Introduction

It’s always a pleasure to perform with the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra and this programme is particularly thrilling for me as a vocalist because it combines some of my all-time favourite movie classics.

This time of year is particularly busy for me work-wise, I have concerts all the way up to Christmas Eve so juggling all of those along with being acmummy and getting ready for Christmas can be pretty chaotic! However, Christmas to me is all about family, getting together for the big day and simply being all together. I love to be at home on Christmas day, surrounded by comforts and watching my daughter open her presents – there’s nothing like the magic of seeing a child’s face light up on Christmas Day!

Of course, it’s crucial to whack on the Christmas songs first thing in the morning too – I love the old classics like Irving Berlin’s White Christmas. It is a beautiful song that always gives me that warm fuzzy feeling of Christmas and the joy of being with loved ones at this time of year. Growing up, I was completely obsessed with and inspired by the great female vocalists of the 80’s and 90’s, including Mariah Carey, and so to perform All I want For Christmas is going to be so joyful.

Later in the concert, I get to bring out my inner Diva with Diamonds Are Forever, which is always a truly exhilarating and dramatic piece to perform, as well as an audience favourite.

I’m so looking forward to being back at the Symphony Hall, sharing the stage with such wonderful musicians and bringing the Christmas spirit to Birmingham.

Louise Dearman
Singer