Birmingham’s Symphony Hall is set to become a hotspot for free live music this autumn as B:Music unveils Lunch: Unplugged – a brand-new series of acoustic performances at its in-house café, B:Eats.

Running from September through November, the sessions will take place at 13:00 on selected dates, offering office workers, families, and music lovers the chance to enjoy a mid-day break with live performances from some of the region’s most exciting talent.

Nestled within Symphony Hall and overlooking Centenary Square, B:Eats has built a reputation since its 2022 opening as a vibrant café that celebrates local flavours and culture. Known for its freshly prepared menu – including vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options – the venue has also earned recognition as “The Home of the Brummie Bacon Cake”™.

Nicole Evans, Director of Commercial Services at B:Music, hopes the initiative will encourage people to rethink their lunch break:

“We understand how challenging it can be to unplug during lunchtimes and resist the temptation to opt for a supermarket meal deal so you can keep working through lunch, or even to grab a quick handful of biscuits between meetings. However, we believe that taking a proper break is crucial. Not only does it enhance focus for the rest of the day, but it also allows us to reconnect with our community and colleagues by stepping out into the city.”

Every purchase at B:Eats directly supports B:Music, the charity that runs both Symphony Hall and Town Hall. The organisation works to nurture the next generation of musicians while maintaining Birmingham’s world-class venues.

Nick Reed, CEO at B:Music, added:

“This is a lunch that truly makes a difference – delicious food that supports thousands of musical journeys every year. As a music charity, B:Music is dedicated to inspiring a love of live music through performance, participation, and learning. We are passionate about introducing young people to music and we work across some of Birmingham’s most disadvantaged communities to achieve this mission.”

Lunch: Unplugged – Upcoming Highlights:

  • 16 Sept – Lumi HD (singer-songwriter)
  • 30 Sept – Urban Soul Trio (acoustic RnB and pop)
  • 7 Oct – Pop Voices (as seen on Britain’s Got Talent)
  • 16 Oct – BIMM at B:Eats (students showcase)
  • 21 Oct – Credo Kampeta (acclaimed singer-songwriter)
  • 28 Oct – Dal Singh: History of the Tabla (music and learning)
  • 29 Oct – BIMM at B:Eats
  • 31 Oct – Bhangra Tots (family fun with Sohan Kailey)
  • 1 Nov – Laura Lenthall (interactive music for tots)
  • 4 Nov – Aayushi (folk singer-songwriter)
  • 18 Nov – Tom Morgan (guitar-led singer-songwriter)
  • 20 Nov – BIMM at B:Eats

B:Eats is open Monday to Saturday from 11:00 – 16:00, as well as before Symphony Hall concerts. Full details can be found at bmusic.co.uk/your-visit/beats.