CHRISTMAS is getting ever closer and if you fancy celebrating this special time of year musically then Birmingham’s Symphony Hall could easily provide the answer.

First you can get the Christmas celebrations under way with singing sensation Katherine Jenkins on Sunday, December 17 (7pm) Welsh-born Katherine is a lyric mezzo-soprano singer/songwriter. She is a popular classical-crossover singer who performs across a spectrum of operatic arias, popular songs, musical theatre and hymns.

The following day, Monday, December 18, there are two events at the venue.

First up at 2.30pm there’s chance to sing your heart out with a Christmas Carol Singalong. This will be led by Jonathan Cohen who will lead the audience through a fun-filled jamboree of his most-lover carols and all-time Christmas hit. Then in the evening Sir Tony Robinson will put away his walking boots and forget about historic sites when he leads an evening performance that will capture the true spirit of Christmas with seasonal and traditional music.

He will be reciting a number of special readings.

Next up to ensure the celebrations continue in style there’s Alan Titchmarsh, who will host a concert packed with wonderful music, thrilling lights, dazzling indoor fireworks, plus high kicks from the Jingle Belles Dancers.

That’s on Saturday, December 23, with two performances at 2.30 and 7.30pm, while on Sunday, December 24 (2.30pm) it’s Carols by Candlelight.

This will be elegance personified with this exquisite concert of carols and season music staged in full 18th Century costume in what will be an evocative candle-lit style setting.

As if that wasn’t enough - just after Christmas Day, on Wednesday, December 27 (7.30pm), there will be a special Last Night of the Christmas Proms which will feature rousing classics and the opportunity for a grand flag waving finale.