4 surprising ways to enjoy classical music in Birmingham, including a new performance at the zoo

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Get ready for a sensational fall with the Alabama Symphony Orchestra (ASO). From cozy chamber concerts to wild outdoor performances, the new season brings music to every corner of our city, including the Birmingham Zoo and Birmingham Botanical Gardens.

Whether you’re a classic connoisseur or just in it for the vibes, there’s a concert calling your name. Read on for four experiences coming up that you won’t want to miss.

1. Concertmaster & Friends: Autumn Leaves

Autumn Leaves is part of ASO’s Concertmaster & Friends series, curated by Concertmaster Daniel Szasz—an acclaimed soloist, chamber musician and recitalist known for his expressive style. Since 1997, Szasz has crafted each program with care, selecting pieces around a theme and inviting standout ASO and guest musicians to perform in small ensembles of three to six.

Concerts take place at Samford University’s Brock Recital Hall, known for its rich acoustics and intimate setting.

Event details:

• When: Tuesday, September 16 | 7:30PM
• Where: Samford University, Brock Recital Hall
• Cost: $29 | Purchase tickets to all 3 concerts in the series + receive a 15% discount.
• Tickets

2. Fate & Fury: Beethoven’s Fifth

Think you don’t know the works of Beethoven? You’re probably not giving yourself enough credit. 

Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony is one of the most recognized pieces of classic music of all time, and it’s all thanks to those iconic first four notes: dun dun dun duuunnn, if you will. 

The best part? You can hear Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony live this September, performed by the world-class ASO right here in Birmingham.

It’s been several years since the ASO has played this piece in the Jemison Concert Hall—and with its incredible acoustics, this performance is a true must-see.

Event details:

• When: Friday, September 26 + Saturday, September 27 | 7PM
• Where: UAB’s Alys Stephens Center, Jemison Concert Hall
• Cost: $15-$88
• Tickets

3. Symphony in the Gardens

Grab your loved ones for one of Birmingham’s favorite fall traditions: Symphony in the Gardens. Now in its 28th year, this beloved community event—hosted by the incredible volunteers of Symphony 30—kicks off the ASO’s season with enchanting music, a magical setting and fun for all.

During the picnic-style event, enjoy a sneak peek of ASO’s season ahead while interacting with the always-popular instrumental petting zoo, where you can explore and play a variety of musical instruments.

Proceeds from the event support ASO’s vital community programs, from education concerts to performances at local hospitals.

Event details:

• When: Sunday, September 28 | Picnic begins at 4PM, Concert begins at 5PM
• Where: Birmingham Botanical Gardens
• Cost:
  • ASO Concert: Free admission
  • Picnic Meal: More info coming soon
• Tickets

4. Symphony Goes Wild

You won’t want to miss this epic event featuring a one-of-a-kind collaboration between two of Birmingham’s most beloved institutions: the ASO and the Birmingham Zoo!

For the first time in more than 20 years, these two powerhouses are teaming up to create a night your whole family will love. 

Held after hours at the zoo, this lively event features the orchestra performing an animal-themed repertoire against a beautiful sunset backdrop. 

Concessions will be open throughout the event for food and drinks to enjoy on the lawn—be sure to bring a blanket!

Tip: Arrive early to meet some of the zoo’s ambassador animals or slither through the reptile exhibit. If you missed the instrumental petting zoo at Symphony in the Gardens, you’ll find it here.

Event details:

• When: Sunday, October 5 | Gates open at 5PM, Concert begins at 6:30PM
• Where: Birmingham Zoo
• Cost: $20+
• Tickets

Discover more Alabama Symphony Orchestra events in Birmingham now.