British Suzuki Gala 2027 Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When does the registration open?
A: Towards the beginning of September. The exact date will be announced nearer the time.

Q: When do you get to know whether or not you have a place in the Sunday concert?
A: Gala 2027 will operate a “first-come, first-served” system, except for pianists (please see the information for pianists page). Once your registration has been confirmed you can assume that you have a place. There will be a limited number of places for each group in order to balance the number of performers in the concert. If we reach capacity for any group we will close registrations for that group.

Q: I’m a pianist. How does the audition process work, and when do I get to know the result?
A: All the details for pianists can be found on the “information for pianists” tab. You will be informed of the results around the end of October.

Q: I might not be available for the Saturday rehearsal, but I’m not sure yet. Can I still come and play in the concert without attending the rehearsal?
A: The Saturday 27th March rehearsal is compulsory for everyone, so it will not be possible to take part in the concert if you are not at the rehearsal. If you are travelling to Birmingham on Saturday morning, please give yourself plenty of time for any disruptions. Please see the rough timings for the weekend here.

Q: Do you have any recommended hotels or areas in Birmingham to stay during the Gala weekend?
A: There are many reasonably-priced hotels in the centre of Birmingham within a short walk of Symphony Hall. The Midlands Arts Centre, where Saturday rehearsals and Play-togethers will be held, is a short bus ride away to the South of the city centre. There are fewer accommodation options near the Midlands Arts Centre, but it is an attractive and quieter area of the town.

Q: What is the refund policy for this concert?
A: We cannot offer refunds once you have registered and paid your registration fee. Tickets for the concert will be available directly from the Birmingham Symphony Hall box office, and their refund policy will be followed.

Q: Is the National Suzuki Workshop taking place before or after the Gala concert?
A: Yes! We plan to hold the National Suzuki Workshop between Tuesday 30th March and 1st April in Birmingham. More details will follow soon!

Q: Is there an age limit for people performing in the concert?
A: The lower age limit is 7 years. Please note that children will be away from their parents for the whole day. There is no upper age limit, but all performers should be current Suzuki students. 

Q: What is the minimum level to be able to take part in the concert?
A: In order to play in the Gala Concert all performers must be able to play the last piece on the repertoire list with confidence and polish (for example Witches Dance for violins). Exceptions may be made for Flute, Recorder and Trumpet. You should already be able to play at this minimum level at the point of registration. Please speak to your individual teacher for specific guidance.

Q: I am in a higher group. Do I have to play every piece on the list?
A: Yes. You will play all of the pieces for your instrument including the pieces listed for all instruments together. All music must be memorised.