Birmingham schools – who like us believe that music should play an integral part of school life.
“Every week, our passionate team works with around 32,000 children. Our staff are truly an incredible group of people, and it is hugely rewarding to see them continue to thrive and help nurture the next generation of musicians in Birmingham,” said Richard.
“I particularly pay tribute to all our young musicians for their commitment, to schools for their enthusiasm, and to the parents, carers, families, and friends who continue to support both the children and us in order to make the Youth Proms the magnificent occasion they are.”
Each of the concerts, which start at 7pm, will have BSL interpretation by Sarah Butt - a registered British Sign Language interpreter specialising in interpreting within the arts, particularly theatre and music.
This year’s Youth Proms will be compered by BAFTA winner and Royal Television Society Award recipient Des Coleman whose 30-year career spans film, theatre, and television. He is well known for playing the lovable rogue Lenny Wallace in EastEnders - a role he held for four years during which the show itself earned a BAFTA.
Services For Education’s Birmingham Youth Proms are supported by Arts Council England and Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce.
Tickets are priced at £15 with £10 for concessions (60+, Child 16 and under, Disabled Visitor, Unwaged, Wheelchair User). There are free (limited) tickets for Disabled Visitor’s Carers, as per the Access Scheme. Discounts for larger parties and multiple bookings are also available. Tickets can be booked at https://www.servicesforeducation.co.uk/youth-proms-2025/