Marking the start of a new media partnership between the CBSO and Classic FM, the concert is perfect for first-timers and classical music lovers alike. Presenter Paul Rissmann will take audience members on a musical guided tour through some of the greatest orchestral works. Many people will know the excitement of Hans Zimmer’s Pirates of the Caribbean and Prokofiev’s Romeo & Juliet,which was featured in the opening credits of the television series The Apprentice, but have you heard Adams’ Short Ride in a Fast Machine which evokes the thrill of a ride in a sports car or did you know that Elgar’s Enigma Variations is really a story of friendship?

CBSO Chief Executive Stephen Maddock said: “We are looking forward to launching the new season with a very special concert that really showcases some of the finest music, musicians and of course, Symphony Hall, Birmingham. We hope that audience members both frequent attenders and those new to the CBSO will enjoy diving in and listening to music that is easily recognisable whilst also experiencing pieces that are completely different. What’s more, the £10 price tag means it’s very affordable, so why not bring a friend.”

The concert, which is conducted by CBSO Associate Conductor Michael Seal, also heralds the beginning of a new media partnership with Classic FM.

Sam Jackson, Classic FM’s Managing Editor, said: “At Classic FM, we believe that classical music should be accessible to everyone, and earlier this year, we were delighted to announce a brand new partnership with the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, one of the world’s finest ensembles, which shares this vision with us.

“We’re excited to launch the partnership with the A-Z of the CBSO and look forward to working with them over the coming years as Classic FM’s Orchestra in the Midlands, sharing their news and music with our 5.3 million listeners across the UK.”

The CBSO 2015-16 Season showcases a host of guest conductors and soloists – friends old and new – who will join the CBSO for a dazzling array of concerts. Sensational symphonies from Tchaikovsky, Brahms and Shostakovich rub shoulders with blockbuster soundtracks from James Bond and Star Wars, effortless performances by world-renowned soloists, plus awe-inspiring classics from Prokofiev’s Romeo and Juliet to Grieg’s tumultuous Piano Concerto.

The season also marks 400 years since Shakespeare’s death, with concerts throughout 2016 celebrating the Bard. The CBSO will welcome acclaimed violinist Baiba Skride as Artist in Residence, as well as looking forward to performances of all five Beethoven concertos from legendary pianist Rudolf Buchbinder. All this combined with the Orchestra’s ever-popular Family Concerts and Notelets for younger audiences ensures that everyone is catered for in the 2015-16 Season.