Melvin Tay

Rushil Ranjan

Abi Sampa

City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra

Experience the mesmerizing fusion of Sufi poetry, Indian Classical dance, and symphonic music with "The CBSO & the Orchestral Qawwali Project" on Saturday, 19 July 2025, at 7:30 pm, in the prestigious Symphony Hall, Birmingham. This extraordinary event marks the return of a glorious collaboration between the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra (CBSO) and the innovative Orchestral Qawwali Project, following a sold-out performance in 2023.

Under the baton of conductor Melvin Tay, and featuring the critically acclaimed composer Rushil Ranjan, this concert promises an evening of spiritual rapture. The project showcases the breathtaking vocals of lead vocalist Abi Sampa, whose talent in blending traditional qawwali with orchestral arrangements has captivated audiences worldwide. This year, the performance is further enriched by the addition of the CBSO Chorus and the University of Birmingham Voices, bringing new compositions and arrangements to life.

Tickets are priced between £26 and £62, with a per-ticket commission of £3.50 for tickets over £15. The concert also offers a range of discounts for students, 18-30s, under-18s, and benefit recipients, making it accessible to a wider audience. The event will last approximately 2 hours, including a 20-minute interval, offering a perfect evening of cultural immersion and musical excellence.

Don't miss this unique opportunity to witness the fusion of qawwali's spiritual essence with the grandeur of symphonic music in the heart of Birmingham.

The Cbso & The Orchestral Qawwali Project