Halesowen Orchestra in 30th anniversary show

The event will take place this Saturday at the Cornbow Hall in the town centre.

The 40-strong instrumental ensemble have held three concerts a year over the last 14 years with a variety of classical pieces to ignite the senses.

Julie Billingham, who is the groups longest serving member of 29 years, spoke of her highlights.

She said: "It has been a marvellous 30 years.

"I originally got involved after I learnt the oboe at high school and then noticed a advertisement for members of the orchestra in Halesowen Library.

"I went along once and the rest was history - never did I think then that almost 30 years down the line it would be like this.

"One of my highlights was when our last conductor Martin Leigh did a Beethoven piano concerto and conducted at the same time. It was the first time that it had been done and was absolutely amazing and very emotional."

In 2012 Halesowen and Rowley Regis MP James Morris described the group as 'one of Halesowen's hidden jewels'.

They have traditionally rehearsed on a Monday night during term time at Leasowes High School, with a varied repertoire including works by Beethoven, Bizet, Brahms and Dvorak.

Mrs Billingham continued: "I would say to anyone come along this Saturday and take in the atmosphere and listen to live orchestra music.

"If it is something you have never heard live before then you will be in for a treat - it will really ignite the senses and it far better than just listening to recordings or the radio.

"Visually it will be special too."

The concert will include Dvorak: Carnival Overture, Mozart: Horn Concerto No. 4 and Tchaikovsky: Symphony No. 5.

It will be conducted by Thomas Jarvis and start at 7.30pm.

Tickets are £10, children under 12 go free, and full time students with ID cards £5. They can be bought on the door or by calling 0121 550 0956.

For more information visit www.halesowenorchestra.co.uk