Jointly presented by Birmingham Contemporary Music Group and City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, this unique concert forms part of the CBSO’s well-loved Centre Stage series, featuring musicians positioned spatially around our shared home.

As György Kurtág approaches his 100th birthday in 2026, we celebrate one of the most singular voices in contemporary music – a composer of profound intimacy, wit and emotional depth. Selections from Kurtág’s Signs, Games and Messages are performed alongside pieces from his celebrated Games (Játékok) series for piano. Many of these short movements are rich with hidden connections to the traditions of European music.

The evening takes you through a visceral journey, compered by musicologist Paul Griffiths, highlighting elements of the music as you hear it and providing insight into the composer’s life.

Centre Stage concerts are generously supported by John Osborn CBE.