The Birmingham Gay Symphony Orchestra is the Midland's LGBT+ orchestra. BGSO promotes musical talent directly from within the LGBT+ community, illuminating the diversity that exists within it to the wider community and beyond. As an LGBT+ orchestra we provide a safe ‘non-scene’ environment centred around a shared interest where people can come together to express who they are without any additional pressure or expectations. We welcome all musicians whether they identify as LGBT+ or not. 

 

The Orchestra was first formed in 2008 when two violins, a flute, an oboe, a trumpet and a french horn responded to an advert in Midland Zone. People who hadn't played their instrument in years sat next to professional players. By the end of 2009 the Orchestra had grown to over 20 regular players and was preparing to put on their first concert at Birmingham Conservatoire's Recital Hall.

 

Now in our thirteenth season, we perform three concerts a year in venues around the city, at St Paul's in the Jewellery Quarter and Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, and we are honoured to be St. Pauls' ‘Orchestra in Residence’. We have forged strong links with other organisations within the LGBT community, and can often be seen playing as smaller ensembles at key events in the LGBT calendar, including performances at SHOUT Festival and LFEST.

​

Who can join BGSO?

In a nutshell, anyone and everyone! As long as we have a vacancy within the orchestra, we welcome musicians of all abilities and backgrounds. All we ask is that you are over 16 years of age, and can commit to the majority of rehearsals. For some positions (such a principal seats) we may invite you to join on a trial basis dependent on your playing experience to date. Many of our members hadn't played their instrument in years before joining the BGSO, but now they practice daily! We are currently recruiting for our string, brass and percussion section but if you play a wind instrument, do let us know as there may be space. If you are interested in joining the BGSO - get in touch.

​

Rehearsals currently take place on alternate Sundays. Whilst we don't ask for a minimum standard, we do ask that each player can commit to the majority of rehearsals

​