Ulverston Saxophonist Jess Gillam To Host CBSO's New 'First Listen' Concert.
Ulverston-born saxophonist Jess Gillam has been chosen to host the opening concert of the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra's (CBSO) new First Listen series, an initiative aimed at making classical music more accessible to first-time concertgoers.
The new First Listen programme consists of three informal concerts designed to introduce audiences to orchestral music in a relaxed and welcoming environment. Each performance will last around one hour, begin at 6pm, have no interval, and feature tickets priced at just £5 in an effort to attract new listeners.
Gillam will present the opening event, First Listen: Elgar, scheduled for 29 September 2026 at Symphony Hall, Birmingham. During the concert, she will guide audiences through Sir Edward Elgar's famous Enigma Variations, offering insights into the composer, the music, and the stories behind one of Britain's best-known orchestral works. The performance will be conducted by Stephanie Childress.
The internationally acclaimed musician has become one of Britain's most recognisable classical performers. Born in Ulverston, Gillam made history as the first saxophonist to reach the final of BBC Young Musician and later became the youngest-ever soloist to perform at the Last Night of the Proms. She also presents the award-winning BBC Radio 3 programme This Classical Life.
The CBSO recently appointed Gillam as a Collaborative Artist for its 2026–27 and 2027–28 seasons. Alongside performing as a soloist, she will contribute to education projects, outreach programmes, and community initiatives designed to inspire new generations of music lovers.
CBSO Chief Executive Emma Stenning said the First Listen series was created to remove barriers that often discourage people from attending orchestral concerts for the first time. The orchestra hopes that affordable ticket prices and accessible presentations will encourage a broader audience to experience live classical music.
Gillam has long been recognised for promoting music both nationally and within her home county. She continues to organise concert series in Ulverston, inviting internationally renowned musicians to perform in the town while encouraging young people to engage with classical music.
Her appointment as host of CBSO's First Listen series represents another significant milestone in an already distinguished career. By combining world-class performance with engaging presentation, Gillam is expected to help introduce many new audiences to the excitement of live orchestral music while continuing to represent Cumbria on the international cultural stage.
Got a news story or tip to share? Contact our editorial team by emailing news@lakelandpost.co.uk or call us directly on 0333 090 2080.