This is a sponsored article on behalf of Classical Pride.
A very special classical concert is coming to the Barbican on 7 July — shining a spotlight on the hugely significant contributions that queer people have made to the genre over the centuries.
Classical Pride with ViiV Healthcare and GAY TIMES is the first major concert of its kind in Europe. Every single piece of music you'll hear is the work of an LGBTQI+ composer. The programme includes Romeo and Juliet by Tchaikovsky, Bernstein's Overture to Candide, and Poulenc's Concerto for Two Pianos and Orchestra.
Living composers will be celebrated, too: you'll witness the world premiere of Echoes by Julian Anderson and hear a piece by the wunderkind Caroline Shaw, who at age 30 became the youngest ever composer to win a Pulitzer Prize for Music.
It's all performed live by the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra (CBSO), conducted by Oliver Zeffman, who created Classical Pride.
An LGBTQI+ chorus and several star soloists completes the line-up. Look out for pianists (and partners-in-life) Pavel Kolesnikov and Samson Tsoy, plus soprano Ella Taylor, tenor Nicky Spence, and baritone Davóne Tines.
And those aren't the only big names getting involved — the whole thing's presented by DJ and broadcaster Nick Grimshaw!
But we haven't even got to the best bit yet... proceeds from Classical Pride will be split between three fantastic LGBTQI+ charities. These are leading sexual health charity Terrance Higgins Trust; Amplifund, which supports queer activists around the world; and Rainbow Railroad, which helps at-risk LGBTQI+ people escape persecution through emergency relocation, cash assistance, and more.
Tickets start at just £15 plus booking fee and can be bought here — get yours today, and get ready for an utterly unique night of incredible music.
Classical Pride, 7.30pm on Friday 7 July at Barbican Hall.
