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On 5 September 1920, the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra gave its very first concert. It was a gamble: in unprecedented times, a city recovering from war and pandemic had put its faith in the power of live music to enrich the lives of all its citizens. 100 years later (to the very hour), the CBSO celebrates its 100th birthday with a spectacular online celebration.

Sir Simon Rattle conducts, and Birmingham’s own Adrian Lester (Hustle, Riviera) is the host as we explore a century of adventure and innovation in words, images and — naturally — great music. Featuring specially-filmed live performances, interviews with the CBSO’s conductors past and present, and music by Elgar, Stravinsky, Hannah Kendall and A.R. Rahman – plus guest appearances from Sheku Kanneh-Mason and Roopa Panesar — it’s a toast to a great orchestra and a great city, made in Birmingham.