Performer: Eduardo Vassallo

As Birmingham-born Alpesh Chauhan builds his reputation towards becoming a conductor much in demand, so the CBSO finds itself in the fortunate position of securing the services of Mirga Gražytė-Tyla as Andris Nelsons’ successor as Music Director, with a chance to grow Chauhan as Assistant Conductor.

Cristian Măcelaru brought his pedigree as a conductor to the CBSO with Sibelius, Rachmaninov and Nielsen. How would he fare in Birmingham with such a varied programme?

Veteran conductor Walter Weller failed to bring two German masterpieces to life, despite some gorgeous playing from the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra.