Ex Cathedra - Britten: A Boy was Born

Britten's choral music has a particular magic: the sweet lyricism of A Hymn to St Cecilia; the special Christmas atmosphere of A Boy was Born; the Tudor charm and splendour of the Choral Dances from the opera Gloriana and the youthful genius of A Hymn to the Virgin, written when Britten was just sixteen.

Oliver Condy, Editor of BBC Music Magazine, explains why he has recommended tonight's concert:
"The Britten celebrations get off to a sparkling start with a delightful programme of some of his freshest and most colourful choral music performed by one of the UK's foremost choirs"

This concert is also included in the Birmingham International Concert Season, and launches A Boy was Born, a year-long celebration of the Britten centenary, also featuring concerts by the CBSO and internationally-renowned visiting artists - visit www.birminghambritten.co.uk for more.

6.15pm Join Jeffrey Skidmore discussing Britten's choral music with Graeme Kay in the concert hall, free to ticket holders.