Up to 5000 NHS workers are being given the opportunity to attend a CBSO concert free of charge once the Covid-19 pandemic is over.

The orchestra, which launched its centenary celebrations in September, has always made it a priority to serve communities across the West Midlands, often joining up with the CBSO Chorus, Youth Orchestra and Youth Chorus in its outreach work. With around 10 per cent of the Chorus members themselves working for the NHS, this initiative is a public acknowledgement of those working tirelessly to help others.

Five thousand tickets will be put aside for a variety of concerts from the current season and beyond, to be held at venues including Birmingham Symphony Hall, Birmingham Town Hall and The CBSO Centre. NHS workers can register their interest now on the CBSO website. Details of available concerts will be made available at a later date.

‘We know that in these uncertain times music is bringing many people comfort, joy and solace,’ said CBSO Chief Executive Stephen Maddock. ‘While we’re doing everything we can to keep music alive through online and digital work, we can’t wait to get back to performing for our live audiences once again here in Birmingham … We hope NHS workers will be able to join us.’

In London, meanwhile, St John’s Smith Square has launched a ‘Pay It Forward’ campaign to fund 500 concert tickets for NHS staff. The four-week campaign is asking supporters to donate to the historic venue’s Crowdfunder page.

When St John’s reopens to the public, NHS works will be invited to register for the free tickets scheme and redeem their tickets for a concert of their choice. Said SJSS Director Richard Heason: ‘As an organisation that lives and breathes music, we wanted to give people a way of saying thank you [to NHS staff] through music.’