2 free must-see concerts in Birmingham—Tunes on Tap + Symphony in the Summer

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Birmingham’s in bloom, and music is in the air, thanks to the Alabama Symphony Orchestra (ASO). This April and May, you can experience the magic of our state’s only full-time professional orchestra during two free open-air concerts—no tux required!

Whether you’re enjoying brewery vibes or spreading a blanket on the lawn at Railroad Park, classic music will come alive for all ages.

Read on to discover why these concerts are among this season’s can’t-miss events.

Tunes on Tap at Ferus Artisan Ales in Trussville—April 21

Want orchestral music with a beer? That’s exactly what ASO’s Tunes on Tap delivers. On Tuesday April 21, ASO musicians take the stage at Ferus Artisan Ales in the Trussville Entertainment District.

This open-air, all-ages-friendly space is perfect for experiencing the orchestra for the first time—or your 10th! 

Led by Conductor Daniel Cho, ASO musicians will perform chamber pieces in a casual, approachable way. So, grab a local brew from Ferus (my favorite: the Hobby Blonde IPA) or a slice from Pinchgut Pies while the music plays. No dress code, no judging looks—just great tunes, good friends and maybe a drink or two.

Event details: Tunes on Tap 

• When: Tuesday, April 21 | 6:30PM
• Where: Ferus Artisan Ales, Trussville
• Cost: Free

Symphony in the Summer at Railroad Park—May 22–24

Spring in Birmingham sets the stage for a magical start to summer this Memorial Day Weekend. ASO will perform three nights of free, live music at Symphony in the Summer in Railroad Park—one of the city’s most beloved events. 

Bring a blanket, lawn chairs and a picnic, because nothing says “culture” like sandwiches while the enchanting sounds of Tchaikovsky swirl around you. 

From classical favorites to Broadway medleys and patriotic hits, there’s truly something for everyone.

Symphony in the Summer at Railroad Park is fun for all ages. (Alabama Symphony Orchestra)

Event highlights:

• Diverse programming across 3 nights
• Local food trucks + drinks available for purchase
• Leashed dogs welcome—Fido deserves culture, too!
• Free parking nearby

With over 130,000 attendees since 2011, Symphony in the Summer proves classical music can be fun, free and for everyone. 

Here’s a closer look at the programming:

• Friday, May 22: Program TBD

• Saturday, May 23:
  • Rossini Overture to L’italiana in Algeri
  • Tchaikovsky Romeo and Juliet
  • Beethoven Symphony No. 1

• Sunday, May 24:
  • Patriotic and cinematic favorites including:
    • Star-Spangled Banner
    • Mission: Impossible Theme
    • Pirates of the Caribbean
    • John Williams Tribute
    • The Stars and Stripes Forever

Event details: Symphony in the Summer

• When: Fri, May 22–Sun, May 24 | Concert begins each night at 7:30PM
• Where: Railroad Park, Birmingham
• Cost: Free

If you love events like Tunes on Tap and Symphony in the Summer, consider giving back. For more than a century, ASO has been your orchestra, bringing music to communities across Alabama. Your support helps keep these concerts free for everyone—Donate here.

Want to catch more world-class music around Birmingham? Visit Alabama Symphony Orchestra’s events page to see what’s coming up next.

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