Heritage Grants
Birmingham Town Hall is one of the oldest concert halls in the world. The Grade I listed building, with its distinctive colonnaded Roman temple style has, since its restoration, taken its place as one of the two principal concert venues in the city, together with the modern Symphony Hall.
Dating from 1834, the building was constructed at a time when Birmingham came to national prominence as the seat of protest calling for democratic reform. During its long life, the building has welcomed an array of the country’s leading politicians and prime ministers. Its artistic credits are equally impressive.
It was here that Charles Dickens gave his first public reading of A Christmas Carol and where both Mendelssohn’s Elijah and Elgar’s The Dream of Gerontius received their premiere performances. It has also played host to The Beatles, Led Zeppelin and Buddy Holly.
Its comprehensive internal and external restoration has ensured that it remains fit for purpose as a 21st century artistic venue featuring classical and popular music concerts, helping to underpin the city’s international reputation and its cultural and civic life.